Booze Clues: Why Whiskey is a Winter Winner

Have A Whiskey Print via BentonParkPrints on Etsy

My friends often say I drink like an old man during fall and winter because I prefer to sip whiskey neat when the temps drop. However, Master of Whiskey, Gina Unverferth sees it differently. As one of the top women in whiskey, she'll quickly tell you that a predilection for the robust flavor or the grain-based spirit is not mutually exclusive of a penchant for wearing heels and lip gloss. There is a reason behind the thought that whiskey sipping is a man's sport, though. "Because of the temperance movement and whiskey being served in brothels, women started getting a bad wrap when associated with whiskey," says Unverferth.


I recently had the opportunity to talk whiskey with Gina while she whipped up a Manitoba, one of her favorite cocktails featuring Crown Royal Maple Finish. (Recipe is at the bottom of this post.) Since Polar Vortex has descended upon us, I figured this is the perfect time to share what I learned. 

Gina building a Manitoba

S&B: What originally drew you to whiskey, and what keeps you coming back for more?

GU: I first fell in love with whiskey as a tap dancer, with post show toasts with fellow dancers, musicians, and crew.  From there, I started developing my palate and continue to love finding new liquids that I'm in love with.

S&B: Why is whiskey so great for chilly weather sipping?

GU: Whiskey has many warm notes on the nose and palate.  From a toasted nuttiness to rich toffee and vanilla to a smokiness – all great flavors on a cold day!

S&B: What type of whiskey is the best to try for a novice- especially a female novice?

GU: I would start with a smooth bourbon as it tends to be sweeter because it is corn based. From there, one can explore whether they want something spicier, smokier, or what flavor profile they are searching for.

S&B: I’m sure Shoes N Booze readers would love a few tips. Based on flavor preference, what would you suggest as a whiskey entry point?

GU: A.      Sweet drinks: Old Fashioned    

B.      Bitter and smooth: Manhattan

C.      Something warm: Hot Irish Punch (Hot Toddy)

D.      Bright and Fresh: Whiskey Smash

S&B: What are 3 types of whiskey a home bar needs, and what brand do you suggest?

GU: A.      Bourbon: Bulleit Bourbon

B.      Rye: George Dickel Rye Whiskey

C.      Scotch: Oban or Johnnie Walker Platinum

MANITOBA

·         1 1/2 oz Crown Royal Maple Finish Whisky

·         3/4 oz Lemon Juice

·         1/2 oz Simple Syrup

·         top with Ginger Beer

Shake & strain into a highball glass. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Booze Clues: 4 Father’s Day Drinks to Share With Dad

 

Remember the first time you sat and watched the game with your dad (doesn’t matter which sport)? He probably patiently explained  the rules and each player’s role. Chances are he hoped you’d grow to love sports, but it’s more likely he just enjoyed the quality time. This Father’s Day, whether there’s a game on or not, sit and have good ole daddy/ daughter time over a good drink. Whether you and your padre share a love for tequila, bourbon or another “not-too-girly” spirit, here are a few drinks you can try together.

 

Wild Turkey Bardstown King

Recipe

1 oz Wild Turkey Bourbon 101
3/4 oz Wild Turkey Bourbon 81 
3/4 oz King's Ginger
1 dash Angostura Bitters
1 dash Xocolatl Mole Bitters

Stir all ingredients, strain and serve in a coup and garnish with an orange twist.

-Photo & recipe courtesy of Wild Turkey (concoction by mixologists at Rye House in NY).

Herradura Paloma

 

Recipe:

2 oz Tequila Herradura Silver

5 oz grapefruit soda (or juice)

1 oz Lemon juice and salt

In a big ball glass put the ice and Tequila Herradura. Add salt, lemon juice and grapefruit soda (or juice).

-Photo & recipe courtesy of Herradura

 

Ole Smoky Moonshine Original

Sip a bit on the rocks.

-Photo courtesy of Ole Smoky Moonshine

 

Crown Royal XR (LaSalle)

Enjoy Crown Royal’s newest Extra Rare product neat (no ice or mixers) or with a single ice cube to really open up the flavor (a splash of water also works).

-Photo by StyleScrybe

*No matter which cocktail you and dad share, make sure you do it responsibly. Otherwise, you may end up sharing secrets that are better kept (ahem… that one time in college when ____).

 

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Cutesy Tuesday: Ted Baker Hania Pumps

Best in Bow

You straddle the line between convention and quirk with what seems to be flawless ease. Never totally practical, you're also far from flighty. Bows on shoes are really nothing new, but placed at the back instead of the front of a simple pump, they say "I know I look responsible, but I have a playful side." The 4 inch heel says you're not afraid of a challenge, and adding vivid fuchsia and purple to the mix, a la these Hania pumps by Ted Baker (Available at ASOS.com), you only boosts your "look at me" factor.


Know what else makes people look at you? Tiara's. However, unless it's your birthday (or you're either a pageant winner or a little girl), you may look a bit kooky wearing one on a regular Tuesday night at happy hour. Still, you can order an X-Rated Tiara at the bar to satisfy your inner princess. It's a combination of X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Crown Royal Whiskey, DeKuyper Sour Apple Pucker Schnapps and splashes of cranberry, pineapple and lime juice, so it's pretty sweet. Remember, though, that the Crown Royal (which is perfect for now because dark liquor is in season) makes it a little stronger than it may taste. That said, mind your sips so you can mind your steps. (Recipe & Image via X-Rated Fusion Liqueur.)

Cutesy Tuesday: Betsey Johnson Nox Pumps & Crown Royal Cocktails

Here's to The Fucshia!

When the clock showed 12:00 midnight on January 1st, you promised yourself that you'd femme it up a little more in the new year. Yes, you wear heels, lip gloss and a little mascara, but it's time to get girlier! These Nox suede pumps by Betsey Johnson (available at heels.com) are a great start. The fucshia color and flower appliques may scream softy, but the 1/2 inch platform and 4.5 inch stiletto heel say you've also got a little bad ass in ya.

Tonight at happy hour choose a drink that looks sweet but packs a punch. If made correctly, a Crown of Roses- which blends Crown Royal Whisky and Amoretto with pineapple juice, cranberry juice and a few splashes of Angostura bitters- will do just that. The juices definitely de-fang a little of the whisky's bite, but leave enough of it there to keep you from feeling like a total wuss. (Recipe and image courtesy of CocktailTimes.com)