A Taste of Sacramento: The Cocktail That Became a Memory
Thank you for spending my birthday with me! We had such a lovely time going to the mountains.
That was the message my wife sent me after our trip from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe, a getaway that still stands out as one of our favorites. It was October, and the crisp mountain air made the journey feel even more special. But before we reached our final destination, we made a stop in Sacramento—a detour that gifted us a memory in the form of a cocktail.
We found ourselves at Shady Lady Saloon, a dimly lit, vintage-inspired bar that instantly felt like a hidden gem. The atmosphere was rich with jazz, laughter, and the kind of cocktail menu that made you want to stay just a little longer. We strolled through town that evening, but it was the time at the bar—exploring flavors, sharing stories, and toasting to another year—that truly made the night.
One drink, in particular, stood out. It was bold yet balanced, a little unexpected but instantly comforting. Much like that night, it left a lasting impression. And now, whenever we make it at home, it brings back the warmth of that October evening—just us, the glow of city lights, and the feeling of being exactly where we were meant to be.
Here’s the recipe, so you can taste a little bit of that memory, too.
Ingredients:
- Absinthe, to rinse
- 3/4 oz Gin
- 3/4 oz Orange Liqueur
- 3/4 oz Lillet blanc
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
Preparation:
Rinse a chilled coupe or Martini glass with absinthe and set aside. Add the remaining ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake. Strain into the prepared glass.