Cocktails With Friends

In My Mouth

Cocktails with Friends Radio Edition

Bob Cutler, host of Cocktail with Friends, takes over the airwaves at the Voice of Maine to mix up some creative and refreshing cocktails with a twist. Joined by George Hale and Rick Tyler, Bob experiments with a non-alcoholic riff on the classic Moscow Mule, dubbed the "Ukrainian Liberation Donkey." The trio delves into the history of cocktails like the Negroni and its variations, sharing tips on how to enjoy these drinks while providing plenty of laughs along the way.

Main Topics Covered

• Mixing a non-alcoholic Moscow Mule variation

• The origins and evolution of the Negroni cocktail

• How to create different variations of classic cocktails

Key Insights

• Cocktail Creativity: Learn how to adapt classic cocktails like the Moscow Mule into unique non-alcoholic versions, with tips on ingredient substitutions and presentation.

• Negroni Origins: Discover the rich history behind the Negroni, a timeless cocktail, and how it evolved from the Americano to its modern-day form.

• Cocktail Variations: Explore how simple changes to classic recipes, like swapping gin for bourbon, can create entirely new cocktails, offering endless possibilities for home bartenders.

Episode Index

• [00:00:00] - Introduction to the episode and morning cocktail mix-up

• [00:00:40] - Non-alcoholic Moscow Mule variation: "Ukrainian Liberation Donkey"

• [00:04:10] - Discussing the cocktail's sweetness and flavor profile

• [00:04:50] - History and preparation of the Milano Torino cocktail

• [00:06:50] - Transitioning from Milano Torino to Americano cocktail

• [00:07:30] - Creating the classic Negroni cocktail

• [00:08:50] - Negroni variations: Boulevardier and seasonal preferences

• [00:12:00] - Discussion on seasonal cocktails and customer preferences

• [00:13:20] - Wrapping up with humor and final thoughts on cocktails

About the George Hale & Ric Tyler Show

The George Hale Ric Tyler Show is a morning talk radio program that blends insightful commentary with a touch of humor, covering the latest news, politics, and issues that matter most to Mainers. Hosted by the legendary broadcaster George Hale and seasoned journalist Ric Tyler, the show offers listeners a balanced and engaging perspective on current events, along with interviews, listener call-ins, and lively discussions.

Exploring Maine's Unique Spirits with Andrew Stewart of Barrens Distillery

Bob Cutler sits down with Andrew Stewart, co-founder of Barrens Distillery in Camden, Maine, to dive into craft spirits on this episode of Cocktails with Friends. They cover the origins of Barrens Distillery and the creation of seaweed-infused vodka. Andrew shares his passion for distilling and his commitment to supporting Maine's local agriculture. This is a great episode where innovation and high spirits combine for some amazing creations.

Key Insights:

• Supporting Local Agriculture: Andrew Stewart's dedication to using locally sourced ingredients, like blueberries and kelp, highlights the importance of supporting Maine's agricultural community.

• Crafting Unique Spirits: Barrens Distillery's innovative approach to distilling, including the development of a seaweed-infused vodka, showcases the creativity and experimentation involved in crafting high-quality spirits.

• Versatility of Gin: The episode explores the versatility of gin, discussing how different botanicals can create distinct flavors that cater to a wide range of preferences.

Episode Index

• [00:00:00] Introduction: Bob Cutler welcomes Andrew Stewart and introduces Barrens Distillery.

• [00:01:00] Andrew's Background: Discussion of Andrew's roots in Scotland and his early passion for whiskey.

• [00:02:40] Founding Barrens Distillery: The story behind the creation of Barrens Distillery and its mission to support Maine agriculture.

• [00:04:30] Seaweed-Infused Vodka: Andrew explains the inspiration and process behind their unique sugar kelp vodka.

• [00:06:00] The History of "Proof": A brief history lesson on the term "proof" in the spirits industry.

• [00:07:40] Barrens' Gin Varieties: Exploration of the diverse range of gins produced by Barrens, including their popular Harbor Gin and Pink Gin.

• [00:14:20] Gin Boom in Scotland: Discussion on the explosion of gin production in Scotland and Europe, and its influence on Barrens Distillery.

