Bartenders get noticed a lot. Actually you can’t help but notice them.
It is one thing to have a bar full of patrons noticing your every move, it’s quite another for GQ, the national monthly magazine of style, to acknowledge your accomplishments and credentials.
Enter Mr. Daniel Victory, an appropriate name if there ever was one, the talented barman at the New Orleans Ritz-Carlton’s Davenport Lounge, who created a cocktail that was chosen by the esteemed publication to occupy 4th Place out of 1,200 international entries in the Most Inspired Bartender competition.
The New Orleans native created the Courtyard Cooler, and will be featured in the December issue of GQ for his effort.
He recently traveled to Las Vegas for the photo shoot and the awards ceremony. Last year he finished in the top 10 also, so this is becoming quite an expected annual recognition.
Congratulations on your creativity and your victory, Mr. Victory.
Courtyard Cooler
Stage 1
1 1/2 ounces Bombay Sapphire Gin
1/2 ounce fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1/2 ounce agave nectar
6 fresh tarragon leaves
3 ounces ginger ale
In a mixing glass, combine ingredients; shake vigorously for 30 seconds, then double-strain into a wine glass.
Stage 2
3/4 ounces Bombay sapphire
2 egg whites
1 1/2 ounces agave nectar
1 ounce lemon juice
1 ounce heavy cream
These ingredients should be poured into a soda siphon and charged with an nitrous oxide charger.
Layer the foam, Stage 2, on top of the liquid. Finally, garnish with a tarragon leaf and candied lemon wheel.
