By Jan Walsh

 Photography by Beau Gustafson

Valentine’s dinner is but once a year. For some it is a night to look forward to and to remember. For others it is a night to dread—seeing all those love birds when all you want to do is have a beer and wings. No matter your status, Sky Castle Gastro Pub and Lounge pours your passion one and one fourth ounces at a time.

My type? Call Me Old Fashioned. I mean literally, I am old fashioned and want a bourbon drink by the same name. Call Me Old Fashioned is a cool take on the classic cocktail, shaken and single strained. Deep layers of Four Roses Bourbon, plum preserves, and Boston Bittahs are served on the rocks in a lowball topped with a cherry. My love loves the Modern Mule. Served in a metal cup, this gingery guy’s drink is a mix of Tito’s Vodka, ginger beer, Masala Chai, lime, and garnished with a lemon slice. For the more feminine palates, Forbidden Rose is a light sipper that is pink in color. Gin and grapefruit with hints of lime and rosemary are served on the rocks in a stemmed glass with lemon on top. Chandon Brut California is recommended for the sparkling wine lover. Available by the glass this dry sparkler offers hints of apple, pear, citrus and spice. Its effervescence also makes tonight and any night special. And Bell’s Two Hearted Ale is recommended for those the adventurous who want a special beer with no commitments. This hoppy American style India Pale Ale is well balanced with notes of pine and grapefruit.•