Greetings cocktail enthusiasts! In case you're not familiar with Anchor Distilling Company, they are one of America’s first craft distillers, known for creating some of San Francisco’s originals–Junipero Gin and Old Potrero Whiskey. Some of you may have read about their newest release, HOPHEAD Vodka, made using the same hops as their sister company Anchor Brewing. The distillery is tucked away in the warehouse of the historic Anchor brewery. In addition to distilling some of San Francisco's favorite spirits, Anchor Distilling also import hundreds of artisanal spirits from multi-generational families all over the world.

We're excited to kick off a new monthly series with Anchor Distilling, where they'll be sharing some of their favorite cocktail recipes from our friend, Russell Davis, Nightclub & Bar’s 2012 Bartender of the Year. This month, Russell has prepared a special Valentine's Day cocktail for you: "A Love Song No. 2," featuring Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey, The King's Ginger Liqueur, and Luxardo Bitters. Learn more about the inspiration behind this cocktail and try making it for your sweetie on Valentine's Day. Cheers!

"The Last Barman Poet"
By Russell Davis

Like Hemingway and Picasso, the events in my life will always affect my art.  My medium is the bar–the cocktails I create, the programs I influence, and the people I reach. This past year I was in love and it changed me and my art. I found my work directly impacted by the passion of my romance. As my relationship grew tumultuous, the more exceptional my work became.

Some of you may know me as the man behind the beverage program at the Ice Cream Bar & Soda Fountain, but what many of you don't know is that my work at the Soda Fountain was a love song to a girl. Every day I was creating something for that girl. It wasn’t for the money or the notoriety, but for the simple moment when she walked through the doors to read my love song to her.

In time for Valentine’s Day, I present a "love-influenced" cocktail, written for that same girl – A Love Song No. 2, featuring Luxardo Bitters, a beautiful representation of Italy and the love the Luxardo family puts into all of their products.

A Love Song No. 2
1 oz Old Potrero Straight Rye
1 oz Maurin Quina
1/2 part Luxardo Bitters
1/2 part The King’s Ginger Liqueur
Thin slice of a blood orange

Combine all ingredients (except the blood orange) into a mixing glass and stir until reaching proper dilution (15 to 20 seconds). Pour into a small martini glass. Rub a thin slice of blood orange around the rim and place in drink.

Sometimes love is bitter sweet. But, much like creating the prefect cocktail, the most important thing is balance. Happy Valentine’s Day.

To learn more about Anchor Distilling visit www.AnchorDistilling.com