The latest addition to the retail stop Moniker General, The Bar, is where you can find some tasty libations crafted by the bar manager, Jacob Fisher. The Portland native created a cocktail inspired from a libation he had on a date that had cayenne pepper in it. On the latest Behind the Stick, we featured his refreshing, light gimlet called Sgt. Peppers.
Sgt. Peppers Gimlet
$10
2 oz Fords Gin
2 oz Ginger Lime Cordial
1 shake Cayenne Pepper
Garnish with Lime Twist
What's the story behind the Sgt. Peppers Gimlet?
While on a date, I had this drink in Portland, Oregon that blew my mind! It had gin, blood orange and pepper. I went back to the same place a few months later and they had no clue what I was talking about! I set out to recreate the experience, thus was born the Sgt. Peppers Gimlet.
Describe the taste.
For me, it's refreshing and balanced, It's hard to have just one.
What's the key component of this drink?
I would say the Ginger Lime Cordial takes the cake!
What's the process in making housemade ginger lime cordial?
Ingredients:
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
zest of 2 limes (zest lime with micro plane of fine grater before you juice them)
1 cup lime juice
1-2 ounces of grated of finely chopped ginger
Combine all ingredients into a pot and bring to a simmer for about 2 min, just long enough for the ginger to release its flavor but you are not trying to cook the mixture. turn off heat, strain mixture, then chill. Makes enough for about 10 drinks. Recipe can be cut in half or doubled depending on how much you need!
What flavors does the Fords Gin bring to the drink?
Fords Gin is made for cocktails. It has just the right amount of the classic London Dry Gin flavor with a slight butteriness that it brings to the party. It's my go-to gin for making a cocktail.
What reactions are you expecting to get from customers when they try this cocktail for the first time?
So far it has a been a big hit! Some people are worried about the heat level from the pepper, but it makes a good cocktail even if you leave out the pepper.
If you had to pair this cocktail with a dish, what would you pair it with?
I think it would go really well with a grilled or pan seared white fish, or even fish tacos!
Watch as Jacob Fisher makes his light and refreshing gimlet called Sgt. Peppers Gimlet
What kind of experience can guests get at The Bar?
Moniker has a great environment for sitting and having a great conversation over a cocktail. There is bar seating where you will be in the middle of all the action or several corner tables that are ideal for a date!
About Jacob Fisher
Are you from San Diego?
I am not, I actually hail from Portland Oregon.
How was the cocktail scene in Portland, Oregon before you left?
Portland is always doing fun weird things! So I would say weird! So many cool bars, seems like a new place pops up every week. But Clyde Common and Multnomah Whiskey Library have always been my favs!
What's your favorite cocktail on the menu?
I actually think this drink [Sgt. Peppers Gimlet] is my favorite.
Define the perfect cocktail.
It's any drink that creates balance, not too sweet, not too sour, not too strong, It's a balancing act for sure.
What are some cocktail trends you are noticing in San Diego?
I see a resurgence of classic pre-Prohibition-style cocktails coming back with an elevated twist. As well as some creative mezcal and tequila cocktails.
What is one thing you wish people understood about bartending?
You don't need to be a “mixologist” and you don't need to have a waxed mustache and cool tattoos to make a great drink. Get a good book and a few tools at home and you too can make some amazing drinks.
What's your favorite drink to make behind the bar?
I will always love mixing up a classic Old Fashioned.
What's your favorite spirit?
Can I choose gin and whiskey?
What should everyone stock in their home bar?
There are so many great bottles that I could recommend but just buy the best you can afford or the ones you like best. After that, I would invest in tools that you can measure accurately with and that won't fall apart. In addition, molds for making good Ice at home can make a huge difference!
What do you do in your spare time when you're not creating cocktails?
I volunteer as a leader and sound engineer at my church. I am also on the journey of trying to find the perfect fish taco! What's next for you?
Ya know, that's a great question! Right now Moniker is a pretty great gig and I plan on sticking around.
The Bar / Moniker General
2860 Sims Rd., Point Loma. (619) 255-8772 or monikergeneral.com
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