Hooray for National Cocktail Day!

Posted on March 24, 2022 by englishivys

🎉🍹 March 24^th is National Cocktail Day! 🍹🎉 Let’s celebrate with some trending drink recipes, pairings, ideas, and fun facts!

Cocktail Specials Indianapolis Indiana 317-822-5070

Happy National Cocktail Day! Thirsty Thursday will never be the same after this year! We hope you are prepared to celebrate this fun and silly holiday with your loved ones! Didn’t have any plans before you knew about National Cocktail Day? Well, now you have a good excuse to go out! When you do, visit English Ivy’s Eatery and Pub for $5 margaritas, $3.50 Corona bottles, $3 Fireball, $5.35 pitchers, $10 beer buckets, and all the You-Call-It cocktails you love so much!

In the meantime, let’s take a closer look at National Cocktail Day, like who came up with the idea and what is stands for. Then you can check out some related blogs about your favorite drinks, drink recipes, pairings, alcohol quizzes, fun facts, and more!

National Cocktail Day is Today!

We can all thank holidaymaker Jace Shoemaker-Galloway for creating National Cocktail Day. It is basically a day to appreciate and enjoy your favorite cocktails and alcoholic drinks! So go on, enjoy them! Fun Fact, the most popular cocktail drink in the United States is the Margarita!

Origin of Cocktails in the United States

Before prohibition, the term cocktail wasn’t used a lot. There was mention of it in an 1803 edition magazine called The Famer’s Cabinet, and then again in a New York magazine in 1806. In 1917, a Missourian by the name of Clara Bell Walsh coined the phrase, cocktail party, after inviting over a large crowd of guests for drinks at noon and calling it so.

But once alcohol became illegal, cocktail concoctions were popping up all over the place. Back then, cocktails were traditionally made with a combination of spirits, sugar, bitters, and water. Today, the Manhattan, Sazerac, and Old Fashioned still carry on this traditional recipe base.

🍹🍹 Links You Will Like if You Like Cocktails:

QUENCH YOUR THIRST THIS SPRING WITH THESE BEER-BASED COCKTAILS

HOW TO MAKE A SPONTANEOUS COCKTAIL USING WHATEVER IS IN YOUR FRIDGE

THE 3 BASIC COCKTAILS AND HOW TO MAKE THEM

2 NEW TAKES ON THE TRADITIONAL OLD FASHIONED

3 TASTY WAYS TO ORDER A PATRÓN TEQUILA COCKTAIL

TONIC WATER VERSUS SODA WATER

DOES A MARGARITA TASTE BETTER WITH SILVER OR GOLD TEQUILA?

SUGGESTED HEALTH BENEFITS OF VODKA

EASY TIPS FOR INFUSING YOUR OWN VODKA

TIPS FOR USING VODKA AS A HOUSEHOLD CLEANER

ARE THERE ANY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES THAT ARE KETO FRIENDLY?

TOP SUMMERTIME WHISKEY COCKTAILS FOR BARBECUE

EASY ICED TEA MOCKTAIL AND COCKTAIL RECIPES FOR SUMMER

WHERE DO COCKTAILS GET THEIR NAMES?

TOP 4 TIPS FOR A RESPONSIBLE NIGHT OF DRINKING

TEST YOUR ALCOHOL EXPERTISE WITH THIS FUN QUIZ!

Are you ready to get your cocktail on in Downtown Indianapolis? Come to English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery tonight for our Thursday drink specials, including $5 Margaritas, $3.50 Corona Bottles, $3 Fireball, $5.35 Pitchers, $10 Beer Buckets. We also have a full bar that can make any cocktail you request! We are located on N. Alabama Street and have both lot and street parking available. Place carryout orders at 317-822-5070, anytime!

Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant — 317-822-5070

3 Tasty Ways to Order a Patrón Tequila Cocktail

Posted on March 9, 2022 by englishivys

When you crave a premium tequila cocktail, Patrón is what you order. Tonight, while out with friends and loved ones, change up your go-to margarita-like drink and opt for one of these 3 tasty Patrón tequila cocktails!

