Booze Cruising: From Widow Jane to Chartreuse with Mickey Lyons (It's not easy being green)

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The Man Cave Happy Hour crew welcomes Detroit writer Mickey Lyons for an evening of spirit exploration and storytelling. After sampling the underwhelming Widow Jane bourbon (dubbed "aggressively mediocre" by the hosts), the conversation transforms when August introduces a rare bottle of green Chartreuse.
https://www.mickeylyons.com/

This legendary liqueur, crafted by Carthusian monks according to a 1770 secret recipe featuring 130+ botanicals, captivates everyone with its complex flavor profile. As the group savors notes of cardamom, anise, and countless herbs, Mickey explains why this spirit has become nearly impossible to find – the monks have drastically reduced production to focus on their meditative lifestyle rather than meeting skyrocketing demand.

The evening peaks with the creation of a "Last Word" cocktail, a Detroit Athletic Club classic from 1916 featuring equal parts Chartreuse, gin, Luxardo cherry liqueur, and lime juice. Mickey, whose writing celebrates Michigan's rich drinking culture, shares details about her upcoming adventure as a "Lake Lorien" (lecturer) on Great Lakes cruise ships, where she'll spend two months sharing regional history with passengers.

Between sips, the conversation weaves through Detroit's historic bar scene, from the legendary Stonehouse to the Prohibition-era establishments that shaped the city's character. These stories remind us how deeply spirits are intertwined with local heritage and community connection.

Whether you're a spirits enthusiast, Michigan history buff, or simply appreciate good storytelling among friends, join us for this spirited journey through rare liqueurs, regional history, and the captivating stories behind what we drink.

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Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit

Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox

August Gitschlag @rawgusto

Merch www.WearingFunny.com