Spring Patio Sippers

You may have taken advantage of the few nice days that Spring 2014 so graciously granted us and enjoyed the patio we — the eternal optimists — set up weeks ago. But maybe you’re waiting for the stars to align (a warm, sunny day with nothing on your agenda) before you take our outdoor seating for a spin.

We’ve seen a few 60+ degree days in the forecast, so we feel the timing is right to let you in on what we think is the perfect Spring patio pairing:

Our House Barrel of Old Forester is easily enjoyed as a shot or a neat pour, guaranteed to charm your palette and warm you up. In fact, it’s the perfect complement to our collaboration with Une Annee Brewery: Freres, an India Saison Ale. We brewed this first collaboration batch to be totally drinkable — it’s only 6.1% — and incredibly refreshing!

Put those two together and what have you got? A pairing both warm and refreshing, or, exactly what you need to bask in the chilly glow of Chicago’s Spring.

Chicago Speed Rack!

When we introduced you to Cristiana a few weeks back, we may have mentioned that she’s one of the top bartenders in the city. She’s also a veteran competitor in the now annual Speed Rack competition. Sure, she looks all sweet and welcoming, but she is a fierce competitor.

What’s Speed Rack, you ask? Well. It’s a national competition that places female bartenders on a platform to showcase just how badass they are while simultaneously raising money for breast cancer research. In a few short years, they’ve raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for a worthy cause.

You can check out the history of the organization in this cool Village Voice feature.   

Last year, Cristiana made it to the Top 8 (the competitors go up against each other March Madness, bracket-style), only to get ousted by fellow Drawing Room bartender Liz Pearce. Not too shabby, considering that Liz went on to win the whole thing.

Cristiana is heading back into the ring this year — and we can’t wait for her to take home the big prize!  

It’s a seriously competitive, crazy, boisterous, fun event. And you’re invited!

Sunday, April 13th

3:00pm

Joe’s Bar

940 W. Weed Street