Introduction to the Sourtoe Cocktail
If you’re seeking an experience that’s as bizarre as it is memorable, look no further than the legendary Sourtoe Cocktail. This unique Dawson drink has been captivating adventurous souls for decades, combining a shot of whiskey with something truly unexpected—a preserved human toe. Yes, you read that right! In the heart of Yukon Territory lies Dawson City, where this eccentric concoction dares you to sip responsibly while embracing its wild history and quirky traditions.
Let’s dive into what makes the Sourtoe Cocktail not just a drink but a rite of passage for thrill-seekers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
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The History of the Drink
The Sourtoe Cocktail has a fascinating backstory that dates back to the 1970s. It was born in the remote town of Dawson City, Yukon. This unique drink emerged from an intriguing blend of humor and local legend.
The story goes that in the 1920s, a rum runner named Louie Linken was making his way through the Yukon with a severed human toe preserved in alcohol. The toe had been amputated from a man who had suffered from frostbite and it was said to bring good luck to those who drank with it.
In the 1970s, Captain Dick Stevenson found this old story and decided to revive it by inventing the Sourtoe Cocktail. He put out a call for donations of pickled human toes and received an unexpected response – people actually sent him their own toes to be used in the drink.
Stevenson created the rules for the Sourtoe Cocktail: patrons must drink a shot of whiskey with a real human toe floating in it. The toe must touch the drinker’s lips for them to officially become a member of the Sourtoe Cocktail Club. The original rule also stated that “you can drink it fast, you can drink it slow, but your lips have gotta touch that gnarly ol’ toe.”
Since its creation, over 100,000 people have taken part in this bizarre drinking ritual. The original sourtoes have all since been swallowed or lost due to accidents (such as being swallowed by a dog), but new toes continue to be donated and added to the collection.
In 2013, the Sourtoe Cocktail made international headlines when a man intentionally swallowed the toe during his drink. The bar was able to obtain another toe from a donor and continue the tradition.
The Sourtoe Cocktail has become an iconic part of Dawson City’s culture and tourism industry. It has been featured in numerous travel shows, articles, and even a book titled “The Toe and I.”
The drink has also sparked controversy, with some arguing that it is unsanitary or disrespectful to use real human body parts in such a manner. However, supporters of the tradition argue that it is all in good fun and brings people together in a unique way.
In addition to becoming a popular tourist attraction, the Sourtoe Cocktail has also raised money for various charities over the years. In 2019 alone, the bar donated over $10,000 to local organizations.
Today, visitors to Dawson City can still experience this unusual drink at the Downtown Hotel’s Sourdough Saloon. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea (or shot of whiskey), there’s no denying that the
It all began when Captain Dick Stevenson stumbled upon a preserved human toe in an abandoned cabin. Instead of discarding it, he decided to create something memorable. Thus, the Sourtoe Cocktail was introduced as a quirky rite of passage for adventurous souls visiting Dawson.
As word spread about this bizarre concoction, tourists flocked to try their luck with the infamous cocktail. The allure lies not just in its unusual ingredients but also in the stories shared around it at Sourdough Saloon, where brave patrons gather for their chance at sipping on history.
Now, nearly five decades later, it’s still captivating thrill-seekers from across the globe who crave a taste of this legendary experience.
How It Got Its Name: The Story of Louie Linken and Captain Dick Stevenson
The name “Sourtoe Cocktail” has an intriguing backstory that begins with Louie Linken. A Yukon legend, Linken was known for his adventurous spirit and love of whiskey. While living in Dawson City during the 1970s, he made an unusual request to Captain Dick Stevenson.
Stevenson owned the Sourdough Saloon and had a knack for quirky ideas. One fateful day, Linken proposed adding something unique to the drink menu—an actual human toe! The captain thought it was outrageous but couldn’t resist the challenge.
