Too true...
I like a
Bourbon Manhattan; Jim Beam,
M&R Sweet Vermouth, Angostura bitters, two Maraschino Cherries, and a splash of syrup from the Cherry Jar, all in a large lowball glass with minimal ice for presentation.
Because I am bastardizing the liquor with wine, just about any Bourbon will do; but I've been accustomed to Jim Beam since my early days.
I can recall getting off from work Main Side MCS Quantico (early 1968, doing my short timer end of enlistment duty), and striding into the NCO Club there, usually the first though the door. The walk to the bar was the length of the hall, and she'd get my Bourbon Manhattan started as soon as I breached the Hatch. The Barmaid, Josie, a strapping Philippine girl, would have it ready and waiting as I sat down, exact change plunking down as I sat.
The perfect ending to another perfect Marine Corps Day!
Semper Fi, Baby...!
I occasionally substitute Crown Royal for the Jim Beam.
If I'm remembering correctly, the drink cost $.75, I'd proffer a Buck, and the leftover quarter was the tip.
These days, the VFW will make me one for $3.50, and my standard tip for all drinks (but plain soda) is a Buck.
As often as not, the Barmaid is my Granddaughter, Elena. She's being prepped to be the Canteen Manager, at age 22. Her T-Shirt often reads "The Bar is Closed!". Humor, Arr, Arr...
Greg