Aromatic Adventures with Smoked Cocktails - Episode 199

02/25/25 • 58 min

Have you ever wondered if smoking cocktails is more than just a bar trick? Join us for a spirited chat in the Man Cave Happy Hour, where Jamie Flanagan, sharing laughs and lively discussions alongside my co-hosts August Gitschlag and Matt Fox. We take on the smoky cocktail debate head-on, questioning whether this trend is a genuine flavor enhancer or simply a gimmick, akin to those party store signs claiming bourbon is cheaper than divorce. With humor and camaraderie, we regale you with stories from our dabbling in home smoker kits and the art of pairing whiskey and cigars.
We dive deep into the smoky world, unraveling the intricate process of creating smoked cocktails with wood chips and butane torches—it's not as easy as it seems! As we muddle through finger-stirring techniques and the occasional butane mishap, our banter never wavers. From smoky old-fashioneds to the quirky nuances of various wood chips like cherry and pecan, our quest for cocktail perfection is filled with fun tales and unexpected revelations. You might even discover why electing a new Pope came into play as we explored the theatrics of smoke.
Finally, prepare for some lighthearted musings as we chat about everything from glamping to the curious magic of smoke lingering in glassware. Our conversations take whimsical turns, from playful debates about the olfactory senses to the joys of smoky cocktails in winter and beyond. With local flavors and personal anecdotes, we keep the laughs coming and the stories rolling, promising a cozy listen that captures the essence of smoky cocktails and the joy of sharing them with friends.

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www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

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https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

Previous Episode

Man Cave Happy Hour: Exploring Bitter Lekker & Embracing the Quirky World of Malort - Ep 198

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Ever wondered what happens when you blend whiskey, cigars, and a dash of 12 year old humor? Picture us, your Man Cave Happy Hour hosts, along with our delightful friend Kristen Carlson, trying to keep a straight face while exploring the aromatic profile of Bitter Lekker from Babylon Storen. Our latest minisode is a tapestry of stories that blur the lines between episodes, sparked by unforgettable whiskey events and a name that prompts enough giggles to rival a classroom full of teenagers. We promise plenty of laughs as we savor the non-alcoholic aperitif and share the art of palate cleansing with Honeybush and Rosemary.
But that's not all! Embark with us on a bold adventure through the quirky realm of Jepson's Malort, a spirit infamous for flavor notes that might remind you of grapefruit rinds and dry burnt erasers. It's an acquired taste, sure, but there's joy in the journey as we recount tales of Malort margaritas and celebrate the daring souls who embrace this cultural icon of a drink. If you're curious about the digestive benefits of bitters or ready to get "Malorted," grab a seat and join our camaraderie-filled exploration that promises to entertain as much as it enlightens.

Episode 198

https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

Next Episode

Pouring the Perfect Pint: Inside Gus O'Connor's and Gus's Snug - Episode 200

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Pouring the Perfect Pint: Inside Gus O'Connor's and Gus's Snug.

Raise a proper pint as we celebrate our 200th episode at Gus's Snug in downtown Clawson, Michigan! This milestone deserves something special, and our guest Dimitry Goyfman delivers with his fascinating journey from Moscow to becoming one of Michigan's premier Irish pub proprietors.
Born in Russia and fluent in the language, Dimitry shares how he accidentally stumbled into the hospitality industry after an unemployment office visit led him to Ruby Tuesday's. His natural talent for making people happy eventually brought him to Gus O'Connor's in Rochester, where he worked his way up to become part-owner before opening the second location, Gus's Snug, in Clawson.
What makes an Irish pub truly authentic? For Dimitry, it required firsthand research in Ireland, where he discovered that beyond the decor, real Irish pubs embody community, camaraderie, and genuine hospitality. We explore the fascinating history behind "the snug" – those semi-private spaces originally created so women and clergy could drink discreetly, away from the main bar area where men gathered.
The conversation flows like a perfect Guinness pour as we discuss the meticulous art of serving a proper 20-ounce pint, complete with shamrock foam art. Dimitry reveals why cleaning lines every three weeks makes all the difference and explains why Irish cider tastes better over ice. The menu at both establishments honors traditional Irish dishes like boxties, shepherd's pie, and scotch eggs while supporting local Michigan suppliers.
As St. Patrick's Day approaches, Dimitry shares what makes their celebrations special, from the 7am openings with free Irish breakfasts to the beloved "blessing of the pint" ceremony. Our blind Irish whiskey tasting reveals surprising preferences, and we're treated to the story behind Dimitry's unique Tullamore Dew blend, custom-created during a distillery tour in Ireland.
Pour yourself something smooth and join us for this landmark episode celebrating 200 conversations about spirits, community, and the stories that bring us together. Sláinte!

https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com