Editor's Note: The following is a contribution from Valerie Peterson. Read more about her beneath the post.
Manhattan Cocktail Classic Gala 2012
Photo Courtesy: c Valerie Peterson
The Manhattan Cocktail Classic kicked off Friday night with a gala at the New York Public Library. The crowd of visiting mixologists, liquor company representatives, and other bar professionals shook and stirred with New York City cocktail--and party--aficionados, all dressed to the nines and infused with high spirits.
From Berentzen pear 'tini-esque drinks to tastes of Ron Diplomatico Exclusive Reserve rum, spirits purveyors showcased their wares and behind-the-bar pros showcased their prowess over three majestic floors of music, finger foods and, of course, cocktails.
Cocktail Club
Photo Courtesy: c Valerie Peterson
In true speakeasy fashion, one particular area seemed inaccessible and secretive. What pleasures awaited those who endured the crowded line and door police? Nobody seemed to know... But those with patience were rewarded with a welcome blast of air conditioning, amusing faux-background photo ops (polo, anyone?), and a seemingly endless supply of cold, briny, Naked Cowboy oysters served a la minute from the hands of swift and capable shuckers. (Side note: the Naked Cowboy moniker was inspired by the "passion and boldness" of the Times Square fixture of the same name).
And did we mention cocktails? From drinks with violet-infused creme floats to carbonated bottled Negronis, the night was packed with imaginative concoctions. One favorite, the Black Marlin from Pisco Porton was elegantly chilled with Hundredweight ice and garnished with a sage leaf. Patron's tequila ices-on-sticks came a variety of tropical flavors and were hugely pop-ular with the partygoers.
Berentzen Pear 'Tinis
Photo Courtesy: c Valerie Peterson
Along with all that flowing booze, smart hangover preventative measures were available in the form of large quantities of Perrier, plentiful snacks (like doughy pretzels and assorted charcuterie), and Mercy, a caffeine-free, antioxidant-packed beverage.
Since New York City's bars close at four a.m., the 1 a.m. closing of the gala wasn't the end of the fun. MCC's after parties included the Tanqueray soiree at the restaurant Fatty 'Cue. There, Kung Fu Pandas packed a gin-plum wine-rum punch, and star mixologist Jason Littrell served up Green Snappers. Those deconstructed, inverted, gin-riffs on a Bloody Mary were rimmed with Jason's house-made dried tomato salt --who knew celery juice could taste this good? And perhaps it would provide some vitamin fortification for the "day after" and the rest of the Manhattan Cocktail Classic...
About the Contributor: Valerie Peterson is the Book Publishing Guide for About.com and author of Peterson's Holiday Helper (Compare Prices) and Peterson's Happy Hour.
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