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On Second Thought

David Delany, Jr creating the award winning On Second Thought

David Delany, Jr creating the award winning On Second Thought

When it comes to Craft Cocktails in Worcester, you need not look any further than Niche Hospitality’s establishments, especially Citizen Wine Bar and Still & Stir, both located at One Exchange Place. Masters of creating classic drinks as well as introducing their own new and unique ones, the bartenders of Niche believe they are a combination of artist, scientist and ambassador. They  research and recreate libations of years past as accurately as possible, while at the same time incorporating new ingredients and techniques to bring their patrons wonderful new taste sensations. They use the best and freshest ingredients in correct proportions, along with proper ice, glassware and methods of mixing to bring customers a perfectly balanced drink, specifically made their individual taste. 

While all the bartenders of Niche strive for excellence, David Delaney, Jr doesn’t need to prove his craft anymore. Although he has wowed Worcester patrons for years, Mr. Delaney can now be called a “world champion” as he took home the championship title at the Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge in Trinidad and Tobago on February 19th.

One cocktail that brought the crowds to belly-up was “On Second Thought.” Mr. Delaney entered this same cocktail into the 2010 competition but knew it wasn’t perfect so this year refined the recipe and found success.  The cocktail consists of Applejack, Benedictine, Cherry Heering, Maple Syrup, fresh lemon juice, and the most important ingredient, five dashes of Angostura® aromatic bitters.

Combined in precisely tested proportions and garnished with a de-hydrated, cinnamon dusted lemon wheel, the “On Second Thought” should be the first thought on anyone’s mind when looking to enjoy one of the most deliberate, and celebrated around the world, craft cocktails. Be certain to drop by Citizen Wine Bar or Still & Stir and try one for yourself. 

To learn more about David Delaney, Jr and the Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge visit the story on GoLocalWorcester: Worcester Bartender Wins International Cocktail Competition.

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French 75

French 75 at Citizen Wine Bar

French 75 at Citizen Wine Bar

Known for their leadership in crafting a true cocktail, Citizen Wine Bar constantly changes what is available by challenging their bartenders. The French 75, for example, is a drink whose long and rich history backs up its excellent flavor. Combining gin, apricot, fresh lemon juice and champagne, this cocktail first originated in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris by bartender Harry MacElhone. It was rumored that the drink got its namesake for the powerful punch it delivered to its drinker…comparing the after effects of being shelled with powerful French 75mm field artillery at that time. Through the years, there has been constant discussion on whether or not this classic cocktail is made with gin or cognac. Citizen Wine Bar uses a gin to craft an incredibly refreshing cocktail that seemed to get stronger as the drink wore on. After a long week of work, the perfect combination of alcohol and class within this cocktail is the perfect way to cap off the night.