Photo: Dale DeGroff

Since Tax Day is here (don’t forget!), you owe it to yourself to kick back and relax with a drink in hand.  Filing your return can oft be a stressful experience but now that it’s hopefully all said and done, what better of a way to peel away the worry than with a strong cocktail that was specially designed for the occasion?  I’m talking of course about the classic Tax Day Cocktail.  What, you didn’t realize that there was a drink singularly created to commemorate your annual dance with the IRS?  Well, there is and it’s also spectacularly-suited to the spring.  I’ve included the recipe below so you can make it for yourself at home.  Just make sure to save all your receipts for next year’s filing!

Tax Day Cocktail

• 2 oz. gin
• 1/4th oz. dry vermouth
• 1/4th oz. sweet vermouth
• 1 oz. orange juice
• A dash of Angostura bitters

Pour the ingredients into a shaker with ice cubes and shake well.  Use a strainer to pour the drink into a chilled cocktail glass.  Garnish with a twist of orange zest, and serve.

The finished product is refreshing with a sweet tone thanks to the vermouth and OJ.  If you desire a little bit more punch in your cocktail, don’t be afraid to increase the amount of gin you use.  You can also go a little bit lighter on the OJ or even use grapefruit juice as an alternative for a little bit more bitter edge.  The fine tuning is up to you, but generally speaking, this colorful concoction is sure to satisfy, as it will serve as a reminder that you don’t have to look at another W-2 or 1099 for at least 11 more months.  Cheers!