June 15, 2022 — Buying Dad a bottle of something special is a simple solution to the gift dilemma, but why not make it extra special by creating a cocktail to enjoy together as you indulge in recollections of the past.  We’ve selected suggestions from Grand Marnier, Rémy Martin, George Dickel and Campari and even if your talents don’t include mixology, Dad will approve of and appreciate a fine drink.

Grand Marnier is such a fabulous liqueur no matter what you do, it will be amazing.!   And if Dad loves his bourbon, the Grand Old Fashioned is just the thing. (SRP $40.00)

For the Dad who favors Cognac, look no further than the Rémy Sidecar made with Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal (SRP $75.00). The history of the Royal Accord is interesting:

      In 1738, just 14 years after Rémy Martin began producing cognacs, King Louis XV of France, impressed by thequality of his cognac granted him exclusive permission to plant new vineyards by royal permit. This rare royal license was designed to reward the excellence of Mr Rémy Martin’s work. (Excerpted from web site.)

A welcome gift for Dad would be a bottle of the historic George Dickel X Leopold Bros. Collaboration Blend definitely an elevated addition to any whiskey collection (MSRP $103.00).  The Dickel Cascade Shandy is a long, cool sip around the barbecue or just sitting on the porch and reminiscing.

For something a little lighter in alcohol but utterly delicious and sophisticated, combining Campari with Vermouth and a splash of soda water can’t be beat.  Check out The Americano.

Recipes

Grand Old Fashioned

• 1 part Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge
• 1 part Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
• 3 dashes aromatic bitters
• Large ice cube

Method: First, combine aromatic bitters, Grand Marnier, and then whiskey in an old fashioned glass. Add a large ice cube and stir until cold and well incorporated. Garnish surface of liquid with orange twist, expressing oils over glass rim.

The Rémy Sidecar

• 2 oz Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal
• ¾ oz Cointreau
• ¾ oz lemon juice

Method: Combine Rémy Martin, Cointreau and lemon juice in a shaker filled with ice.

Shake, strain and pour into a coupette glass.

Cascade Shandy

• 1.5 oz Dickel Bourbon
• 0.75 oz fresh orange juice
• 0.5 oz orange blossom honey syrup (2 parts honey:1 part water)
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• 4.5 oz local pilsner beer 

Method:  Shake all ingredients, except beer, over ice; fine strain into a pilsner glass and top with local pilsner; garnish with a fresh orange wedge.

The Americano

• 1 part (1 oz) Campari
• 1 part (1 oz) Cinzano 1757 Rosso Vermouth di Torino 
• Splash of soda water

Method:  Pour the Campari and Vermouth directly in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice-cubes, add a splash of soda water and garnish with orange slice and lemon peel.

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