The Spirited Contagion Cocktail

by Cindi Sutter - Reprinted with permission from Ulysses Press. New York, NY. All rights reserved.

Did we not just live through this movie? I mean, damn. How accurate was this? At least Beth had one last night of fun before she ended up…well, you know.

The movie "Contagion" hit a little too close to home, didn't it? As we reflect on the turbulent times we've experienced, let's raise a glass to our fallen brothers and sisters with a signature cocktail that embraces resilience and a hopeful spirit. Presenting "The Pandemic," a drink that captures the essence of the film while reminding us to celebrate life.
KILL LEVEL: Easy
BODY COUNT: 1 drink
PREP TIME: 5 minutes

The Pandemic Cocktail Ingredients:

• 3 ounces banana liqueur

• 1 ounce scotch

• 1 ounce sherry

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 tablespoon ginger syrup (from the pickled ginger jar)

• Dash of Angostura bitters

• Pickled ginger slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the banana liqueur, scotch, sherry, lime juice, ginger syrup, and a dash of Angostura bitters.
2. Shake well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
3. Serve the cocktail over ice in a glass of your choice.
4. Finish by garnishing with a few slices of pickled ginger, adding a touch of tangy flavor and visual appeal to the drink.

The Spirited Twist:

As we sip on "The Pandemic" cocktail, let's take a moment to reflect on the experiences we've had and the lessons we've learned. It's natural to feel a sense of déjà vu after living through a time that parallels a movie like "Contagion."
But let's embrace the opportunity to come together, support one another, and build a brighter future. Let's choose resilience over fear and celebrate our ability to adapt and move forward. While it's important to acknowledge the past, we must also look ahead with hope and optimism.
Drinking Game: As you enjoy "The Pandemic" cocktail, take a sip every time you experience a moment of déjà vu, a reminder of the challenges and triumphs we faced during this extraordinary period.
Remember, it's okay to raise a glass and acknowledge the past, but let's also focus on creating a future filled with joy, togetherness, and a renewed appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.
So, here's to resilience, to our fallen brothers and sisters, and to a future where movies like "Contagion" are just thrilling stories, no longer our reality.
Cheers!
Note: Please drink responsibly, knowing your limits and taking into account legal drinking ages in your location.