Enjoyed: Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Listed on the menu: Yes, as “Locale Old Fashioned”

Ingredients: Basil Infused High West Double Rye, Citrus Syrup, Angostura Bitter

The occasion: Our Nevada/California desert adventure was coming to an end. This would be our final night, and we opted to stay at an Airbnb in a residential area of Vegas, versus battling traffic and tourists on The Strip. Surprisingly, there was not a slot machine in sight, and that was fine.

My rating: ***** out of 5. I loved the creativity of this drink! When in an Italian restaurant, think Italian flavors. The basil-infused simple syrup plus the fresh citrus notes of the syrup complimented the strong and spicy rye without overpowering it. The combination worked for my palate, but Husband disagreed. Perhaps I am more of a basil lover than he is.

Final thoughts: Although our accommodation and the surrounding neighborhood were lovely, I don’t think I’d be happy living in the desert. Sure, having a pool and hot tub and palm trees in the backyard would be pleasant, but I would miss the rain and the falling leaves.