The Old Flame: a whiskey-based Valentine's Day Cocktail (finally)

by Katie

My husband John is really into cocktails, but he is awfully particular about it. He does not like cream liqueurs, like Bailey's and Kahlua. He is not into very sweet things, like Chambord. He prefers classic-style cocktails shaken into small glasses over jumbo-sized smoothie-like beverages.

A few days ago, he was lamenting how all the Valentine's Day cocktails advertised at bars and restaurants are sickly-sweet, or chocolate-drizzled, or feature gross specialty liqueurs with stupid names like Hypnotiq.

"There are no Valentine's Day drinks made with whiskey," he complained.

"So make one up," I said. And he did.

This drink is super delicious, and has a lovely reddish-pink hue without being over the top. Perfect if you want to impress your whiskey-loving dude (or lady!) with a Mad Men-esque tipple, and equally perfect for a couple planning to celebrate Valentine's Day on the couch in comfy clothes with takeout (ahem).

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you: The Old Flame

2 oz Makers Mark or rye whiskey (Old Overholt is a very good reasonably priced bottle)

3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

1/2 oz (1 Tbsp) Grenadine

1/2 oz simple syrup

1/2 of an egg white (optional, but it gives it that lovely foam on top)

a few drops Peychaud's bitters

wide lemon twist for garnish

Pour whiskey, lemon juice, grenadine, simple syrup and egg white (if using) into a shaker with plenty of ice. Shake vigorously (especially if you're using the egg white). Strain into coupes or rocks glasses. Add a few drops of bitters and float the lemon garnish on top.

Editor's note: John would like me to tell you that to really "seal the deal," you can light a match and squeeze the lemon garnish across the flame near the glass (but not so close that the flame will actually touch the drink, for obvious fire-safety reasons) This will flambee the lemon oils, which adds a nice aroma and looks awfully cool. (As for whether it seals any deals? I make no promises.)