Recipes

Here you will find my own cocktail creations:

Violet – Pontica Red Vermouth

Everybody who asks me what the next trend after gin will be, I am telling that it probably will be vermouth. Like gin, you can make it everywhere and in a wide range of variations. … Read more

Rebel – Pierre Ferrand Renegade Barrel No. 2

Today’s article is about quite the special spirit! Basically, it is a cognac, but at the same time it is not a cognac! What seems like Schrödinger’s paradox, actually is quite simply the result of … Read more

Boulevardier Sbagliato – Baker’s Bourbon Aged 7 Years

Keeping the topic of Negroni style drinks for another week, we are looking at a slightly altered Boulevardier recipe. Ok, basically I changed every ingredient except the bourbon. However, since the Negroni Sbagliato is a … Read more

After The Flowers – Citadelle Extrême N°2 Wild Blossom Gin

After the long history of Citadelle Gin here at Augustine-Bar, I want to present to you their newest bottling! The second version of the Citadelle Extrême series from French producer Pierre Ferrand again comes in … Read more

Plantation Coffee – Plantation Guatemala & Bélize

Finally, towards the end of this year’s Tiki month there is some rum! However, instead of creating a completely new recipe, I decided to recycle one of my oldest creations, the Plantation Coffee. In the … Read more

Indecision – Mancino Vermouth

Three weeks into the Tiki month and still no rum! I know it sounds like I am doing this on purpose, but I promise you it is just a coincident, that all the drinks I … Read more

Palms – Palms Arrak

Keeping the non-rum-theme for another week during Tiki month, I am presenting to you the Palms cocktail using – Palms Arrak. What might seem like an uninspired cocktail name, actually is another one of my … Read more

Bavarian Zombie – The Duke Rough Gin

For the start of this years Tiki Month I picked up the not-a-rum-drink-theme from the Winchester. However, instead of just replicating the Gin Zombie recipe, I decided to use typical Bavarian ingredients to create a … Read more

Dark Four Door – Pierre Ferrand Réserve

Even though cognac is a classic cocktail ingredient, it gets side-lined by other more famous spirits most of the time! When you do find a recipe calling for it, most of the times it uses … Read more

Blue Beard Daiquiri – Plantation Rum Guyana 2005

As the first article in 20178 I decided to remind ourselves of warmer days! Therefore, I prepared a summery, Daiquiri variation for us. Besides a great Demerara rum, the recipe also includes an organic flavouring. … Read more

Gin Mai Tai – Citadelle Gin

I know, a Mai Tai is not the most Christmassy cocktail. – In fact, it is quite the opposite! – Nevertheless, this variation using gin instead of rum is so good that you basically can … Read more

Islay Cassis – Lagavulin DE 2017 Single Malt

Believe it or not, but this cocktail actually was inspired by a cold remedy. When my sister gave me a cough drop, I noticed that rough Icelandic / Islay notes go very well with sweet … Read more

Redfort – Maker’s Mark Cask Strength

I admit, I am a Maker’s Mark fan! The bottle with the red way top was the first high-quality bourbon I ever bought and I still enjoy Old-Fashioneds made with it. Naturally, I was very … Read more

No Longer Making Thyme – E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon

It is a pure coincidence that I decided to write about the E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon and the fact that an E.H. Taylor whiskey was crowned as the “best whiskey in the world” this … Read more

Red Earth – Plantation Haiti X.O. 2017

After the short excursion into Amaros, I want to go back to a rum I already reviewed: The Plantation Haiti X.O. However, this time it is about the new 2017 bottling. The rum is not … Read more

Cherrybomb – Vecchio Amaro Del Capo

This article ends the small series on Amaros and we are once again turning our attention to Italy: This time we are reviewing two different Amaros from the Distilleria Caffo in Calabria. In Italy the … Read more

Slomo – Windspiel Kraut & Knolle

Continuing the short excursion into Amaros with a representative, not from Italy, but from Germany. Windspiel, the gin producer from the Eifel region, broadened its product portfolio with a herbal spirit. This potato vodka based … Read more

Up All Night – Nardini Amaro

Since a few years, there is a clear Amaro trend in US bars. However, as with a lot of “trends”, e.g. tequila, it seemed for quite some time that it would not gain a foothold … Read more

Falernum Sour No. 2 – Admiral Rodney Rum

When it comes to rum, the first islands and countries most people think about are Jamaica, Guyana and maybe the Dominican Republic. However, basically every country in the Caribbean produces rum. This is why we … Read more

