#006 ☞ White Sands, Blue Angels & Bushwackers
Buckle up, beach enthusiasts, because we're about to share a little taste of the jewel of the Florida Panhandle: Pensacola Beach! It's an ideal place to leave your worries behind, slather on some sunscreen, and experience a chilled out beach town where sand is as white as snow, the oysters are freshly shucked and the bushwackers flow like water.
“At the beach - time you enjoyed wasting, is not wasted.” - T.S. Elliot
For anyone seeking laid back vibes, cold beverages and stunning sunsets, this is a destination to discover. From quirky seafood shacks to dark dive bars, there is something for everyone in this little stretch of paradise. We've highlighted a couple of our favorite PB icons below, but there's no shortage of great options when you plan your visit. And if you are fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the world famous Blue Angels buzzing by in perfect flying formation, you'll have the complete experience.
🧭 Places to Go
Ahoy! If you're on the hunt for a seafood adventure fit for a pirate (or anyone with a hearty appetite), Peg Leg Pete's is a Pensacola Beach institution. This iconic restaurant boasts a quirky, pirate-themed decor inspiring you to feast on dishes like blackened grouper, steamed royal reds and of course their famous raw oysters - shucked right in front of you. Grab a seat at the bar, order a cold beer from their friendly staff, and let the good times roll. If you find yourself in Pensacola Beach, a stop at Peg Leg's is a requirement. Give them a follow here.
👋🏼 People to Meet
From bark to barrel to bottle, no one knows bourbon like the one and only Gregg Snyder. Gregg has spent has spent nearly his entire working career in the industry and is one of the most knowledgable master distillers in the world. It's not just about the liquid - Gregg will tell you it starts with the wood. From the cooperage, to the distillery, to the rick house and then right to the consumer's hand. He knows what it takes to make AND sell great bourbon. With a resume that includes too many bourbon blue bloods to mention, Gregg was the former Managing Director of Wild Turkey Distillery and is credited with the development of the Russell's Reserve brand of whiskies. Throughout his career, he has helped influence some of the most widely respected brands we know and love today. Gregg has also served as Chairman for the Kentucky Distiller’s Association (KDA) as well as boards for the Associated Cooperage Industries of America, Kentucky Bourbon Festival, and Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS). He is currently the CEO of Distilled Spirits Consulting, where he shares more than 40 years of operations experience. To put it simply, when it comes to bourbon, Gregg is an verified icon!
🥂 Products to Try
The Bushwacker has been the signature drink of the Sandshaker Bar in Pensacola Beach for over 40 years. The Shaker, as its fondly known, began selling Bushwackers in 1975 and since that time, this rich, creamy, chocolately concoction has become a panhandle legend, often copied, but rarely matched. Described as a grown-up milkshake with a kick, a Bushwacker typically includes a blend of various spirits, liqueurs, and creamy ingredients. When combined in the perfect proportions, it results in a delightful, rich, and indulgent cocktail that's perfect for sipping by the beach or on a hot summer day.
The Sandshaker Bushwacker
One of the main ingredients in the Shaker’s Bushwacker is Kahlua. In addition, today as it was back in 1975, there is no “pre-mixing”… all Bushwacker batches at the Shaker are made by hand. The rum is added to the frozen drink last… you can choose “80 proof” or “high-test 151”… or you can drink it without any rum at all! Anyway you slice it, its delicious.
🗞️ Start Spreadin' the News
In case you missed it, here are a few featured articles that piqued our interest.
- Thanks White Lotus! The summer of spritz is here...
- Coors is getting into the Whiskey business
- Is Whiskey Twitter Dead? Let's hope not.
👊 Until Our Next Encounter...
We hope you all had a great week. Stay tuned for more GADABOUT Guide adventures. Until then...
🧬 About GADABOUT:
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