The Beauty of Botanicals with Michael Craig

This week, we are again joined by the wonderful Michael Craig of Goleta Red Spirits to talk about botanicals - what they are, why they're so important to the world of spirits, and the infinite range of things you can do with them. In addition, we talk about the new projects that are in the works at Goleta Red, try Michael's brand new aquavit, and encounter some random business park disruptions!

Cocktails Discussed:

Asklepios:

1 1/2 oz. Fred Jerbis Gin

1 oz. Bordiga Rosso Vermut Di Torino

1 barspoon Fernet Francisco

Bottle Logic Brewing Citrus Shred Gose

Based on the Athena cocktail, as printed in The Ultimate Guide to Beer Cocktails by Jon and Lindsay Yeager

Combine the gin, vermouth, and fernet in a mixing glass with ice, and stir until chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe, and top with the gose. Garnish with a lemon twist, and serve.

Crossing the Line:

1 oz Seven Caves Tiki Gin

1 oz. Regnig Dag Aquavit

1/4 oz. Velvet Falernum

1/2 oz. Kronan Swedish Punsch

1 oz. fresh pineapple juice

3/4 oz. lime juice

Tonic water

Based on St. John Frizell's Gunga Din, as printed in Easy Tiki by Chloe Frechette

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, and vigorously shake until chilled. Fine strain into a highball glass over fresh ice, and top with tonic water. Gently stir to combine, and garnish with pineapple fronds.