Improved Bahama Mama – Botucal Planas Rum

Since a few years there is a trend towards aged “white” rums, which means that they are filtered after barrel ageing. While, I do not applaud the idea of removing or adding anything from or … Read more

Papillon – Fassbind L’Heritage Des Bois Williams

It has been a while since my last an eau de vie review, so let us take a look at a new Bartlett pear eau de vie. I will promise you it is quite a … Read more

Ixtapa – The Amber Falernum

Chances are high that you never heard of Falernum! However, among the more obscure rum liqueurs, like Pimento Dram or Swedish Punch, it very well may be the most famous. When used right, Falernum definitely … Read more

Post Tropical – Plantation Haiti X.O. Single Cask Rum

After a personal recommendation, I had to get my hands on a special bottle of Ferrand’s Plantation series: Besides their non-age-statement and vintage lines, Plantation also bottles rum from individual casks. The rum in question … Read more

Strawbear & Tin Man – Wild Turkey Whiskies

Well, this article is actually about two cocktails and they both have nothing to do with Alice In Wonderland. Instead, the article is about the two American whiskies from the Wild Turkey distillery. Both, the … Read more

Mood Swing Baby – Faude Blood Orange & Mondino Stagionato

I somehow missed Negroni Week this year! This is somehow atypical for me, but I still have some great ideas for Negroni variations. One of them is not only composed of gin, but also includes … Read more

Carry It On: Harris Gin, Reisetbauer Karotte & Kramer Liqourice Liqueur

After an involuntary break from blogging, let’s continue with a great new article: Although, I am hoping that the “next big thing” will be eau de vies, from time to time a new gin still … Read more

The Giantess – Dry Fly Whiskies

After short holidays here on the blog, I will present to you the rest of the Dry Fly line-up. Besides the potent Cask Strength and the huckleberry wine finished wheat whiskies I already sampled, there … Read more

House & Farm – Dry Fly Port Barrel Wheat Whiskey

After diving into rye whiskies some weeks ago, it is time to take a closer look at some other American whiskeys as well! In this case, it is all about an unconventional and therefore rather … Read more

Coffee Gimlet – Prütt Coffee Gin

Well, yes I said I was not going to write about gin if it does not come in Navy Strength. However, this new one from Munster has coffee in it! Coffee – the stuff that … Read more

Same Dark Places – Clement Creole Shrubb

Sometimes you need inspiration for a drink: Maybe it comes in the form of a classic cocktail, or your favourite bartender’s new invention. Yet, some other times you just combine some ingredients you figure might … Read more

C'est Si Bon – Daron Calvados

Well, it is again time to look at a rather underappreciated cocktail ingredient: Calvados! This very traditional French apple brandy is not very popular in bars, but it never fails to give drinks a perfect … Read more

Time Of The Blue – Maker’s Mark 46

Today I want to take a look at nothing less than a bourbon icon! Maker’s Mark with its red wax seal on the bottle neck was, and still is, the favourite of many bourbon drinkers. … Read more

La Quête – Clement Blanc Canne Bleue 2015

It seems like I still cannot stop writing about rum! However, this time we at least take a look at a sugarcane juice based rhum instead of the ones made from molasses. The special thing … Read more

Lucky Dime – Botran Ron Anejo Reserva Solera 18

To make the transition from Tiki month to the rest of the year as smooth as possible I decided to stay with rum as a spirits category a little bit longer. The rum I want … Read more

Balthazar, Impresario – Plantation Rum Jamaica 2002

Well, the next cocktail in this years Tiki month is more or less a product of chance. Some time ago I was inspired by another drink to infuse red vermouth with chai tea, but at … Read more

Planter From Havana – Compagnie Des Indes Tricorne Rum

Yes, I am also presenting a great new rum to you in this article, but the real star is a banana liqueur! Now you might turn up your nose, because you are thinking of artificial … Read more

Muertos Y Furiosos – Plantation O.F.T.D. Rum

The second instalment of this years Tiki month is also based on another classic Tiki cocktail, the Zombie! There is no better drink suited for a new overproof rum than this deadly and iconic Don … Read more

Tiki Month 2017: Augustine-Bar Rum Barrel

It’s February and this means that it is Tiki month again! In this proud tradition I present to you a month full of exotic, Polynesian-style cocktails. Of course, this also means a lot of rum, … Read more

