Spirit of Albany: The Centennial Tini

This delicious cocktail comes from Albany's oldest restaurant. A favorite of locals, visitors, and celebrities, Jack's Oyster House brings you their 2015 Spirit of Albany cocktail, the Centennial Tini!

The inspiration behind this fruity beverage: 

Jack's has been a staple in Albany since it opened it's doors in 1913. This champagne based cocktail celebrates the centennial of not only one of Albany's great landmarks, but also celebrates a family that embodies the true spirit of the city it calls home.

So head to 42 State Street in Albany to try this drink, eat some delicious food, and see what this 102 restaurant is really all about.

See how to the Centennial Tini is crafted:

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2015 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Spirit of Albany: Ironweed Old Fashioned

For this 2015 Spirit of Albany cocktail, you'll have to skip the restaurant and come straight to the horses mouth... or something like that. The Ironweed Old Fashioned can be made for you at Albany Distilling Co. The inspiration behind this cocktail? 

The Albany Distilling Company supplies the Capital Region and beyond with craft spirits one batch at a time. The Ironweed Old Fashioned is in celebration of just that, keeping with tradition of Albany and their devotion for finely crafted liquors, this cocktail remains a classic. The main ingredient being the Distilling Company's own Ironweed Rye whiskey, which they are most known for.

Albany Distilling Co. features this delicious cocktail on their drink menu so stop in, sit, and smell the distilling process which is actually deliciously aromatic. Oh, and if you stop in, be sure to say hi to Cooper, the official Albany Distilling greeter and mouse catcher.

You could also stop in to the distillery and pick up the rye whiskey to create this beverage for yourself at home. 

Want to see how Albany Distilling creates this tasty beverage? 

Spirit of Albany: Apple Cider Sangria

For the 2015 Spirit of Albany campaign, The Ginger Man concocted this mouth-watering cocktail that reflected everything we love about Albany!

What inspired the mixologist at The Ginger Man when trying to create this cocktail?

This cocktail celebrates and embodies New York’s favorite time of the year: Autumn. With the beautiful foliage and favorite activity, apple picking, it’s no wonder why residents and visitors alike love the Fall. The Apple Cider Sangria embodies all that comes with that dazzling time of the year. Along with the abundance of apple products, the Hudson Valley and Capital District are known for their local wineries.

This refreshing beverage pairs nicely with a lighter entrée such as a salad or simple chicken dish! Although this drink can be enjoyed all year long, autumn best compliments this cocktail because of its apple-cinnamon roots.

See the recipe and order your own 2015 Recipe Guide by visiting this page.

See how they created the sangria in this “how-to” video:

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2015 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Spirit of Albany: Tri-City Martini

As part of our 2015 Spirit of Albany campaign, Reel Seafood Co. created this delicious cocktail!

The inspiration behind this colorful concoction?

The Tri-City Martini reflects the close association Albany has with the neighboring cities of Troy and Schenectady. The three layers in this cocktail represent the individuality of each city. Each layer adds something unique to the cocktail just like each distinct city makes up the Capital Region.

This fruity martini would be the perfect after dinner treat, or even an "after lunch on the beautiful patio" treat! Enjoy this drink at Reel Seafood Co. at 195 Wolf Road, Albany NY.

See the recipe and order your own 2015 Recipe Guide by visiting this page.

See how they create this layered drink in the "how-to" video:

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2015 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Taste the Spirit of Albany

One city, 400 years of history, and 11 great cocktails...

What could I be talking about? The 2015 Spirit of Albany recipes, of course!

The 2015 Spirit of Albany recipe guides featuring eleven original cocktail recipes from restaurants and culinary attractions throughout Albany County is available now! For the third year in a row, we've encouraged local mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that they feel embody the true spirit of Albany.

This year’s recipes include ingredients from local producers like Nine Pin Cider Works, the Albany Distilling Company, the Underground Alchemy, and Harvest Spirits. Many also make good use out of apples, New York State’s official fruit! 

The 2015 cocktails are as follows: 

• The Tri-City Martini – Reel Seafood Co. 