Thus began their legendary collaboration. They sourced a preserved toe from a local morgue, which became the defining element of this peculiar cocktail. As word spread about this bizarre concoction, curious visitors flocked to try what many would consider one of the most unorthodox drinks in history.
The Rules of Drinking a Sourtoe Cocktail
To partake in the legendary Sourtoe Cocktail, you must be ready to embrace its quirky rules. First and foremost, the toe is integral. You can’t enjoy this drink without it.
When you’re served your cocktail, a real human toe floats within. The rule states that you must touch the toe with your lips as you sip. No exceptions here!
It’s also crucial to remember: no biting or chewing the toe! That would lead to disqualification from this unique Dawson drink experience.
If you’re feeling adventurous, order your cocktail neat or on the rocks; just ensure that toe remains intact for others to savor too.
There’s an oath involved—every participant recites a commitment before indulging in their drink, adding to its charm and tradition. So prepare yourself mentally; it’s not just about drinking but joining a fascinating ritual steeped in history!
Where to Find the Drink and How Much Does It Cost?
To experience the legendary Sourtoe Cocktail, head to the historic Downtown Hotel in Dawson City, Yukon. This quirky hotel has become synonymous with the drink and attracts adventurous souls from all corners of the globe.
The cost for this unique Dawson drink is surprisingly affordable. For around $5 CAD, you can partake in this unusual tradition. However, be prepared to fork over a little extra if you want your choice of spirit mixed with that infamous toe.
After paying your fee and signing a waiver, you’ll join fellow thrill-seekers at the bar. The atmosphere is lively yet eerily fascinating as patrons share their stories while gearing up for their own sourtoe adventure.
Remember, it’s not just about sipping on a cocktail; it’s about embracing an unforgettable experience wrapped in local lore and history.
The Toe – Is It Real?
The toe that graces the Sourtoe Cocktail is undeniably real. It’s preserved in a jar, floating like an odd celebrity at the Downtown Hotel in Dawson City. Patrons are often surprised to learn it once belonged to a man named Captain Dick Stevenson.
This particular appendage has seen its fair share of adventures. Legend has it that the toe was severed due to frostbite, adding an eerie twist to its story. Visitors have mixed reactions upon seeing it for the first time—some find it amusing while others grimace.
What truly adds intrigue is how this bizarre ingredient is treated with respect and reverence by bartenders and drinkers alike. The toe isn’t just a prop; it’s part of a tradition steeped in quirky history that captivates those brave enough to partake in this unique Dawson drink experience.
Notable Reactions and Experiences from People Who Have Tried the Drink
The Sourtoe Cocktail elicits a mix of awe and disgust from those brave enough to try it. One adventurous soul described the experience as both thrilling and surreal. The moment the toe touched their lips, laughter erupted around them. It’s a rite of passage for many.
Others have shared more dramatic reactions. Some gagged at the thought of sipping with a mummified toe, while others embraced the bizarre tradition wholeheartedly. “It’s just part of Dawson,” remarked one local patron who ordered round after round.
For some, it’s not just about the drink but the tales that come with it. Travelers often leave with unforgettable stories that they recount over dinner parties for years to come.
Every reaction adds to its legendary status, making each sip an intriguing gamble against common sense and curiosity alike.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Trying?
For those who seek adventure, the Sourtoe Cocktail is an experience unlike any other. This unique Dawson drink offers a blend of curiosity and courage that few beverages can match. With its fascinating history and quirky rules, it’s more than just a cocktail; it’s a rite of passage for many visitors to Dawson City.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of sipping on a drink with a preserved human toe floating inside, this might be your next unforgettable moment. Whether you’re drawn in by the thrill or simply want to say you’ve tried one of the weirdest drinks out there, it promises both stories and memories.
So, should you give it a go? If you’re someone who enjoys stepping outside your comfort zone while traveling or has an adventurous palate, then yes—the Sourtoe Cocktail may just be worth trying. Just remember to follow the rules and keep your sense of humor intact!
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