The Bee’s Knees is a classic cocktail that emerged during Prohibition. This simple gin, lemon, and honey drink was devised to mask the harsh taste of the subpar spirits available at the time. The name, a popular slang term during the 1920s, means the “best” or “most excellent” – a fitting moniker for a cocktail that’s stood the test of time. Today, we’re not just serving up the classic Bee’s Knees, but a spicy, smoky twist on this ever-delightful cocktail.

The Sidecar is one of those classic cocktails that never goes out of style, much like the fashion of its purported era. A concoction of cognac, Dry Curaçao, and fresh lemon juice, this cocktail exudes sophistication, class, and an old-world charm. And just like the sidecar motorcycle it’s named after, it provides a smooth yet thrilling ride.

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Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a curious enthusiast, chances are you’ve heard of the Aviation – a classic pre-Prohibition era cocktail. This enchanting libation is renowned for its striking hue and balanced flavors, providing a delightful glimpse into the past while dazzling modern palates.

Originating from the early 20th century, the Aviation first appeared in print in Hugo Ensslin’s 1916 “Recipes for Mixed Drinks”. An esteemed bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York City, Ensslin included the Aviation in his collection of cocktail recipes, and it quickly gained popularity.

The Protected Bike Lane – it’s not just the name of Ann Arbor’s exciting new downtown traffic development, it’s also the name of a recent custom cocktail creation. A celebratory homage to this game-changing local project, The Protected Bike Lane cocktail mirrors its real-world counterpart in boldness and embodies the spirit of progress and excitement in its unique blend of flavors.

This creation journey was a tribute to the classic Boulevardier and Man o War cocktails, but with a twist to pay respect to our city’s newest road feature. I aimed for a 2-1-1 ratio served neat (because who wants rocks in their bike lane), with the leading role given to a classic American whiskey, and in this case, Maker’s Mark bourbon was the star. I set out to create a cocktail that was both visually appealing and a balanced blend of flavors. But, just like the planning and execution of a real bike lane, there were challenges along the way.

In the pantheon of classic cocktails, few have a history as rich and flavors as complex as The Last Word. First crafted during the prohibition era at the Detroit Athletic Club, this enchanting elixir has experienced a remarkable renaissance in the past few decades.

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There’s nothing quite like spending an autumn night around a crackling campfire, the air crisp and filled with the scent of burning wood and the taste of shared treats. This inspired me to create a cocktail that encapsulates this quintessential fall experience — the Autumn Ember. This complex concoction, designed for special occasions, takes you on a sensory journey back to the campground, complete with the smoky aroma of a fire and the rich flavors of a fall evening.