There have been a slew of cocktail competitions during the last few months here in Los Angeles, and Damrak gin’s was one of the most fun – with a great prize, to boot! About 10 Angeleno drink-slingers came to Beso in Hollywood where I, along with author and spirits writer Dan Dunn of The Imbiber and Jenn Garbee, an author and freelance journalist who regularly contributes to the LA Times, chose the top three cocktails.
Competition was tough, and it was obvious that everyone put a lot of thought into their drinks. The top dogs of the evening, however, were Chris Ojeda who works at both The Edison and The Varnish; Joel Black from Comme Ca and Tara Shatzi from Boa Hollywood. Congrats, all - you’re going to Holland!
Fregola y Cheto (Strawberry & Balsamic)
Chris Ojeda, The Edison / The Varnish
Chris has worked at some of the best bars in L.A. including Osteria Mozza, and now two of downtown's hottest hangouts.
2 oz Damrak Gin
1/2 oz Lime Juice
1/2 oz Simple Syrup
2 turns of cracked black pepper
1 whole strawberry muddled
3 drops of aged Balsamic
Muddle strawberries, add ingredients, shake with ice. Fine strain. Serve up. Top with Basil Foam
Cherry Rose
Joel Black, Comme Ca
Joel says, "This Damrak drink was inspired by one of one of his bar guests named Rose who wanted a cocktail with cherries in it. One thing lead to another and now I am on my way to Amsterdam... Who would of thunk it!!"
2 oz Damrak Gin
3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
3/4 oz Simple Syrup
2 Kier soaked cherries
1 bar spoon Maraschino Liqueur
Shake all ingredients, with ice. Double strain. Serve up. Garnish with cherries and lemon zest & lemon twist.
Damrak Herb Garden
Tara Shatzi, Boa (Hollywood)
It is great to see a lady bartender be one of the winners in this competition!
2 oz of Damrak Gin
Splash Ouzo
1/2 oz Sauvignon Blanc
1/2 oz Simple Syrup
1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
2 Sprigs Rosemary
Muddle Rosemary, Simple Syrup & Lemon Juice. Then add ice and shake all other ingredients together. Serve up