Southport Magazine

Take a trip down memory lane with these vintage concoctions
When I was growing up, I remember my folks drinking Martini’s, Manhattan’s and Grasshopper’s.  If I close my eyes I can see my Dad’s bar, which was the cabinet up high, above our stove.  I used to sit at the counter doing my homework, as my mom was cooking dinner and watch my dad stroll in from work in his suit and tie and ask my Mom if she wanted a drink.  Depending on her request, he would pull out all the appropriate tools and ingredients and with great care and precision, create their drinks.  Maybe it is because of those memories that I knew right where to go for help in showcasing these classic cocktails to perfection; Scott Lindsey, the Bartender/Mixologist, at the Ports of Call Bistro on Howe Street in Southport. Scott takes great pride in his job. Making a great cocktail is important to him. This makes Scott stand out and why I knew he was the man for the job!  Here is his story and his recipes for the old school cocktails.  Stop in and order one!  But whatever you do…don’t order a Pink Lady!

Making classic cocktails is one of my favorite things to do. In 1860 Jerry Thomas “The Professor” wrote the first guide to mixing cocktails. This guide along with many others has molded people like me into dedicated and passionate bartenders. By learning these classic drinks it allows me to tweak these cocktails into something of my own. I create new cocktails daily implementing  the techniques and preparation of classic cocktails, while using the right kind of spirits, citrus, water, spices and most of all ice; the right style of ice can “make or break” a cocktail. Whether it is a classic or custom cocktail, I like for that cocktail to be a bridge between the customer and I, it represents who I am. I have had people from all over the world sit at the bar and knowing the original classic cocktails allows me to create their drink with accuracy.

Through the art of mixology I have learned how to create and balance cocktails using all kinds of foreign ingredients you normally wouldn’t find in the average cocktail. I try to learn the signature cocktails of each state and country, so that whenever you sit at my bar you can get a little taste of home.  Every creation still goes back to the classics for me. So whether you order a refreshing gin and tonic, a classic Old Fashioned or one of my custom cocktails, just know the drink was made with care and precision. 
Scott Lindsey

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Photos:  Kris Beasley and Jennifer Barnett