ver the generations, our tastes have become sweeter and sweeter. Look at the humble Martini. It started with mostly vermouth and a little gin; then, gradually over the years, less and less vermouth. Vodka became preferred over gin, and then liqueurs and juices replaced vermouth. And what have we evolved into? Strong, but colourful and sweet.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s what people seem to want. And sweetness is the balancing act between bitter or sour. I’ve been guilty myself of creating sweet, creamy concoctions, and even garnished them with Lucky Charms!

But, today’s younger generation of bartenders have been coached in the art of pumping out sweet drinks to make big sales and tips. Almost lost are bartenders who take pride in the creation of the libation in the way you would cook someone dinner. And proprietors are seeking the bottom line through pre-mixes & heavily processed products. I urge every aspiring and career service person and bartending school to pick up a copy of “The Craft of the Cocktail.”

When one first starts drinking, sweet goes down a lot smoother than bitter or sour. Whose parents didn’t pour a little crème de menthe over their vanilla ice cream (or was that just me)? But as adults we may wish to explore a more sophisticated palette.

There is more out there than the Cosmo (which, by the way, was originally quite tart). Sex And the City is off the air; maybe its time to pull the plug and move on. Take a chance and try a classic cocktail whose ingredients intrigue you the next time you’re in a respectable establishment. Become a connoisseur of subtle bitterness, sour or even umame. Or, if you already have already acquired a taste for them, gently advise the possibly under-trained bartender at your local.

There’s so much more out there.

Maybe I’m just bitter.

p.s. sugar is the 9/10ths of the hangover. - B.S.



Trend Watch (or stuff I’m just making up)

Shochu, in Japan,(Soju in Korean) is out selling Sake: A vodka-like spirit usually made from sweet potatoes, sometimes made from rice, or other grains. It has lower alcohol content, too, so you can enjoy more with less residual effects. - B.S.