Laurier – F. Meyer Mirabelle Eau De Vie

I know today marks the begining of the Tiki Month, but I still have an eau de vie review I want to share with you first: There is a rather brilliant cocktail from one of … Read more

Iron Sky – Juniper Jack London Dry Gin

Until now this year has been a good mix of eau de vies and gin here on the blog. So, after the hazelnut eau de vie I have featured last week,  let me introduce the … Read more

Future People – Vallendar Hazelnut Piedmont Eau De Vie

This week it seems like I again can keep up my promise to deliver you more articles on eau de vies this year! This time it is all about a small change to an already … Read more

Cats Eyes – Citadelle Extrêmes No.1 No Mistake Old Tom Gin

The first gin I want to present to you in 2017 is a rather special one! Even the name sounds very intriguing, Citadelle Extrêmes No.1 No Mistake Old Tom Gin. The two things the discerning … Read more

Metal & Dust – Scheibel Moor Birne

After several mentions of this special pear eau de vie I just had to get my hands on a bottle. Now that I did, I can quite understand what the fuss is all about. Although … Read more

Here In Spirit – N.Kröger Strawberry Rum

Happy Christmas to everybody! Even though the drink I want to present to you is kind of an inappropriate one for Christmas. However, there is nothing wrong with reminding yourself of summer every once and … Read more

Lion Face Boy – VOR Navy Strength Gin

This is already the third spirit from the Eimverk distillery I am presenting to you! And I will be honest, I am very much in love with their products. They are unconventional and typically Icelandic. … Read more

The Conqueror – Great King Street Whiskies & Weingut Schmidt Trester Reserve

Excuse the long headline, but this is a rather big article! Not only do I want to present three different spirits to you, but also while all of them were really excellent, one of them … Read more

What Next Dear One – Birgitta Rust Orange Liqueur

Nowadays there are a lot of orange liqueurs out there and some of them are very well known. However, there are also a lot of small producers who are making great orange flavoured spirits. Today … Read more

Against The Grain – VollKorn

This time the name of the drink reflects the approach the VollKorn takes to the current spirit business. In a world where there are plenty of gins around the VollKorn takes a whole new approach! … Read more

Lime Habit – N. Kröger Platinum Rum

Today I want to present a rather extraordinary rum to you, the N. Kröger Platinum. If you are very strict about what unaged rum is, it is not a real rum! Or, maybe in a … Read more

Ash Tree Lane – G. Rozelieures Fumé Collection Single Malt

Nowadays it is possible to get single malt not only from Scotland, but also from all over the world! However, even here on the continental mainland of Europe there are a some countries producing high … Read more

Codes And Keys – Berry Bros. & Rudd No. 3 Gin

I know, the No. 3 Gin is not that new. Indeed, it has been around for quite a while and it is more or less a classic London Dry gin. However, it is still worth … Read more

Paper Cuts – Siegfried Distiller’s Cut

Maybe you have been wondering lately what is wrong with me? So many weeks gone by and no review of a new gin ! Well, do not despair, it is time to sample a new … Read more

Zingaro – Don Fulano Fuerte

After all this bourbon whiskey, it is time to focus on some interesting agave spirit again! In the case of the Don Fulano Fuerte, we are not only talking about a high quality tequila, but … Read more

Spirited News 06/2016: On Swans and Piggies

Sorry for the weird animalistic title, but in this case it is really about a swan and a piggy. The swan in question is actually an Irish cream liqueur called Cool Swan and of course … Read more

Unbottled: Janisson-Baradon M. Massaux Champagne

As a cocktail and spirits enthusiast chances are high that your passion also makes its way over to other culinary fields. For instance, since I began mixing drinks, I am far more interested in things … Read more

Sweet & Bitter Taste – Boar Gin

A lot of unusual things are used to make gin nowadays! Even such rare delicacies as truffles. Now, you might think that this is something new when in fact there are several truffle gins from … Read more

High On The Tide – Cotswolds Dry Gin

Aaand we are back to gin! However, this time I am pretty excited to present this bottle to you, not that this would not be the case when I am writing about other spirits. But … Read more

Ivy & Gold – Mezan Jamaican X.O. Rum

Years ago I first encountered Mezan rum on Simon Difford’s Difford’s Guide homepage where he the Panama Don Jose 1995 rum a 5+ rating. For Mr. Difford’s standards this is a very rare rating and … Read more

