Lunar Mare

It doesn't take a rocket scientist (sorry, Stiff) to notice that I like a good Aviation now and again. So far, the Lounge only has one drink that has multiple versions listed and that is the aforesaid Aviation. The main problem, however, with the Aviation is that it is often too sour in its classic form, so I decided to manipulate the proportions a bit and add chocolate. The result is a sweeter, deeper version of its cousin; if you add grapefruit instead of the lemon, you have a more sophisticated version of the 1969 Moonwalk. In that vein, then, we decided to call this drink the Lunar Mare.

Garnishes! (and an original recipe)

Since we gave you the metallic gold of the Gold Star, let's introduce you to a second Parfait Amour pour. It's called the Nightfall on the Lake and it is one of the most asked about originals we've ever poured. The Nightfall is a true cocktail, meaning that it contains bitters. It is the bitters that silver the Parfait for a unique color. In addition, we use fennel fronds to complete its attention-grabbing appearance. I am not a garnish nazi. I believe in the maxim that all a garnish can offer should be offered, including its sight, smell, and taste.

Holly's Originals, Gold Star

Around America Series

Drink: Aviation
Establishment: CUT at The Palazzo
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
First Connoisseur: Stiff

2 1/2 ounces of Hendrick's gin
3/4 ounces of fresh-squeezed lemon juice
3 dashes of Luxardo maraschino
2 dashes of Parfait Amour

The classic recipe uses Crème Yvette, but the CUT does not, so enjoy this drink shaken and cold. Perfect for gin lovers. Compare the expensive version with version from the 30 Essentials. This one is better in every way.

Essential Liquor #16

#16) Peach Schnapps - Our first true schnapps on the list is a ladies' staple. It is absolutely necessary for the classic girl intoxicators such as the Fuzzy Navel, Sex on the Beach,and the Red Headed Slut. Unlike many of its ilk, peach is a versatile schnapps, just remember that a little goes a long way.

Essential Liquor #9

9) Parfait Amour- Parfait what? Our second headscratcher of the list. Seriously though, if you have partied at our pad in the last three years, this sweet concoction of oranges, flower blossoms, and Madagascar vanilla goes down like water. In addition to its taste, its royal purple hue is beyond compare. Parfait Amour is the main player in such Lounge inventions as the Midnight Cherry Popper and the Savannah Night. To stock Winterfest, we are buying three bottles at a time!