My husband and I finally saw  The Curious Case of Benjamin Button a few weeks ago (Yes, yes. I know we are late to the scene on this one…) which we both agreed was a fabulous film.

The foodie in me could not help but notice Thomas Button’s drink of choice in the movie, the Sazerac. The official state cocktail of Louisiana, the Sazerac was created in the early 1800′s making it one of the most longstanding, classic cocktails around. Made with rye whiskey, this straight up concoction is a particularly nice to warm up with on a rainy evening.

Lest you think Louisiana is the only jurisdiction with its own cocktail, DC is working hard to have its local cocktail, the Rickey, declared as its official spirited drink. Taking up the charge is Master Mixologist Derek Brown who makes a wonderful case for the Rickey as DC’s Summer Signature Cocktail. I, myself, am a huge fan of the Rickey. Perhaps it is because I am a sucker for anything with lime juice?

For more about DC’s attention on the Rickey, check out this DC Foodies article on the DC Craft Bartenders Guild’s Rickey Month. And read more about Derek Brown and his latest venture on DCist.

Serving cocktails that are steeped in history can make for great conversation at your next dinner party. Whether you are serving classics like the sazerac or a rickey, do a little research before mixing your guests their drinks and share with them what you’ve learned. It will make for even more spirited (pun intended!) gathering.