And, one explanation later, I knew what a perfect Manhattan was and I felt like a perfect rube.

Aw, poor 21-year-old Steph. Of course, now I am imagining all sorts of other conversations.

I tell you what, it made me really appreciate people who can explain things you don't know *without* making you feel like an undereducated Philistine yokel.

perfect Manhattan

is that equal parts sweet and dry vermouth?

Hmm. Don't know. I've blocked it out in my attempt to repress my shame at my lack of mixology knowledge.

Oh, Fay, I am so so sorry. Travel~ma and coping~ma.

Perhaps I need to try some high-quality vermouth.

[link]

As mentioned in this article, Carpano Antica is my new OTV and is amaaaaaaaaazing in Manhattans. God, it's so delicious.

I have also been partial to the "Boulevardier" which is bourbon, Campari, and Carpano Antica (or, I imagine, any sweet vermouth.)

Nora, it sounds like Laga's referring to a Martinez.

Ah yes. Further googling reveals that the first drink called a martini was half & half.

Re: drinking. I am a total yokel when it comes to my alcoholic beverage preferences. I think the fanciest I get is a Ketel One and tonic, thanks to ND and NOLA. Other than that, it's Cap'n and Coke, flavored vodka and tonic, good Reislings, and cheap champagne.

Cap'n and Coke

Made me think Cap'n Crunch.

Need still more caffeine. Ye gods.

Made me think Cap'n Crunch.

Which makes me think of Cryptonomicon.

Perfect Manhattan: [link]

Me neighbor makes a pretty awesome one. (This is the same neighbor who has, at last count, 14 different kinds of bitters in his bartending cabinet. He is a very good neighbor.)

I need to read more Neal Stephenson.

Cap'n and Coke

Made me think Cap'n Crunch.

I went through a Captain Morgan phase. Occasionally, I would have too many and start bellowing "YOU AND THE CAP'N MAKE IT HAPPEN" every time I got a new drink. I still say it sometimes, just more calmly.