Tequila Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis Indiana 317-822-5070

Patrón Tequila is a Top-Shelf Choice

You cannot go wrong with a Patrón tequila cocktail or margarita. Patrón is a highly-regarded, premium tequila available at almost every retailer or vendor that sells alcohol. It comes in different varieties, which includes Patrón Silver, Reposado, Añejo, Extra Añejo, and XO Café. Patrón also makes liqueurs like Patrón Citrónge Orange. If you are making cocktails, focus on Silver and Reposado. Añejo and Extra Añejo are best for sipping straight up. XO Café is great for martinis and coffee-based cocktails.

So, why is Patrón so great? It starts with zero additives and 100% agave. In between is a long and patient process of agave and piña harvesting, fermentation, distillation, and aging, which is still done in handmade barrels by the way. Without going into great detail, Patrón tequila is one of the finest of today. With each sip, you can expect to enjoy deep and complex flavors, followed by a smooth and balanced finishes.

So, the next time you are craving tequila, be sure to order yourself a Patrón cocktail! And if a margarita is not what you are in the mood for, try one (or all) of these 3 top-recommended Patrón-based cocktails, below!

3 Patrón Tequila Cocktails You Will Be Glad You Ordered

Palomita

You have surely heard of a Paloma, which is a grapefruit and tequila based cocktail that calls for a sugary lemon-lime soda. But if you are not interested in something to sweet, ask your bartender for a Palomita! Fresh and refreshing, this favored tequila cocktail is delicious and easy on the calories!

SERVE IN A HIGHBALL GLASS:
2 Ounces Patrón Silver
3 Ounces Grapefruit Juice
½ Ounce Lime Juice
Top With Soda Water
Garnish With a Citrus Wheel

Tequila Sunrise

No matter what time of day it is, you can enjoy yourself a delicious Tequila Sunrise! With only 3 simple and tasty ingredients, you can order this delightful tequila cocktail almost anywhere you go. You can easily make it at home too!

SERVE IN A HIGHBALL GLASS:
2 Ounces Patrón Silver
4 Ounces Orange Juice
¾ Ounces Grenadine Syrup (or maraschino cherry juice)
Garnish With an Orange Wedge and Maraschino Cherry

Patrón Silver Martini

When you want something with some pizazz and some class, a Patrón tequila martini might be in order. Shaken with ice and served up-style in a martini glass, this rare beauty of a tequila cocktail will have you feelings all the feels, and real fast!

SERVE IN A MARTINI GLASS:
2 Ounces Patrón Silver
½ Ounce Dry Vermouth
2 Tablespoons Grapefruit Juice
10 Dashes Orange Bitters (more if you like)
Garnish With a Sugar Rim or Citrus Twist

Like to Keep Things Simple?
Here are Some Recommended One-and-Done Mixers for Patrón Tequila:

▷ Coconut Water
▷ Pineapple Juice
▷ Orange Juice
▷ Cranberry Juice
▷ Mountain Dew
▷ Ginger Beer
▷ Ginger Ale
▷ Sprite
▷ Sparking Water
▷ Margarita Mix

If you aren’t craving a frothy Patrón cocktail by now, you might be made of stone! Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery to enjoy our $7 Patron and $4 Margarita bar specials tonight! We are also featuring a Chef special and 50 cent wings!

Tips for Using Vodka as a Household Cleaner

Posted on February 16, 2022 by englishivys

What do Cosmopolitans, Dirty Martinis, Bloody Mary’s, Screwdrivers, Moscow Mules, Harvey Wallbangers, and White Russians all have in common? The answer we are looking for here is, VODKA! Vodka makes an excellent base liquor for many cocktails, as you may already know and admire, but have you ever thought about using it to clean?

Continue reading to learn how you can use an everyday, store-bought vodka to sterilize and clean several areas of your home!

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Vodka Has Always Been More Than a Drink

Vodka is made by the distillation of plant matter that is rich in starch or sugar. Plant matter commonly includes various types of grains, such as corn, rye, and wheat, or other foodstuffs, like potatoes, grapes, and soybeans. Since its origin, it has been used in many applications other than beverages, including several health remedies, antiseptics, anesthetics, beauty aids, and of course, cleaning.

Vodka is a Suitable Cleaning Agent

Vodka has a high alcohol content; traditionally, 30 to 40% by volume. In fact, it is so high that it can be used as a cleaning agent for things like dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and more. The alcohol content works well as a sterilizer for all kinds of surfaces, such as countertops, fixtures, windows, floors, mirrors, and even clothing!

