S2 E24 Novio's Radio | Consistency Matters

Cocktails With Friends

S2 E24 Novio’s Radio | Consistency Matters

In this lively episode, Bob Cutler kicks off the new year with a spirited on-air discussion on cocktails, New Year's resolutions, and his philosophy of perseverance, inspired by words from Command Sergeant Major William A. Cutler. Bob introduces a revamped version of the classic Boulevardier cocktail, featuring equal parts bourbon, Cynar (an Italian artichoke bitter), and yellow Chartreuse, a rare French liqueur made by monks. Throughout the episode, he shares insights on mixing techniques, the importance of ice quality, and ideal pairings for his cocktail creation.

Bob’s “God Hates Quitters” Boulevardier

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Bourbon (high-proof preferred)

• 1 oz Cynar (Italian artichoke bitter)

• 1 oz Yellow Chartreuse

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing tin with ice.

2. Stir until the tin feels cold to the touch.

3. Strain into a glass over a large, clear ice cube.

4. Enjoy neat—no garnish required!

Key Insights:

1. Cocktail Philosophy: Equal parts cocktails like the Boulevardier are approachable, balanced, and adaptable.

2. Mixing Tips: Stir spirit-forward cocktails to preserve their clarity and texture; shake only if the recipe includes fat or citrus.

3. Ingredient Insight: Yellow Chartreuse brings honeyed, saffron notes, while Cynar offers herbal bitterness with a subtle sweetness.

4. Ice Matters: Clear ice prevents flavor contamination and slows dilution, elevating the cocktail experience.

5. Pairing Perfection: Pair the Modern Boulevardier with hearty dishes like lamb lollipops, acorn squash soup, or charcuterie with bacon jam.

Episode Index

1. (02:31) - Equal Portions Explained Bob introduces the concept of equal portions in cocktails and explores classics like the Negroni, Boulevardier, and Paper Plane.

2. (03:06) - Spotlight on Courtney Bob praises Novio’s head bartender Courtney, her expertise, and her love for disc golf, adding warmth and camaraderie.

3. (04:02) - Cocktail Creation: Modern Boulevardier Detailed steps and insights into crafting Bob's updated Boulevardier featuring bourbon, Cynar, and yellow Chartreuse.

4. (05:06) - Yellow Chartreuse Insights A deep dive into the rare French liqueur, its origins, and production secrets guarded by three monks.

5. (07:05) - Ice Matters Bob discusses the importance of using clear ice for enhancing flavor and slowing dilution.

6. (08:38) - Flavor Profile Breakdown Bob takes a sip and describes the cocktail’s taste: herbal bitterness from Cynar, sweetness from Chartreuse, and woody, caramel notes from bourbon.

7. (09:17) - Cocktail Pairing Suggestions Bob recommends pairing the Modern Boulevardier with dishes like acorn squash soup, lamb lollipops, or charcuterie with bacon jam.

8. (12:50) - Storage Tips Practical advice on storing ingredients like Chartreuse, Cynar, and vermouth to preserve their quality.