Cocktail Underground

If you're a regular reader of this here blog, you may have noticed my penchant for booze and spirits. And if you're not a regular reader of this here blog, well, I've got a penchant for booze and spirits.

And although some may see my liquid inclinations as a vice and/or character flaw, I was actually able to parlay these proclivities into a print piece for the January/February issue of Mutineer Magazine (pictured above).

The subject of my article revolves around the mysterious entity known as The Pharmacie--a series of underground, invite-only cocktail parties that emerge once a month or so in Los Angeles. I was lucky enough to weasel my way into attend one of these secret parties.

Here's an excerpt from my story:

"At this point, with all the secrecy and mystery, I was half expecting a scene out of Eyes Wide Shut: masked revelers taking part in a drunken orgy of sorts, and perhaps Snoop Dogg himself would be there, situated behind the bar and cloaked in an ever-present puff of smoke while sipping on some gin and juice.

Fortunately (or perhaps sadly), no such scene unfolded. Masonic orgies or hedonistic rituals of any sort were noticeably absent, as everyone seemed to be fully clothed and sans Venetian masks. And no, Snoop Dogg was not in attendance either. So much for my imagination."

I'm sure the above makes little sense out of context, but I assure you, despite the lack of nudity and rappers at this secret soiree, a good time was had by all. And besides, I was served some truly stellar cocktails that night.

And because cameras are usually frowned upon at secret gatherings, my article is accompanied by original artwork from artist Brent Estabrook. If all that weren't enough for you, the article also includes a cocktail recipe courtesy of The Pharmacie.

To read my article in its entirety, and to learn more about the underground cocktail scene of Los Angeles, please do pick up a copy of the January/February issue of Mutineer Magazine on newsstands now.

Lastly, I do want to thank Nastassia, for hooking me up with an invite to this hush-hush party. I also want to thank Erin, of The Endive Chronicles, who first suggested to me that I try writing something for Mutineer. Thanks, ladies!

Comments

[Julie]

Congrats on the article, Marvin! I'm not a drinker anymore, but I'll scope out your piece the next time I'm at the bookstore! Props to the magazine for spotlighting a Keenan and Caduceus--beautiful wine!

[rj\m/]

Was Maynard present at the event??

[Lorena]

Very cool, Marvin! I actually wanted to pick up the issue because my husband's a huge fan of TOOL and its lead singer Maynard James Keenan (pictured on the cover for those not in the know; he owns a successful winery). Good to know that there will be something of interest to me, too. :)

[Erin]

Congrats Marvin, I knew you'd be a great fit for Mutineer! It is a fantastic article, you should be proud.

[Manggy]

Well done Marvin!!! :) I'm so happy for your first (paper-) published piece! When's the next one? ;)

But boo to you, my friend, for making me picture nude rappers. Nuh-uh.

[Jeff Dorenbush]

Marvin,

This was a very, very cool article. The inside scoop of an underground cocktail scene...I can't think of a better beverage article I'd want to read.

The paintings to accompany it make it all the better. The artist actually has them up on his website for people to check out. http://www.estabrookart.com/gallery

Congrats.. Hope to see more words in the mag from you!

[Burnt Lumpia]

Thanks Julie. I imagine in your neck of the woods, you have lots of access to Caduceus.

Hello rjm. No, maynard was not at the event.

Awesome Lorena! I hope you and your husband enjoy the magazine.

Thanks very much to you, Erin! You made it all happen.

Not sure when the next one is, Manggy. But I'll definitely let you know when I know.

I'm glad you liked the article Jeff. And the accompanying paintings are awesome! Thanks for leaving that link.

[Andalusia]

So you're not really a TOOL / A Perfect Circle fan? Bummer. LOL.

[LA]

Hi Marvin, funny that I run into your post and awesome blog, while looking into the pharmacie myself. I'm hoping to find a sponsor one of these days...they're hard to come by. Cheers!