Cheap Vodka Works Just as Well

When it comes to choosing a vodka to clean your house with, there is no need to reach for the top shelf brands you prefer for your martinis and tonics. For cleaning and sterilization purposes, you can stick with a basic, generic brand of vodka. The quality of the liquor will not have any influence on its cleaning abilities, so reserve the good stuff for yourself. On the other hand, organic vodka comes highly recommended for the job.

How to Use Vodka to Clean and Sanitize:

What You Need – Get yourself a clean, plastic spray bottle and fill it with your choice of vodka.

Mold/Mildew – For mold and mildew, simply spray the vodka on the affected area and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Then use a cleaning brush or sponge to scrub the mold and mildew away. Then just rinse the surface with clean water.

Stainless Steel/Plumbing Fixtures – To clean plumbing fixtures like faucets, drains, doorknobs, and more, just spray vodka onto a cloth or paper towel and use some good old-fashioned elbow grease to polish them up.

Glass/Mirrors – For mirrors, windows, and other glass surfaces, spray the solution onto the surface and then buff away the blemishes with a paper towel or bunched up newspaper. Then finish by polishing with a microfiber cloth to reveal a beautiful shine.

Clothing/Fabric – To refresh clothing without tossing them into the washing machine, dilute your vodka with water, and then mist the fabric with your solution. As it dries, the alcohol eliminates any residual odors, like smoke and grease, without leaving behind the smell of vodka. This is a great trick to refresh smelly work uniforms or aprons. It is better than store-bought fabric refresher spray because there are no harsh chemicals damaging the integrity of your clothing!

Stickers/Price Tags – To remove stickers and adhesives, just spray a solution of pure vodka directly onto the sticky area. Allow it to sit for a few minutes and then wipe the surface clean with a rag or melamine sponge (i.e. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser). Price tags and labels will no longer be a bother!

With all that vodka talk and vodka aroma, you might be craving a Cosmo or Vodka Martini right about now! Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery to enjoy our Wednesday drink specials, including $5 Absolut cocktails and martinis, as well as $3 Effen vodka drinks! Be sure to check out our daily food specials, too!

Top 4 Tips for a Responsible Night of Drinking

Posted on January 31, 2022 by englishivys

It’s a fact that many adults like to go out, let loose, and enjoy a selection of delicious cocktails with friends and loved ones. Whether it is the end of a long work week, special celebratory occasion, or just another fun weekend with your crew, if you are planning to go out for drinks, be sure to do so responsibly. With good knowledge and best practices, you can enjoy as much celebratory drinking as you like, while also being sensible and safe. This can also help to mitigate those nasty hangover symptoms that we all dread.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 tips for a responsible night of drinking, including a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials and downtown Indianapolis.

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Sensible and Healthy Ways to Enjoy Your Alcoholic Beverages

When you are preparing to grab drinks at your local bar or pub with your friends, these 4 tips will help you have a successful, fun, and safe experience:

Pay Attention to Alcohol Content

When drinking alcoholic beverages, it is important to understand that some cocktails and drinks have a lower alcohol content in them compared to others. For example, dark beers can have up to 12% alcohol in them, while light beers can have as low as 4 to 5% alcohol. This means drinking 4 pints of Guinness will have a higher effect on your blood alcohol level, then drinking for Miller Lights.

The same principle applies to liquor. Some liquors are lower proof than others, so it is important to pay attention to what you’re ordering and how much is being poured in that drink. For instance, 3 ounces of 190 proof Everclear, a pure grain alcohol, will have more of an effect on your blood alcohol level than 3 ounces of 40 proof vodka.

So, if you are drinking a cocktail or beverage that has a higher alcohol content in it, understand that you are basically drinking doubles, and the effect of alcohol will impact you much faster and stronger compared to a less-strong beverage.

Pace Yourself

Along with understanding the alcohol content in each beverage, it is important to take your time when drinking alcohol. Pace yourself by drinking glasses of water in between each alcoholic beverage, and by drinking slowly. Avoid taking shots if you can, although this is sometimes impossible. If you take shots, just be sure you are staying hydrated with plenty of water throughout the night.

