Custom Spirits Recommendations
One-of-a-kind spirits at local bars
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