by Josh Porter
When I say “VCR,” “Godfather’s Pizza,” “Bon Marche” or “Boombox,” you think ’90s. Am I right?
Well, when bartenders hear “Sex on the beach,” “AMF,” “Sweet tart” or “Appletini” they think the same thing.
Drinking in bars has come a long way since people first began congregating around the precious nectar that is alcohol. But when the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley got to a certain point in this evolution — about 10 years ago — it decided to call it good.
“No new drinks. They’ve all been invented” seems to be the underlying opinion of both bar patrons and ’tenders alike.
A new era is upon us when it comes to our beverages, and it is the best since Prohibition was lifted. Now drinks are being prepared with fresh fruits and herbs instead of sugary schnapps. Or, with uniquely infused liquors and homemade mixers.
If your regular watering hole doesn’t operate this way, I encourage you to look for one that does or ask your bartender to try it out.
If you want to try your hand at “mixology,” give this simple recipe a whirl:
Ponderosa Lemonade 1 measure of gin 1 half measure of lemon juice 2 or 3 slices of cucumber Soda water or sprite.
Muddle your cucumber, add lemon juice and gin. Then fill glass with ice and top with soda.
This can be enjoyed year round, and expanded upon in many directions to suit different people’s preferences.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Drinking is supposed to be fun.
Porter is a Lewiston native who tends bar at Brock’s in Lewiston. He can be reached at jashuaporter@gmail.com.
