Howard McEwen

Here’s one for lovers of beer, Mexico and things spicy…the Michelada, a classic beer cocktail. But first, don’t be put off by the ingridents. They come together in a flavorful, refreshing way that’s perfect for a lazy summer time evening. First, start with a glassful of ice. Squeeze in 1 lime. Add two bar spoons [...]

[Read more →]

The Rob Roy is a nice when you need a break from your regular Manhattan. I use the same proportions but instead of Angostura bitters trade in the Peychauds. Its cherry notes lends a nice touch to the Scotch’s smokiness 2 ounces blended Scotch 1 ounce sweet Vermouth a few dashes of Peychaud bitters Stir [...]

[Read more →]

I call this cocktail by either name. Officially, it’s The Old Cuban. But really, it’s a special Mojito. These require a slight bit of work but are very much worth it. In a glass, put 4-6 mint leaves. Then pour in 3/4 of an ounce of simple syrup and 3/4 of an ounce of lime [...]

[Read more →]

I’m not much of a champagne/sparking wine fan. I always thought it a bit of a disappointment to toast in the new year with a drink I didn’t appreciate. Champagne by itself always seems a bit thin, not very complex and most are overly dry for my tastes.  That’s where the Champagne cocktail comes in. I [...]

[Read more →]

Last night, we introduced The Elusive Cow’s signature cocktail. It’s best if saved for after dinner as you can see by the ingridents. Building it is fairly simple: Into a cocktail shaker put ice then 1 part Kahlua, 1 part Naughty Cow Milk Chocolate liqueur and 1 part Amaretto.  Give it a good shake and then [...]

[Read more →]

This cocktail is fairly simple to make and – on the taste side – quite refreshing. 1 ounce Plymouth gin (cognac is sometimes used) 3/4 ounce simple syrup 1/2 ounce fresh-squeezed lemon juice 3 ounces Champagne spiral lemon peel, for garnish Chill your glass first. Put everything except for the Champagne into a cocktail shaker [...]

[Read more →]

As most people know, I hate vodka. I can go over the reasons here but you’re not looking for a rant.  You’re looking for a recipe. The Bloody Mary is good but the inclusion of vodka doesn’t add anything to it. No flavor, smell or color, right? Tequila, on the other hand, does nicely with [...]

[Read more →]

Ladies, When out in a drinking establishment, you can tell a lot about a man by how he drinks. If he’s downs a cheap shot quickly (or pre-maturely) and then slams the glass on the bar and turns to ‘high-five’ one of his buddies, that should give you an idea of how he does everything. [...]

[Read more →]

I had a fun night. My goal when mixing cocktails for folks is to get them to try new cocktails…and ask for new cocktails thus forcing bartenders to learn to make better cocktails for me to drink…. The Bee’s Knees was a success. Lots of smiles go around and Jim’s scallop special seemed to compliment [...]

[Read more →]

What kind of beekeeper would I be if I didn’t offer up a Bee’s Knees cocktail at the next Elusive Cow Cafe cocktail night? What’s a Bee’s Knees? This Prohibition-era cocktail is a wonderful mixture of floral gin sweetened with organic honey syrup and brightened by lemon juice. The Cow’s Chef/Owner will be pairing some [...]

[Read more →]