• [00:20:00] Sourcing Local Botanicals: How Barrens Distillery works with local farmers to source botanicals for their spirits.

• [00:22:30] Collaboration with Kushnog: Details of Barrens' whiskey collaboration with Kushnog Distillery.

• [00:23:30] Closing Remarks: Final thoughts on Barrens Distillery's impact on the local economy and future growth plans.

About the Guest:

Andrew Stewart is the co-founder of Barrens Distillery in Camden, Maine. With a deep passion for whiskey and a background rooted in Scotland, Andrew has brought his expertise to Maine, where he and his team craft a variety of spirits that reflect the local culture and environment. From gin to rum, and even a unique seaweed-infused vodka, Barrens Distillery is committed to producing exceptional products that support local farmers and the coastal economy.

Bob Cutler fields phone calls from five "semi-desperate" drinkers in the premier episode of Cocktails With Friends Hotline. He answers queries from a "confirmed beer bachelor," a "shoulder season sipper," a woman seeking to break her fella from his "old fashioned" ways, a deck party hostess not bound by whiskey, and a husband happy to welcome his world hopping-honey back home. If YOU have a question for Bob, dial the Cocktail With Friends Hotline at 207-814-0177.

Main Topics Covered:

• Cocktails for beer lovers
• Variations on the Old Fashioned
• Refreshing summer cocktails for gatherings
• Seasonal "shoulder season" drinks
• Making the perfect welcome-home whiskey cocktail

Key Insights:

1. Beer-to-Cocktail Transition: Discover how to ease into the world of cocktails with a Negroni that's tailored to your taste buds.
2. Old Fashioned Alternatives: Learn how to play with the four basic ingredients of an Old Fashioned to create new, exciting variations.
3. Seasonal Cocktails: Get tips on mixing up cocktails that perfectly match the mood of changing seasons, like a Manhattan with a twist of apple brandy for fall.

Tune in for some spirited advice and to hear your fellow cocktail enthusiasts' questions answered on air. Do you have a question for Bob? Call or text any time. 207-814-0177. Cheers! Episode Index

• [00:00] Introduction to the hotline format.
• [00:20] Cocktail suggestion for beer lovers: a modified Negroni.
• [02:20] Exploring variations on the Old Fashioned.
• [04:40] Versatile summer cocktails for entertaining.
• [07:40] Shoulder season cocktails: a Manhattan with a twist.
• [09:40] A welcome-home whiskey cocktail: the Paper Plane.
• [11:30] Closing remarks and upcoming episodes.

In this episode of "Cocktails with Friends," host Bob Cutler chats with Dina Samson and Kelso Norris about their innovative and delicious contributions to the mixology scene in Los Angeles. Dina, owner of Superfine and Silicon Beach, and Kelso, a partner with Sips of Impact, share their experiences and expertise in crafting cocktails that cater to a diverse clientele. Join us as we explore the vibrant Silicon Beach area and delve into the art of mixology.

Have a cocktail need? You can call or text the Cocktails with Friends Hotline and have your questions answered by the host, Bob Cutler. Call or Text 1-207-814-0177.

Main Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Dina Samson and Kelso Norris

• The concept and community of Silicon Beach

• Unique events and marketing activations at Superfine

• Partnership with Sips of Impact for cocktail creation

• Signature cocktails and their development process

Key Insights or Takeaways:

• Community Engagement: Superfine thrives by engaging with the local community through creative events like Derby parties, pizza and spirit tastings, and ice cream pop-ups.

• Collaborative Mixology: The partnership with Sips of Impact allows Superfine to offer cutting-edge cocktails that are both approachable and innovative, thanks to the expertise of mixologist Kelso Norris.

• Sustainable Practices: Both Superfine and Sips of Impact emphasize sustainability and ethical practices, focusing on family growers and small-batch spirits in their beverage offerings.

About The Guest:

Dina Samson is a seasoned entrepreneur and owner of Superfine and Silicon Beach. Her passion for creating vibrant community spaces and delicious food and drinks shines through in her work.

Kelso Norris is an award-winning mixologist and a partner at Sips of Impact. Her expertise in crafting unique cocktails and her commitment to sustainability make her a standout in the industry.

