Classics Perfected | Fairmont Copley

Elite Fairmont bartenders from around the world joined forces to create a new global cocktail menu. The result was perfectly reimagined, time-tested classics. I was honored to celebrate the launch with them last Thursday evening at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. They hosted an elegant affair in the St. James speakeasy, easily one of the best cocktail parties I've attended!

 [The Menu]

Fairmont Old Fashioned | Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Mount Gay Black Barrel Rum, simple syrup, angostura bitters, garnish: wide orange wheel

Perfect Martinez | The Botanist Islay Dry Gin, Contreau, sweet red vermouth, dry vermouth, angostura bitters, garnish: lemon twist

VSOP Boulevardier | Gentleman Jack Rare Tennessee Whiskey, Remy Martin VSOP Fine Champagne Cognac, Campari, sweet red vermouth, garnish: wide lemon wheel
Right Word | Bombay Sapphire Gin, Lillet Blanc, St. Germain Elderflower Liquor, fresh lime juice, garnish: thinly sliced lime wheel

Sparkling Collins Royal | Belvedere Vodka, Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label, fresh mint + cucumber, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, garnish: sprig of mint

Pomegranate Paloma | Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Contreau, pomegranate juice, fresh grapefruit juice, fresh lemon juice, angostura bitters, garnish: coarse salted rim, half lemon wheel

I was enamored with the first four, especially the Boulevardier as Campari is one of my favorite spirits. This one drinks similar to a Negroni with whiskey stepping in for gin. A splash of champagne cognac adds a luxurious touch. The Old Fashioned hold true to its simplistic standards while benefiting from the excellent, full bodied Mount Gay Black Barrel Rum which imparts a richer flavor. In the Perfect Martinez the botanicals in the gin mingle with equal parts sweet and dry vermouth creating a well balanced martini. The Right Word offers a light and elegant variation of the classic Last Word. Swapping out Chartreuse, now St Germain and Lillet are responsible for the bright floral notes. I didn't have a chance to sample the Sparkling Collins or the Paloma - but the Fairmont's elevated versions certainly sound delicious and refreshing. 

This gorgeous Boston hotel is especially stunning around the holidays. If you're local, I wouldn't hesitate to visit the Oak Long Bar + Kitchen to sample these elegant cocktail revivals - they will not disappoint! Otherwise, you can find them at Fairmont properties worldwide.