Taking the helm of a popular hotel lounge in the middle of economic calamity was not exactly what I had penciled in on the calendar. Lucky for me however, the bar has withstood more than enough history since its 1931 introduction. I am hedging my bet that The Hedley Club can weather this storm as well. Last May, we introduced this cocktail, knowing it was going to be a love it or hate it affair. You have to like the flavor of absinthe, you have to like your drink dry, and you have to like your drink strong. The key to this drink, however, is that it is budget conscious and is the least expensive on the list. No quadruple distilled designer vodka here. Use what is on hand, and the more bite the better. The dash of absinthe we use is top notch and made locally at St. George Spirits, giving the drink its slight cloudy appearance.

for the Recession Proof
up or rocks
2 oz Vodka
dash absinthe
lemon twist

Pour all ingredients into mixing glass with ice cubes. Stir well. Strain in chilled martini cocktail glass. Squeeze oil from lemon peel onto the drink, and garnish.