Custom Spirits Recommendations
Like in the kitchen, where chefs work directly with suppliers to deliver unique and exclusive ingredients, bartenders are now collaborating with distillers to create custom spirits:
Dosa: Bar manager Lenny Gumm and owner Anjan Mitra worked with Davorin Kuchan of Old World Spirits to produce a version of Blade Gin influenced by the flavors of South India: fresh curry leaves, cilantro, south Indian black pepper and ginger.
Try it in: Kharbooza (DOSA Blade Gin, fresh cantaloupe, Riesling reduction, lemon, ginger ale; $10)
995 Valencia St. (at 21st St.), 415-642-3672; and 1700 Fillmore St. (at Post St.), 415-441-3672; dosasf.com
Bar Agricole: Known for their meticulously curated spirits selection, bartenders and owners Eric Johnson and Thad Vogler worked with Fresno's Marian Farms to make a biodynamic orange liqueur, the Marian Farmhouse Curaçao.
Try it in: Presidente (Demerara rum, Marian Farmhouse Curaçao, grenadine, orange bitters; $10)
355 11th St. (at Folsom St.); 415-355-9400 or baragricole.com
Comstock Saloon: Bar manager Jonny Raglin tapped Lance Winters of Alameda's St. George Spirits to create a custom brandy. A blend of Petite Syrah, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay brandies aged between 11 and 19 years in French oak, it warms from the inside out.
Try it in: Saint's Buck (St. George Brandy, elderflower, lemon, ginger beer, bitters; $12)
155 Columbus Ave. (at Pacific Ave.); 415-617-0071 or comstocksaloon.com