Cocktail of the Week

I know I've been slacking on the job here. It's been way more than a week since I posted the last cocktail recipe. And no, even though Tsar Charming insists on calling it "Tropical Pork", I'm going with "Sparkle Girl" in honor of my buddy.

But since Yuri's Night is today, well, I had to get off my chaise longue and come up with something for the celebration. I got this out of my new book, Atomic Cocktails. This one seems perfect for saluting that space pioneer.

Rocket Man

1 1/2 oz vodka
3/4 oz Galliano
3/4 oz fresh lime juice
1 с crushed ice
1 oz 151 proof Demarara rum
1 sugar cube

In a blender, combine the vodka, Galliano, lime juice and crushed ice. Blend until thick and slushy. Pour the mixture into a 6 oz cocktail glass. Invert a teaspoon over the mixture, tip-end angled slightly down and just touching the side of the glass. Slowly pour 3/4 oz of the rum over the spoon so the rum floats on top of the drink.

Pour the remaining rum into a shot glass. Spear the sugar cube with a bamboo or metal skewer and dip in the rum to coat.

Using a long stemmed match, and stretching your arms away from your body, carefully light the cube and lay it on top of the rum float to ignite. The flame should be small, but stand back. When the flame dies out, remove the skewer and serve.

Yes, it's a little bit involved, and slightly dangerous. Your local bartender will probably refuse to make it, so be careful if you try this one at home, kids. You don't want to end up like my Albanian fishing buddy. (A friendly reminder from the crack Jet Set Legal Advisor, Billing M Hours.)

Zdorovye!

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And now, headlining in the Jet Set Lounge TONIGHT...with a musical tribute to Smiling Yuri...take it away, William Shatner!