Be Mine – B My Gin

I  know, I complained a lot about new gins still being introduced to the market… Well, I resigned, I will just appreciate every new drop of gin as a contribution to the diversity of the … Read more

Create Your Own Cocktail In Ten Quick Steps

So, you want to create your own cocktail? Maybe, it is just the thing you have always wanted to do, or you got that new bottle of booze standing around, but no useful recipe at … Read more

Santa Esmeralda – Atlantico Reserva

I know that the El Presidente is a great cocktail and it is what you should order when you are craving something stronger in Summer. That being said, there is no reason why you should … Read more

Fractured Air – San Cosme Mezcal

I know that Mezcal is not the latest trend amongst bartenders and cocktail aficionados. I myself also have tasted a fair amount of it so far, but still most of Mezcal cocktails I mixed so … Read more

Revised Mandarin Collins – Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac

The third and last drink in this little series of cognac cocktails is a highball I am planning on serving at my birthday party this year. Similar to the other two recipes it shows how … Read more

Hotline Bling – Landy V.S.O.P. Cognac

It seems like this months theme is cognac! That’s fine for me! As I already told you in my last post, cognac is far too underappreciated in cocktails! Some people think of it as not … Read more

Kill The Doubt – A story about beetroots and cognac

Two weeks ago I presented Florian Faude’s magnificent cucumber eau de vie to you. Yet, it was not the only vegetal eau de vie Florian was kind enough to provide me with. The second one, … Read more

No Rest For The Wicked – Amazonian Gin Company

A few weeks ago I already featured the Gin’Ca Gin made by the Inca Distillery from Peru. Yet, they not just created one new gin, instead they also made a second edition called Amazonian Gin … Read more

Bend – Faude Cucumber Eau De Vie

Yes, you read right: cucumber eau de vie – a distilled spirit made out of cucumbers. This might seem like a poor idea at first glance, yet everyone is already throwing cucumber wheels in their … Read more

Gold Lime – Plantation Stiggins Fancy Pineapple Rum

The Plantation Stiggins Fancy Pineapple Rum might just be the first rum created after a fictional character! The inspiration for this special kind of rum was the favourite drink of Reverend Stiggins from Charles Dicken’s … Read more

Metallic Cloud – Auchentoshan Three Wood

While the Auchentoshan Three Wood is hardly new to the Scotch whisky market. Yet, there are way and I mean way, way too less Scotch based cocktails out there. To change that I decided to … Read more

Spirited News 16/02: Rye, rye gin and gin

In this series I am providing you with tasting notes of spirits that had a lasting impression on me, yet I did not get around to create a drink with them. So, this Spirited News … Read more

Southern Point – Gin’Ca Peruvian Distilled Gin

6760 miles, this is how far this new gin had to travel to get to me. No wonder if you take into account that it is distilled by the Inca Distillery in Lima, Peru. Luckily, … Read more

Monochrome – Windspiel Barrel Aged Potato Vodka

It seems that not only bartenders get a bit board by gin, producers are also looking for new products to diversify their portfolio. One great example is Windspiel, after their compelling Windspiel Gin with fitting … Read more

The Ultimate Negroni Guide – Everything there is to know about the real king of cocktails!

Okay, I admit that this headline is more than lurid, but while most people would argue that the Martini is the king of cocktails, it takes even more practice to get accustomed with the Negroni’s … Read more

Splitter – Dry Fly Cask Strength Wheat Whiskey

While everyone (bartender) loves bourbon and rye whiskey, they easily forget about other interesting whiskey categories from the States. There is a growing number of corn, Tennessee and wheat whiskies from a few big producers … Read more

Mind Vs. Matter – Ramazotti Arancia

Similar to the gin trend here in Europe, the United States encountered an Amaro-trend the last few years. Not only is it en vogue for a bar to carry a whole shelf dedicated to this … Read more

Mr. Pink – Hoos Pink Grapefruit Gin

If you are looking for a modern German gin that does not make a fuss about itself, you are definitely well advised to try Heiko Hoo’s London Gin. Apart from that, Heiko does not rest … Read more

Three And A Half Drinks Made With Soda Pops From The Drinking Ape

Liquorice, it is one of those flavours which parts nations! Either you love it or you hate it and there is not much left in between. I am counting myself to the first group of … Read more

Spirited News 16/01: Sloe Gin, Pure Gin, No Gin And Whisky

Sometimes I get a little bit swamped by spirits to sample and try. So I thought, why not introduce a new category on the blog? In this category I am going to shortly introduce each … Read more

