By Danielle Davies
It’s only been about a minute since Michael Bray and his team at Passion Vines opened their swank new Somers Point watering hole, and the word is out — this is a must-visit venue. Aptly called Queen Jayne’s Royal Lounge & Drinkery, Queen Jayne’s provides an elegant and sophisticated vibe to casual Somers Point with intimate seating, chic décor, and a meticulously cultivated cocktail program. As if their first few months of business weren’t impressive enough, this fall sees a brand new, significantly expanded menu, with options for the most discriminating of palates, and featuring a selection of cocktails under headings like Balance, Decadence, Quaffable, Cathartic, Intrepid and Dauntless. Here are five (though there are many more) new reasons to revisit the Queen.
The Winter Bee
While the Bee’s Knees cocktail — a classic combination of gin, honey and lemon — is a favorite prohibition-era cocktail, it’s got nothing on Queen Jayne’s Winter Bee. Made with Barr Hill Gin, Yellow Chartreuse, honey, ginger, lemon, Eucalyptus Bitters and Green Chartreuse, the Winter Bee is perfect for brightening up a blustery autumn day.
The Great Pumpkin Flip
This decadent cocktail evokes warmth and comfort, perfect for biting winter evenings. Made with House Spiced Rye, egg, Demerara, pumpkin whipped cream and nutmeg, this delicious concoction features the tantalizing combination of familiar flavors and surprising twists. And let’s face it — anything with whipped cream is a win.
Apple a Day
An apple a day is said to keep the doctor away, but as a low alcohol content cocktail, it could also prevent an unpleasant hangover. Made with red wine, Laird’s Apple Brandy, Little Water Prosperity Rum, orange, lemon and club soda, the Apple a Day is a delightful, easy-to-drink selection, absolutely sublime for this time of year. Cheers!
Pa-Rum-Pum-Pum-Rum
Holidays on the mind? Channel your inner drummer boy and brace yourself against the elements with the Pa-Rum-Pum-Pum-Rum, made with Plantation XO, Novo Fogo Cachaça, Campari, Giffard Banane du Bresil, QJ Vermouth Blend, and Xocolatl Mole Bitters. You’ll be singing in no time.
Overblossom
For a dauntless take on a tantalizing tipple, consider trying the Overblossom. Made with Tanqueray TEN Gin, Blanc Vermouth, Cardamom Bitters and Butterfly Pea Blossom, the Overblossom is overwhelmingly delightful, with elements of warmth and spice juxtaposed with hints of bright citruses and florals. A simply delicious cocktail perfect for sipping
