Black Velvet

The story goes that a steward at the Brook’s Club in London created this classic in 1861 to observe the death of Prince Albert. I hope the steward was aware that there's something beautifully subversive about combining a laborer’s favorite, porter, with champagne, the stuff of monarchs and other aristocrats. Social statement or not, it’s a great drink. The usual proportions are 50/50, but there’s nothing wrong with playing with them. I tend to favor a bit more champagne than Guinness, for a lighter Black Velvet.