Another Spring – Oro Ibiza Gin

I have to admit I was a bit sceptical when I first heard about the Oro Ibiza Gin. The combination of its unusual design and the relatively low ABV made me think that this gin … Read more

Harold Bloom – Hoos Reserve Gin

I already introduced the regular Hoos Gin to you some time ago. Now Heiko Hoos is back again with two bottlings of his Reserve Gin. Why am I sampling two different batches here, you might … Read more

Longevity Is Key – Not Just Another Amaro Cocktail

While being mostly great on their own amaros and vermouths also make great cocktails. Also the beautiful thing about cocktails made with fortified wine is their relatively low ABV while at the same time delivering … Read more

Robert The Bruce – Cocchi Americano Rosa

What would you do if you had various fortified wines on hand? Making classic cocktail variations would certainly not be the worst idea. Well, that is why I settled on mixing a Rob Roy variation. … Read more

Keep Growing – Hibiki Japanese Harmony

When doing research for an article about the Negroni I stumbled on the Harajuku cocktail. The special thing about this Negroni variation was its use of Hibiki Blended Japanese Whisky. Since, the big aricle on … Read more

The Tiki Madness Continues – Cold Summer

Following last week’s crazy Tiki adventure the cocktail I want to present to you now is quite different, but still very intriguing! This time the name is more than just the title of a song, … Read more

It’s Tiki Month – The Chains Of Love

Tiki month is here, so it is the same procedure as every February! This means that I of course, have special drinks in stall for you. Now you might expect a conglomerate of various rum … Read more

I Never Get Old – Citadelle Réserve Gin

Well, I promised you some new articles on everyone’s favourite spirit and here you have it! After my complaint some weeks ago that I did not manage to write about gin, the guys from Pierre … Read more

Perfect Darkness – Beefeater Crown Jewel

Man, I cannot tell you how long I have been waiting to try this iconic gin! I had almost given up, but then when I thought the gin-hype was almost over, Beefeater raised the game … Read more

Oblique City – Vanilla Infused Clement Blanc Rhum

In my last newsletter I promised you new articles on gin, but I am afraid you will have to wait a little while longer. However, I will  try to make up for it with even … Read more

An End Has A Start – Amanero Amaro

I guess it is nothing new that a lot of so called trends are born in the United States and slowly make their way to Germany. After Gin, in my mind the next big thing … Read more

Devil’s Work – Peat’s Beast PX Sherry Finish

Even though I am already in Christmas mode, I cannot help myself but to create none christmas themed cocktails! Well, maybe you could take the peated whisky in this recipe as a metaphor for an … Read more

Awake The Unkind – Heiland Doppelbock Liqueur

Normally beer is not the first flavour that springs to mind when thinking about liqueurs! And even though there are some beer liqueurs out there, few of them made their way to the back boards … Read more

Song And Serenade – Birds Weissbrand

Finally, it seems to have caught on with spirit start-ups that the next new gin might not be the best way to start your venture. Besides the already featured German rum, Birds Weissbrand is another … Read more

Release Your Problems – Plantation Rum Barbados 5 Years

After the Original Dark and the Black Cask the Barbados 5 Years Rum is the third bottle from the French Plantation rum series I am featuring here on my blog. Now you might suspect that … Read more

Wasting Thyme – Belsazar Rosé Vermouth

Sometimes you are just not in the mood for a spirit forward drink. At those moments it is always good to have a great fortified wine on hand. Even better when you also can choose … Read more

Cult Logic – Studer Williams Superieur Eau De Vie

A few months ago I promised you that I would concentrate more on eau de vies and their application in cocktails. Well, many articles later I’ve got distracted a bit, but still every once in … Read more

Mellow Out – Studer Vieil Apricot

Sometimes you are not really looking for a new recipe when you get hit by a flash of inspiration! Ok, I admit while browsing through the Starchefs photo gallery I often cannot help myself, but to … Read more

Fire Dies Down – Viti Icelandic Aquavite

Iceland probably is famous for many great things (e.g. volcanoes), but one thing I never figured is that they would become famous for spirits. Nevertheless, this is already the second product I am reviewing from … Read more

Johnny Cash’s Thunderball – Plantation Black Cask 1651

Probably everyone who enjoys the occasional rum will know the Plantation rum range. However, every now and then they manage to sneak in a new bottle of rum under my radar. This was exactly the … Read more

Fever – Dark Matter Spiced Rum

In this unpleasant weather we all are in need for something to fight the cold and keep the doctor away! This is why I set to work and created a hot cocktail to do exactly … Read more

Last Night On The Stage – Yes It’s Almost A Last Word Cocktail!

