Image: Jack Rudy Cocktail Co.

To celebrate the Preakness, we had planned on featuring the recipe for the event’s “official” drink, a Black-Eyed Susan.  Unfortunately, the recipe has once again changed, and for something that is supposed to be a tradition it just sort of rubs us the wrong way.  So, instead of Black-Eyed Susans, this weekend we’re mixing up a Gin & Rudy or two.  Want the recipe?  Take a look at the feature below.  It originally ran on January 19, 2013.

Though many seem to think of a gin and tonic as a summer drink, here at Bowties & Boatshoes it isn’t strange to see us with one in hand after a long day in the office, or while spending a night out on the town, regardless of the time of year.  Even though our taste in gin has changed over the years (currently we’re on a Hendrick’s kick), we always thought tonic was virtually the same regardless of brand.  That all changed when we were turned on to Small Batch Tonic from the Jack Rudy Cocktail Co.

The guys behind Jack Rudy claim that they’ve created the final ingredient to get you as close to the perfect gin and tonic as possible, and we wouldn’t disagree.  Featuring quinine, citrus, a variety of botanicals, and real cane sugar, their Small Batch Tonic pairs perfectly with our favorite gin, and as long as you aren’t drinking something from the bottom shelf we have a feeling it will go well with your favorite too.   We’ve seen a number of great drink recipes floating around out there that call for Jack Rudy tonic, but our favorite is still their signature Gin & Rudy (1 3/4 oz. of gin, 1/2 oz. Small Batch Tonic, lime, ice, soda water to taste).  Here’s to a great weekend.