Our spirits recommendation from an area pro
Colorado “Bloody Maria”
On a recent trip to Denver, I was introduced to the local craft beer scene in a way I did not expect . . . with not one but two twists on the classic bloody mary. First, the bloody maria—the slightly newer variation that substitutes tequila for the standard vodka in a bloody mary. But in Colorado they take it one step further, topping their rendition with some of the local craft brew. It sounds a little strange, I know, but it was astoundingly rich and refreshing. The perfect spring brunch cocktail!
Colorado “Bloody Maria”
1.5 oz. Mike’s Special Edition Maestro Dobel Tequila
½ teaspoon + Old Bay
teaspoon + horseradish
a few dashes of Worcestershire
juice from 2 large lime wedges
3-4 ounces of your favorite vegetable juice or V-8; stir well
“float” 3-4 ounces of a craft lager or brown ale on top (Delaware’s own Fordham Gypsy Lager or Dogfish Indian Brown Ale will work nicely)
Fill glass with ice to give the drink a “gentle” mix. Garnish with another lime or even a spicy pickled green bean.
Mike Whitwell is GM and sommelier at Premier Wine & Spirits.
