Day 2: Free Lunch

“I would not say that a cracker is a complete meal in itself, but a sandwich is,” an assistant D.A. in Brooklyn told an assembly of police captains in reference to the new law. The law in reference, was the Raines Law, instituted April 1, 1896. The law stated, among other things, that alcohol could not be served without the accompaniment of food. The Rain's sandwich of New York was born, the cheap, reusable sandwich made up of whatever ingredients could be found, ensuring the booze would keep flowing!

Welcome back! We are officially in Day 2 of a world without bars. I hope everyone is holding up well. Having an uncertain amount of vacation thrust upon those of us who work heavy hours, is a strange thing to process. That being said, I thought a nice Julep twist would be fun for the spring. The current events surrounding us have reminded me a lot of different alcohol regulations of the past. The Raines Law really put this idea of only serving alcohol with food in our consciousness. I wanted to give the spicy and herbal notes of a meal, yet I still wanted to hold onto a cocktail that would feel right at home in the late 19th century.

Free Lunch

2oz Rye Whiskey

.5oz Peppercorn Syrup

.25oz Amaro Montenegro

4 Basil leaves

Start with a Julep Cup

Muddle Basil leaves with syrup

Add remaining ingredients and stir lightly.

Top with crushed ice.

Garnish with Basil sprigs, berries, and black pepper.

Black Pepper Syrup

1.5oz (by weight) Black Peppercorns

1 quart water

White sugar

In a sauce pan, lightly toast the peppercorns.

Add 1 quart of water and simmer 20 min.

Fine strain, and blend pepper tea with equal parts sugar until dissolved.

I hope everyone is staying safe and sane. We aren't sure long this might last, but I can promise more cocktails to bring the bar into your home. Well, the rain seems to have stopped, and the sun is back out. I'll see everyone tomorrow. Take a moment, relax, enjoy the downtime, and keep shaking. I know I will...