Martini Wonderland

Sidney Frank lived the American wet dream lubricated by breakfast martinis and Jägerbombs. He had a team of professional golfers play every morning for his amusement. The rest of the day he would lounge in bed smoking cigars while running a liquor empire. At night he would wear fluorescent pink suits and make spectacular entrances with his entourage of boozy Jägerette models. Sidney was constantly monitored by a team of doctors, nurses, attorneys and handlers. He had federal agents and mobsters on payroll. He could create a dream opportunity or destroy a promising career with the flick of an ash. When Sidney sold the Grey Goose vodka brand to Bacardi for $2.5 billion, he created his own private wonderland. I was one of the unworthy souls Sidney rewarded with a golden ticket and front row seat at the martini circus. Despite dark personal demons, profound character flaws and a turbulent past, Sidney's zest for life and indomitable spirit cemented him as a true anti-hero and unlikely icon.