Monday, June 1, 2015

Spirit of Albany: Albany Apple Knocker

New World Bistro Bar offers unique dishes and drinks from all over the globe, which includes a drink crafted in the Spirit of Albany, the Albany Apple Knocker! While we can't guarantee it will keep the doctor away, it certainly is delicious. If you're wondering where this drink gets it's inspiration, look no further:

"The Empire State averages about 29.5 million bushels of apples annually, which are grown on about 55,000 acres in six major production districts. Even with all of those apples, New Yorkers won't shy at the chance to get another taste in! That's why this cocktail embodies the apple flavor."

If you're at New World Bistro Bar consider trying something new with one of their many worldly dishes, and pair it with a drink crafted and created in our own backyard, the Albany Apple Knocker!

Wondering how to make this drink yourself? Check out the video below for instructions:

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: Empire State Apple Manhattan

Wolf's 1-11 Sports Arena Grill may only be open during Times Union Center events, but when it is
you have to stop in to try their extremely creative Spirit of Albany cocktail, the Empire State Apple Manhattan.

If you, like me, are a classic Manhattan lover, then you'll be over the moon with this tasty beverage made from all New York State products. Wondering where this mixologist came up with this inspired recipe? Here's his inspiration:
"When you drive into Albany, it's hard to miss the Empire State Plaza. Inspired to make New York's Capital sparkle, Governor Nelson Rockefeller came up with the idea for what he hoped would be the "most electrifying capital in the world." Today the Empire State Plaza occupies 98 acres of land with 10 buildings, beautiful vistas, and is a favorite spot for residents and visitors alike. This cocktail celebrates the great Empire State Plaza and New York's state fruit: the apple." 
Want to make this cocktail at home? Watch our "how-to" video to learn how:

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.)


Thursday, May 21, 2015

Spirit of Albany: Roff Old Fashion

What more would you expect from one of the area's oldest hotels than a classic, yet ultimately delicious, cocktail? 
The Century House Restaurant's Roff Old Fashion is an old favorite with a twist... because there is a
twist of orange peel, get it? The cocktail's other ingredients, St. Germain, Manhattan Rye, orange bitters, and brown sugar simple syrup, marry extraordinarily well to create a smooth and refreshing taste. The inspiration behind this drink: 
"Manhattan Rye warms the chill of the bitter cold while the refreshing taste of St. Germain reminds you of the warmth of spring that is not too far away. This cocktail exemplifies the spirit of the people of Albany and the beauty and magic of our diverse seasons."
Looking to get this drink with dinner? Chef Michael Niccoli joked that whiskey goes with everything, and while I agree, he later suggested pairing it with steak or their Beef Short Rib Slider.

Watch this video to find out how to make this on your own:
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: The Warehouse District

What do you get when you ask one of Albany's favorite cidery to create a signature mixed drink? The ultimate collaboration cocktail that is 150% Albany. 

Nine Pin Cider's The Warehouse District takes their own Ginger Cider and adds Albany Distilling Co.'s Ironweed Rye Whiskey, a bit of wildflower honey, and a cherry. Simple but wonderful. The inspiration for this 2015 Spirit of Albany Cocktail? Well...
"The Warehouse District cocktail combines craft beverages from the up and coming Warehouse District in downtown Albany. Using local ingredients in the production of the alcohol and for the cocktail itself, this drink truly embodies the Spirit of Albany in every way."
Although you can't get this cocktail at Nine Pin's tasting room yet (due to current legislation), you can go there to pick up the main ingredients to make this at home for yourself or for your friends!

See how easy it is to make The Warehouse District by watching this 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.)

Friday, May 1, 2015

Spirit of Albany: 'Old Lansing House' Cosmo

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen in downtown Albany put a new spin on a favorite cocktail for their 2015 Spirit of Albany Cocktail: the 'Old  Lansing House" Cosmo. You can taste the inspiration in this cocktail:
The Hollow Bar + Kitchen is currently located at the site of The Old Lansing House circa 1710. While honoring the historic landmark, this cocktail also embodies Albany's rich Dutch roots with the addition of Vox Vodka.    
The Hollow is one of my favorite restaurants in downtown Albany, partly because the menu is unlike anything else in the area, partly because of their mason jar "chandelier" in the main dining room.

See for yourself! Visit The Hollow and order this Spirit of Albany cocktail, get dinner, of even attend one of their many concerts.

See how to make the Old Lansing House Cosmo:
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.)