Eat Something

Perhaps one of the most important tips for drinking responsibly is to ensure you are eating. Food plays an important role in keeping you satiated, while also giving your stomach something to absorb all the alcohol. If you have ever gone drinking without eating anything, you know that you wake up with a severe hangover and a lot of sickness. You also get drunk really fast, which can actually spoil the night because it can cause you to get sleepy or sick too soon. So, while you’re drinking with friends or loved ones, be sure to order appetizers and continue snacking, or eat a full meal at some point in the night.

Look Out for Others

Another critical tip for drinking with friends or loved ones is to look out for each other. If you notice that one of your friends is becoming too intoxicated to quickly, offer them some food or a glass of water. If someone does end up getting too intoxicated, be sure to help them home safely. It is also important to look out for each other in terms of being victimized. Keep your eyes on your drink at all times and keep an eye out for anyone trying to slip anything into your friends’ drinks.

As promised, we are going to give you a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials, freshest cocktails, and quality bar menu selections in downtown Indianapolis. Visit English Ivy’s in Downtown Indianapolis for daily food and drink specials and more! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Cozy Winter Cocktails to Keep You Warm All Season Long

Posted on January 10, 2022 by englishivys

Wintertime is the perfect season in Indiana to snuggle up with all of your cozy favorites, like over-sized sweaters, knitted socks, chunky throw blankets, and steaming cups of coffee. Speaking of coffee, why not mix a little tequila in to really give you a warm winter buzz? Seriously! Warm winter cocktails are trending this season, and there are plenty to choose, making it easy to find one you’ll love.

Continue reading to learn some of the top cozy winter cocktails to keep you comfy and warm all season long, plus where to go to get the best drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis!

Cocktail Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Hot Cocktails for the Winter Season

Traditionally, hot cocktails are made with liquors like bourbon, tequila, whiskey, scotch, and liqueurs like coffee, berry, cream, and chocolate. As for the bases, you can expect a lot of recipes to include hot tea, cocoa, and coffee. But as you explore recipes for hot winter cocktails, you can begin to customize your drinks with your favorite flavors and alcohols.

Here are some of the top cozy winter cocktails to try out:

Hot Toddy

Hot Toddy’s are one of the more traditional winter cocktails. These have been enjoyed for generations, and never seem to disappoint. They are very easy to make and even recommended as a cold remedy for sore throats, coughing, congestion, and chills.

You will need a ceramic or stemmed mug, as well as bourbon, fresh lemon, honey, water, and a cinnamon stick if you so choose. If you don’t have a cinnamon stick, you can simply use ground cinnamon. You can be extra festive by adding a star anise floater or even half a baked pear!

1 CUP OF WATER, HEATED
3 OUNCES BOURBON WHISKEY
1 LEMON WEDGE
2 TABLESPOONS HONEY
1 THIN LEMON SLICE
CINNAMON STICK (OR GROUND CINNAMON)

Heat 1 cup of water in the microwave it for 2 minutes. Be sure to use a glove to remove the cup because it may be very hot. Add the honey to your mug, then pour your hot water and bourbon in. Stir the concoction until the honey has dissolved, then squeeze in the juice of one lemon wedge. Toss in a lemon slice and cinnamon stick, or sprinkle cinnamon on top.

Spiked Rosemary Tea

Now here’s a winter cocktail you may not have heard of before. Try out this delicious, sweet, and oh-so-soothing spiked Rosemary tea with a hint of lemon! It is special because it includes Fernet, a complex Italian spirit that is bitter and aromatic. You will also need some strong black tea, like Earl Gray, and of course a coffee mug.

1 CUP FERNET-BRANCA
6 BAGS OF BLACK TEA
4 OUNCES ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP
4 OUNCES LEMON JUICE
4 OUNCES HONEY

How To Make Rosemary Simple Syrup: In a 2 quart pot, add 1 cup of water, 2 cups of sugar, and 6 rosemary sprigs. Then cut up a lemon into wedges and squeeze the juice of each wedge into the pot. Then toss the squeezed wedges into the pot with all the other ingredients. Keep this concoction on low heat until it creates a thick syrup.

