2026 Oscars Tasting Menu: Bugonia

Welcome back to the blog (to you and me)! It has been just about 8 months since my last blog entry. Life has been crazier than ever; primarily due to work. Work has taken over everything in my life, unfortunately. But, I’m trying to get a portion of my life back now that I’m a handful of months into my new position. I can’t guarantee that means more blog posts - hopefully. I want to spend more time with my family as they’ve not seen the old me in quite some time. But, I needed a creative outlet as well. What better way than to thrust myself into daily posts leading up to next week’s Oscars?

My first post is always a cocktail - as most great occasions start with a festive beverage. This is a delicious floral, sweet and sour, and even a little spicy cocktail to awaken your palate. It’s perfectly balanced and inspired by Bugonia, a slightly bizarre film that is equally parts Fargo and Silence of the Lambs, with a dash of Of Mice and Men, and Everything, Everywhere, All at Once. Look, I’m not a huge film buff or going to offer a critique or spoilers. But, I will offer you a recipe, and if you watch the movie, you’ll likely know why I chose this drink. 

Bee Sting

• Honey Syrup

• Jalapeño

• Gin

• Lemon
  

Chill a serving glass in the fridge for a few hours.   Prepare honey syrup by combining a ¼ cup each of honey and water and heat in a small pan over medium heat. Whisky or stir until the honey is dissolved, about 2 mins. Set aside to cool.  Place 4 slices of jalapeño into a cocktail shaker and muddle for about 30 seconds to release the juices. 

Pour in a half cup of gin, 1.5 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 oz of the honey syrup and fill with ice. Cover and shake for about 30 seconds. 

Pour through a strainer into your chilled serving glass and garnish with 2 ¼” thick slices of jalapeño.

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