This spring I turned 21 and immediately decided that if I’m going to drink, I’m going to drink something classy. What better place to explore the sophisticated possibilities of the fancy cocktail scene than in New York City with my mom? Here are my hot takes on four different drinks with three different kinds of alcohol.
Moscow Mule
Vodka, Ginger Beer, Lime Juice
This was my favorite of the four. It is a classic for a reason. I love ginger beer and anything sour and vodka is the least pungent of the liquor I tried. This is a great drink because it is appropriate in both a fancy and casual bar setting. I am a fan of the copper cups they are typically served in too.
Old Fashioned
Bourbon, Bitters, Sugar
Not a fan. It’s probably because I am new to drinking, but this was way too strong for me. Even my mom is just now getting into Old Fashioneds. I think my grandpa would have appreciated this drink from the fancy Italian dinner where we ordered it but as a 21-year-old foodie, I was more concerned with the pasta. To me, the only thing this fancy cocktail had going for it was the orange slice and maraschino cherry garnish.
Sutter’s Mill
Bourbon, Honey, Lemon, Pineapple, Cinnamon
The next two drinks are original to Bar Cima in New York City. This was bourbon in a much better way than the Old Fashioned. With the honey, lemon, and pineapple to sweeten it up, this drink was way more appealing. It was fruity but warm at the same time.
Strawberry Wine
Gin, Strawberry Sous Vide, Aperol, Creme de Cacao, Dante Sweet Vermouth
As a girl whose go-to drink is a gin and tonic with lime, I expected the Strawberry Wine to be my favorite. It definitely was not. This drink was very strong and the only fruity flavor was very artificial. I think some carbonation could have helped this drink, but it was just flat and hard to drink. Luckily the cup was very pretty and I was easily able to fake enjoy it for some pictures.
Next Sips
If I go back to Bar Cima, I would want to try the Spicy Mezcal Paloma with Mezcal, Lime, Grapefruit, Agave, Fire Tincture, and Grapefruit Soda or the Mexican "Firing Squad" Special with Mezcal, Reposado Tequila, Pomegranate, Ginger, Chile, Lime, and Sage.
While it might take time for me to develop my palate, I’m excited to explore what fancy cocktails Gainesville bars like Cry Baby’s and Kin Cocktail Bar have to offer.