Happy Hour
Summer mixology 101
Image courtesy istockphoto
Olives, lemons and limes are time-honored cocktail garnishes. But don't cut your summer entertaining duties short when it comes to offering a fun selection of beverages. Take inspiration from the entire produce section to wow your guests after just one sip.
Mixologist Alex Ott goes grocery shopping when he's asked to create a cocktail.
"I go to the market to see what's fresh," says Otto, who is based in New York City, Paris and Tokyo. He considers himself a "liquid chef" as he blends drinks using such ingredients as lemongrass, mint, ginger root, kiwifruit and cucumbers. Spices, herbs and jams also play a role in his drink creations.
One of Ott's popular drinks, a breakfast martini, calls for orange marmalade, orange juice and Clementine vodka. Another calls for citrus-flavored vodka and curry powder.
"I try to convince people of new things. They may be hung up on what they've had for the last five years, such as the Cosmo," says Ott, who developed cocktails for New Amsterdam Gin.
Before you try your hand at new flavors, think about your favorite food. Analyze the flavors, then work them into a cocktail, Ott suggests.
Bev Bennett, a veteran food writer and editor, is the author of "Dinner for Two: A Cookbook for Couples" and "30-Minute Meals for Dummies"
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