![](https://cocktailqueendotblog.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/side-err.jpg?w=720)
I think most of us can relate to times when you just need a drunk. And another. And possibly another? Most of us have an off switch, and most of us can just go with the flow on those occasions, possibly regret it the next day, and put some distance before the next time.
Since I started cocktailing, many years ago, I actually think I drink less alcohol than I used to. Just pouring another glass of wine, then another, and, oh go on then, why not to another still. But the art, and yes it is an art, of cocktailing takes time. And it demands attention and often patience to savour your creation. On Fridays, I might follow our first cocktail very closely with another, and then have a glass of wine, and often I’ll stop at that. I know that some people would be under the table after the second cocktail, but of course practice makes perfect…
So where am I going with all of this?
Sometimes, when you feel a good session coming on, I almost makes sense to go in with a killer cocktail first off. Take the edge off the need to get drunk. My favourite cocktails are usually short, sharp, contain citrus or a syrup so that in each cocktail, you’re likely to have a maximum of 2oz of alcohol in your glass. They’re much less than a glass of wine. Especially a home poured glass of wine!
And then there are the killer cocktails that are just *all* the alcohol. Sometimes that is reflected in a smaller volume of liquid in your glass, making you properly savour what you have and a standard vodka martini or a Widows Kiss are great examples of that. But sometimes, when your mixer is also alcohol, you kust know they mean business right from the onset.
The Side Err is one of these.
It is definitely *all* the alcohol.
So if you are in need of a big hitter, then pour each of your ingredients straight into a rocks glass full to the brim with ice.
1oz calvados
0.25oz vodka
Dash peaty single malt
Dry apple cider
Give the ingredients a little stir before you pour your cider in. Take a sip and then stand well back before your next one. This is one mighty cocktail. Mighty.