Spectacular Spectacular: Soused at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic

Unbelievably, this past weekend marked New York City’s first-ever cocktail festival. The Manhattan Cocktail Classic -- like a golf tournament for drunks -- is the fetal alcohol baby of Astor Center honcho Lesley Townsend. Yet how was this boozy fete to distinguish itself from other days ending in y? Educational seminars, naturally: “The Agave Session: The Magical Elixirs of Mexico,” “The Many Faces of Cognac and Armagnac,” “Call of the Rye.” Milk and Honey man Sasha Petraske even proffed the inventive “Cocktails for Your Home Cocktail Party.” Unfortunately, I don’t do school. What I can report on is the fest’s capping gala -- the Sunday Night Spectacular. Because, hence glitter, hence faux cheetah fur, I do spectacular.

An ode to classic NY ‘tails, the bash threw down in the slippery marble lobby of the New York Public Library, with a gratis smorgasbord of oysters, whole hogs, and stinky cheese, plus more than a dozen liquor stations slanging two libations apiece. After a dutiful and thorough sampling, I was most enamored of Danny Valdez, Eric Alperin, and John Lermeyer’s take on the ‘21’ Club’s signature Southside. Do try this at home; alcohol poisoning not included. Also, start prepping your liver now, the next MCC is a mere six-ish months away: May 14-18, lushes!

SOUTHSIIIDE
1. In the bottom of a bar glass, muddle one sprig fresh mint, two lime pieces, 3/4 oz fresh lime juice, and 1 oz simple syrup.
2. Add 2 oz gin and shake well.
3. Pour into a highball glass over crushed ice and stir until glass frosts.
4. Top with 3 oz Perrier and garnish with sprig of mint.

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