Pucker Up Jerry

the story

"Sour" cocktails became popular in America during the 19th century. Sours, defined by their simple yet balanced combination of spirit, citrus, and sweetener, were among the earliest mixed drinks in the United States. The Gin Sour likely emerged during the mid-1800s as gin became a widely available and affordable spirit. The cocktail was first documented in Jerry Thomas's 1862 "Bartender's Guide," the first book of its kind, which included recipes for various sours, including gin. Its simplicity made it a favorite, particularly during the era when gin—especially London Dry Gin—was a dominant spirit.

By the early 20th century, the Gin Sour evolved into more refined versions, including the addition of egg whites for a frothy texture, creating the Silver Sour. Today, the Gin Sour remains a versatile and timeless cocktail, celebrated for its balance of botanical gin, tart citrus, and sweet syrup, embodying the ingenuity of early American bartending.

Our twist on this classic cocktail uses a housemade Earl Grey tea syrup and lavender bitters that complement the herbal qualities of the Freeland Spirits gin to make a more complex gin sour.

the producers

Freeland Spirits - Oregon

Freeland Spirits, based in Portland, Oregon, is more than just a distillery—it's a celebration of craft, community, and women’s empowerment. Founded in 2017 by Jill Kuehler, Freeland stands out as one of the few women-owned and women-operated distilleries in the United States, reflecting Jill's mission to create a space where women are not just participants in the spirits industry but leaders.

The name "Freeland" is a tribute to Jill's grandmother, Meemaw, who personified the values of independence and strength. Meemaw never touched a drop of alcohol but inspired Jill with her determination and grit, which shaped the ethos of the distillery. Freeland Spirits was built on the idea of producing exceptional spirits while honoring the land, fostering community, and uplifting women in every step of the process.

Freeland’s spirits are a direct reflection of the Pacific Northwest’s bounty. Their gin, for instance, highlights botanicals like juniper, fresh rosemary, and mint, capturing the essence of Oregon’s forests and gardens. Freeland’s small-batch whiskeys are crafted with grains sourced from local farms, emphasizing sustainability and regional terroir.

Dashfire - Minnesota

Dashfire was born out of a passion for crafting exceptional cocktails and a deep appreciation for the art of mixology. Founded in 2012 by Lee Egbert in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Dashfire began as a small-scale operation inspired by Lee’s global travels and his fascination with the diverse flavors and ingredients he encountered along the way.

Lee’s journey into the world of bitters started with a desire to create unique, handcrafted products that could elevate the cocktail experience. Drawing on his background in herbalism and his explorations in countries like China, India, and Mexico, Lee meticulously developed recipes that reflected a rich tapestry of flavors. Each Dashfire product is designed not just to enhance a cocktail but to tell a story through its carefully balanced blend of botanicals.