Pécharmant – The Best Alternative to Bordeaux Wine

Drinking is an integral part of the university experience for many students. From social nights to surprise outings, there’s likely to be an opportunity to drink at least once a week. While it’s possible to enjoy university without alcohol, many find themselves drinking regularly, often reverting to the same old choices and growing tired of them.

To help shake things up for Freshers’ Week, consider these budget-friendly pre-drink alternatives:

1. Flavour Your Spirits

If you’re getting bored with your usual drinks, the solution may lie in adding flavor. Instead of spending money on a pricey flavored vodka, mix your regular vodka with some flavored cordial or squash. A simple mix of equal parts vodka and squash, topped with lemonade or tonic water, can create a more exciting drink without breaking the bank. For an extra kick, try adding a splash of pineapple juice or elderflower cordial.

2. Explore Tinned Cocktails

Transporting drinks can be a hassle if you’re not hosting, leading to repeated choices. Instead of doing the usual vodka and mixer in a plastic bottle, why not try tinned cocktails? They’re often available on mix-and-match deals and provide a fun change of pace while staying wallet-friendly.

3. Take Advantage of Deals

One of the best strategies is to shop smart. Look for deals at supermarkets and utilize loyalty cards. For instance, Tesco may offer discounts when you buy six bottles of wine. If you find a reasonably priced wine that you enjoy, taking advantage of such promotions can diversify your drinking options without stretching your budget.

4. Try Cheap Cocktails

Making cocktails doesn’t have to be expensive. For a student-friendly version of a classic cocktail, consider this easy recipe: mix one part vodka with two parts peach schnapps, followed by two parts of both orange and cranberry juice. With some creativity, it can taste just as good as the pricier versions.

5. Get Creative with Leftovers

When funds are low at the end of the semester, it’s time to get inventive. Combining what you have left in your cupboard can lead to surprisingly good concoctions. For example, mixing vodka with cranberry juice and lemonade can create a delightful new drink.

Embrace the spirit of creativity this Freshers’ Week and break free from the dull routine of your standard drink choices. Enjoy experimenting and discovering new favorites while keeping your budget in check.

If you’ve encountered the term "cigar blend whiskey," you might wonder what it means. Contrary to what the name suggests, there is no tobacco involved. However, the specifics of what constitutes a cigar blend whiskey can vary widely among producers.

Christian Huber from Starlight Distillery explains their approach: "For us, a cigar blend whiskey is crafted to be enjoyed alongside a cigar." This means the flavors—spice, tannin, and sweetness—are deliberately balanced to complement the cigar’s smoke, forming a harmonious pairing instead of clashing.

There isn’t a universally accepted definition for cigar blend whiskey, referred to by various names like "cigar cut." Generally, these whiskies undergo cask finishing processes, often in barrels that previously contained Armagnac, Cognac, or sherry. The base can be derived from bourbon, Scotch, rye, or a mix of whiskey types, and it doesn’t even have to be whiskey, as the category can include brandy.

Many cigar blends utilize secondary maturation in unique cask types. For instance, Starlight’s cigar release features aging in Amburana wood, which Huber notes pairs excellently with Nicaraguan cigars due to shared spice notes.

The concept of cigar blend whiskey is said to have roots in brandy, where the idea originated before making its way to American whiskey. Nancy Fraley, a master blender at Jos. A. Magnus, is credited with popularizing the cigar blend bourbon in the U.S. but acknowledges past influences from her time in the brandy sector.

Fraley’s first blend was inspired by a moment of smoking a pipe on her deck. She crafted the idea around pairing whiskies with cigars, akin to enjoying chocolate and peanut butter together. The result was a cigar blend bourbon which boasts notes of tobacco, baking spices, vanilla, and dried fruits from its aging in Armagnac, Cognac, and sherry casks.

The creation of a successful cigar blend involves both art and science. Fraley points out that brandy carries more fatty acids than bourbon, resulting in a particular flavor profile that complements cigars beautifully. This unique blend of flavors is careful to not simply capitalize on novelty; it aims to enhance the overall experience of drinking.

