This week, I want to focus on the concept of drinking what you like. I know there’s a lot of societal rules around only drinking certain things at certain times, like only having red wine in the winter. But that’s simply not true. Plainly put, you’re the one drinking, so drink what you like.
Whiskey is one style of sip that has fallen victim to this type of mentality. I hear from people all the time “It’s too hot to drink whiskey, you only drink dark liquor in the wintertime.” Now if you only like to drink whiskey in the wintertime, that’s fine. But if you would prefer to be able to enjoy it year-round, I have good news for you-you totally can! Whiskey is a type of spirit that is fairly adaptable and, depending on the style, can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including those that are hot-weather friendly.
Tumblin’ Dice bourbon is a high-rye bourbon blended in small batches in Indiana. This blending demonstrates the two things Proof and Wood control as blenders and finishers of fine spirits. These two things are incredibly important to the flavor and texture of a finished whiskey’s profile-the proof at which it is bottled and the wood in which it is aged. This bold and spicy bourbon is made of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% barley and it’s aged for only 4 years. This mashbill and young age gives this whiskey a lot of character, and it’s rich spiciness balances with notes of warm vanilla and toasted nuts for a delicious sip all on its own. However, if you want to lighten it up and make an easy summer sipper cocktail, you can do that too! I’m calling this cocktail East-West Summer because it’s something that I feel traverses the line between a rich whiskey and a bright cocktail, just like Baltimore’s crosstown culture.
East-West Summer
1 oz. Ferrand Yuzu Curaçao
1 oz. Tumblin’ Dice Bourbon
3 oz. Tonic Water
Simply build in a tall glass over ice and enjoy! This light, slightly citrusy cocktail is an easy drinker and will definitely satisfy your summer whiskey cravings!
As always, if you want to grab the ingredients for this cocktail, you can find them and me at the Spirit Shop Falls Road and if you would like other summer whiskey suggestions, shoot me an email at [email protected]
Cheers!
