Fuel injections

Gear up for a long night with these energy drink cocktails

By Ellen Fox

NoneRed Bull and vodka isn't the only energizing drink out there. Keep your groove going until the wee hours with these tasty alternatives to the club classic.
Merlins and vodka, $9
Long before Gandalf waved his wand, one Arthurian wizard ruled supreme. Is the secret to his power in this mix of vodka and Merlins Energy Source, a blend of ginseng root and guarana seed? Of course not, you nerd!

Bacardi O-bomb, $7
Have a cold? Pretend you're getting some vitamin C at trendy West Loop hang Blyss with this smooth, fruity blend of Bacardi O and Red Bull on ice. 1061 W. Madison St. 312-433-0013.

Jagerbomb, $11
Surrender to the sweetness of Jagermeister and Red Bull on ice at the Versailles-themed Domaine. It's reputed to taste exactly like Dr. Pepper.

Jin Ju Verve, $7
The Korean concoction served at sexy Jin Ju in Andersonville is likely to disarm, but it won't leave you totally defenseless. The Verve blends Bacchus, a Korean energy drink purported to have medicinal properties, with soju, a spirit distilled from sweet potatoes. The sweet cocktail is served on ice and topped with a cherry.

Zooland, $6
Tribune restaurant critic Phil Vettel just flamed the sluggish servers at Aria, the new restaurant at the Fairmont Hotel. Sounds like the waitstaff could have used this shot, which blends Finlandia vodka with KMX energy drink, to up its enthusiasm.

Ellen Fox is a Chicago freelance writer.

Originally published Feb. 25, 2003.