• Apple Cider Sangria – The Ginger Man

• Ironweed Old Fashioned – Albany Distilling Company

• Centennial Tini - Jack’s Oyster House

• ‘Old Lansing House’ Cosmo – The Hollow

• Roff Old Fashion – The Century House 

• The Warehouse District – Nine Pin Cider Works

• Empire State Apple Manhattan – Wolf’s 1-11 Arena Sports Grill

• Albany Apple Knocker – New World Bistro

• Dark & Spicy – 677 Prime

• Passion Fruit Caipiroska – Texas de Brazil

This year, along with the Spirit of Albany recipe cards, we are producing a video series that features each cocktail with a step by step “how-to” by the mixologist! The eleven videos will be released each Friday beginning April 3 and will be available on the Discover Albany YouTube page and on the Culinary Capital blog! 

Read the inspiration behind each cocktail, view the recipes, or order your our free recipe guide online by clicking this link. 

Recipe guides may be picked up at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center for free, or at any of the participating restaurants/locations.  The Spirit of Albany is a special promotion of The Culinary Capital.

Spirit of Albany: The Century House

The House That Became a City’s Home

Enterprise prevailed in the Fall of 1949, for it was then that The Century House in Latham first opened.  For proprietors, Jim and Dorothy O’Hearn, the acquisition of the land and once “century old” farmhouse was a decision wrought in incredulity and promise.  They allowed the travel patterns of Route 9 to chart the vision for the property (the only way to get from Manhattan to Montreal was through that route) a route, which fortuitously ran right outside the property.  Armed with a loyal band of family members and that American resilience to stay the course, the O’Hearn’s turned an improbable edifice into a celebrated and beloved icon of upstate New York.

Fast forward, and today, The Century House still affirms its original concept; part destination for wearied travelers and part dining facility. But, at its core it is a business in service of others and one wholeheartedly dedicated to its most valuable entity, its patrons. Hence the reason why this Federal Style Tavern hasn’t strayed too much from its philosophy or from its physical appearance.

The House retains its farmhouse charm and old-world elegance – evidenced in its landscaping and

detailed use mid-century lanterns-- while at the same time allowing some modern design touches to accent the almost Dickens-esque, storybook structure.  Striking the tasteful balance of incorporating the antiquity of yesteryear and the appeal of modern elements, is something that many seasoned designers find elusive, but it is a balance that the folks at The Century House achieve with ease because it is an extrapolation of their core philosophy of comfort and service.

The food at The Century House will always be of mention as it continues to be a steadfast crowd pleaser.  Their vibrant lunch service features a full menu and hyper-attentive service from the wait-staff.  The dinner service hits on all the notes characteristic of a classic fine-dining experience and is complemented by the charm and whim of experiencing The Century House after dusk. With a full bar service, ample portion sizes and generous dining room accommodation, dining at The Century House undoubtedly takes you back to a by-gone era in American history, where “going out to eat” was a grand affair.

For the Spirit of Albany Campaign, The Century Houses’s own Mike Niccoli concocted a cocktail that celebrates an equally noteworthy edifice in Albany’s history, The Schuyler Mansion. With Pindar Merlot and Hudson Baby Bourbon as its main components, this crimson libation salutes the red brick characteristic of the mansion – and National Historic Landmark -- for which it is named. The combination of the merlot and bourbon at first tastes like they are at odds with each other, but the Schuyler Mansion Manhattan is an inventive spin on the classic Manhattan. “It’s an acquired taste” my wait-person noted and after a couple of sips, I saw in it, the bold and robust distinction that this drink is meant to embody, as it mimics the mansion that still stands strong.

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2014 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. In this exciting blog series local foodie Brigid Washington, a Culinary Institute of America grad and local restaurant consultant, explores each restaurant – it’s menu, it’s atmosphere, and of course, it’s custom cocktail – and provides her perspective on how it all comes together to create part of Albany’s creative culinary scene! (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Spirit of Albany: La Serre

Not all restaurants hold lofty ambitions. There are many successful establishments that find their sweet-spot in refined familiarity. These restaurants offer fare reminiscent of one’s childhood, and they do so in polished yet unpretentious setting.  Every city boasts of at least one such gem, and in Albany, it is La Serre.