Believe it or not, but even I am sometimes too lazy to use exotic ingredients in my cocktails. You simply get tired of using unripe dried mango powder in a cocktail after a while… In … Read more

Way Down In The Hole – 1776 Bourbon Aged 7 Years

First an apology is in order: I did not manage to keep my blog up to date and there is no excuse for that! Well, wait actually there is: I moved to another town and … Read more

Outta My Mind – Revolte Rum

Similar to last week’s article on the Tesla Sljivo this one is about another new German spirit start-up. The Revolte Rum is distilled in Worms and wants to break with some of the conventions we … Read more

Lightning In A Bottle – Tesla Sljivo

Today I am going to present an interesting and new approach to eau de vies to you: The Tesla Slijvo combines a traditional plum eau de vie with optics that would also suit a new … Read more

Blush – A Sorrel Julep

Sometimes inspiration strikes you at unusual places. This was also the case with this cocktail: When I was passing the herb bed the other day I noticed some sorrel growing and instantly thought: “Why not … Read more

Sin-Eaters – Sünner Sinner Strength Gin

The modern gin craze – I only have one problem with it and it is not the sheer amount of new gin introduced to the market, nor the price cover-up represented by half litre bottles, … Read more

Cornerstone – Lantenhammer Mirabelle Cuvée

I do not want to downgrade my other cocktail creations, but I think this new one might be quite interesting! Although I think I rather should let you decide on that matter. Nevertheless, I created … Read more

Armistice – Roner Z44 Gin

It seems like no matter what I do, I can’t shake the gin… Yet, gin producers continue to give their best to surprise me with new variations that attract my attention. In this case, I … Read more

The Beauty Of The Flower – Lantenhammer Red Williams

Today I will present another pear eau de vie to you to end the short gin-interlude of the last few days : The Lantenhammer Red Williams pear eau de vie to be exact, which is … Read more

Cucumber On Your Eyes – Makar Glasgow Gin

To be honest I was a bit sceptical about this new gin from the Glasgow Distillery Company. Was there really the need for another Scottish gin? However, when I received an e-mail which informed about … Read more

Brief & Bright – Citadelle Gin

Today I have an almost iconic Gin for you: the Citadelle Dry Gin from Ferrand. Now the problem with a classic is, that there is no news to report. Nevertheless, because of its strong flavour … Read more

Escape Artist – Glendalough Poitín

Sometimes things happen which you do not expect. In this case, I was prepared to taste the Sonoma County Distilling Rye, but the presentation ended up in a full on whisky tasting. This way, my … Read more

You Can Call Me Beercules: “Lifesaver” – Kehrwieder Southside Session IPA

I thought I change things up a little this time: Instead of a simple beer review I am providing you with a beer cocktail using the beer in question. This is why somewhere behind this … Read more

Patron & Saint – Sonoma County Rye

This time I first created a cocktail and began looking for the right spirit afterwards. Maybe that is not totally right, because I had the idea of making a Manhattan style cocktail with green walnut … Read more

Murakami – Altstadtbrauerei Malt Liqueur

As promised yesterday here is a new cocktail using my homemade yuzu cordial. This time I went not the easy way of combining it with gin, but instead used a local ingredient: Malt liqueur made … Read more

The BTSTU – Ferdinand’s Quince Gin

On the Saarland trip with the Trinklaune team, I was given a small bottle of Ferdinand’s Quince Gin. Actually there is some controversy as what to call it here, because the Quince Gin is nor … Read more

Strawberry Swing & Faude Rhubarb Liqueur

The last few days were the hottest since records began! With this kind of weather I was not in the mood for highproof spirits. Gladly I had just the right stuff on hand: Rhubarb Liqueur … Read more

‘I Won’t Lie’– It is time to say goodbye to gin!