Episode Index

• [00:00:00] - Introduction: Host Bob Cutler introduces Dina Samson and Kelso Norris.

• [00:00:30] - Dina Samson's Ventures: Dina discusses Superfine and Silicon Beach.

• [00:01:30] - Silicon Beach Community: Description of the Silicon Beach area in Los Angeles.

• [00:02:50] - Events at Superfine: Unique events hosted at Superfine, such as Derby parties and ice cream pop-ups.

• [00:03:40] - Cocktail Creation Partnership: The collaboration between Superfine and Sips of Impact.

• [00:04:40] - Sips of Impact: Kelso Norris explains Sips of Impact and Wines of Impact.

• [00:06:30] - Signature Cocktails: Discussion on unique cocktails at Superfine, including the Runway Boulevardier and Garlic Not Teeny.

• [00:10:00] - Kelso's Background: Kelso's journey in the mixology industry.

• [00:12:10] - Experimenting with Flavors: Kelso talks about her approach to mixing ingredients and creating new drinks.

• [00:16:00] - Menu Design and Staff Training: The importance of training staff to execute the cocktail menu.

• [00:18:00] - Closing Remarks: Final thoughts on the collaboration between Superfine and Sips of Impact.

In this special highball edition of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler returns to the studio with George Hale and Rick Tyler for a lively mixology session. Bob introduces listeners to the versatile world of highballs, demonstrating both classic and creative twists on this simple yet refreshing drink category. From non-alcoholic mocktails to innovative cucumber and basil-infused vodka highballs, and even a spicy take on the traditional Paloma, this episode has something for everyone.

Main Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Highballs: Definitions and basic concepts
• Non-alcoholic watermelon mocktail demonstration
• Cucumber and basil-infused vodka highball recipe
• Creative twist on the Paloma cocktail using hot pepper paste
• Differences between stirring, shaking, and rolling cocktails

Key Insights or Takeaways:

Highballs Simplified: Discover the basic structure of a highball and how versatile this drink category can be with just a spirit, a carbonated beverage, and ice.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Learn to make a refreshing watermelon mocktail, perfect for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages but still want something fun and flavorful.

Infusion Techniques: Get tips on creating cucumber and basil-infused simple syrup, adding a fresh twist to your vodka highball.

Spicy Paloma Variation: Explore a unique, spicy variation of the Paloma cocktail using hot pepper paste and rice wine vinegar for an extra kick.

Mixology Methods: Understand the differences and appropriate uses of stirring, shaking, and rolling in cocktail preparation.

About The Guests:

This episode features lively interactions with:

• George Hale and Rick Tyler from VOM, who bring humor and curiosity to the mixology session.
• Courtney Meherk, Bob's head bartender, who previously collaborated on innovative cocktail recipes.
• Ted Novio, referenced for his highball expertise and humorous baseball analogies.

Summary Index:

1. Introduction and Highball Basics [00:00:00] Host Bob Cutler introduces the episode, shares his enthusiasm for highballs, and explains the basic structure of the drink.

2. Non-Alcoholic Watermelon Mocktail [00:03:20] Bob demonstrates a watermelon mocktail, discussing the process of making watermelon simple syrup and balancing flavors with lemon and club soda.

3. Cucumber and Basil Vodka Highball [00:10:45] A detailed explanation of creating a cucumber and basil-infused vodka highball, highlighting the infusion process and the benefits of using fresh ingredients.

4. Spicy Paloma Cocktail [00:18:30] Bob introduces a creative twist on the Paloma cocktail, using hot pepper paste and grapefruit soda to create a refreshing and spicy summer drink.

5. Mixology Methods: Stirring, Shaking, and Rolling [00:26:15] A discussion on the different techniques of mixing cocktails, including the appropriate use of stirring, shaking, and rolling, with examples of each method.

6. Closing Remarks [00:35:40] Bob thanks the listeners, encourages them to try the recipes at home, and promotes the podcast's social media and website for more mixology content.

