What to drink when you’re not watching the Kentucky Derby:
Blood and Roses #2, created by Alex Smith of Thirsty Bear in San Francisco
While Mine That Bird soared to victory with the second biggest upset in the 135th running of the Kentucky Derby in May of this year, we have our minds on why we only reserve one day each year to enjoy a Mint Julep? Anyone who matters knows darn well that the Mint Julep is the official cocktail of the Derby. But, after the Run for the Roses is over…why do we turn our backs on this lovely refreshing cocktail?
We called on Alex Smith, bar manager of Thirsty Bear in San Francisco, to come up with an all year-round cocktail that symbolized Kentucky roots and the glory of the race. Alex delivered the goods with his Blood & Roses #2, a bourbon based Julep variation that enjoys the company of Absinthe, Campari, Apry, and Bitter Orange Marmalade. So, even if your horse isn't wearing roses at the end of the race, you can be drinking yours for the rest of the year with the Blood & Roses #2. Enjoy!
Blood and Roses #2 @ Thirsty Bear
•    2 oz. Bulleit Bourbon
•    1/4 oz. Le Tourment Vert Absinthe
•    1/4 oz. Marie Brizard Apry Apricot Brandy
•    1/4 oz. Campari
•    1/4 oz. Bitter Orange Marmalade
•    6 sprigs of Mint
•    Crushed Ice

    Directions:
1. Muddle mint and marmalade in an empty cocktail shaker.
2. Add other ingredients and shake gently for a few seconds.
3. Serve over crushed ice in a Julep glass.
4. Garnish with a sprig of mint.


My First Time – Alex Smith
“It took me a little time to warm up to absinthe. The false reputation it has regarding its "dangerous and hallucinogenic" qualities got in the way initially, and the intense anise/licorice flavor takes a little getting used to. The classic Sazerac helped me understand the important role absinthe can play in a cocktail. I began to experiment with absinthe rinses in various other cocktails and then just started putting 1/8 or 1/4 oz right in the drinks. I guess I need more. Hmmm, maybe absinthe does have some kind of alluring quality about it? In any case, it just plain tastes good!"

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