The whole gin thing was fun for a while, but I feel like the time has come to say goodbye! Of course I am somewhat exaggerating, I will still be enjoying the occasional gin and … Read more

Very Unusual Negroni With VOR Gin

As my blogger colleague Daniel already described on Trinklaune the VOR Gin is not easy to mix with. However, I gave my best and ended up with a rather pleasant drink after a few tries. … Read more

Caroni Trinidad Rum Aged 12 Years Extra Strong

Yes, although it is not Tiki month I am enjoying rum! And yes, maybe it is just to disprove the rumour that I have become a gin blogger. In this case I had the opportunity … Read more

Ruin And The NB London Dry Citrus Vodka

To clear things up: nothing is ruined – Ruin is the name of the cocktail I created, but more on that later. First let me introduce the NB London Dry Citrus Vodka to you. Yes, … Read more

The Dude’s ‘Martini’ With Dodd’s Gin

Sometimes I am an idiot, for instance when it comes to the Dodd’s Gin. I am absolutely convinced that its makers intended to name it “Dude’s Gin” and therefore I am refusing to call it … Read more

Kirsched Iced Tea & Don Fulano Reposado Tequila

Sometimes a bottle sits around for quite sometime without me having any clue which drink to mix with it. Then all of a sudden I get struck by drink ideas, often even more than one… … Read more

Unbottled: Black Forest Dry Gin

View in: de en Man könnte den Schwarzwald als etwas wie das Epizentrum des Deutschen Gins bezeichnen, schließlich kommt auch der allseits bekannte Klassenprimus aus dem Schwarzwald. Mit dem Black Forest Dry Gin, versucht sich … Read more

Unbottled: Windspiel Gin

View in: de en Über den Windspiel Gin wurde an anderer Stelle schon ausführlich berichtet. Dennoch fand ich das Konzept dieses Gins so interessant, dass ich ihn auch auf meinem Blog vorstellen wollte. Besonders die … Read more

Unbottled: Homecoming Vodka, How About Them Apples?

View in: de en Auf einem immer noch nach Gin durstenden Markt grenzt es an ein wagemutiges Unterfangen, mit einem neuen Vodka an den Start zu gehen. Vor allem, wenn dieser nicht, wie sonst üblich, … Read more

Mixology Monday XCV: Call Me Old-Fashioned

As I already mentioned in the article on February’s Mixology Monday I am planning on taking part more often. Especially when the topic is right up my alley like this month’s: Old-Fashioned variations.

Tiki Month’s Final: The King And All His Melons

This is another Tiki drink without any rum. However, what it lacks in rum, it makes up for in more than one way! I don’t even know where to start: it is a complex composition … Read more

Martinis Reimagined: Alginquin (MxMo XCIV)

I have been absent from Mixology Monday way, way too long! That is why one of my new-year resolutions was to participate each and every time this year… And what can I say: I already … Read more

Tiki Drink Sacrilege: 38. Al Special

Sometimes your guests demand something “special”, something extraordinary. Of course you could just suggest a classic cocktail that fits their taste, but another thing that I like to do and what I consider pretty much … Read more

Tiki Month Begins: Natives Are Restless Tonight

Yes, it is this time of year again! – No, not Christmas! It is Tiki Month and of course I set out to create a few new tropical inspired cocktails for you. So join me … Read more

Finally A Liquorice Drink ! The Negroni Tinto

It took my a while, but now I finally managed to create a cocktail containing my homemade liquorice syrup! I had a few ideas for twists on classic cocktails. However, this one was a spur … Read more

Japanese Inspired Cocktails: X&Y

With this last Japanese inspired cocktail a few things are different from the other two drinks. Besides using another base spirit, the inspiration for this one came from a song. To finally come full circle, … Read more

Japanese Inspired Cocktails: Lost In Translation

The second instalment of my Japanese cocktail trilogy again features Japanese whisky. However, this time it is a Blended Malt combined with Japanese plum liqueur and green tea. This might be the perfect beverage when … Read more

Japanese Inspired Cocktails: The Flower Of Carnage

A while ago I came up with some ideas for drinks using Japanese ingredients and although all of them sounded very intresting on paper, it took me quite some time to procure all the ingredients. … Read more

Christmas And First Anniversary Drink: Augustine Cocktail

I’ve had this drink in my drawer for quite some time now, but only now it feels right to present it to you. This drink reflects a lot of things I like very much and … Read more

The Mexican Old Cuban: Tamacun

I am a thief! I stole this recipe from onemartini.com. – Well, to justify my deed: I didn’t really steal it. I just used their recipe as an inspiration and changed a some of the … Read more

Truth Or Dare? – Try This Daring Gin Drink!

