If you’ve wandered through the walkable streets of King William and popped into a place that feels like a cozy neighbor’s kitchen and a well-curated modern Texas cafe at the same time, you’ve likely met Bar Loretta. It’s housed in a century-old building that carries a quiet, storied charm, and it’s the kind of spot that feels both effortlessly cool and warmly familiar. It’s the perfect setting to explore a new twist on the classic Brandy Alexander. And that twist is…

Gifts From Far Away courtesy of Alfonso Castillo (AC for short). AC is the kind of bartender you instantly want to pull up a stool and chat with. When asked who he’d love to share a drink with, he doesn't hesitate: Ernest Hemingway. He's a fan of the author's writing, but with a twinkle in his eye, he adds that he’d also enjoy a friendly tussle, since Hemingway was known to enjoy a good scrap. This blend of literary appreciation and playful grit is pure Alfonso. He’s a fan of Salvador Dalí, would choose to be Aragorn from Lord of the Rings or Robert Jordan from For Whom the Bell Tolls (a true Hemingway aficionado!), and if he had to pick a reality show to participate it, he’d dominate the original American Gladiators. His superpower of choice? Invisibility, so nobody can find him. We get it. After a long shift, who wouldn't want that? But back to the star of the show.

Gifts From Far Away, a subtle nod to the lyrics of the Looking Glass song "Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)," which is a perfect fit, considering the headliner is a beautiful apricot brandy! Inspired by the creamy, comforting flavors of horchata, Alfonso was curious how the sweet notes of corn would play with the bright tang of apricot. Turns out they basically best friends! Nixta Licor de Elote lends a nuanced corn-and-caramel richness that gives the drink a subtle, earthy sweetness, and heavy cream binds the whole thing into a lush, silky mouthfeel. It’s a lighter, more luminous take on the classic, that’ll keep you reaching for the next sip.

The Kinsman Brandy Alexander Tour is a limited-time affair, and a drink this special won’t be around forever. Make your way down to King William, take a stroll through the beautiful neighborhood, and pull up a seat at Bar Loretta. Ask for AC, order up a Gifts from Far Away, and enjoy one of the most unique takes on a classic Brandy Alexander.