Episode Description: In this anniversary edition of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Culler reflects on the first season's journey, highlighting memorable moments, favorite conversations, and the growth of the podcast. Join us as we look back at the past year, featuring insights from past episodes, notable guests, and exciting announcements for the future. Main Topics Covered:

• Reflections on the first year of Cocktails with Friends
• Highlights from notable guests and popular episodes
• Detailed discussion on Negroni Week with Anne Louise Marquis
• Personal anecdotes on sports and family life with Kenny Reed
• Cocktail experiments and the history of the Old Fashioned
• Interview with Jackie Summers on his hibiscus liqueur journey
• Women in leadership with Senator Susan Collins
• Musical insights from Grammy Award winner Lucas Richman
• Shakespeare's modern relevance with Caroline Bicks
• Preview and announcements for Season 2

Key Insights or Takeaways:

1. Negroni History and Variations: Learn about the origins and evolution of the Negroni cocktail, including tips on how to batch and serve vermouth for both home and professional bartenders.
2. Balancing Family and Passion: Hear personal stories from Kenny Reed about balancing a demanding sports career with family life, and the importance of supporting each other through successes and setbacks.
3. Women in Leadership: Gain inspiration from Senator Susan Collins as she reflects on her career journey, the impact of role models like Margaret Chase Smith, and the importance of bipartisan collaboration.

About The Guest: This episode features multiple guests from previous episodes, including:

• Anne Louise Marquis from Campari Group discussing Negroni Week.
• Kenny Reed, sports anchor and author, sharing personal stories about sports and family.
• Jackie Summers, the first African American to hold a distiller's license post-prohibition, discussing his hibiscus liqueur.
• Senator Susan Collins reflecting on her career and leadership.
• Lucas Richman, Grammy Award-winning conductor, sharing his musical journey.
• Caroline Bicks, Shakespeare scholar, discussing the modern relevance of Shakespeare.

Join us as we celebrate a fantastic year of conversations and look forward to what's coming in Season 2!

Summary Index:

1. Introduction and Reflections [00:00:00]

• Host Bob Cutler reflects on the podcast's first year, initial challenges, and growth. Mentions early supporters and thanks the community for their support.

2. Notable Guests and Episodes [00:00:50]

• Highlights of notable guests such as Coach Steve Trimper, head bartender Courtney Meherk, and brand ambassadors.

• Discussion on memorable episodes and favorite conversations from season one.

3. Negroni Week with Anne Louise Marquis [00:01:20]

• Anne Louise Marquis from Campari Group talks about Negroni Week.

• Detailed history of the Negroni cocktail and its variations like Americano and Boulevardier.

• Organic tips on batching and serving vermouth.

4. Sports and Family with Kenny Reed [00:12:30]

• Conversation with sports anchor Kenny Reed on balancing sports, family, and life.

• Personal anecdotes about his children's athletic journeys and handling rejection.

5. Cocktail Experiments with Jake and Scott [00:19:40]

• Discussion on Old Fashioned Week with Lynn House, Jake, and Scott.

• History and variations of the Old Fashioned cocktail.

• Jake's humorous recount of his cocktail-making attempts.

6. A Chat with Jackie Summers [00:23:50]

• Jackie Summers shares the story behind his hibiscus liqueur and its cultural significance.

• Discussion on his journey as the first African American to hold a distiller's license post-prohibition.

7. Women in Leadership with Senator Susan Collins [00:32:50]

• Interview with Senator Susan Collins during Women's History Month.

• Reflections on her career, inspirations from Margaret Chase Smith, and bipartisan collaborations.

8. Musical Journey with Lucas Richman [00:41:50]

• Grammy Award winner Lucas Richman talks about his musical career and the influence of his theatrical family.

• Anecdotes about his custom-tailored tuxedos and his ongoing projects.

9. Shakespeare and Modern Relevance with Caroline Bicks [00:49:30]

• Caroline Bicks discusses her podcast on Shakespeare, drawing parallels between historical and modern issues.

• Insights into teaching Shakespeare in contemporary settings.

10. Season 2 Preview and Announcements [00:55:10]

• Exciting changes for season two, including weekly episodes and an open cocktail hotline.

• Introduction of a new Facebook page for better listener engagement.

Closing Remarks [00:56:10]

• Final thanks to listeners, support from the Bourbon Lens Podcast, and encouragement to share and review the podcast.

