Several years ago, in the midst of craft cocktail madness, restaurateur Drew Nieperont issued a plaintive wail on the web: "Why can't I get a freaking vodka on the rocks?" In the midst of ten-ingredient signature cocktails, there's something refreshing in he simplicity of the classics. And it's true: only having three or four components in a drink makes you focus more clearly on the quality of those ingredients.

Other meditations this week included a long piece on the tyranny of the restaurant tasting menu, the health benefits of red wine, and a remembrance of my favorite Paris wine bar, La Tartine.

Have a happy President's Day.

Here are last week's posts:

Tyranny of the Tasting Menu

Health Benefits of Red Wine

In Search of the Manhattan Cocktail

La Tartine Wine Bar, Paris

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