To make your cocktail, first begin with your tea. Once your tea has been brewed, add all ingredients into your mug and stir until well dissolved.

Oaxacan Coffee

South of the border, they really know how to make a tasty cozy cocktail. We are talking about this delicious Oaxacan coffee! This recipe makes a whole pot, so gather up some friends or family! You will need some strong, black espresso to start. Then just mix all ingredients together and garnish with cinnamon sticks and cloves. For an extra treat, top off your cup with whipped cream!

4 CUPS OF ESPRESSO
4 OUNCES TEQUILA, RESPOSADA
1.5 OUNCES MEZCAL
4 OUNCES AGAVE (SWEETEN TO TASTE)
6 CINNAMON STICKS
6 CLOVES

Are you looking for a great place in Downtown Indy to enjoy some warm winter cocktails and delicious meals? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Where Do Cocktails Get Their Names?

Posted on December 3, 2021 by englishivys

You may know what’s in them; but do you know where they got their name from? Popular staples in the bar industry like Bloody Mary’s, Manhattans, Screwdrivers, and Old Fashioned drinks have names that make you question their origins.

Below you can read through a list of popular cocktails just like these to learn a brief description of how they got their names. Then you can share this thought-provoking information with your peers the next time you gather together for a round or two!

Famous Cocktails and Their Moniker Origins

Bloody Mary

Bloody Mary’s are tangy, spicy cocktails made from a tomato juice and vodka base and mixed with a variation of spices and ingredients like salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice, celery, Worcestershire, and more. Although the origin of the name has many stories and remains quite ambiguous, most agree that it is named after Queen Mary I of England, who was dubbed “Bloody Mary” for attempting to re-establish the Catholic Church.

Cosmopolitan

Also known as a “Cosmo” for short, the Cosmopolitan was made famous in the television series, “Sex in the City.” However, the Cosmopolitan was influencing the bar industry long before its red carpet debut. Primarily constructed with vodka, triple sec, and cranberry juice, this popular martini-style drink’s name is said to have come from Neal Murray of the Cork & Cleaver steak house in Minneapolis in 1975. Supposedly, he added a splash of cranberry juice to a Kamikaze and said, “How Cosmopolitan.”

Dirty Martini

The Dirty Martini is a simple and sophisticated cocktail for vodka and gin drinkers. Primarily made with vodka or gin, vermouth, olive brine or juice, and garnished with green bar olives, this cocktail has a name that suggests something “unclean” or perhaps even “unscrupulous.” But the real origin of its name actually unknown. It is suggested that it describes the muddied, clouded appearance the olive brine gives the liquor.

Long Island Iced Tea

A Long Island Iced Tea traditionally contains vodka, tequila, light rum, triple sec, gin, and a splash of cola. It makes sense that this all-inclusive cocktail began in Long Island, New York; right? Well, this is actually true. A man by the name Robert “Rosebud” Butt claims he invented the drink in 1972 after entering a contest while working at the Oak Beach Inn in Long Island, New York.

Mai Tai

Mai Tai drinks are commonly made with white and dark rum, orange curacao, fresh lime juice, and almond flavoring syrup. These Polynesian-style ingredients may be what inspired the name. A man named Victor J. Bergeron claimed to invent the drink in 1944 when he made it for his friends who were visiting from Tahiti. In Tahitian language, “Maita’i” means “good.”

Manhattan

Universally made with whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters, the Manhattan is a classic bar drink. Although the origin is unclear, it is said that the drink was created at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the early 1870’s for a banquet in honor of presidential candidate, Samuel J. Tilden. People began calling this drink the “Manhattan cocktail” after the club. Pair it with a Beef Manhattan for a real treat!

Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is not exactly what the name implies. It is made by muddling sugar with bitters, then adding whiskey or brandy, and finished with a twist of citrus rind. But the ingredients are not where the name comes from. Traditionally, the Old Fashion is served in a short, round, tumbler-like glass called an “Old Fashion glass.” This is where the name likely comes from.

Screwdriver

There are several stories about this popular breakfast-style cocktail and its origins. The most supported story regarding its name suggests that it began with American oil workers working in the Persian Gulf during the 1920’s. They didn’t have a regular steel spoon to stir their drink, so they used whatever they had on hand that worked; and a screwdriver was always the most reliable tool nearby.