Cocktails with Friends

Episode 30: Shark

In this episode of "Cocktails with Friends," host Bob Cutler travels to Myrtle Beach to meet with Chris Hill, the bar manager at Greg Norman Australian Grill. They dive into the world of cocktails, whiskey, and the vibrant Myrtle Beach bar scene. Bob and Chris discuss everything from managing a 500-seat restaurant to creating unique cocktails that keep customers coming back.

Main Topics Covered:

• The signature cocktails at Greg Norman Australian Grill

• Managing a large restaurant and staff

• The unique bourbon and tequila offerings

Key Insights:

1. Espresso Martini Magic: The Greg Norman Australian Grill's Espresso Martini is a crowd favorite. Made with real espresso, Liquor 43, and Grind Espresso Rum, this cocktail draws customers from far and wide.

2. Barrel Pick Adventures: Chris shares his experience with exclusive barrel picks, including a special selection from Jefferson's Ocean program and a recent trip to Garrison Brothers Distillery.

3. Balancing Act: Running a large-scale bar program requires balancing high-volume service with the ability to offer unique and creative cocktails. Chris emphasizes the importance of a streamlined menu that can cater to a busy environment while still offering specialty drinks.

Episode Index:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and Overview

  • Host introduces the episode and his trip to Myrtle Beach to visit Greg Norman Australian Grill.

• [00:00:20] Popular Cocktail Discussion

  • Talk about the Espresso Martini, the number one selling cocktail at the restaurant.

• [00:00:40] Host Introduction

  • Host Bob Cutler introduces himself and the purpose of his visit to meet Chris Hall.

• [00:01:20] Restaurant Details

  • Chris Hall describes the size and seating capacity of Greg Norman Australian Grill.

• [00:02:20] Whiskey Program and Barrel Picks

  • Conversation about the restaurant's whiskey program and various barrel picks.

• [00:04:00] Wine List and Customer Preferences

  • Overview of the restaurant's wine list and the shift in customer preferences towards bourbon and tequila.

• [00:06:00] Introduction to Penelope Bourbon

  • Introduction to Penelope Bourbon and the upcoming dinner event with Bourbon Lens.

• [00:07:00] Cocktail Program Challenges

  • Discussion about maintaining a large cocktail program in a high-volume restaurant.

• [00:08:20] Garrison Brothers Honeydew Bourbon

  • Details about the success of the Garrison Brothers Honeydew Bourbon.

• [00:09:00] Lower Proof Cocktails

  • Importance of lower proof cocktails for customer enjoyment in a hot climate.

• [00:10:00] Myrtle Beach as a Destination

  • Myrtle Beach as a year-round destination and balancing affordable cocktail pricing for locals and tourists.

• [00:11:00] Locals vs. Tourists

  • Dynamics of serving locals versus tourists and managing customer flow.

• [00:12:00] Community Support

  • Relationship between local restaurants and the importance of community support.

• [00:13:00] Seasonal Customer Patterns

  • Different seasonal customer patterns, including snowbirds and regular golfers.

• [00:14:00] Holiday Closures

  • Discussion on special days when the restaurant is closed for cleanup and team rest.

• [00:15:00] Sports Talk

  • Fun conversation about sports, including Bill Belichick and Coach K.

• [00:16:00] New Cocktail Collaboration

  • Collaboration on a new cocktail featuring Penelope Architect, simple syrup, and a custom bitter.

• [00:17:00] Espresso Martini Recipe

  • Recipe and secret behind the popularity of the Espresso Martini at Greg Norman Australian Grill.

• [00:18:00] Barrel Picks and Partnerships

  • Challenges and benefits of doing barrel picks and partnerships with distilleries.

• [00:19:00] Top Choices for Barrel Picks

  • Chris Hall's top choices for barrel picks, including Weller and Eagle Rare.

• [00:20:00] Chris Hall's Bar Preferences

  • Chris Hall's preferences when visiting other bars and the importance of trying new things.

• [00:21:00] Penelope Whiskey Dinner Recap

  • Recap of the Penelope Whiskey Dinner and closing remarks; upcoming anniversary celebrations for the podcast.