Even to me some of my cocktail ideas sound strange: This drink for instance uses garden radish and balsamic vinegar to create an unusual, but also surprisingly delicious taste sensation.

Not Just Another Summer Drink: The Rocket Smash

Some people say that there are not many good tequila cocktails out there. I think that’s a myth, because unfortunately most people still think shots with lemon and salt when they think of tequila. So … Read more

World Cup Cocktail: Golden Smash

Are you fed up with all the bad Caipirinhas you have to gulp down while attending World Cup parties? Check out my variation for a more sophisticated cocktail that you can actually enjoy while watching … Read more

Martinis Reimagined: Bravery

The second drink in this mini-series is a variation of the Hanky Panky cocktail. Which itself is a variation of a sweet Martini, which is a variation of the classic Martini. So calling it a … Read more

Martinis Reimagined: My Heroics Part I

You are probably bored by the endless Martini variations out there! Nevertheless, I had some interesting ideas floating around in my head and let me tell you this: they turned out be rather good.

Lemon and Lime bore you? – Try these cordial recipes!

You don’t know what a cordial is? You have never made one at home? – Don’t panic: this is a quick and easy way to master it. Basically you can do this with any fruit … Read more

Mixology Monday LXXXIV: Nonalcoholic Cocktails

This month’s Mixology Monday is all about nonalcoholic cocktails. – Now don’t panic and run off to Small Screen Network to get your fix! It’s about high quality cocktails, just without the alcohol!

The right drink for a (cocktail)party: Irish Celebration

As a bartender you are into a lot of stuff, normal people wouldn’t drink or buy themselves. So you are always trying to come up with recipes that make use of extraordinary ingredients. This time … Read more

A Harmony Of Apple And Rum: The Ecstasy Of Gold

Get the pun? Harmony – Ecstasy Of Gold – Ennio Moricone? Never mind, this drink is based around an apple eau de vie and it also features a secret ingredient. So enjoy!

A Nutty Wave Of Flavors: La Mejor Ola

In my opinion Sherry is a far too underestimated ingredient. That’s why I often try to come up with new drinks that use this fortified wine. I am especially proud of this one, because it … Read more

Winter Is Coming: The Winter Moon

Ok this Game of Thrones reference is just stupid! Of course winter is not coming! On the contrary: The cold days may be over soon! Who says you can’t still enjoy a winter drink? Here … Read more

Fixing The Sidecar: The Sidecard

The Sidecar always tasted a bit unbalanced to you? – You think Cognac and Brandy are for elderly people? Maybe I can change your mind about that with this fruity and potent cocktail.

Reinventing The Zombie: The Havana Undead

Reinvented might sound a bit exaggerated, but with all these different zombie recipes floating around I think it is ok to add one of your own. After all, Tiki drinks call for a little experimenting. … Read more

A Cocktail Like The Caribbean: Save & Sound

Sometimes I put a lot of thought into my cocktail creations: Which flavors work well together and how to give them the right balance. And then there are times when it’s easier: I combine new … Read more

Need To Spice Up Your Drinks? Try This: The Hot & Spicy Mai Tai

If you like it hot, this is the right drink for you! It combines the classic elements of a Mai Tai with spices and the hotness of chilies.

Pineapple and Coffee: A Match Made In Heaven!

The Plantation Coffee is the first Drink I created and it’s also a Tiki drink! – What better cocktail than this to kick off Tiki Month?

A Drink Like The Misty Scottish Highlands: The Broom Tailed Star

A friend of mine is a hobby musician and he was delighted by the connection between pieces of music and my drinks, but I didn’t have a cocktail that was inspired by one of his … Read more

Do You Feel Like Summer All Year Long? – The PX Jerez Smash

Need a drink to sip on hot summer days? Or do you just want to remind yourself of a warm summer on a cold winter’s day? Here is the right thing for you!

A Refreshing Summer Drink: The Chocolate Hämmer

This is not the first cocktail I invented, but it is the favorite of ladies and friends. Though it is not that complicated – to be honest it’s fairly simple, but yet a delicious and … Read more

One For The Holidays: Sailors In Your Mouth

Every year before Christmas I am busy searching for wine to go with the Christmas dinner and since I am a bartender I try to mix things up a bit by throwing in a Cocktail … Read more

A Perfect Drink For Autumn: The Other Way

Last year in autumn I helped cleaning out the basement of the bar I’m working in. I noticed several boxes containing white chestnut blossom syrup and asked my boss what he was going to do … Read more