Boston Shakers

Toasting the broads of LUPEC

By CHRISTINE LIU

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With the proper mix of wit, invention and charity with plenty of sass to spare, Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails (otherwise known as LUPEC, Boston's first and only female-oriented cocktail society), want nothing more than for others to enjoy and appreciate the storied history of drink. Through writings and events, they work steadfast for the cause.

Meet the 11 members, all intrepid women, veiled in vintage cocktail aliases: Barbara West, MiMi, Hanky Panky, Bourbon Belle, Fancy Brandy, Pink Gin, Moscow Mule, Pinky Gonzalez, Contessa, Pink Lady and Saucy Sureau. Though some may find it cutesy, I can imagine fewer things more harrowing than double-crossing a "Hanky Panky" in a dark alley at night. Think about it.

During last year's Chartreuse celebration at Green Street Grill, it was a joy to witness the members of LUPEC vigorously shaking things up (ooh là là). With its fresh-from-the-garden character, the Irma La Douce cocktail was one of the most memorable glassfuls sipped that evening. Allow this drink to be the properly seductive segue to LUPEC's thirst for knowledge.

THE IRMA LA DOUCE | AN ORIGINAL, 2007

[from Little Black Blook of Cocktails: Namesake & Favorite Recipes by LUPEC Boston]

Irma La Douce is a movie in which Shirley MacLaine plays a Parisian prostitute who wears bright green stockings.

1.5 ounces Hendrick's Gin

0.5 ounces Green Chartreuse

0.5 ounces cucumber purée (peel and blend fresh cucumber, then pass through a sieve)

0.5 ounces fresh lemon juice

0.5 ounces fresh grapefruit juice

0.25 ounces simple syrup

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

[LUPEC Boston will debut in the Dig's next issue as a regular column. Learn more at lupecboston.blogspot.com]