Raising the Bar -- Irish Coffee & Spanish Coffee

Irish Coffee: Invented in an airport bar, of all places, by Joe Sheridan, who made it for disembarking passengers one nasty winter day back in the 40's. This is easily the most popular warmed cocktail.

• 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

Fill with hot coffee, stir until sugar is dissolved, add freshly whipped cream.
That's it!

Spanish Coffee: Tastes good, and the fireworks show will thrill your guests as long as you don't set them or your house on fire. The fireworks aren't necessary, of course.

• ¾ oz Tia Maria
• ¾ oz Spanish brandy
• ¾ oz Cointreau

You'll need a shaker filled with ground cinnamon and a heat-resistant glass mug. Pour above ingredients in the mug, swirl the contents to coat the inside of the mug. Carefully light the liquor, rotating the glass in your hand. Shake the cinnamon over the lit liquor, which causes little sparks. Put out the fire by adding coffee, then topping off with freshly whipped cream.