Despite the growing popularity of the cigar blend category, the nuances of each expression can differ dramatically among distilleries. Some brands, according to Fraley, may not fully grasp the principles behind their blends, leading to less effective pairings.

Amanda Beckworth from Virginia Distillery Co. shares the sentiment that while there is room for innovative interpretations of cigar blends, honoring the tradition of the category remains vital. Their Cigar Blend employs additional aging in a variety of casks, enriching the offering with complex flavors.

Enjoying a cigar blend doesn’t necessitate pairing it with a cigar. It can complement desserts or be utilized in cocktails. Beckworth points to dessert pairings like chocolate truffles or suggests cocktails like a Black Manhattan featuring cigar blends for a rich experience.

Huber emphasizes the importance of education around cigar and whiskey pairings, fostering a deeper appreciation for both. The idea is to understand and enjoy the interaction between cigars and whiskey beyond simply selecting a bottle.

For those intrigued by cigar blend whiskey, the journey involves exploring a unique and immersive interplay of flavors, whether with or without an accompanying cigar.

I’m excited to share some recent innovations in the whiskey world, highlighting the latest offerings from Jack Daniel’s, Hard Truth, and a collaborative effort among Tennessee distilleries.

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey

Jack Daniel’s has finally made its American Single Malt Whiskey available nationwide. Initially released for select duty-free stores, this whiskey has garnered attention since the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau recognized American Single Malt as a new whiskey category. This limited-availability product boasts a mash bill made entirely from malted barley, distilled in Lynchburg, and aged in charred American oak barrels. It’s finished in used casks that previously held oloroso sherry.

With a gentle 45% ABV, this whiskey offers fruity notes of dark chocolate and berries on the nose. The palate features bitter cocoa and dark fruits, with a finish highlighting oak and sherry nuances. It’s being sold in 1-liter bottles for around $74.99, making it more accessible than previous years.

Hard Truth’s Dark Roast Rye

Hard Truth Distilling Co. from Nashville, Indiana, is known for its innovative approaches to whiskey-making. Their latest release, the Master Distiller’s Reserve Dark Roast Rye, is a well-crafted blend of chocolate malt rye and caramel malt rye, distilled in one season and aged for at least four years. Bottled at 100 proof, this rye encapsulates a complex profile, featuring strong roast and chocolate notes alongside traditional rye spiciness.

With its compelling flavor of fudge brownie and dark roast coffee, this release is perfect for the anticipated cooler autumn evenings, ready to complement a cigar by the fire.

The Tennessee Collective American Whiskey

The third new product comes from a project involving 11 members of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. They collaborated at Old Glory Distilling Co. to craft a blended whiskey that captures the essence of Tennessee’s whiskey-making talent. The second iteration of The Tennessee Collective has been released as a limited-edition cask-strength whiskey.

This whiskey is characterized by immediate oaky and nutty notes, followed by caramel and spicy vanilla from the aging process. This cohesive blend maintains a balanced flavor profile while inviting exploration with each sip. Available at an SRP of $79.99, it’s a unique way to experience a slice of the state’s distilling heritage.

In summary, these new releases reflect the creativity and dedication of Tennessee’s distilleries in navigating the evolving landscape of spirits. Whether you’re a fan of Jack Daniel’s unique offerings, Hard Truth’s innovative experiments, or the collaborative charm of The Tennessee Collective, there’s something exciting to discover.

Just in time for Halloween, Macabre Spirits, the horror-themed alcohol brand created by Matthew Lillard and Justin Ware’s Find Familiar Spirits, has launched a new flavor of Ghost Face Vodka: Blood Orange. This follows the success of the original vodka, which sold out shortly after its release in February.

The new Blood Orange flavor is aimed at the horror fan demographic who may have missed out on the first release. In addition to the vodka, a Ghost Face Blood Orange Killer Collection box set will be available online starting September 29. Details about what’s included in the box set are still under wraps, but it is expected to be similar to the original, which featured an autographed bottle, pins, rocks glasses, and more.

Ghost Face Vodka Blood Orange is crafted from 100% non-GMO potatoes, creating a gluten-free spirit that boasts a smooth texture and rich flavor. It is infused with a mix of pressed citrus fruits, including blood oranges, and undergoes a meticulous fermentation and distillation process to ensure a clean finish.

