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Today: A warming, bittersweet cousin of the boulevardier to keep you company all winter.
My father might be ashamed of this, but when I think Boo Radley I think Frances McDormand before I think Harper Lee.
Humor me here: Just after the opening credits of Almost Famous -- the only truly great thing Kate Hudson has ever done and the movie that most consistently makes us feel feelings about youth and fandom -- young William (our protagonist) walks down a palm tree-lined street in California with his English teacher mother, discussing To Kill A Mockingbird.
They talk about respecting Atticus, remembering Calpurnia, and that he didn’t raise Scout alone, and then comes Boo.
“What about Boo?” McDormand’s character asks. “I think Boo Radley is the most interesting character in To Kill A Mockingbird.”
This cocktail, the Boo Radley from Chris Hannah of French 75 via PUNCH, has nothing to do with Almost Famous, except for the fact that they will both make you feel warm and fuzzy on the inside.
Aside from requiring a bottle or two that you might not already own, Boo doesn't ask you to jump through any hoops: There's no shaking or flipping or herb-slapping here. Cherry Heering smooths bourbon's burly edges, and Cynar’s bitterness makes it all a bit reminiscent of a boulevardier, bitter and sweet and ready for winter.
It’s cozy and serious and the type of thing you might want to drink if you, like Boo, choose to go full-on recluse this winter. But if a friendly neighbor knocks on your door looking alone or thirsty or both, it's also the perfect thing to share.
Serves 2
2 ounces Bulleit Bourbon
3/4 ounce Cynar
1/2 ounce Cherry Heering
Lemon or orange peel, to garnish
See the full recipe (and save and print it) here.
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