La Serre is coyly tucked away in downtown Albany on Green Street. And despite the fact that it is a stone’s throw from many  other noteworthy eateries, La Serre has carved a niche for itself – in a thriving, yet saturated market, by giving patrons exactly what they want; a tasteful trifecta of food, service and ambience. As well as par none, banquet and large party facilities.

 

The ambiance of La Serre deserves mention. The restaurant is housed in a building that dates back to the mid-eighteen hundreds. The historic edifice was a product of a modern restoration, although most of its dated, old-world charm shines through some of the modern updates. There is also ample patio space which presents the option for patrons to dine al-fresco when the temperatures permit.

The menu of La Serre is engineered to reflect the heavy influence of French and Italian culinary traditions that has informed New York State over the centuries.  From Pate Maison to Classic Bolognese, the chef at La Serre puts forth an offering list that brings together the best of both worlds.  There is also a distinct presence of modern American fare as well, as evidenced by the wildly popular NY Strip Steak.  And chances are, for most diners with an established palate, it would not be difficult to navigate around this menu since it features dishes that are in essence, tried and true.  Gracious hospitality, heaping portion sizes and decadent dessert options bookend the entire dining experience.  And for those who opt for the classic, old-timey look and feel of a restaurant, La Serre delivers.

For the Spirit of Albany campaign, master bar man Al Fuller created the Hudson High Tider. This libation is more than just a geographical tribute to the restaurants’ proximity to the Hudson river – La Serre is steps away from river’s bank.  This drink is also a nod to a time period in which the river would sometimes overflow unto its environs.

The Hudson High Tider combines the kick of Patron tequila, with a three-prong citrus flavor attack  – from grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice and Rose’s lime juice. This likely marriage – of tequila and citrus – is moderated as well as accented by the sultry richness of Chambord. Chambord is a stand-out black raspberry liqueur which was introduced to French nobility, Louis XIV during one of his visits to Chateau de Chambord during the late 17th century.  The final touches to the Hudson High Tider are splash of club soda – which offers slight effervesce and a lime wedge on the rim of the martini glass, which serves as an apt garnish.  Altogether, the cocktail is a tasteful way to imbibe La Serre’s long standing history with the Hudson River and Albany alike.

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2014 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. In this exciting blog series local foodie Brigid Washington, a Culinary Institute of America grad and local restaurant consultant, explores each restaurant – it’s menu, it’s atmosphere, and of course, it’s custom cocktail – and provides her perspective on how it all comes together to create part of Albany’s creative culinary scene! (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Spirit of Albany: Jack's Oyster House

Jack’s Retains its Relevance, Over a Hundred Years Later

Some may call into question the future of a restaurant that has witnessed over a hundred years of American history. Could this place still impress the diners who aren’t easily wowed?  And if so, how? Few may think that such a restaurant can exist -- and if it does -- it’s a likely shell of its old self; one that’s been politely grandfathered into the now uber hip dinning landscape.   But on State Street, the horn of New York State political machine, sits Jack’s Oyster House, an old-line seafood and chop house that still reigns as that quintessential American icon.

Opened in 1913, Jack’s continues to be helmed by members of original owners -- the Rosenstein’s –and the restaurant has been dubbed “Albany’s Greatest Restaurant Legend” as well as, “The Best Restaurant of the Century.” The establishment consistently courts the interest of politicians and professions during its thriving lunch and maintains the pace during the evening hours as well. And through the changing frontier in the landscape of American restaurants, Jack’s look and feel exudes the understated opulence akin to a high-brow roadhouse restaurant of the 1930’s. In 2010 the restaurant received a facelift, modernizing some elements – like seating – but still staying true to its chop-house concept.

