Review of "Cotton Cocktails" by Chef Jeffrey Paige

"Cotton Cocktails" makes a great gift

Cotton restaurant in Manchester is well known for its refreshing and creative martinis. Owners Chef Jeffrey Paige and Peaches Paige have collaborated for a cocktail recipe book simply called “Cotton Cocktails” ($25). The book itself is beautifully done and plays off the noir aspect of Cotton’s décor. Recipes include concoctions of pear and rosemary, tequila and grapefruit juice and the warmth of locally produced Cabin Fever whiskey. Recipes come with a friendly running commentary about the best local ingredients, ideal ways to prepare them and stories from Cotton. You’re only a cocktail shaker away from a memorable evening of fabulous drinks with friends. The book makes a great gift too. Chef Paige has always been generous to the local community and a portion of the proceeds benefit Café Lauren at Girls Inc. in Manchester.

The Book

“Cotton Cocktails”
By Chef Jeffrey Paige
Foreword by Jody Reese

The Restaurant

75 Arms St., Manchester
(603) 622-5488, cottonfood.com

Lunch Monday through Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Sunday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Red Stag Nog

This Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey spiced with cinnamon is perfect for this holiday winter drink. Peaches suggests using your favorite brand of locally produced eggnog when in season, usually Thanksgiving until New Years. If
you are feeling really domestic, you can use Jeff’s recipe for homemade eggnog:

• 3 ounces Red Stag by Jim Beam Spiced with Cinamon
• 3 ounces eggnog (recipe on age 141)
• Nutmeg to garnish

Using a Boston shaker, fill the pint glass with ice, add bourbon and eggnog and shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.