I’m always seeking a mellow Buzz without giving up the fun and escape from reality that a major Buzz provides. I tried my first lower alcohol-by-volume Old Fashioned by using zero proof “whiskey” and regular sweet vermouth plus a half jigger of Old Fashioned flavoring. Of course the vermouth is 16 proof so the cocktail does have alcohol. Just less. And it worked. There was a distinct whiskey flavor that fooled my taste buds. No, it’s not as good as the real thing but it’s not bad. And rather than have just a very small drink there’s enough for one or two cocktail glasses worth. It allows me to go through all the motions of making and shaking and garnishing and admiring my libation presentation.
Next I tossed in a half-shot of whiskey to get bring my drink a little closer to the real thing. There’s the very mellow Buzz.
I’ve also tried the faux gin and tequila. They’re a handy addition to the cocktail arsenal for good old Baby Boomers who maybe need a little lighter Buzz but still want the bang.
– Jet Cannon