You would think a Martini based on the British Open would have Gin in it, and I can see your point. But I think that what we'd drink at Royal Liverpool and what we'd drink at St. Andrew's are two completely different things. Gin is the official drink of the British Empire. Gin is wonderful. On a hot day, a Gin 'n' Tonic or a Gin Pixie (Gin and Sprite) is a perfectly wonderful beverage.
But it's not Scotland. Everybody knows about Scotch, but this concoction intends to introduce you to a quite marvelous Scotch-based liquor called Drambuie. It's thick and sweet and syrupy, and absolutely awesome on a cold day. The most popular cocktail using it is a Rusty Nail, which is half Drambuie and half Scotch.
I was all geared up to celebrate Seve's return to St. Andrews this year. The Golf Digest feature last month brought tears to my eyes. Growing up in Sweden, we claimed Seve as our very own world-beater, and the stories of his shots and accomplishments were nothing short of legendary in every sense of the word. He was "El Hombre" before Tiger got out of diapers.
Then sadly, his health has prevented him from attending this year's celebratory event. Knowing what I know about Seve the man, that tells me he's close to death, because there are very few things that could have prevented him from going north this week.
So, here's a tribute to Seve the best way I know how: A Martini. Like Seve's game it's strong and surprising and sweet and unpredictable, all the while combining the flavors of Scotland and Spain.
RECIPE:
1 oz Drambuie
1 oz Cuantreau
2 oz Belvidere Vodka
INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine ingredients over lots of ice in a shaker.
Shake heartily.
Wait a minute.
Shake heartily again.
Wait 30 seconds.
Pour into your favorite Martini glass.
Decorate with a slice of orange, and golf accutriments.
Enjoy
"Viva Seve !!!"
I had the pleasure of meeting Seve at the 1997 Ryde Cup and he is a fantastic guy. A true ornament of the game.
ReplyDeleteThat's very cool. Your report echoes what I've heard from others.
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