Are you craving one of these frosty, classic cocktails now? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks all weekend long. Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Delicious Drink Pairings For Thanksgiving Dinner

Posted on November 23, 2021 by englishivys

The Thanksgiving Day meal is one of the central pleasures of the holiday occasion. Every element is perfectly orchestrated to complement and incorporate the entire seasonal theme. But many people tend to overlook the importance of a Thanksgiving dinner beverage. A variety of liquors, beers, and wines improve the flavor profiles of roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and more.

Whether you are hosting, attending, or going out to a restaurant for Thanksgiving this year, be sure to enhance the holiday pleasure with these deliciously-fitting Thanksgiving dinner drink pairings!

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How to Pair a Perfect Drink With Thanksgiving Dinner

Wine

It doesn’t matter if you prefer red or white, you have many options for a perfect Thanksgiving dinner pairing. If you are a red wine drinker, opt for a Pinot Noir, Syrah, or even a Zinfandel. The low tannin, impugning the war is a delicate palate-pleaser that won’t overshadow the rest of your meal. Syrah and Zinfandel offer deep, complex flavors that are cozy for the fall season and complement the richness of a Thanksgiving dinner.

White wines recommended for Thanksgiving menus include Sauvignon Blancs, Rieslings, and Gewürztraminer. These whites perfectly complement the traditional herbs and seasonings used in a Thanksgiving dinner spread. They also pair well with potatoes. If you prefer sparkling wine, pour yourself a glass of anything labeled Brut; a sparkling rosé is a great pairing for smoked turkey.

Beer

If you are someone that loves a frosty cold beer to wash down your Thanksgiving dinner, direct your selection towards a Belgian style brew, preferably a Saison, which also happens to be an excellent palate cleanser. This rich and complex spiced ale pairs well with the seasonal flavors of Thanksgiving entrées and side dishes. If a yeasty Saison is not your first choice, any dark beer pairs well with a Thanksgiving dinner spread. If you are smoking your turkey, pour yourself a Scotch-style ale for an enhanced flavor profile.

Cocktails and Liquor

If wine and beer won’t cut it, you must be a cocktail drinker. Or perhaps you just like your whiskey neat. Either way, you have a load of options in store for you this holiday season. Gin and whiskey are two of the top-recommended liquors, either alone or in cocktails, for Thanksgiving dinner. The botanicals and herb base in gin brings out the flavor profiles in turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes.

Both bourbon and scotch are rich and slightly sweet, which are attributes complementary to many traditional Thanksgiving menu options like stuffing and candied yams. Opt for a Glenlivet of any kind, or a Tennessee whiskey that offers notes of dried fruit and caramel, like Gentleman Jack. You can never go wrong with a traditional Old Fashioned! Just avoid whiskeys that are overly smoky.

Not hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year? You are so lucky! Looking for a place that will serve you a memorable and traditional holiday meal you will absolutely love? Visit English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery in Downtown Indianapolis for Thanksgiving dinner this year! We are open this Thanksgiving from 5PM to 12AM, kitchen closing at 10PM. No reservations required!

Try This French-Inspired Lager Cocktail!

Posted on October 15, 2021 by englishivys

Known as a French Monaco, you don’t have to be from France to enjoy this delicious and refreshing lager cocktail. This uniquely delicious recipe is a treat for anyone who loves a good lager and a little sweetness. Best of all, the combination of flavors makes it a perfect complement to any meal, any time of the year. So, if you have plans in Indianapolis this weekend, ask your bartender to make you a French Monaco, or simply make one yourself at home!

Continue reading to learn what’s in this tasty beer cocktail and the best place to get it in Downtown Indianapolis!

Beer Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

How to Make a French Monaco Beer Cocktail

There are 3 primary ingredients that make a proper French Monaco. These can be altered and adjusted to taste or depending on what you have on hand; however, if you have a chance to make a batch from scratch, it is best prepared with the traditional ingredients. These include lemonade, lager, and grenadine.

Select Any Lager You Like

Although you can use any style lager and the common red syrup you used to put in your Shirley Temples, it is meant to be constructed with a top-shelf lager and a premium grenadine made from real pomegranates. The French prefer Stella Artois, which is also the recommended lager to use for this recipe.

