Duo Black Female Spirit Pioneers’ Concoctions in Honor of Valentine’s Day+Women’s Month

Inclusivity is at the helm of these two African American, female-owned spirits brands and bars: Purcello’s 1789 by Tomeka Purcell and Chic Chef Co. as well as Chic Chef 77 Wine Bar and Bistro by Nik Fields. by Nik Fields. With sexy and silky inherent flavors of vanilla, oak, fruit, spice blended with honey, it’s no wonder the depth of flavor, subtle yet complex, but not overpowering, appeals to women around the globe.

Nik says, “What makes bourbon distinct from other whiskeys is the way it‘is manufactured and aged. All whiskey is a spirit made from fermented grain and then aged in barrels. But the kind of grain and the type of barrels determines the variety of whiskey.“

Tomeka continues, “Bourbon is made in small batches, aged for a long period of time, which means that each bottle is of higher–quality, which adds to the luxury of it all. The taste of heat is the physical sensation caused by the dehydration occurring in your mouth— ethanol does that well.”

…which makes bourbon the ideal spirit to share with your boo on Valentine’s Day with some crafty and creative cocktails. Let’s be honest: Whiskey is an acquired taste. Bold, Fierce and Intense: all the makings of the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable candlelit Valentine‘s evening, whether dining at home or out in the town. 

A bourbon cocktail is sophisticated, classy and flavorful and Nik’s Bourbon pick of Purcello‘s1789 embodies all of the fiery combinations. Most men agree it’s quite attractive to find a lady who enjoys the fine taste of whiskey. Couples who drink whiskey together, stay together and most likely have the similar views on life since they are deep, sincere and thoughtful.

Here’s a few cocktails that Chef Nik created to ignite the fire on Lover‘s Day in the kitchen and beyond:

All the Smoke 

INGREDIENTS

• 3 Strawberries, muddled
• ½ lemon, quartered
• 1 oz Chic Chef Co., Strawberry  simple syrup
• 2 oz Purcello’s 1789 bourbon
• Optional: 8 mint leaves
• Garnish: mint and strawberries

INSTRUCTIONS

• Add strawberries, lemon, and simple syrup in the bottom of a shaking tin and muddle well.
• Add optional mint leaves and Purcello’s 1789 and muddle briefly.
• Fill with ice and shake for 10-12 seconds.
• Strain into a rocks glass with ice and garnish with strawberries and mint (if using).
  Double the recipe to share with your Boo!