In the summer of 1968, I was trying to come up with a couple unique drinks.

The first was a gin drink called "The Toolpusher."  The other was a fruity drink we called "Purple Haze."  The Toolpusher sold well for years but eventually faded out.  Purple has sold slow at first but was a hit in the long run.

My mother used to make a punch for church functions.  I modified it and added some flavors, and forty-something years later Purple Haze is a major part of the Southdowns History.

Some years ago Welch's flew a rep down to see me.  He wanted to know "What the hell are you doing with all that grape juice?"  Definitely not a bar room staple.   --Rodney