I started a martini thread here over a year ago, but rather than dig that one up, I thought I'd start a new one because,

(drumroll please)

I Have Invented a New Martini!!!!

It's really good and it has a literary theme. Here it is;

Two parts Vodka, One part Amantillado Sherry, a few drops of Angostura Bitters, and a thin slice of tangerene peel for the garnish. It's a good idea to keep the vodka in the freezer and the sherry chilled so that you don't have to mix it with ice to chill it.

The more astute drinkers out there may have had their interest piqued by the type of sherry and it's association with a certain 19th century American writer, poet, and literary critic. And, in fact, you are right to make the connection. The very name of this cocktail is taken from the final line of one of his most famous short stories;

In Pace Requistat

or, as my wife refers to it, the "R.I.P." The sherry's sweetness is nicely balanced with a citrus bitterness. It's a nice drink to enjoy on some midnight, bleak and dreary, while you're pondering, weak and weary over some ancient volumes of forgoten lore. It's probably good if you have a smoking jacket, too.

Anyone else have a good cocktail invention that they'd like to share?