Portrait: Lawrence Watson
Two days before Independence Day and have we got a corker of a recipe for you. Or rather Alex Dyzart, Bar Manager from Venn Street Records has. He’s kept true to the good-times, music-led theme of his bar and created a drink that evokes the smells and tastes of what he considers to be truly American, and in particular, the holiday season: apple and pecan pies.
Which whiskey did you choose for your Independence Day cocktail and why?
I’ve gone for Gentleman Jack. It’s slightly more sophisticated than some of the other American whiskies but at the same time, it’s an approachable step-up for those who want to experiment a little bit more. It has an exciting, individual flavour profile which I really like – it’s very refined and works exceptionally well in this cocktail, although you could try it with Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 if that’s what you prefer.
What independent touch have you added to your drink?
I’ve infused the Gentleman Jack with pecans and created an apple shrub spiced up with cinnamon and clove. As I wanted to evoke the sensation of fireworks for the 4th of July celebrations, I’ve also added some popping candy on the side.
Alex’s Independence Day cocktail:
Chevy to the Levy
50ml pecan infused Gentleman Jack
35ml spiced apple shrub (spiced with cinnamon and clove)
Topped with homemade sparkling Old Fashioned lemonade
Dehydrated apple slice and caramelised pecan to garnish
Optional side of popping candy
Method:
Shake pecan infused Gentleman Jack and spiced apple shrub over ice. Pour into a Collins glass and top with lemonade. Garnish with a dehydrated apple slice and caramelised pecan. Serve with popping candy on the side.
Make it yourself or even better, get Alex and his team to make it for you. Find it on the menu at the Venn Street Records, 78 Venn Street, London SW4 0BD. vennstreetrecords.com
