There are those among us who appreciate the opportunity to imbibe from time to time, this author included. Sometimes a fine wine or a craft beer will suffice to quench those spirited cravings, but there are also occasions that call for a truly unique and creative cocktail. Luckily, many of Tucson’s mixologists are highly skilled at concocting cocktails that you won’t soon forget, unless of course you have too many of them, in which case all bets are off. In any case, if you consider yourself a connoisseur of cocktails, you might want to add any or all of the following five mixed drinks to your must try list.
Old Tom Gin, Cardamaro wine amaro, apricot liqueur, crème de menthe and angostura bitters come together to create something the menu refers to as “deep and complex.” Don’t let that description or the obscure ingredients scare you away, though; the bartenders at 47 Scott know their stuff and it shows. Watching them mix and prepare a cocktail is entertainment in itself. If the drink menu doesn’t suit you, take a chance and ask the bartender to mix something custom to your tastes.
If distinctive flavors are your thing, the B and E is a must try. While pears aren’t exactly an everyday cocktail ingredient, the house-infused pear wine in this drink is a definite stand-out. The bourbon, Cointreau and rose water easily mix and mingle with the pear wine to concoct one drink that will leave your taste buds eager for another round.
If you’ve got a tooth for a sweet dessert drink, Hub’s The Armory is worth considering. Patron XO Café, half & half, rum spiked chocolate syrup and cola come together in this decadent cocktail concoction. Perhaps best appreciated by those with an appreciation for a cup of joe, this drink packs a solid caffeinated punch. Pair it with a scoop of Hub’s house made ice cream and you’ve got yourself one sweet treat.
If it’s true that everything is better with bacon, this cocktail stands little room for improvement. Made with bourbon, house made Bloody Mary, olive, bacon, and pickled jalapeno, the blind pig offers savory sipping at its finest. With football season underway, you can pull up a seat at the bar to watch the pigskin while enjoying a blind pig. Beat that.
Much like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, this drink has two distinct sides. Habañero infused vodka accounts for a hint of heat while passionfruit juice and simple syrup offer a sweeter side. Unlike Jekyll and Hyde, these two flavors play nicely together. Garnished with cilantro, this drink is the perfect one to enjoy while you watch the sun go down on the Old Pueblo.
