By michael Vivar
"W." It's the only letter in the English alphabet that requires three syllables to pronounce. There's a certain playful and poetic lilt to it.
The character that partly defines the "QWERTY" keyboard and is the preamble to worthy words like "whimsical" and "winsome" also begins the names of these wondrous drinks.
This drink was invented by Scottish Colonel Hector MacDonald. He led the South District Army near Madras in India around 1902. No doubt Macdonald enjoyed the beverage while escaping to the officer's club from the pervasive heat and dust.
Combine three parts whisky and two parts ginger wine in a goblet. The drink is traditionally served neat. It can be served over ice, but a British officer would find that an unnecessary ostentation.
It's 1919. The Great War just ended. This drink was popular with American doughboys who remained. Like most war stories, details of its origins are disputed. Some say the White Lady first appeared at Ciro's Club in London while others at the Savoy.
Combine four parts gin, three parts triple sec and two parts lemon juice in an ice-filled cocktail mixer. Shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass. The drink can be topped with an egg white whisked separately into a froth.
Peach schnapps became popular in the 1980s. It was the base for risque-named cocktails like Silk Panties and Sex on the Beach. This recipe is for a Woo Woo cocktail but it can also be served as a shooter using the same ingredients in equal parts.
Combine four parts cranberry juice, two parts vodka and one part peach schnapps in an ice-filled highball glass. Stir gently. Garnish with lemon wedge.
1990 saw the global economy in a recession. John Wolff, director of a futures and commodities company, was elected to head the London Metals Exchange. Someone said, "Let's name a drink after this guy!" Because why not?
Combine two parts gin, two parts kummel, two parts dry vermouth and one part lemon juice in an ice-filled cocktail mixer. Shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass.
This should be the first and last item on your drinks list. Pour it in a glass and add some ice if you want. Sip or guzzle. The liquid of life is a key to making your cocktails and will prevent dehydration after a night of imbibing them.
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