By Dina Novarr–
At press time, there is uncertainty about the election results in the air—a sense of nervousness about how the results might land. After the whirlwind of election season, the people of the United States are going to be in need of some serious relaxation, whether it’s to celebrate a future that excites us, or to drown our sorrows in the bottom of a glass.
I recently went to The Red Tail bar, where I spoke with owner and bartender Conner. We got inspired to build a fizzy spritz to de-stress (or manage our distress). We combed through our emotions and anxiety surrounding this historic presidential contest, between an elderly, tangerine-colored man obsessed with vengeance, and a Bay Area native who would bring so many firsts to the Oval Office. We felt bitter, sour, elated, bubbly, fresh, and countless other emotions. Then, through many iterations, we came up with this celebratory toast:
Her Cide-r
3 oz still Rosé (we chose Campuget Tradition Rosé)
3 oz Blood Orange Sincere Cider (because there was blood this election season) and a few splashes of Underberg (the Bitter we all experienced and
are hoping we can put under us)
We wanted a drink that was cathartic. It symbolizes the win for the candidate we support, and a release of the anxiety of these past months. This drink was smooth, slightly bubbly, fresh, and crisp, and with the splash of Underberg (meaning under the mountain hill) to symbolize the hope that we are emerging from this troubling era in American history.
However, it would be remiss of us if we didn’t provide a drink for the other potential outcome. Wes and Ben, the other two owners of Red Tail, spoke about their memories of 2016, and the overwhelming feeling of bitterness and disappointment. We reflected on that moment, and how America has changed in the 8 years since. Halfway through our glass, it clicked to Wes and Ben that we needed dry bitters and to make the drink cold to evoke those memories. It turned out to be a riff on a spritz that is dry, herbaceous, and bitter
Liberal Tears
2 oz Lofi Dry Vermouth
3 oz Dry Sparkling Brut (we prefer Pol Clement)
a splash of Underberg Pour over ice … dilution will happen with your tears.
Lastly, I came up with a drink in case there is an uncertain outcome, and our anxiety continues. With an election this close, there’s the potential it could take some time to know the next occupant of White House. This is a twist on the classic gin and tonic, with the addition of chamomile tea to give it a floral flavor and calming effect. Chamomile is known for promoting relaxation and sleep,
Uncertain-Tea Gin & Tonic
1 oz gin (we chose Farmers Organic Gin)
1/2 oz chamomile tea (steeped and cooled)
tonic water (we always choose Fentimans Tonic)
lemon twist and chamomile flowers for garnish
However you choose to celebrate, de-stress, and lament, let us toast to our great city and country, with an eye towards a fresh path forward that allows us to feel effervescent about the future.
San Francisco-based Dina Novarr enjoys sharing her passion for fine wines, spirits, non-alcoholic craft beverages, and more with others.
Cocktails by Dina
Published on November 7, 2024
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