27 November 2021

From the bartender’s corner – Rigitonic

Well, that is a made up name. Recently, I saw this bottle in a liquor shop and I did what I would normally do if I did not recognize a bottle – I bought it! I had never heard of this liqueur – or for that matter any other liqueur from Switzerland, save the kirsch.

After some research, I found that this is a relatively new liqueur. Started in 2015 by two brothers who moved back to Switzerland from America, the inspiration of the liqueur is kirsch. The base is fermented cherries. But then it is distilled in copper pots with various berries native to Switzerland. And then proofed down to 20% with water. (The distillery claims Swiss Alps pristine lake water). Mount Riga in central Switzerland is surrounded by three beautiful Alpine lakes.

The drink closest to this is gin, as I could reckon. So, I had the first one with tonic water.

The nose is very floral and soft. Reminded my of elderflower and lichee. The palate alternated between the sweet of the liqueur and the bitter from the tonic water. The length was moderate.

I will give it a thumbs up. Nice to sip thru the evening. Plus you can have more since it is only half ABV that of gin!

(I made up the name – do not try to Google it)

Category: Cocktails | LEAVE A COMMENT
20 November 2021

From the bartender’s corner – Steinbeck

Another drink that I could not locate the origin of the name of. I was looking in Sharmila’s fridge to see what fruits we have. Apparently, “only grapes” was the answer. Did some research and decided to try this drink. I cannot recollect ever before having to squeeze grapes into any cocktail. I would not recommend this to anybody. Just did not have any character in the nose, palate or length.

In any case, this is vodka, club soda and squeezed grapes.

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14 November 2021

Maiden ride on Pegasus

First things first… the new bike has been christened “Pegasus”. Sharmila named this one. The first one was named Phoenix by Natasha.

Second, the maiden trip included a stop at my best friend’s (Amitesh) house first . He, being a man of high standards had made himself scarce when I showed up. After having a brief conversation with his dog across a glass window – a la in a prison – I proceeded to my ultimate destination – the hospice I spend time in every Sunday afternoon.

The first realization of novelty hit me moment I got off the bike. I had no rear bag. Or any face masks for that matter that I carry in it. Fortunately, the hospice gave me a couple!!

Category: Motorbiking | LEAVE A COMMENT
14 November 2021

This is why I do not like going to grocery stores

The place is filled with illogical things. Plus I have this penchant for spotting everything under the sky other than the one thing I went there for.

All I needed was some juice. I kept spinning around the place looking intently, but unsuccessfully, for it. After a tip from a fellow shopper that there are two different locations for fruit juices (one for refrigerated and the other not so), I finally drifted in the right direction.

Except that I stopped cold on my way and strode back a few steps to confirm that I saw what I thought I saw. Now, you can see for yourself.

You cannot put Rogaine under “Shaving Needs”. Rogaine does not participate in any part of the shaving process. In fact, it does quite the opposite of the general concept of shaving. Which customer seeking Rogaine makes a beeline for the “Shaving Needs” section?

For a fleeting moment, it occurred to me that I should mention it to the girl at the check out counter. Then, thought the better of it since the lady who had given me the tip was standing right behind me in the queue at the counter. I did not want her to publicly point out that I did not where the juice was either!!

And that is how I survived this morning’s grocery shopping.

Category: Humor | LEAVE A COMMENT