About the Guest:

Chris Hill is the bar manager at Greg Norman Australian Grill in Myrtle Beach. With an eye for detail and a passion for whiskey and cocktails, Chris leads a team that prides itself on delivering exceptional drinks and service in a bustling 500-seat restaurant.

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to manage a top-tier bar program and discover some insider tips on crafting the perfect cocktail.

Description:

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler sits down with Grammy Award-winning conductor Lucas Richman of the Bangor Symphony Orchestra. They discuss Lucas's illustrious career, from winning a Grammy to his extensive work with orchestras worldwide. Lucas shares stories from his journey in music and insights into his passion projects, including his work with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra and the Paths to Dignity project.

Main Topics:

• Lucas Richman's Grammy-winning experience

• The Bangor Symphony Orchestra's history and community impact

• Paths to Dignity project and its outreach efforts

• Lucas's background and career in conducting and composing

• Unique stories from Lucas's life and career

Key Insights:

Grammy-winning Experience: Lucas shares the story of winning a Grammy for Best Classical Crossover Album and his unexpected competition against renowned musicians like Yo Yo Ma.

Community Engagement: The discussion highlights the Bangor Symphony Orchestra's outreach programs, including concerts for young people and music therapy sessions in healthcare facilities.

Paths to Dignity Project: Lucas explains the importance of the Paths to Dignity project, which connects cultural organizations with homeless advocacy agencies to support the unsheltered community.

Episode Index:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and guest list overview

• [00:00:30] Host Bob Cutler introduces Bangor and its community

• [00:00:50] Introduction of guest Lucas Richman

• [00:01:20] Start of the interview with Lucas Richman

• [00:01:50] Lucas Richman's Grammy award and the Grammy process

• [00:02:20] Lucas Richman's Grammy-winning album "Calling All Dawns"

• [00:03:40] Grammy eligibility and Lucas Richman's unexpected win

• [00:04:40] Lucas Richman's musical background and early exposure

• [00:05:30] Lucas Richman's early conducting experience and debut at Tanglewood

• [00:06:40] Lucas Richman's global conducting experiences

• [00:07:30] Bangor Symphony Orchestra's history and achievements

• [00:08:50] Contracted musicians and their roles

• [00:10:00] Community support for the Bangor Symphony Orchestra

• [00:10:50] Orchestra outreach programs and community involvement

• [00:11:20] Paths to Dignity project overview

• [00:12:10] Discussion on the importance of community contributions

• [00:13:10] Music outreach to students and healthcare facilities

• [00:14:30] Lucas Richman's impact on the Bangor Symphony Orchestra

• [00:15:30] Lucas Richman's early musical experiences and challenges

• [00:17:00] The significance of music as a universal language

• [00:18:00] Lucas Richman's unique experiences, including his first tuxedo story

• [00:19:00] Custom-tailored suits for conducting

• [00:21:30] Discussion on personal music preferences at home

• [00:22:30] The impact of music in Lucas Richman's daily life and family

• [00:23:20] Current projects: new violin concerto and writing a novel

• [00:24:20] Discussion on Lucas Richman's creative process and inspiration

• [00:26:20] Harry Potter and John Williams's music as an introduction to symphony

• [00:27:00] Lucas Richman's collaboration with John Williams and Star Wars in Concert tour

• [00:28:30] The influence of film scores on classical music appreciation

• [00:29:10] Lucas Richman's connections with other notable musicians and composers

• [00:30:00] Discussion on the creative process and its challenges

• [00:31:10] Lucas Richman's anagram-inspired piano piece "Such Calm Rain"

• [00:33:00] Closing remarks and teaser for future episodes

About the Guest:

Lucas Richman is a Grammy award-winning conductor and composer known for his dynamic work with orchestras around the world. He has conducted for major symphonies, taught conducting to film and TV composers, and composed several significant pieces, including the Grammy-winning album "Calling All Dawns." Lucas is also deeply involved in community outreach through his work with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra and the Paths to Dignity project.

Ep. 28 Watermelon Sugar

In this episode of "Cocktails with Friends," host Bob Cutler sits down with longtime bartender Courtney Meherg to discuss the development of several refreshing watermelon-based cocktails just in time for the summer season. Join them as they explore creative ways to incorporate watermelon into delicious beverages, perfect for enjoying in the warm weather.

