You Can Make a Wide Range of Drinks With These Spirits
Gin
Whiskey (Bourbon or rye)
Campari
The Next Three to Fill Out the Bar Cart
Orange liqueur
Vermouth (dry or sweet)
Prosecco (or other sparkling wine)
What if someone isn’t in the spirit of things? Offer them a glass of wine. Here are four fail-proof offerings for that dispirited guest, courtesy of Beverage Director Ariel Arce, Air’s Champagne Parlor and Tokyo Record Bar, both in New York City.
Rosé: Clos Cibonne 2015 Cuvée Spéciale des Vignettes Rosé (Côtes de Provence); $31.“One of my absolute favorite rosés, this wine is made from old vines and matured in giant 100-year-old neutral oak barrels. It’s [an] all-year-round rosé. Ideal with toasted country bread with soft goat’s cheese and mushrooms.”
Red: Barale 2015 Nebbiolo (Langhe); $19. “From one of the great Barolo producers in Piedmont, this is a fall red [that] pairs nicely with shrimp and grits or a pulled pork. Put a chill on this bad boy.”
White: San Ferdinando 2015 Vermentino (Toscana); $17. “I love citrus, generally limy zesty notes that make me feel like it’s summer all year round. Vermentino, with its richness and yet shockingly bright acidity, allow[s] for an amazing pair with a seafood pasta.”
Sparkling: Albert Mann 2014 Extra Brut (Crémant d’Alsace); $23. “Crémant is a really cool alternative to Champagne. This bottling is dry and citrus-driven, with stone fruit and melon, and a wonderful sparkler to start the meal. Killer with a cheese plate or some raw seafood.”