Bulldog Bite: Natashia Reese savors the art of mixology, relishing the blend of flavors and the creativity in crafting a drink.
A regular at Continental Drift, Eric Bennett and John Easterling’s worldly cocktail haven on Birmingham’s Southside, Reese, an Alabama A&M graduate, planned a weekend gathering for the Magic City Classic. Her aim? To unite with fellow alumni at one of her beloved local spots, toasting their cherished institution with a signature drink.
Easterling and Bennett, both seasoned behind the bar, boast careers shaping drink menus for the city’s top establishments. Bennett even showcased his skills on the “quarantine” edition of Jimmy Kimmel Live in 2020, presenting a DIY Pickle Me Upa gin concoction featuring pickles, hot sauce, maple syrup, and pickle brine.
Hailing from a legacy Alabama A&M family, Reese initially strayed for undergrad at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Yet, for her postgraduate journey, she circled back to her roots, earning a master’s degree in microbiology from Alabama A&M in 2010.
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To concoct a signature cocktail for Classic Weekend, Reese collaborated with Bennett and urbanist Carmen Mays, a frequent patron of Continental Drift. The trio sought words capturing the spirit of Alabama A&M. Reese, deeply immersed in the university’s history, found it challenging.
“It’s a feeling, and it’s so hard to describe,” said Reese. “I think most HBCUs tout our rich history. Our university was founded in 1875 by William Hooper Councill, a former slave who purchased the land to establish the institution we know today.
In conversation with Bennett, Reese initially found herself reciting university statistics instead of conveying emotions.
“Like at a college fair!” exclaimed Reese, who also engages in outreach to prospective students through Alabama A&M’s alumni association in Atlanta. “We have one of the best social work programs. We produce the most Black engineers.”
Influenced by Alabama A&M’s motto, “Service Is Sovereignty,” Reese envisioned a cocktail embodying pride, a storied history, and a competitive spirit, symbolized by the Bulldog, the university’s mascot.
“The bulldog that bites!” Reese proudly declared.
The outcome: “Bulldog Bite,” a bourbon-based cocktail featuring grapefruit, blackberries, red pepper syrup, coconut cream, and garnished with rosemary.
Bennett opted for bourbon due to its distinctly American origin, legally required to be distilled in the United States. His inspiration: utilizing a cherished spirit to honor a beloved institution.
“Something distinctly American. Something homegrown. Something really great,” said Bennett.
Wanting ingredients that nodded to Alabama A&M’s academic foundation, Bennett added a touch of vegetable essence, given the university’s agricultural roots, and the state fruitblackberries.
Combining bourbon, blackberries, and red pepper syrup, the cocktail achieved a color close to Alabama A&M maroon, with a hint of coconut cream to soften the edge.
“We obviously wanted something sort of maroon, outside of a red wine,” said Reese. “I think it turned out really well.”
The “Bulldog Bite” will be available at Continental Drift while supplies last.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is a bulldog bite?
The American bulldog boasts the strongest bite force of any dog breed, clocking in at up to 305 psi. Their powerful jaws have the ability to crush bones and even break teeth. Due to their aggressive nature, this breed is not suitable for households with young children, as their strength can pose a potential danger.
Why does my English bulldog bite me?
Young Bulldogs that nip during their early stages are still learning that biting people is not safe or acceptable. If this behavior is not corrected, it could persist into adulthood, posing a potential danger. It is crucial for either you or a professional dog trainer to instruct your Bulldog on the importance of not biting.
What is the bite force of a French bulldog?
The French Bulldog’s bite force is believed to range from 180 to 230 pounds per square inch (PSI).