Jimmy Bedford died Friday. 

In good times and bad, I have long admired his work. 

Here’s to you, Jimmy.

I recently discovered on the Jack Daniel’s website that a new Master Distiller has been hired. In 2008 Jimmy Bedford was replaced by Jeff Arnett making him only the 7th Master distiller in the company’s 142 year history. In most cases this news would not have stuck with me if not for the unopened bottle of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel that I’ve had since November 2002, signed by Jimmy Bedford himself!

Jimmy Bedford Bottle of Single Barrel

Whenever I think of classic American bars or pioneers of mixology, my mind goes straight to whiskey.  Although a rugged sip for many of today’s bar crowd, when mixed properly whiskey can take you from Summer to Fall with a seamless transition. As the lazy days of suntans, mojitos and trips to the beach grow shorter and colder, a Whiskey Cobbler will bring much needed warmth to your soul.

In a shaker filled with ice, mix 1 tablespoon of fine white sugar, 2-3 slices of orange and 4oz. of quality American whiskey.  Shake vigorously until the ice is considerably broken down. The shaking will also act in the ‘muddling’ of the orange slices.  Pour all of the ingredients into a tumbler (rocks glass) and garnish by floating seasonally fresh berries.

So just as you are about to start moving sweaters to the front of your closet and T-shirts to the back remember to do the same in your liquor cabinet. Take those clear spirits and move them to the back making an easy path for one of the true pioneers of mixed drinks to come forth. With its refreshing berries and rich warm flavors of whiskey the Cobbler will be sure to please you year ’round.