In terms of its food and fare, Jack’s – once again – maintains its culinary relevance by simultaneously embracing change, and also, at times, strategically bucking it. The menu is classic but not outdated.  At its core, the menu is a three dimensional aggregate, representative of American food past, present and future.  As expected, there’s a robust raw-bar – arguably the best in the city. And the menu, as a whole, is dominated by updated, generously portioned,  stand-out classics of a by-gone era, like Steak Diane and Chicken Lemonardo.

For the Spirit of Albany Campaign, Bill Crabill of Jack’s created a celebratory libation honoring the space Jack’s has occupied in Albany’s history and aptly named The Centennial Tini. On first sip, the presence of the extra dry champagne and echoes of citrus reminded me of a traditional French 75. But as the flavors coalesced, I began to taste how truly special this cocktail is, and why it is the most fitting representation of the restaurant.  With the Centennial Tini, every component was palpable and none of the elements competed against the other. The result was a beautifully balanced, near flawless cocktail served in a chilled vintage martini glass.  

The reason why this drink deserves such acclaim is partly due to the ingredients employed, but moreover, it is largely a result of precise craftsmanship and use of exacting ratios.  Far too many bar-keeps make a fundamental attribution error assuming that the ingredients trump the composition.  And that isn't the case, as the Centennial Tini proves. For instance, the flavors of the black raspberry liqueur in this drink detonate on one’s mid palate, right before the effervescence of the champagne is perceivable. Achieving such balance takes skill but it also takes great attention to detail; an attribute the staff of Jack’s just happen to be masters of.

There are many restaurants that will continue to be part of region’s strong unbroken wave in Capital City dining, but there is no disputing that Jack’s Oyster House will persist as its leading edge.

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2014 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. In this exciting blog series local foodie Brigid Washington, a Culinary Institute of America grad and local restaurant consultant, explores each restaurant – it’s menu, it’s atmosphere, and of course, it’s custom cocktail – and provides her perspective on how it all comes together to create part of Albany’s creative culinary scene! (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Spirit of Albany: New World Bistro Bar

In 2009 new life came to Delaware Avenue when restaurant New World Bistro Bar opened, helmed by accomplished Hudson Valley chef, Ric Orlando.

The menu introduced restaurant patrons to global fusion cuisine, in a buttoned-down, unfussy manner, and in a bigger sense created a new diction in the way enterprising foodies in the Capital Region ate. The restaurant is also consistently lauded for its impassioned commitment to local and sustainable food sourcing.

For the Spirit of Albany campaign, mix master and bar-keep, Sarah- Jane Mc Laughlin, wields an ambitious cocktail named after the punch-line of a joke, the “That’s All Benny.”

The jalapeno, coupled with the lime and fortified by vodka and apple liqueur, made for a beverage that requires an adventurous palate to imbibe. My appetizer – the Asian Guacamole - displayed an assertive fruitiness in the yuzu-ginger dressing, coupled with the cooling and refreshing cucumber and the buttery heft of the avocado.

The Asian Guacamole

At New World Bistro Bar one has time to notice – and in this case, admire – instances in the gastro-pub where coherency shines through with authentic ease. The physical space is one such example. Unlike lesser restaurants, New World Bistro took a cue from the street on which it’s perched and allowed some of the eclectic edge of Delaware Avenue to inform its dining space. The warm colors, exposed brick and unpretentious space deservedly continues to enhance the value proposition of this establishment; global cuisine and local pride.

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2014 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. In this exciting blog series local foodie Brigid Washington, a Culinary Institute of America grad and local restaurant consultant, explores each restaurant – it’s menu, it’s atmosphere, and of course, it’s custom cocktail – and provides her perspective on how it all comes together to create part of Albany’s creative culinary scene! (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Spirit of Albany Series: 677 Prime

This first installment of The Culinary Capital Blog is designed to invite locals and visitors to experience the rich dining culture of Albany through partner restaurants, as part of the Spirit of Albany campaign.  Over the coming weeks this blog will highlight six inspired cocktails that were crafted by these participating restaurants; Jack’s Oyster House, The Hollow, New World Bistro, 677 Prime, La Serre and The Century House. Follow along as we chronicle how the city is depicted through this diner’s journal of food and fare.

