In the 1930s, President Roosevelt declared a national holiday named Columbus Day. It was intended to honor Italian explorer Christopher Columbus, the guy everyone thought discovered America. Turns out, Columbus never even made it to America because he got waylaid in the Caribbean (probably drinking rum!). And, of course, there were already plenty of inhabitants here so there’s that little detail. Not to mention the fact, Leif Eriksson, a Viking explorer had already set foot on American soil 500 years before Columbus was even born, and never got any credit for it!
In light of these developments, some states changed Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day, Native American Day, and Discovery Day. No matter what you call it, the spirit of the holiday is about recognizing discoveries. Most made by explorers who took to the seas and set out in search of something new! That’s why, today, we decided to present cocktails that reflect the heritage of four daring dudes who sailed to places unknown.
The Negroni
With gin, campari and vermouth, this classic Italian cocktail packs a punch! I have no idea whether Marco Polo was much of a mixologist, but he seemed to like food since he’s rumored to be responsible for introducing pasta to his peeps!
Navy Grog
Okay, so Captain Cook, the great British explorer probably drank some version of Navy Grog because water and wine and everything else that was in a barrel in the hull of a ship spoiled on long voyages if they didn’t add rum to it. Don the Beachcomber made Navy Grog a popular drink in the 1940s when the Tiki craze began. As far as I’m concerned, it’s still delicious!
Sherry Martini
We all know the Spanish like their Sangria. But they also make phenomenal sherry which works beautifully in a martini as a substitute for vermouth. Seriously, if you’re a martini person, you have to try this recipe! And toast to Hernan Cortez, famed Spanish explorer, while you’re at it!
Hot Spiced Mead
Vikings were big time partiers and back then the alcoholic beverage of choice was mead, which is fermented honey. This delicious version features mulling spices (like mulled wine) and is perfect for chilly evenings or when you want to wear a horned metal helmet and pretend you’re Leif Eriksson! Happy exploring folks!
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