Post in partnership w/ Bulleit Whiskey
In preparation for Rittenhouse Row Festival preview party (where I’ll be hosting the cocktail competition), it was a pleasure to visit a few of my favorite restaurants in Philly to pair Bulleit Whiskey (Rye & Bourbon) cocktails with my favorite seafood appetizers. As an avid whiskey drinker, I’d never thought to pair seafood appetizers with whiskey cocktails. But, it was my mission to find the right balance to make the combinations even more delicious.
Photos by Saeed Ferguson of AllCapstudios
Bulleit Rye Whiskey Old-Fashion + Tuna Tartar
It’s been at least 10 years since I’ve become a huge tuna tartar fan. My first experience with the raw tuna dish was mind-blowing because there was a small, raw quail egg perched on top. It was at that moment when I learned what true culinary decadence was really about.
In the same note, my love for whiskey came about in the same time frame after a two-hour tasting right here in Philly. So, this pairing of tuna tartar and an old-fashion is steep in nostalgia for me.
Why I love this pairing
Traditionally, an old-fashion is made with bourbon, which has an oaky finish. Making the switch to rye, the flavour profile is packed with spices that complement the clean, yet, savory flavour of the tuna tartar.
Good Night & Good Luck + Oysters
With a name like Good Night & Good Luck, you know that this cocktail packs a punch. Similar to the make-up of an old-fashion, the “GNGL” has deep flavors that are almost as rich as a meal by itself. Now, my go-to appetizer, especially during the warm weather months are oysters and surprisingly pairing them with the GNGL cocktails is near perfect.
Why I love this pairing
These oyster have a clean, yet, briny finish and when paired with the citrus & peaty flavors of this Bulleit Rye whiskey cocktail — flavor madness is the result. The surprise ingredients — carpano antica & a mist of laphroiag.
Bourbon Mint Julep + Crab Cake
Lastly, you can’t beat a classic combo of a rich jumbo lump crab cake and a mint julep. Once the mint julep hits the menu, derby season and the summer months are just ahead.
Why I love this pairing
Let’s talk about a savory crab cake! Geez. With a perfectly crusted top and fresh sprouts, when paired with an even fresher mint julep that has a slight maple finish from the Bulleit Bourbon whiskey — you’ll finally understand what happiness tastes like.
Get your Rittenhouse Row Festival Preview Party Tickets — Here
Must be 21 years of age to consume alcoholic beverages
