Cocktails Inspired By Art: Art on the Rocks

28 Oct

Ever had a drink that reminded you of a painting? Or better yet, looked at a sculpture and felt the need to knock one back?

I don’t know that I have.

But drinks and art apparently go hand in hand. I learned this at the Art on the Rocks event at the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Local mixologists were invited to create libations translated from a work of art in the museum.

Overall, there were 5 works of art and 5 imaginative drinks. Some of the drink/art pairings were very literal like this painting of summer fruit which inspired a tasty drink of peach, melon pulp, and a rim dipped in mascarpone cheese. I was so enthralled by the mascarpone that I didn’t catch the type of alcohol.

Then there was a neon green apple martini inspired by a gorgeous photograph of the Northern Lights. I love the vibrant color of this drink, and it reminded me of my number one all time favorite trip ever.

Another interesting drink was called “Smoke and Mirrors,” which was an elaborate concoction of apple, pomegranate, vodka, and a spritz of smoky mezcal on the inside rim of the glass.

In the end, my favorite drink was not a drink at all. It was a dessert, sort of.

Behold the “White Russian Marshmallow” inspired by this abstract painting. The sweet treat was so delicious even if it did run down my arm and get into my camera.

Tags: art, art on the rocks, Artistic cocktails, drinks

Comments 5 Comments
Categories Food, Offbeat, Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

5 Responses to “Cocktails Inspired By Art: Art on the Rocks”

RiverUnderWater October 28, 2011 at 5:16 pm #

Cool post! I like the pic with the norther lights, and the one after with the black and white. I think I am over due for a drink next to some cool art!

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- maryrichardson October 28, 2011 at 8:13 pm #
  
  Thanks! I’ll have to schedule a “drink” after every museum exhibit I make from now on!
  
  Reply
Becca October 28, 2011 at 5:18 pm #

Wow! What a great idea…Combining food and drink with art? I love this post. This would be fun to put together as a party idea. Love the “Smoke and Mirrors” one.

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- maryrichardson October 28, 2011 at 8:14 pm #
  
  Becca,
  Oooh that would be a cool party idea. And you could take it one step further and make food too!
  
  Reply
Fly Girl October 29, 2011 at 6:30 pm #

I love it! I can’t think of a cooler idea. Major aspects of culture mixed together, the only thing missing is music. And that white Russian marshmallow has my name all over it.

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