Created by Perry & Co. Vice President Jon Larrance, and his good friend Todd Heiserman, back in the late 1980′s, the “Gorbachev” is essentially a White Russian made with Eggnog.  

Jon & Todd named their holiday drink of good cheer after Mikhail Gorbachev who was serving at the time as the last head of state of the former USSR. The drink’s creators were compelled to honor Mr. Gorbachev with a drink because of Gorbachev’s generous introduction of glasnost, a system which gave new freedoms to the Russian people, including greater freedom of speech.  He was of course the country’s leader when the Berlin Wall came down.

Ingredients:

• Stolichnaya Vodka (actually any Russian vodka will suffice)
• Kahlua Coffee Liqueur
• Eggnog
• Rose’s Grenadine Syrup
• Ground Nutmeg

Make your Gorbachev in a Highball glass filled high with ice.  Pour in 2 hefty shots of Vodka and 1 good shot of Kahlua over the ice.  Top off the glass with Eggnog (roughly 3 to 4 shots worth), stir to blend, and finish off with a tiny amount of Grenadine trying to imitate the birthmark on Mr. Gorbachev’s forehead.  Sprinkle Nutmeg freckles on top if so desired.

Some other popular, and simpler, Eggnog combinations include: Bourbon & Eggnog, Brandy & Eggnog, Rum & Eggnog, and the infamous Tequila & Eggnog (as ordered by a mystery patron in the 1980′s Rob Reiner classic film “The Sure Thing“).  However, if you want something even more complex try “The Perry & Co. Spirited Holiday Eggnog Recipe.”

But, if you love White Russians then you will really love the Gorbachev during the holiday season.  Try it out and leave us your best holiday drink story.