Discover the home of inquisitive spirit at Atticus Finch Bar on Lygon Street in Brunswick East. At this Melbourne hot spot, every drink has a story and every visit sparks curiosity – it is more than a place to unwind, it is where your next great story begins; founded by Marty, an historian at heart and bartender by trade, come chill in the courtyard on those warmer days, or stop in to enjoy smooth tunes and a house favourite Negroni.
Mixologist, Marty McQuilten recommends trying the Fool's Gold cocktail next time you are visiting:
"Fool’s Gold strikes the perfect balance between honesty and elegance, highlighting the subtle but rich flavours of Armagnac, an often under-appreciated spirit. It’s designed to gently enhance the ingredients without overpowering them, offering a take on a classic cocktail with a lighter, more refined approach,” he says.
The cocktail was created during late-night football matches while watching the 2016 European Cup. Between breaks in the game, Marty experimented with spirits and aperitifs, crafting what would become Fool’s Gold – what started as a casual drink has turned into an Atticus Finch staple!
The vibrant golden hue of the cocktail immediately reminded Marty of ‘Fool’s Gold’ by the Stone Roses – a song that sparked a lifelong spirit of curiosity and exploration. Like the song, the cocktail is a journey that blends tradition and innovation.
"Fool's Gold encapsulates everything we strive for at Atticus Finch: honesty, elegance, curiosity, balance and a touch of fun. It’s all about showcasing the best elements of each component, enhancing them without overshadowing their natural beauty,” Marty says.
"A riff on the classic Manhattan, built on the timeless trio of spirit, vermouth-like and bitters/aromatics, this cocktail leans towards a lighter, ‘wetter’ profile, allowing the main ingredients room to breathe. Armagnac (and Cognac, Brandy in general) often fly under the radar here in Australia.
"They’re packed with fire, passion, juiciness and spice and I’m on a mission to bring them the attention they deserve. In a land of winemakers, these spirits should be challenging whisky, bourbon and rum for top billing in our glasses.”
Marty says Cocchi Americano, an aperitivo from Turin, shares the DNA of vermouth but with a touch more sweetness and bitterness and is used liberally across the bar’s cocktail list.
"Fino Sherry, particularly our La Goya Manzanilla, is key to modern cocktails. It’s the perfect ingredient for adding length, acidity and a subtle saline note without overpowering, making even the boldest flavours sing in harmony. St Germain elderflower liqueur brings a delicate, aromatic flourish to the finish, while a twist of grapefruit sharpens and brightens the drink.”
Try this cocktail on a Friday afternoon to relax after a long and stressful work week. Alternatively, you could take the party home and concoct the perfect drink to usher in the weekend.
Don’t forget to check out our Cocktail of the Week series, where each Friday we highlight a cheeky creation to tantalise tastebuds and set the tone for good times.
