SPVAQ32021 - 35

can just go pour a drink and get a
garnish, " she says.
But you may be content with
plastic pitchers and serviceable
platters.
Serving ware provides another
example. Over the years, the
Tripps have collected distinctive
bar glasses for different drinks.
" It's fun to have the right glass
for the right drink, " Susan says.
Even salvage stores have provided
her an inexpensive source of
serving ware.
You, on the other hand, may
prefer disposable cups. Disposable
cups simplify cleanup, easing the
anxiety of having folks over. Maybe
you'll transition to a bar glassware
collection later. Or maybe not!
" When we got the place at the river, it
seemed like a natural transition to just
have folks down. It's always more fun to
have friends around. We love having guests. "
Wherever you may fall on the
spectrum of pretty or functional,
permanent or disposable, you'll
discover one thing for sure: Batch
cocktails make entertaining
easier. By mixing up the drinks
ahead of time, you'll be prepared
to party at a knock on the door.
Although a " batch " of drinks
may conjure visions of punch
bowls, pitchers work better for
drop-by visitors and casual gettogethers.
Pitchers play the part
of cabana boy rather than butler,
a more suitable role for outdoor
and laidback hangouts. Pitchers
of premade cocktails fit easily
into the fridge and transfer easily
to the table. Pitchers can be easily
covered to keep out refrigerator
odors inside and insects outside.
Remember, the idea is ease of
entertainment-for you-so that
the revolving door will whish
gently and turn freely.
DISCOVERING YOUR GO-TO
BATCH COCKTAIL RECIPES
This is where the fun begins:
finding recipes that become your
and your guests' favorites.
Susan offers tips based on her
experience:
* Don't shy away from
shortcuts: " I love using mixers,
especially for Margaritas, " to
simplify preparation.
* Monitor the alcohol ratio:
" One thing I like about batch
cocktails is I can control my
alcohol-t0-mix ratio. " After all,
a gracious host can also be a
responsible host.
* Save the best: " You don't
have to use top-shelf alcohol in a
batch drink, " since most mixers
mask the quality of a top-shelf
spirit. " Save the best stuff for
when you're by yourself and just
sipping. "
JULY | AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2021 35
BILLY FELLIN
BILLY FELLIN
SPVAQ32021

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