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My grandpa always told me “Nothing good happens after midnight.” For the longest time I believed him. After all, older people tend to have great sage advice gained through their own experiences.
I’m not sure if Grandpa told me this to keep me from growing up too quickly (good luck) or if he was just a fuddy-duddy missing out on the parties in the midnight hour. I can picture Gramps hanging out in a seedy little lounge listening to Fred Astaire, sipping on a martini, dressed to the nines looking like he belonged in the Rat Pack.
I had to consult a higher power, my mother, to get to the bottom of this mystery. Her answer told me there is much truth to genetics; my nightlife activities prove that I am a direct descendant of Gramps.
I’ve always had an affinity for what I call the vampire lifestyle, the nightlife. Hugh Hefner had the right idea when he started parties at the Playboy Mansion late at night. Well, I’m no Hugh, but I do throw a good party and the libations are always numerous.
To be a gracious late-night host you need a well-stocked bar, plenty of martini glasses and snifters, and some good recipes. Great tunes are also a must; late night always tends to bring out the dancer in just about everybody.
The smoking jacket may be passé, but the late-night imbiber is not. Here are some great options to serve for your next naughty nightcap.
Bourbons
Bourbon is to America what Cognac is to France. Quality today is exceptional, especially in the smaller produced brands. Whether served up, on the rocks or with a little soda or water (shame on you for that one), here are some superb options: Eagle Rare, Buffalo Trace, Blantons.
Infused Vodka
The selection of artisanal-crafted vodkas today is diverse and delicious. Make sure you have some of the classic late-night flavors (chocolate, vanilla, coffee) and look for some producers that deliver quality: Van Gough, Hangar One, Charbay.
Classic Coffee Mixers
If you need a good stimulant in the wee hours of the night, coffee always works. Here are some classic mixers to spice up that java just a bit: Kahlua, Baileys, Sambuca, Amaretto, Frangelico, Tuaca. |
