image c/o Washington Times

Yesterday, the District became one of only two states to have an official cocktail.  The Rickey was invented in 1883 at Shoomaker’s Bar (1331 Pennsylvania NW), the current site of the J.W. Marriott hotel.  Col. Rickey is said to have written the recipe thusly: large glass, ice, whiskey or gin, lime juice, carbonated water, don’t drink too many.  A helpful tip that, but I think we can do a little better.  Here is my favorite rickey recipe. 

The Limey

Makes four servings

4 oz. key lime juice, I like clarified lime juice from Stirrings

4 oz. simple syrup

4-6 oz. gin, whiskey or vodka (depends on strength and taste preference)

2 oz. grapefruit bitters, I like Fee Brothers

16 oz. club soda

4 cups of ice

lime peel spirals or wedges for garnish

Add ice to a tall glass.  Pour in lime juice, simple syrup and club soda, give it a little stir.  Now add the alcohol and give it another gentle stir.  Top with the bitters (it creates a cool, color blocked effect).  Garnish the glass with lime wedge or peel.

Now what to wear while sipping a Rickey…

Moss Green Knife Pleat Dress (Oasis, $120)

Yes, this is from a British store, but they ship to the U.S. for $10.  Not bad, eh?

Aside from the wallet-friendly price, this dress is just adorable.  The knife pleats are on trend.  The pleating on the bodice would be flattering on wide range of cup sizes.  And it has a nipped waist and thicker straps. 

I don’t know about you, but I’m sold.  Where is my Rickey?