The Dark & Spicy at 677 Prime

One of Albany’s staple establishments – 677 Prime – a restaurant which has served the Capital Region in good stead, since Spring of 2005, is one that undoubtedly delivers the ultimate dining experience. The unmistakable feel of an up-to-the-minute men’s club is exuded in the entry way, where regulars have the option of stowing coveted dining essentials – like a twenty-year-old single malt Scotch whisky – in individually lit lockers appropriately constructed in rich mahogany and metal mesh doors. 

Such a display, affirms the restaurants’ position of marrying luxury with high-toned whim.  In the dining room, tradition meets contemporary in a deceivingly large and lavish dining space.  The wood tones are balanced by cool brushed metal accents, which are highlighted by a smattering of beautiful crystal and industrial light fixtures; it is indeed, the ultimate juxtaposition of masculine and feminine touches. The tufted leather booths coupled with crisp white linens adds to 677's understated sophistication. And a gallery wall pageants the artistic work of talented local artists.

Elegantly constructed floral arrangements and topiaries add brilliant hue to an otherwise quiet and neutral palette. And as the old adage goes, “you eat with your eyes first” and this atmosphere certainly sets the stage for something truly delectable. 

The menu at 677 runs the gamut from the expected to the exceptional. And although it is branded as the quintessential steak-house, some of the offerings buck conventional steak house fare and are truly thoughtful and purposefully inventive, such as the molten “crab cake” dip. The prices do skirt industry standards, however, every guest would attest that hand-cut steaks from top purveyors is definitely worth it.

There’s no dispute that 677 is a classic dinning institution, however, of late, its well-stocked bar now brandishes a cocktail that is anything but traditional.  The Dark and Spicy is an improbable combination of Ginger Beer, a smattering of rums; ADC Quackenbush Still House Rum and Gosling Rum, as well as, Golden Falernum and Simple Syrup, garnished with fresh lemon.  It is well composed, in that, the initial spice attack from the Ginger Beer and Golden Falernum was not overwhelming but rather warming as it facilitated the distinct taste and heft of the Rum to create a long and lingering, pleasant mid-palate.  

Although this drink features enough lemon juice to create somewhat of a palpable pucker, the characteristic acidity was muted by other dominant spice flavors.  However, in the end, it was the subtle saccharine notes which complemented the smooth finish to reveal a truly balanced cocktail; one which distinctly plays on the contours of the city in which it was created to represent.

Editor's note: We asked some of Albany’s best mixologists to create original cocktail recipes that embody the spirit of Albany, and we compiled those recipes into our 2014 Spirit of Albany Recipe Guide. In this exciting blog series local foodie BrigidWashington, a Culinary Institute of America grad and local restaurant consultant, explores each restaurant – it’s menu, it’s atmosphere, and of course, it’s custom cocktail – and provides her perspective on how it all comes together to create part of Albany’s creative culinary scene! (The ACCVB does not, in any way, condone drinking and driving so please designate a driver as we did for this series.)

Spirit of Albany spills into the Times Union

Today's Times Union newspaper features an article on our Spirit of Albany promotion. The Spirit of Albany began last year to promote the talent of our local mixologists and to encourage visitors to try new restaurants while learning something about Albany along the way, as the cocktails must include an element that represents our destination.

Twenty two original cocktail recipes have been created over the past two years - and they are all delicious! I'm only guessing, but I think the journalist had a great time writing this article. Jealous? Don't be! Request a free recipe guide here and then plan your journey around Albany. Remember to be safe and designate a driver, though!

Read the full Times Union article here.

Speakeasy 518

I had made a reservation earlier in the morning, and had confirmed it over the phone just a few hours before the scheduled time. They had my name, the number of people that would be joining me, and the time at which I would be arriving.

When I walked up to the nondescript door under the black awning and a faint red light, I found the doorbell and pushed only once, as the directions clearly stated. Promptly, the door cracked open slightly and my party and I were greeted by a young lady in a black dress and pearls.

“May I help you,” the woman asked, an odd question for an establishment that had just recently confirmed my reservation. However, this isn’t your ordinary establishment; it’s the new Speakeasy 518, and gaining entry is just one part of the underground experience.