Use a True Grenadine

As for the grenadine, it is recommended to use a real pomegranate syrup, such as the one made by Liber & Co. You may also use a different version of pomegranate syrup, but the authentic version is made with real grenadine.

Lemonade Quality is Key

We’ve all had lemonade that was too tart to tolerate, and we’ve all had lemonade that was too sweet to enjoy. When choosing a lemonade for a French Monaco, or any cocktail for that matter, quality is key. Aim for a fresh-squeezed version. You can also choose a light lemonade drink if you want to cut back on sugar and calories!

What You Will Need:

▷ 2 Ounces of Lemonade (preferably made from scratch)
▷ 6 Ounces of Lager
▷ 1 Ounce of Real Grenadine
▷ Long Bar Spoon

➀ Start with a tall glass, such as a highball glass or a 16 oz. beer mug.
➁ Add 1 oz. of real grenadine to the glass.
➂ Add 2 oz. of lemonade.
➃ Top the glass with your lager.
➄ Gently stir your concoction one or two times.
➅ Garnish with a lemon wheel if you have one!

Ready to order your French Monaco or preferred beer cocktail this weekend? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and order from our full bar and cocktail menu! We offer beer, wine, and liquor drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis every day of the week!

2 New Takes on the Traditional Old Fashioned

Posted on September 17, 2021 by englishivys

The Old Fashioned is one of the most respected and honored cocktails that has maintained popularity for hundreds of years. Classically made with bourbon, bitters, and sugar, the Old Fashioned is admired for its depth, richness, and history. It is rumored that the drink was created at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the early 1870’s for a banquet in honor of presidential candidate, Samuel J. Tilden. So, people began calling this drink the “Manhattan cocktail” after the club.

Although the name implies that innovation is not something of interest, with such an easy foundation of ingredients it’s hard to resist the temptation to innovate and tweak the recipe just a little. You see, bourbon and sugar might be customary for making a classic Old Fashioned, but many are pleasantly discovering that you can use any base liquor and ingredients you would like, including sweet vermouth, tequila, and more!

If you are a fan of the Old Fashioned, but would like a fresh take on it, continue reading for two inventive recipes that may turn into your new go-to after-work or weekend drink!

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It is Time to Change the Way You Think About an Old Fashioned

The classic recipe for an Old Fashioned is 2 ounces bourbon, 1 sugar cube, 2 dashes of angostura bitters, and 1 dash of water, then garnished with a cherry on a toothpick. However, as classic as this cocktail might be, it too has been altered overtime.

Many people substitute bourbon for other types of liquor, such as whiskey or scotch. Many have also substituted sugar cubes for sweet vermouth or even a teaspoon of maple syrup. Others eliminate the dash of water altogether. Some even swap the cherry for dried fruit, orange slices, olives, and rosemary sprigs.

For most, developing a personalized recipe for an Old Fashioned take some time and some adjusting. But as mentioned, if you are tired of the same old town bourbon cocktail you been drinking for years, try out these two recipes that may change the way you think about Old Fashioned cocktails forever!

Traditional Version of an Old Fashioned

Just as a reminder for comparison purposes, to make a traditional Old Fashioned cocktail, drop a sugar cube inside a rocks glass and saturate it with 2 dashes of bitters. Then add a dash of water. Muddle the sugar cube until it is fully dissolved. Now fill the glass with ice and add 2 ounces of bourbon. Finish by garnishing it with an orange slice and a cocktail cherry on a toothpick.

🥃 The Improved Whiskey Cocktail 🥃

This recipe is not a new one. It is actually a classic cocktail that was even mentioned in “The Bar-Tender’s Guide” of 1887. Try this improved whiskey cocktail the next time you visit your favorite Downtown Indianapolis bar restaurant!

▻ 1.5 OUNCES HIGH RYE BOURBON
▻ 1 SUGAR CUBE (substitute 1 tsp. maple syrup or 1 bar spoon of granulated sugar)
▻ 1 BAR SPOON MARASCHINO LIQUEUR
▻ 1 DASH ABSINTHE
▻ 1 DASH CHERRY OR LICORICE BITTERS
▻ 1 DASH AROMATIC BITTERS
▻ GARNISH WITH CITRUS PEEL

To make this cocktail, follow the same instructions you would for a classic Old Fashioned. In your rocks glass, muddle your sugar cube or sugar option with your bitters, absinthe, and Maraschino liqueur. Next, pour in your bourbon and ice, then stir. It is recommended to use a single large block of ice for this cocktail.

