Happy Hour at Home

Jersey Cocktail

Jersey Cocktail

One of the great stories in all distillation history is when apples are fermented into cider and then distilled into whiskey (or bandy). Simple, delicious and intensely North American (if that matters). This favorite takes Applejack Whiskey, add our apple bitters and some simple syrup…

Cocktail Recipes featuring Blacksmith Trading Co (our) Bitters

Cocktail Recipes featuring Blacksmith Trading Co (our) Bitters

We like to imbibe now and again and what better than with a happy hour at home.  We spent a couple of years developing four different bitters and we believe have elevated some of the classic cocktails with them. Cheers! The Old Fashioned 3 ounces…

The Daiquiri

The Daiquiri

I guess I always thought the daiquiri should conjure up white sandy beaches, umbrellas, clear blue water and all the beachy stuff but lets’ be honest…this 3 ingredient cocktail doesn’t need ANY excuse to enjoy so here you go: Daiquiri2.5 oz rum.75 oz lime juice.5…

Simple Syrup

Simple Syrup

I am not sure why I haven’t posted something on this yet. This is one of the great DIYers of the home bar scene. It is shocking that there are simple syrups on the market in bottles sold at a premium price (I wish I…

Smoked Ice Cubes

Smoked Ice Cubes

There is no wrong time to smoke water. I mean, I usually do it around Thanksgiving because I have always felt that smoked cocktails are a fun “pre-funk” to the Turkey day celebration but the truth is, smoked water, then ice, is perfect for ANY…

Mojito Rising

Mojito Rising

Do you like The Doors? I do, and their song LA Woman is one of my faves. My son Austin got me back into this great band and I figure Jim Morrison drank mojitos, although don’t quote me. Although not considered a “masculine” drink, mojitos…

Happy Hour – Woo Woo

Happy Hour – Woo Woo

Ridiculous name…I know. Don’t get me started. When I was the 30-something, over-weight server and rookie bartender at O’Doherty’s several years ago, when it came to alcohol, we were known primarily for our good selection of traditional Irish and Pacific NW micro brew.  But occasionally…

“Italian” Berry Mule

“Italian” Berry Mule

There is not a lot to say here honestly. I was introduced to the “mule” years ago (the vodka, ginger beer and lime concoction marketed so well in a copper mug), and you have heard me talk about the Dark and Stormy, which is essentially…

Homemade Irish Cream

Homemade Irish Cream

Over the years we have been learning how to make a few more of our favorite beverages ourselves. Part creative outlet and a whole lot of fun, especially when they work! We make limoncello, eggnog, Kahlua, and have tried our hand at tonic, ginger beer,…

Let’s Talk About Martinis

Let’s Talk About Martinis

H.L. Mencken said ” The only American invention as perfect as the sonnet” is the martini. Well said. Traditionally served before dinner, the martini has its own place in the American lexicon and is as famous as many of the people who loved to drink…