MANHATTAN CLAM CHOWDER

1 dozen fresh live clams Several cans of whole or chopped clams can be substituted if fresh are not available
1 - 1 ½ cups clam juice this will be collected from the fresh clams, if using canned clams you’ll need to add canned or bottled clam juice
6 – 8 slices of chopped bacon
3 cloves finely chopped garlic
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
4 – 5 red potatoes diced
1 15 oz can of diced or crushed tomatoes
1 8 oz can of tomato paste
1 pint heavy cream
8 Tbs$ butter 1 stick
2 Tbs parsley
1 Tbs basil
1 tsp salt
4 – 6 whole Bay leaves
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp white pepper
3 - 4 drops Liquid Smoke
¼ cup white wine or sherry
1 can of beer
¼ cup cooked chopped bacon along with oyster crackers and parsley for garnish