Aspen Times Weekly Libation: Sunday, Bloody Sunday

Back in the day, Sunday Funday meant a few hours at the Bentley’s Bloody Mary bar. When the longtime local restaurant in the Wheeler Opera House shut down, so did the Bloody Mary bar — until recently. Justice Snow’s, which opened in the space in early 2012, has revived this Bentley’s “classic” and I couldn’t be happier; judging by the crowd there on a recent offseason Sunday, I’m not alone. I think I know why. It’s true, any good bartender can make a good Blood Mary; I definitely have my favorites. But there’s something about being served up a glass filled with just ice and vodka — it’s like a blank canvass waiting to become a masterpiece. And so it begins. For me, the glass is first filled with basic tomato juice, then I add plenty of fresh veggies (celery, olives and pickles are a must), followed by staples like horseradish, hot sauce and Worcestershire. And, to top it all off — and what sets a rockin’ Blood Mary bar apart from the others — the spices. Justice Snow’s display featured rows of small jars filled with so many delightful choices I was almost paralyzed by what to mix in my drink. Alas, I decided, trying at least eight flavors in the two drinks I had … and I can’t wait to go back and try a few more.

Libations was created by beloved Aspen Times publisher, Gunilla Asher, who died June 2, 2014, after a brave battle with cancer. Cheers – to Gunner!