Pictured: Jack Dusty's iconic cocktail the Siren is at the center of a supernaturally good promotion running now through October 15. Photo by Cecilia Marty.

“The Siren is the iconic cocktail of Sarasota,” says Heidi Finley. “As soon as you walk into Jack Dusty or anywhere on the property, you’ll see a Siren in someone’s hand. It is a very, very popular cocktail that everybody enjoys.”

Finley knows her cocktails. Once the lead bartender at The Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota, she has now become the Food and Beverage Manager for the resort. She is also the winner of Marriot’s prestigious Masters of Craft competition in the beverage category. Even she is not immune to the allure of the Siren’s song.

“The Siren is really a riff on a classic cocktail, the French 75, which is originally made with gin. We can make the Siren with gin, vodka or tequila, so it’s a very versatile cocktail. I do love it with gin more than any other spirit,” Finley says. “What we add to that is fresh lemon juice, elderflower liqueur and then wonderful cranberry, grapefruit and orchid ice cubes. As the ice melts, the flavor and the color of the cocktail evolves, emulating Sarasota’s striking sunsets. We finish off the drink with prosecco to add a little bit of effervescence.”

The resulting drink is bright, citrusy and floral with flavors that are layered yet smooth and accessible. It’s no wonder it lures so many people in. Locals often stop by to sip on a Siren before a night on the town, and returning guests are ready to order them at check-in. There’s no better time than right now to succumb to the Siren’s song. Jack Dusty has just kicked off their Siren Social Hours promotion, which started July 1st and will run through October 15th. Stop by and enjoy a Siren for $25 and you can also some of Jack Dusty’s delectable bar bites - sweet and smoky blistered Shishito Peppers, rich and tender Wagyu Sliders and unctuous and savory Smoked Fish Dip - for half-off. The deal runs Sunday through Friday evenings from 3pm to 6pm and is available to patrons seated in the bar area. This call is definitely one worth answering.

Pictured: Jack Dusty's iconic cocktail the Siren is at the center of a supernaturally good promotion running now through October 15. Photo by Cecilia Marty.