Matthew Lillard expressed excitement about the new release, saying, "We were blown away by the response to the first box, but disappointed so many of our fans weren’t able to get their hands on one. If you weren’t able to score the original, we’re confident the sequel won’t disappoint."

For those interested in trying the new flavor, it will be available in stores nationwide, alongside the original flavor, making it more accessible to a larger audience of horror and vodka enthusiasts.

Costco’s Kirkland Signature Vodka has gained popularity for its smoothness, drinkability, and affordability, making it an excellent base for a variety of cocktails. Priced at around $13.69 for a 1.75-liter bottle in some regions, this vodka can be stored in the refrigerator to help maintain quality. Here’s a rundown of five cocktails that pair perfectly with Kirkland Signature Vodka.

Bloody Mary

A classic brunch staple, the Bloody Mary is a delightful mix of vodka, tomato juice, and an array of spices and garnishes. The muted flavor of Costco’s vodka allows the bolder ingredients—like hot sauce, pickle juice, and Worcestershire sauce—to shine. For a spicy twist, consider infusing your vodka with hot peppers using a sous vide process to elevate your Bloody Mary experience.

Moscow Mule

This refreshing cocktail combines vodka with ginger beer and lime juice, ideally served in a chilled copper mug. The mild profile of Kirkland Signature Vodka complements the spiciness of ginger beer, making it a trendy choice. Interestingly, although it’s named after the Russian spirit, the Moscow Mule originated in the U.S. in the 1940s as a marketing ploy.

Espresso Martini

Perfect for brunch, the espresso martini is a delightful blend of vodka, coffee, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup. The Kirkland vodka’s smooth texture enhances the rich flavors of the cocktail. You can personalize the drink by adjusting the amount of coffee liqueur or adding spices like cinnamon for warmth or hazelnut liqueur for a nutty flavor.

Lemon Drop

This sweet and sour cocktail, reminiscent of candy, is crafted with vodka, fresh lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup, often served with a sugared rim. While triple sec is standard, you can also use Kirkland’s orange liqueur to create a richer flavor profile.

Dirty Shirley

A grown-up version of the beloved childhood mocktail, the Dirty Shirley features vodka mixed with grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and garnished with maraschino cherries. The combination of fruity sweetness and bubbly carbonation creates a refreshing experience, with Kirkland Vodka providing a smooth background that allows the other flavors to shine.

These cocktails showcase the versatility of Kirkland Signature Vodka, making it a go-to option for any home bartender looking to craft delicious drinks without breaking the bank.

Bayou Rum has announced its partnership with Crescent Crown Distributing as its distribution partner in Louisiana, marking a significant step for the distillery. The first shipments of Bayou Rum commenced on September 1, 2026, with Crescent Crown, a family-owned distributor since 1982, operating in multiple locations in Louisiana.

Crescent Crown Distributing serves around 8,000 retail and on-premise accounts across South Louisiana and has been expanding its portfolio to include spirits since 2023. This partnership signifies a return to local roots for Bayou Rum, which is distilled in Lacassine, Louisiana from locally grown sugarcane and molasses sourced from M.A. Patout & Son, the oldest family-owned sugar mill in the U.S.

The new distribution agreement arrives alongside a major rebranding and product overhaul for Bayou Rum, which includes an updated recipe for its flagship expressions—Bayou White and Bayou Spiced—designed to enhance flavor and overall character. The brand has also implemented a modernized production line capable of filling 3,600 bottles per hour and repositioned its shelf space to compete more effectively against imported rums.

Angelo Torre, President of Louisiana Spirits LLC, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, "Bayou Rum is proudly born and raised in Louisiana, so entrusting our brand to a Louisiana-based distributor makes this partnership with Crescent Crown especially meaningful." Similarly, Chris Bourg, President of Crescent Crown Distributing, emphasized the honor of adding Bayou Rum to their portfolio and the shared Louisiana heritage between both entities.

Going forward, Bayou Rum plans to expand its distribution beyond Louisiana, aiming to establish a broader presence across several southern states with further developments expected in the fall.