Enjoyed: Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Listed on the menu: Yes, as “Inn Fashion”

Ingredients: High West Double Rye, Grand Marnier, black walnut bitters, orange

The occasion: Earlier this day we arrived in Death Valley National Park, which seemed so big, desolate, and empty–yet beautiful. We would drive for 15 to 20 minutes at a time and not pass another vehicle. The park is the largest in area of all national parks in the lower 48, and accommodations are scarce, so we paid the premium rate and stayed in Furnace Creek, so we could be centrally located for the next day’s adventures.

My rating: **** out of 5. The double rye was a higher proof than I like, with very spicy notes. The Grand Marnier added the sweetness and an extra orange zing, which I did like. Together, these flavors worked, but I would suggest less ice.

Final thoughts: After a lovely supper at this historic inn, we joined other guests on the fourth floor terrace to look at the stars, since Death Valley is designated a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park, the highest rating of darkness. We used our binoculars to see planets, constellations, and even the Milky Way and the Andromeda galaxy! So amazing!