🥃 The Reposado Old Fashioned 🥃

If you are a fan of tequila, then this is the new take on a classic Old Fashioned you’ve been looking for. With a different selection of bitters, a bit of agave, and a different base liquor, this rendition of an Old Fashioned will have you feeling like you’ve gone south of the border.

▻ 1.5 OUNCES AGED TEQUILA
▻ 1 BAR SPOON SIMPLE SYRUP
▻ 2 DASHES AROMATIC BITTERS
▻ GARNISH WITH AND ORANGE PEEL

To make this new version, you will start off a bit differently than a traditional Old Fashioned. Begin by using a wide vegetable peeler to peel your orange. Use the orange peel to express all of the essential oils within inside the rocks glass. Add all of your ingredients into a glass including a single block of ice, and then stir. Garnish with a new orange peel.

Are you excited for these new versions of your favorite Old Fashioned? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and place your order with the bar today! You can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks! Be sure to check out our daily specials, too!

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Does a Margarita Taste Better With Silver or Gold Tequila?

Posted on August 30, 2021 by englishivys

One of the most popular classic cocktails among leisure-lovers all across the Americas is the margarita, as they deliver a perfect marriage of sweet, sour, and salty. Traditionally made with fresh lime juice, tequila, and orange liqueur, margaritas are served blended with ice or unblended and poured over ice (also known as “on the rocks”). They can be perfectly customized down to every last detail using a wide range of fruits, flavors, different quality liquors, liqueurs, and garnishes.

However, there is age-old, ongoing dispute over which type of tequila makes a better margarita; light or dark? Some will say that a true margarita is made with aged gold tequila, while many others will argue that Blanco tequila is the best.

If you love margaritas but have never understood which kind of tequila to order them with, you are not alone. Continue reading to learn the difference between silver and gold tequila, and some tips on using them to make margaritas.

Downtown Indianapolis Margarita Specials 317-822-5070

Gold Tequila is Aged Tequila

Gold tequila is colloquially referred to as dark tequila, or aged tequila. This version is made by distilling the juice from a blue agave plant and turning it into a liquor. Most dark tequila brands that are not aged are not 100% pure agave. They are usually mixes that only contain around 51% agave tequila.

Dark tequila can get its color from two different places: wood barrels or caramel additives. For instance, Reposado (rested) in 200-liter white oak barrels for at least 2 months, while Añejo (aged) tequila is aged for 12 months. Reposado and Añejo are the only tequilas that have to be aged according to regulations.

Aside from wood barrels, the dark color can also come from caramel coloring and sugar that is added to the batch before fermentation. Most of the time, these additives are for the purpose of mimicking the gold hue of high quality aged tequilas. However, they are also attributed to giving the tequila a smoother taste, which is why they are the preferred choice for taking shots.

Silver Tequila is Agave Tequila

Silver tequila is also known as light, white, or Blanco tequila since it has a clear, transparent color similar to vodka or gin. It is distilled in stainless steel containers and can be either 100% pure agave or a mix. Similar to dark tequila, it is derived from the blue agave plant and distilled into a liquor, but the rather than aging, it is usually bottled right after distillation. In fact, it is rarely ever aged, and if so, only for a very short amount of time. This makes many tequila drinkers believe that it has a harsher taste, given that it is not aged like higher quality tequilas.

Choosing a Tequila for Your Margarita

When it comes to making a great, classic margarita, the truth is that both light and dark tequilas are well-suited for the job; it really comes down to personal preference. But if you were to ask the professionals, they will likely tell you to go for the Gold. Gold tequila tends to have sweeter notes and a smoother finish, making them especially perfect for frozen margaritas.

Ready for a frosty, frothy margarita customized to your liking? Visit English Ivy’s in Downtown Indianapolis for daily food and drink specials and more! Join us every Wednesday for $4 margaritas, $7 Patrons, and $3 Coronas! We also accept takeout and call ahead orders!

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