On May 13, 1806 a New York tabloid first defined the term “cocktail” and from that day forward, we’ve celebrated World Cocktail Day in celebration of the oh-so eloquent definition put forth in The Balance and Columbian Repository: “stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters.”
When thinking of summer drinks, liquors like rum and tequila traditionally come to mind. While a solid margarita should never be taken for granted, a few Columbus bars and restaurants peaked my interest with a few bourbon and gin based cocktails. Turns out, I don’t have to give up my love of whiskey to drink through the hot (and humid) Ohio summer.
Owner and bartender at Curio, Travis Owens, suggested one of their crafted cocktails, the Island Riddims, for new take on a tropical drink. The Island Riddims is Monkey Shoulder & Ardbeg scotch, Batavia Arrack, toasted coconut, pineapple and lime. For another unique experience, Owens pointed to Curio’s variation of a rum swizzle, the Schiller Swizzle, which is comprised of gin, Chartreuse, Falernum, pineapple and lime.
Strongwater Food and Spirits also has some killer “non-traditional” summer cocktails. The Bourbon Renewal is a recent favorite of mine with house made lemon simple syrup, muddled basil, Buffalo Trace and soda. This ultra-refreshing cocktail is the epitome of patio drinking. Strongwater also does a Franklinton Mule comprised of Bulleit bourbon, house made ginger syrup, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Another personal favorite spot for cocktails is Brothers Drake. Specifically, I’m a huge fan of the Wild Sweet Annie and the Ladybird. The Wild Sweet Annie is Wild Ohio Mead, OYO Whiskey and ginger liqueur, named after their head bartender Annie Williams. The Ladybird is Motive mead, OYO Whiskey, organqe liqueur, cranberries & fresh lemon juice.
Feel free to share your favorite Columbus cocktails with us below or, better yet, tag us in a photo of you celebrating Wold Cocktail Day on Instagram. Thank you, History, for another excuse to go drinking!
