Saturday, February 2, 2013

Absolutli Goosed

I wish I could take credit for the name of this Tower Grove bar, but alas: I cannot.  The establishment is on the small side, A clever combination of two of the biggest vodka brand names (Absolut and Grey Goose) is what first attracted me to this bar: the cocktails will keep me coming back.

In addition to faithfully reproduced classic cocktails, Absolutli Goosed offers a plethora of original libations.  The cocktails are divided into a few different categories.  Their "Pure Decadence" list has a variety of dessert cocktails, such as the Salted Carmel [sic], which has caramel dipped rim, and Mint Cookies & Cream.  A separate "Cosmopolitans" list promotes everything from the traditional Cosmopolitan to a Pink Coconut Cosmopolitan.  Absolutli Goosed also infuses vodka with jalapenos, coffee, and cucumbers (not at the same time; that wouldn't be good).

I'm a sucker for classic cocktails, so I went straight for one of my favorites: the Sazerac. This particular version was a combination of Knob Creek Rye, Peychaud's Bitters, and Pernod. Pernod is the successor to traditional absinthe, which might make some weary, but I will explain the difference in a later post. The thing you need to know right now is Pernod has a lower ABV of about 40% as compared to the +50% of absinthe. Because the lower alcohol equals less bite, plus the included sugar in Pernod, this cocktail was much smoother to which I am accustomed. I like the bite of that higher alcohol, so this was not the best version of the drink I've ever had, but it was still quite tasty.

On to drink two: the Moscow Mule. Ginger Beer! My old friend! This time, rather than the floating rum on the spicy mixer, vodka is the spirit of choice. Served in a copper mug (I'm not kidding), this beverage is as refreshing as it gets.  This is the perfect summer drink, and even though it was January, I couldn't resist ordering it.  A simple drink, the cold from the ice transfers into the copper mug, making it seem colder.  The cold of the mug hits the lips before the drink does, preparing you for the mug's exhilarating contents.  I can't say enough good things about this drink, so I'll just give you the recipe:

Moscow Mule
1 1/2 oz. vodka
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
Ginger Beer

Pour vodka and lime juice into copper Moscow Mule mug.  Add ice cubes and fill with ginger beer.  Garnish with lime wedge.

Seriously: go get a Moscow Mule.  If you have to go to Absolutli Goosed, even better.  If you do, come back and leave some comments about your experience.  You can tweet me @rebellionwhisky.