Plump up the couch cushions, gather excuses for skipping work, and put more ice in the freezer — today the NCAA basketball brackets are revealed, the first step into March Madness. Tobacco Road, ignoring the novel title, is a sports reference to basketball rivalries among North Carolina universities. Two points for each school you can match to the team names: Blue Devils; Wolfpack; Tar Heels; and Demon Deacons. Three points if you cheered Jim Valvano.

Tobacco Road
1 1/2 ounce Irish whiskey
1/2 ounce rhum agricole
1/4 ounce peach liqueur
1/2 ounce orange juice

Put all the ingredients in an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Give a long, vigorous shake. Pour into an aperitif glass. Garnish with an orange twist, or a thin slice of peach.

Want to know more?
Bracketeering: The Layman’s Guide to Picking the Madness in March
Play along at home with the real deal: Wilson Solution NCAA Composite Basketball

Tasting notes: The Irish gives the drink a lingering smokiness, the botanical argicole and peach liqueur blend in sweetness, and the fresh orange brightens and balances.

Tomorrow: May the luck of the Irish, and Patrick, be with ye

Contents copyright 2014 My Daily Cocktails.