Amid all the hoopla surrounding Tales of the Cocktail, being with my fellow cocktail loving cultists, and my birthday fast approaching, I started thinking about why I love cocktails.? The artistry in crafting a unique cocktail, the technical precision, the culinary aspect of cocktails, and of course, the taste, all combine into one hell of a great hobby.? At a party recently, I was asked “Why cocktails?” and my answer touched on all of the above.? I was peppered with questions regarding favorite spirits, favorite cocktails, beer, wine, etc., etc.? I still vividly remember making a Cocktail a la Louisiane for our buddy Roy and upon taking his first sip, seeing his eyes widen and what can best be described as an enlightenment shine on his face.? He then exclaimed that this is what he always imagined a cocktail to taste like.
Then I started thinking, why do other people love cocktails?? Is it based on the same reasons I give?? Is it simply that cocktails seem more mature to drink than PBR and a shot of Jack?? Is it following a fad?? Inquiring minds want to know!
Well, at least I do!? So here is the deal, I want to hear your story.? How did you come to enjoy cocktails?? Was there one particular cocktail that gave you that enlightenment moment?? Was there one particular bar or bartender that showed you the path?? What cocktail is your version of cocktail nirvana?
What you do!? (aka The Rules)
1) Email me your story.? Include your favorite cocktail along with a recipe and a picture.
2) Please keep your story to 500 words or less.
3) The contest is open to anyone.
4) The deadline is midnight, August 31st.
What I do!? (aka The Judging)
1) Which ever story I like the best will win.
2) I will be the only judge using a wholly unscientific analysis.
What you get! (aka The Prize)
1) The winner will have their story, photo and recipe published on Scofflaw’s Den.? AND
2) Will receive a copy of the 2009 Tales of the Cocktail Official Recipe Book.
The recipe book is really neat.? It is about 600 recipes from all of the participants from Tales 2009.? Yours truly has a recipe published within, along with recipes from the best bartenders and cocktail writers on the planet.? Many of the recipes were created for Tales and you won’t find them any where else.? Truly a unique book!
There you have it.? A simple contest with an awesome prize.? If you have any questions, feel free to ask either in the comments or via direct email.? I can’t wait to hear/read your stories.
Cheers!