Photography by Kate McDonald
When Jeannette Cooperman interviewed Sue McCollum, the CEO of wholesale liquor distributor Major Brands, the conversation predictably meandered to cocktails, specifically the St. Louis-themed creations devised by sales director Doug Nixon, like the Zootini and the Stan the MANhattan. When it was suggested—half in jest—that St. Louis Magazine should have its own cocktail, Nixon took up the challenge and, along with Dustin Parres of SubZero Vodka Bar, put together a kitschy list of five. So on a cold winter's eve last month, a group of expert imbibers selected one—unanimously—as their favorite. We hereby introduce the St. Louis Magnificent.
2.5 ounces Smirnoff Root Beer Float Vodka
1 ounce coffee liqueur
.5 ounce cream
Garnish: Bissinger's English Almond Toffee
Prepare one of two ways:
1. Pour ingredients into a double-rocks glass with ice and stir.
2. Combine first two ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice, strain into a small mug or similar tall glass, and slowly float cream on top.
