Bespoke ice, locally made spirits, foraged garnishes, and artisanal infusions have become a given in cocktail culture–as common as tuna melts are to hockey (wink wink). But this year is already proving to be an outstanding one for haute drinking. The latest crop of bars are doing all of the above and then some, putting an emphasis on zero waste, house-made distillates, offbeat wines, and immersive vibes. What's also clear is the geography of drinking culture: its clear epicenter is Lower Manhattan, with a few exciting entries in Brooklyn and one in Long Island City, Queens. Here’s how to plan your best night out. —Andrea Strong, contributing writer and editor The Persimmon cocktail, available in spirited and nonalcoholic versions, from Golden Ratio in New York City. 216½ Greene Ave., Brooklyn@Golden Ratio Steve Wong and Piper Kristensen already run some of Brooklyn’s most beloved restaurants: Cafe Mado, Place des Fêtes, and Laurel Bakery.…