The Sazerac is a local New Orleans variation of a whiskey cocktail. The drink is most traditionally a combination of cognac or rye, absinthe, Peychaud's Bitter's, and sugar. Bourbon whiskey or Hurbsaint are also sometimes substituted. The defining characteristic of the Sazerac is its' method of preparation, involving two chilled, old fashioned glasses. The first glass is swirled with a splash of absinthe for flavor and strong scent. The second glass is used to combine the remaining ingredients, which are stirred with ice, then strained into the first glass. The typical "sling" usually has several base ingredients, a type of alcohol, fruit flavors (particularly citrus), or water (flat or fizzy), and sugar. A sling is served in a large glass and is usually a relatively fruity, light drink. Thus, the Sazerac Sling ends up being a larger, fruitier, lighter version of the Sazerac Cocktail.
Let's start with what came first, the original Stinger, a duo cocktail consisting of creme de menthe added to a spirit. A classic Stinger is a three to one combination of brandy and white creme de menthe, shaken and served in a cocktail glass. Not much history is found of the drink. According to Our Libatious Nature, the earliest mention of the drink is in Tom Bullock's Ideal Bartender, published in 1917. It originated as a digestive and was probably a nice nightcap to sip before bed. "Rumor has it that Reginald Vanderbilt actually ordered Stingers before dinner and elevated The Stinger to cocktail status making it the rage with New York Socialties." The cocktail has some Hollywood history as well. Cary Grant spoke the remembered words, "Stingers, and keep them coming," in the 1957 film "Kiss Them For Me." The Stinger is also referenced in "The Bishop's Wife", "The Apartment", and "Gorkey Park". The Stinger was the perfect ending to a night out on the town. A variation of The Stinger is a Vodka Stinger, which is traditionally equal parts vodka and white creme de menthe. The result is a murky milk of magnesia concoction, according to taste testers from Our Libatious Nature. They provide a fair warning that those sensitive to acid reflex may have an aversion to the drink. Click here to view a short excerpt from Ed Sikov's book, "The Boys' and Girls' Little Book of Alcohol". This excerpt is an interesting interpretation of the popular beverage and it's relationship to Company. Sondheim TeachingI found this video interesting and thought I'd share with everyone! Seeing Sondheim teach could be helpful for all of us in terms of how the text resonates with the actors and the audience. |
Author's NoteThese posts are here to help further your understanding of Company. I created the blog as a location for additional research that is helpful but may not fit into a specific category. ArchivesCategories |