The shaken cocktail Betty’s White Christmas was created by La Trattoria Tuscano Manager Clay Alling for a November drink competition. He spent three days crafting it.
“I was [experimenting] with drinks for a Bartender Shootout in The Woodlands,” Alling said. “It is all vodka-based drinks that are unique that aren’t your typical drinks.”
The drink is made with vanilla and espresso-infused Dripping Springs vodka. Cream is poured on top, and the drink is topped with cherries, espresso beans and a cinnamon stick.
Betty’s White Christmas is a coffee- and cream-based cocktail ($11).[/caption]The tribute to Betty White stems from Alling’s love for the veteran actress.
“Who doesn’t love “The Golden Girls?’” he said, referring to the late ’80s TV series.
Alling said the drink is perfect for the winter months thanks to its combination of coffee, vodka and cinnamon.
“As the weather gets colder, people like unique drinks that aren’t typical,” he said. “They want to try something other than wine.”
The drink pairs well with La Trattoria Tuscano’s spicy dishes, like the Cappellini Diabolo ($21), which has shrimp and mussels and is served with spicy marinara sauce, Alling said.
4223 Research Forest Drive, Ste. 950, The Woodlands, 281-419-2252
Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-midnight., Sun. 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.