“I have a reservation. Bull, party of five.”

“We've been expecting you. Please, come in.” She opened the door wider and we entered the subterranean establishment. As our eyes adjusted to the lack of bright sunlight that was present outside, we were directed to a small seating area. We took a moment to take in our new, unfamiliar surroundings.

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The City Beer Hall as it appears today

A few years ago, before the City Beer Hall opened its doors to the public, I was given a tour of the building with the owners, Kenny and Kaelin. They were in the process of transforming the former Ballinger’s space into the City Beer Hall. They took the time to point out the custom chandeliers and tables, the ice block that formed around the beer taps, and finally, the basement that they were to open in a few years. It was dark then, too: unswept and cavernous.

When the telephone company occupied this building, the switchboard operators did their work here, and the payments – at a time when people paid their bills in person, and with cash – were stored in the vault.

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Now, the bar has been revived. It was tended by two true gentlemen, spending minutes carefully crafting each cocktail. Wanting a closer look at the drink making process - and probably drawn toward the little light that is present in the place - we asked to be moved to the gorgeous stone-top bar. Our request was granted, as Tuesdays are apparently not a popular night for tag-holding members who have first rights to the stools.

The Albany Home Telephone Company during construction. Today, the City Beer Hall.
Photo from the City Beer Hall Facebook page.

What took place over the coming hours was something truly enjoyable. The prohibited use of cell phones made for deep, uninterrupted conversations (hence the lack of photos). Our bartender, Robert*, took the time to explain the complexities of each cocktail, the history behind the cocktails, and the history of his incredible beard.

The cocktails are true works of art and nothing is spared. I won’t try to explain the flavors and complexities of each concoction; you’ll have to experience them on your own.

Take the time to relax, sip each drink, and think about what it must have been like to live in Albany during Prohibition. You’ll soon feel what that means when someone outside rings the doorbell seeking entry: inside, a red light suddenly turns on and your heart skips a short beat. Don’t worry, it’s not the fuzz. You soon relax, realizing that what you are doing is completely legal. This is living history, and the live piano music eases you back into the perfect mood.

Upon leaving, my party and I decided to have one final drink on the patio of the City Beer Hall just one level up from the Speakeasy where we continued the no cellphone rule. It was another enjoyable, yet completely different experience.

Drinks at the Speakeasy are $12, cash only and completely worth it.


*Robert also created three of the cocktails featured in this year's Spirit of Albany competition: Kennedy Sour, Salinger's Caught, and the White Pelican.

Spirit of Albany: The Kennedy Sour

Editor’s note: We asked Albany's best mixologists to create an original cocktail recipe that embodies the true Spirit of Albany. Today, we highlight The Kennedy Sour, created by Robert Mack of Yono’s/dp, using product from the nearby Albany Distilling Company.

What do you get when you mix Bourbon, grapefruit juice, and some bitters? Something truly delicious, of course. Not overpowering in the least, the Kennedy Sour is a balanced and delightful concoction that is pleasing to even the non- or not-so-often bourbon drinker.

Though simple in construction, the result seems the product of hard labor and careful execution on behalf of the bartender. That’s the art of this drink.

The Kennedy Sour is a tribute to Albany native and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, William Kennedy, who has written such novels as Legs, Billy Phelan’s Greatest Game, Ironweed (the namesake of the Bourbon used to create this cocktail), and O Albany!, a non-fictional account of Albany.

The Kennedy Sour

Take a tour of the Albany Distilling Company to learn how the Ironweed Bourbon is created, then walk to the nearby dp’s/Yono’s and order up the Kennedy Sour. Sip slowly, and be transported back in time to when legendary gangster Jack ‘Legs’ Diamond (also known as Gentleman Jack) was bootlegging and gambling around Albany back in the 1920s. And if you’re really getting into the story, walk up to 67 Dove Street in the Center Square neighborhood for a look at the house in which he was murdered.

