The Yukon Territory in Canada is known for its festivals, hunting opportunities, and view of the northern lights. It’s also home to one of the most memorable—and disgusting—cocktails. The Sourtoe Cocktail was invented in 1973, and, unfortunately, it’s exactly what you might expect from the name. A human toe is preserved in salt to be used as garnish for any drink you choose.
The story goes that the first toe belonged to a miner named Louie Liken, who had his toe amputated after it was frostbitten. Fifty years later, the toe was found while someone was cleaning out his cabin. Captain Dick Stevenson, the discoverer of the toe, brought it to the local saloon and started placing it in people’s drinks. This brought about the formation of the Sourtoe Cocktail Club. The same toe was used for seven more years until a man trying to break a record swallowed the toe.
Seven more toes have since been donated for use, by amputees and anonymous donors. One toe was even dropped off to the Sourdough Saloon with a note that warned people not to mow their lawns in sandals. The only rule of the drink, regardless of which alcohol you choose, is that your lips have to touch the toe, and there is a $2,500 fine in effect for anyone who deliberately consumes the toe.