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This week my quest for cocktails brought me over to Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake, located towards the beginning of east side Superior Street. Sir Ben’s is known for their beer selection, awesome pub food and their patio seating, but some might not know that they also have a well stocked bar and even have a cocktail list. It seems that I once again found a good spot to enjoy a cocktail.

Featured Bartender: Jason Hamblin. Jason has been bartending for six years with almost a year under his belt with Sir Ben’s. Jason is pretty creative when it comes to putting together cocktails and has contributed to the establishment’s current cocktail list.

Interests and Activities: Jason enjoys fishing and does it year round.

Favorite Music: The Grateful Dead, Alkaline Trio and Rancid.   

Featured Cocktail: The Cold Press Martini. First it gets an ounce and a half of vodka (in this case Absolute), then a quarter ounce of Frangelico a hazelnut flavored Italian liqueur, and a bit of Kahlua. Finally the ingredient that pulls it all together is the locally brewed Bent Paddle “Cold Press Black.” It is shaken and served in a martini glass.

How is it?: This summer I’ve had a lot of citrus and sweeter drinks. That’s fine, but it was good to get something a little different and getting me thinking about cooler days. For those who like a Black or White Russian, this drink will seem familiar as it does have the basic foundation of those drinks. What really makes this unique and a little more complex is the hint of hazelnut and the slightly foamy head and texture that the Cold Press brings to it. Those who like cold press coffee should be able to find this drink to be great because the Cold Press Black Ale quite is quite fittingly infused with Duluth Coffee Company “Crazy Juice” cold press coffee. In this case, it’s a double hit of local all in one important ingredient.