When you've finished your stroll, head to www.albany.org/spiritofalbany for the full recipe and other Spirit of Albany drinks. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite recipe, which may earn the title of the 2013 Spirit of Albany.

Remember to have fun, but be smart. Designate a driver!

Spirit of Albany: The Lounge Kitten

Editor’s note: We asked Albany's best mixologists to create an original cocktail recipe that embodies the true Spirit of Albany. Today, we highlight The Lounge Kitten, created by Jennifer Cramer of 205 on Wolf at the Holiday Inn Albany on Wolf Road.

Don’t let the hotel bar stigma or the cocktail name scare you away from trying this delicious concoction. When I mentioned to my fellow staff members that I would be trying The Lounge Kitten, it invoked a few chuckles. Undeterred, I pressed forward knowing that I was in good hands with the drink’s creator, Jennifer.

Arriving at the hotel, I missed the clearly obvious signs for 205 on Wolf and walked in the main lobby doors.

I was directed down about a half mile of snaking hallways eventually arriving in a very impressive bar complete with a glowing fireplace, comfortable booths, stylish tables and chairs, and the well-stocked bar. It is my suggestion that you heed the directional signs, take a seat wherever you feel most comfortable, and order The Lounge Kitten.

A perfect summer drink

I took a seat at the bar next to a few older gentlemen as Jennifer began preparing my drink. When it was finished, she placed a martini glass filled with pink liquid in front of me. My face must’ve been just as blushed as I took the first sip to the audience of older gentlemen, sipping their whiskey, and obviously confused as to what was taking place before them.

To my surprise, the drink was not sticky, was just the right amount of sweet, and was actually quite delicious! Jennifer created the cocktail using X-Rated Liquer (a “superior product”), along with orange vodka, lime wedges, and cranberry juice. She was actually out of X-Rated when I visited so she substituted triple sec, which worked just as fine. (See the correction from Jennifer below!) The result is a light, citrusy, and exciting summertime cocktail that is sure to please. And I’m sure it would pair well with most items on their extensive menu.

So how does The Lounge Kitten relate to Albany? Head over to www.albany.org/spiritofalbany to read the story and get the full recipe. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite drink, which may earn the title of the 2013 Spirit of Albany.

Remember to have fun, but be smart: designate a driver!

Spirit of Albany: The Fort Orange

Editor’s note: We asked Albany's best mixologists to create an original cocktail recipe that embodies the true Spirit of Albany. Today, we highlight the Fort Orange, created by Joe Westervelt of the Century House Hotel, Restaurant, and Conference Center.

In 1624, Dutch settlers established a permanent trading and military outpost called Fort Orange. The fort went through a number of changes over the years, but eventually the establishment became present day Albany. To honor our ancestors, The Century House Restaurant created "The Fort Orange" cocktail.

The drink is comprised of local Core Vodka (Valatie, NY) infused with fresh oranges and mixed with Grand Marnier, fresh lemon juice, ginger ale, and an orange wedge garnish. Though the recipe is simple enough for a novice bartender, the final product is an outstanding tribute to the men and women who originally settled the area. Surely, they would have enjoyed relaxing with a nice Fort Orange after a long day of blacksmithing, carpentry, hunting and fishing, trading, cooking, and the many other tasks that were common back in the 1600s.

Yum.

Today, guests to the Century House can feel as if they are back in time while dining next to the fireplace in the historic restaurant, which serves up some of the best food around. (I highly suggest the Lobster Mac and Cheese!) I recently invited a number of friends to the Century House to sample the drink and enjoy some food. When I mentioned that we were going to try a new cocktail, some were wary. However, all trepidation was immediately relieved with the first sip.

The blend of fresh ingredients creates a satisfying and refreshing drink that is pleasant on its own or when paired with food. (Did I mention the Lobster Mac and Cheese?) “The Fort Orange” is now vernacular in my circle of friends, and we are soon planning another trip to the Century House to enjoy this wonderful creation. You should, too.

Get the complete recipe and more at www.albany.org/spiritofalbany. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite recipe, which may earn the title of the 2013 Spirit of Albany.

Remember to have fun, but be smart. Designate a driver!