Icenhauer’s Summer Sippers Take the Catwalk on Rainey St

Icenhauer’s, the majestically modest bar located at 83 Rainey Street, is widely known for their creative house made infusions and their lady-centric, ever-changing cocktail menus.

I spent a couple hours with one of the craft geniuses behind the delightful cocktail recipes, Stuart Thompson. Thompson guided me through the newly released summer lineup, featuring 7 attractive libations, and shared the story behind the namesake of each.

I see no need for a fanciful introduction, so let us cut to the chase. Without further ado, here are the ladies of Icenhauer’s summer menu…

The Stephanie

Friendly, lively, unique…this pink drink performs refreshingly. Puffs of smokiness present themselves strikingly, and remain memorable on your buds.

Although pink in color, this one mimics a traditional margarita recipe. By incorporating bold ingredients like Mestizo Joven Mezcal, blood orange liqueur and bitters, among other components, The Stephanie provides a one of a kind flavor profile that will leave you in love or seeking out her sweeter younger sister.

The Karen

Named after Stuart’s sister, who was thrilled to gain her spot, The Karen is a perfect fit on the summer menu. Using a blackberry and lemon infused, local Waterloo Gin base, this selection features simple and light flavors. Brightly colored and adorned with fresh berries, it’s the one and only gin cocktail on the new release list.

The Karen scored as my #2 favorite.

The Brittany

Although not named for our fearless Editor, I think this one is right up Brittany’s alley.
Named for Stuart’s girlfriend, this intricate blend puts an Austin spin on the fashionable Pimm’s Cup. Using another local favorite – Deep Eddy Ruby Red Vodka – as a base, The Brittany has an adventurous appearance where you can see each muddled ingredient, including strawberry, mint and orange.

I’m not sure if Stuart took extra care when crafting this recipe, or if I just have an appreciation for the flavor combinations, but The Brittany came in as my #1! Don’t over think the fruit filled glass. This is a perfect accompaniment to any summer patio celebration.

The Courtney

Named for a friend’s wife who was described as “just so nice and sweet” by owner Michael Icenhauer, this craft mixture at Icenhauer’s follows suit. Boasting a bright, kiwi green color,The Courtney is bright and the sweetest of the bunch.

Deep Eddy Vodka is infused in house with kiwi and mixed with a melon liqueur, fresh lime and simple syrup.

The Ashley

Fondly named, this recipe incorporates sass in every way. Hatch chile infused Espolon Silver Tequila is the bold base to this uniquely crafted cocktail. Further incorporating mango, red pepper infused simple syrup and fresh lime juice, the Ashley will add Austin bold to your night out.

She may even get you dancing!

The Julie

It may look innocent on the surface, but this creation packs a punch that will challenge your taste buds.

Described as a Thai style margarita, The Julie incorporates another house infused mixture of Espolon Reposado Tequila, basil and peppercorns. Not for the faint, the flavor profile is rounded out with Domain Canton, ginger liqueur, fresh lime and agave nectar.

The Lauren

Last, but not least, this concoction was named for a friend who was a hardcore patron right from the beginning. In true Icenhauer’s fashion, the creative team has taken a celebrated recipe – The Moscow Mule – and recreated it to fit finely on an Austin list.

Also known as a Kentucky Mule, The Lauren is a union of lime and ginger infused Old Forester Bourbon, lime juice, lemon and ginger infused simple syrup, topped with ginger beer. She screams Kentucky on the first fragrant whiff and wraps up the summer list beautifully.

Although Icenhauer’s cocktail menu may receive timely and seasonal updates on a regular basis, the recipes are everlasting. If your favorite has slipped from the list, just ask your bartender if the ingredients are still on hand to recreate any masterpiece you have previously tried.

You can keep up with Icenhauer’s full calendar of events, but here’s a sneak peek.

• Live music Tuesdays with Jordan Tanner from 9-11 PM and Thursdays with 90’s cover band Zoo Dust
• Sundays with The Nightowls for Super Soul Sunday
• First Sunday of each month, you can enjoy free chicken and waffles along with a build your own Bloody Mary bar

Stop in to see Stuart or any of the bunch at Icenhauer’s, which is open Monday-Saturday from 4 PM-2 AM and Sunday from 2 PM-2 AM.

 

@CrisMueller asks:

When was the last time you stopped by Icenhauer’s for a craft cocktail?