tropical

After shaking up a simple Singapore sling a few weeks ago, I decided I needed to compare it to the real deal. But I realized the classic drink's ingredients weren't just hard to track down; they'd also be expensive to acquire.

I paid a visit to Smuggler's Cove, a tropical escape in San Francisco that specializes in re-creating authentic versions of classic Tiki cocktails. There, owner Martin Cate and bar star Marco Dionysos made me a perfectly balanced version, and chatted with me about the Polynesian pastime. Both bartenders believe that the cocktail's hazy beginnings are the cause of its devolution and waning popularity.
Prominent bar chefs disagree over whether the drink should have pineapple juice. Their recipe, which comes from Singapore Sling authority Ted Haigh, does. In comparison to my simple sling, it's far more complex, with more depth of fruit, less sugar, a clean finish, and a nice, foamy top. Read on for the recipe.

I'll be up front and say that Valentine's Day is not my favorite holiday. I'm an idealist who believes that every day should be full of love and affection. But I do appreciate that it's the perfect excuse to eat a surplus of chocolate, and better yet, just about the only occasion when it's acceptable to drink ridiculously girly cocktails.

This week, I couldn't resist the opportunity to create a blushing sangria. It gets its signature color from X-Rated, a vodka, mango, and passionfruit based liqueur, and tastes like a trip to the tropics.
For a festive cocktail that'll kick-start any Valentine's Day-themed girls' night out, read more.