Main Topics Covered:

• The process of making watermelon water and watermelon simple syrup.

• Crafting watermelon-infused cocktails, including a spicy jalapeno vodka mule, a gin gimlet, and a mezcal margarita.

• Ideas for watermelon-based mocktails suitable for all ages.

Key Insights:

• How to make watermelon water and watermelon simple syrup from scratch.

• Innovative cocktail recipes using watermelon, from vodka mules to mezcal margaritas.

• Tips for creating both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages featuring watermelon, making them perfect for any summer gathering.

Episode Index

• [00:00:00] - Introductio:n Introduction to the episode and guest bartender Courtney Meherg of Novio's Bistro.

• [00:00:30] - The Concept of Watermelon Cocktails: Discussion on developing seasonal cocktails with watermelon as the main ingredient.

• [00:01:10] - Creating Watermelon Water and Simple Syrup Detailed process of making watermelon water and watermelon simple syrup.

• [00:03:30] - Vodka Mule with Watermelon and Jalapeno: Recipe and discussion of a watermelon jalapeno vodka mule with ginger beer.

• [00:05:00] - Watermelon Gin Gimlet. Crafting a refreshing watermelon gin gimlet for the summer.

• [00:06:00] - Watermelon Mezcal Margarita. Exploring the flavors of a watermelon mezcal margarita with liqueur 43.

• [00:08:00] - Watermelon Aperol Spritz. Brief mention of a potential watermelon Aperol spritz.

• [00:09:50] - Watermelon-Based Mocktails Ideas for creating watermelon-based mocktails for a non-alcoholic option.

• [00:10:30] - Closing Remarks: Bob's appreciation for Courtney's contribution and information on where to follow the podcast.

About The Guest:

Courtney Meherg is a talented and dedicated bartender at Novios, known for her creativity and expertise in the beverage industry. Her passion for crafting unique cocktails and enhancing customer experiences makes her an invaluable team member. Tune in to hear her insights and learn from her wealth of experience in the world of mixology.

Podcast Description: "Cocktail with Friends - Novio's Radio (Summer Sippers)"

This is a special episode of "Cocktail with Friends," where host Bob Cutler takes us on a joins the George Hale Ric Tyler Show to highlight some "summer sippers."

Main Topics Covered:

• Definition and history of spritzes

• Crafting a non-alcoholic spritz

• Exploring the role of bitters in cocktails

• Making a vibrant pink cocktail

• Advanced cocktail techniques for less dilution

• Seasonal considerations for cocktail flavors

Three Key Insights:

1. The Versatility of Spritzes: Learn about the origins of spritzes and how to craft a non-alcoholic version perfect for any occasion.

2. Enhancing Flavors with Bitters: Discover the different types of bitters and how they can enhance the flavor profile of your cocktails and aid digestion.

3. Seasonal Cocktail Creativity: Understand the importance of using seasonal ingredients in your cocktails and how to adapt your recipes throughout the year.

Episode Index

• [00:00:00] - Introduction Bob Cutler introduces the special edition live from the George Hale Rick Tyler Show.

• [00:00:40] - Understanding Spritzes Definition and brief history of spritzes. Introduction to the non-alcoholic spritz for George.

• [00:01:40] - Aperol Spritz and Alternatives Detailed discussion on Aperol Spritz and its ingredients. Comparison of Aperol with Campari and Select bitters.

• [00:03:20] - The Role of Bitters in Cocktails Explanation of how bitters enhance flavor and aid digestion. Introduction to Allen Whale Bitters, Bob's own brand.

• [00:05:40] - Making a Pink Cocktail Recipe and preparation of a pink cocktail using Limoncello and passion fruit liqueur. Addressing the stigma around pink drinks.

• [00:08:30] - Advanced Cocktail Techniques Techniques for making cocktails with less dilution. Introduction to Barron's Gin and its local roots.

• [00:11:30] - Seasonal Cocktail Considerations Importance of using seasonal flavors in cocktails. Discussion on the versatility of rosé and summer cocktails year-round.

• [00:13:30] - Closing Remarks Recap of the episode and appreciation for listeners. Invitation to follow the podcast on social media and leave reviews.