I don’t know about you, but this has been a tough week. Dare I say, a shipwreck of a week. I was in dire need of a beacon on my horizon—a welcoming lighthouse to guide me toward safety (or sanity). A buoy to keep me afloat.
Yes, I know I am waxing metaphoric. I am just extra like that at times. Bear with me.
I was convinced a good tipple would steer me from my perils. It would be the burning flare to usher me to a safe oasis. And that oasis was on Eighth Street—Augusta’s Distillery, Second City Beverage Company.
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Inside I found GM + bartender extraordinaire Josie, who gave me an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at what Second City looks like since Durty Gurl Cocktail Mixers purchased the distillery in September 2021. Prior to the merger, each entity undeniably had its own significant presence in the Augusta River Region. The marriage of the two, however, has created a new brand with limitless possibilities that will carry its own legacy for future generations. It’s evident they are making beautiful music together.
Josie allowed me to witness her well-planned execution of several new seasonal sippers. She demonstrated how to make four cocktails, each with a very summery vibe. It was not lost on me that I had stumbled upon pirate’s booty.
🍹 First up was the Sweet Cheeks. It’s reminiscent of a summer vacay, transporting your mouth to a beach resort for some much needed sunshine and R+ R. Josie used Crooked Cow Peaches + Cream as a base, and to that she added pureed peach, oat milk and a tropical juice of pineapple, mango + turmeric. With a slice of fruit as a garnish, I’d say the Sweet Cheeks is just peachy.
This drink will be dispensed from the frozen drink machine which will guarantee its extra chilly-ness, perfect on a scorchy Augusta day.
🍹Next was a cocktail that could perk up your evening as well as buzz you with its booze. It’s the Crooked Coffee, made by blending creamy-licious Crooked Cow Caramel Bourbon with brewed coffee. The addition of oat milk, caramel, and pinch of salt make this drink very dessert-like. So whether it’s your afternoon pick me up or sweet kiss goodnight, you can’t go wrong with a Crooked Coffee.
This drink, as well, will be dispensed from an extra chilly frozen drink machine.
🍹The Summer Berry Smash is a beautifully blended summer bounty that tastes like an adult boozy popsicle. Josie started with Ric Rac Blackberry Whiskey. She then muddled strawberries + lemon and poured it all over ice, topping it with a zippy splash of soda. If you love whiskey, you’re in for a treat with this berry-licious whiskey-based cocktail.
🍹Have you met Durty Shirley, distant cousin twice removed to Shirley Temple? Durty Shirley is the fun + stealthily potent girl your mother warned you about. Durty Shirley is concocted from Second City Vodka, Sprite, ginger ale, syrupy grenadine and bright lime. She’s a saucy minx, for sure. And I guarantee you’ll be glad to know her.
It is worth noting that Second City cocktails can be easily replicated at home. Just visit the friendly folks at 4 8th Street for your locally made boozy bottles and check out the recipe on Second City’s Instagram and TikTok.
I also encourage you to keep your eyes on Second City as new drinks are launched about every two weeks.
Second City Beverage Company—Augusta’s Distillery
4 Eighth St.
Augusta, GA 30901
Open Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
And don’t forget to tell them nakedepicurean sent you 💋
Ann Beth Strelec is known around town as Naked Epicurean, sampling the finest cocktails known to Augustans. Find out about adult beverages at The Augusta Press on the first and third Friday or on Instagram @NightcapConfessions
