Kahlua – the old familiar coffee-and-rum liqueur – is doing things differently this summer. And it wants you to, too.
Earlier this week – within the decks of the the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum no less – was the launch of the Kahlua Summer Shake-up Movie Blend Series, in partnership with New York magazine and Vulture, which will make its multi-city tour this season.
Hosted by Jes Macallan, star of the ABC drama Mistresses, enthusiastic guests were treated to Kahlua-themed cocktails, alongside comfort-food nibbles like mini pots of mac ‘n cheese, pizza and chicken fingers. After some mingling, head-bopping to ‘80s classics and a few sessions in the impressively sophisticated photo booth, the crowd was ushered into a screening of classic comedy Wet Hot American Summer, with warm cookies to boot.
When you think “Kahlua” it’s hard not to think “White Russian” – particularly if you’re a fan of The Big Lebowski. Although a stellar version of the classic was served (with a choice of almond milk for those dairy-adverse New Yorkers), it was drinks like a Mai Tai – with the surprise addition of Kahlua – that really had the crowd tasting things differently.
Of the frozen drinks, the Bushwacker (recipe below) was the most scrumptious, though the Mudslide, bedecked with whipped cream and chocolate syrup, was the most impressive to look at – and certainly a cocktail your childhood self would approve of.
Yes, despite Kahlua’s push to have the group do things differently, it was the nod to familiar home comforts that made this event so darn fun. Refreshingly for a NY party, nothing was good for you (except maybe the almond milk). It was a night to embrace whipped cream from a can and mac ‘n cheese that tastes like the Kraft kind.
As I kicked up my feet to watch the movie and munched more cookies than I would usually allow, it felt a little like I was back at camp: When nothing mattered more than the summer’s heat, eating whatever and having a good time. Heck, even the bartenders sported Camp Firewood t-shirts. Now, if only my counselors could pour a good drink. THAT would have been interesting.
Want to get involved in the Kahlua Summer Shake-Up? The brand’s social media channels will be serving up a series of cocktail and entertaining inspiration. To learn more, use the hashtag #KahluaSummer and visit them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest.
Kahlua Bushwacker
1 part Kahlua
2 parts cream of coconut
1/2 part dark rum
1/2 part Hiram Walker Dark Crème de Cacao
2 parts milk
Combine all ingredients with ice in a blender. Blend well and serve in a specialty glass.
Twisted Talk: Will you be mixing up your cocktail routine this summer? Would you try Kahlua in something besides a White Russian? Are you going to give the above recipe a shot? Discuss below!
