Pécharmant – The Best Alternative to Bordeaux Wine
With a rich history spanning centuries, the Pécharmant region is renowned for producing some of the most distinctive wines in France. Nestled in the Dordogne Valley, Pécharmant’s unique terroir gives birth to robust red wines that are as enigmatic as the region itself. But amidst this wine-rich land, one name stands out – Château Beauportail. […]
Chilling Red Wine: Why Gen Z’s Summer Sip is Socially Acceptable
On a recent Wednesday evening, wine enthusiasts convened in south Manchester for a unique tasting event dedicated to chilled red wine, defying traditional norms that insist red wine must be served at room temperature. The event, priced at £44 per ticket, featured wines that were all served straight from the fridge.
Henry Alassane, owner of Cru Manchester, noted that he has been enjoying chilled red wine for years and recently observed a significant rise in customers requesting it. Holly Willcocks, who owns Half Cut wine bar in London, echoed this sentiment, stating younger drinkers are showing a growing interest in chilled red wines, reminiscent of last year’s trend toward orange wines.
Interestingly, many have started popping red wine in their fridges at home. Notably, searches for chilled red wine surged on Ocado compared to the previous year, and Aldi introduced a red wine with a label that changes color when chilled properly.
Miles Beale, CEO of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, remarked on the summer’s hot weather and a shift away from outdated wine myths as key factors driving this trend. According to an Ocado survey from June, 56% of Gen Z and young millennial respondents reported having chilled red wine or red wine with ice during summertime.
Dominic Lee, a 26-year-old, was introduced to chilled red wine in trendy London bars and has since embraced it at home, finding it smoother and less heavy—ideal for hot days. Emma Moore, who conducts wine tastings in York, also advocates for chilled reds. She describes them as “rosé for grown-ups” and includes them in her tastings to the surprise of her clients.
As temperatures rise across Britain, chilled red wine is increasingly appealing. Willcocks emphasized that this might be the easiest way to enjoy red wine during a heatwave, a sentiment shared by Alassane, who prefers it over typical white or rosé wines as they tend to carry more flavor.
Sam Colenutt, who first experienced chilled sparkling red wine at an Australian vineyard, initially hesitated but found it much smoother when chilled. He now believes chilling is the best way to enjoy red wine in the heat.
Experts suggest cooling red wine for about 20 minutes to an hour before serving, rather than keeping it in the fridge overnight. According to wine connoisseur Filippo Bartolotta, if the wine becomes too cold, body heat will help warm it back up, but if it’s too hot, there’s little to be done. He also advises that a quick fix to lower the temperature is to add a large ice cube for a minute and then remove it.
When selecting a red to chill, lighter-bodied and fruitier varieties with lower tannins are preferred. Moore recommends options like Pinot Noir, Zweigelt, and Gamay for chilling, while Dominic favors reds from cooler climates such as Austria or Germany, as well as English wines which can be tart.
The age-old belief that red wine must be served at room temperature is being challenged as wine experts recognize that this tradition stems from the cooler conditions of cellars. Temperatures above 18°C can spoil finer wines, prompting Willcocks to suggest chilling reds for at least ten minutes before serving. As such, it seems chilling red wine is becoming more recognized as the "correct service" for certain wines rather than simply a trend.
Unpacking the Secrets Behind Costco’s Low Beer Prices: Here’s Why They Can Afford It
Costco has become a favorite for many shoppers due to its significant discounts on a wide range of products, especially beer. While beer is not available in every state, most do allow sales at Costco, making it an appealing option for those looking to buy in bulk. The key to Costco’s lower beer prices is its operational model, which relies on thinner profit margins than typical grocery stores.
This competitive pricing structure raises a question: why don’t more grocery stores adopt a similar approach? The main difference lies in Costco’s membership requirement, which provides the ability to offer lower prices. While Sam’s Club follows a similar model, other supermarkets cannot compete with Costco’s wholesale rates while maintaining an open shopping environment for all customers. Interestingly, in some states, purchasing alcohol at Costco is possible without a membership.
When it comes to beer selection, Costco doesn’t disappoint. Their offerings can vary by location, but in many places, shoppers can find Kirkland Signature Lager, brewed by Deschutes Brewery. This light beer is a great choice for casual summer sipping. Additionally, Costco stocks a variety of popular name-brand beers like Coors Light, Modelo, and Heineken, as well as multiple craft options.
For those who appreciate consistency in their beer choices, the varying stock at different Costco locations might be a minor headache. However, for adventurous beer lovers, the opportunity to discover new and affordable options is a delightful reason to explore.
For more information on beer pricing and selections at Costco, check out The Takeout’s original article.
Savoring Summer: A Nostalgic Watermelon Drink with a Vodka Kick
If you’ve ever enjoyed a watermelon filled with vodka during your college days, this grown-up twist on that experience might be just what you need. It’s a refreshing summer drink that features frozen watermelon blended with vodka, elevating the simple pleasure of a classic summer fruit.
Creating this watermelon vodka slush is quite easy, although it does take some time for the watermelon to freeze. You can start by chopping a ripe watermelon into chunks and spreading those on a baking tray to freeze. Once they’re solid, blend the frozen watermelon with vodka until it reaches your preferred slush consistency. For an even colder drink, chilling the vodka beforehand is recommended. If you’re not in the mood for the hassle, using store-bought watermelon juice with ice and vodka is a quick alternative.
While some might add sugar, a ripe summer watermelon is usually sweet enough on its own. However, if you prefer a sweeter drink, a spoonful of sugar or honey can enhance the flavor. Alternatively, you can substitute some of the vodka with a sweet sparkling wine like Prosecco.
Tips for the Perfect Slushie
When selecting a watermelon, ensure that you remove any seeds to avoid an odd texture in your drink. Garnishing with mint and a lime wedge can beautifully complement the slushie. If you’re looking for a greater depth of flavor, consider blending in some mint or basil leaves along with a splash of lime juice.
Vodka’s neutral taste pairs well with watermelon, allowing the fruit’s sweetness to shine and softening vodka’s sharper notes. If vodka doesn’t appeal to you, experimenting with white rum or tequila can create a delightful watermelon cocktail reminiscent of a margarita.
With summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to try this nostalgic and refreshing drink, or explore other watermelon recipes to celebrate the season.
A Moment for the Mojito: Top 5 Rums to Elevate Your Summer Cocktail Experience
Mojitos, a refreshing cocktail made from muddled mint, lime, rum, and a hint of sugar, are the quintessential drink for warm weather. As National Mojito Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate this crisp, herbal beverage all summer long.
According to Giancarlo Morales, a principal bartender at Fool’s Errand in Boston, a well-crafted mojito is about balance rather than being overly sweet. The cocktail serves as a versatile canvas where different rums can add unique flavors. Morales suggests that high-quality rum not only contributes alcohol but also enhances the character of the drink. A Jamaican rum can introduce tropical notes, while a cleaner Spanish-style rum keeps it crisp.
Here are five rums to consider for your mojito this summer:
1. Plantation 3 Stars Rum
This flavorful white rum blends Caribbean traditions from Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad. It has complex notes of mango, papaya, and vanilla, ensuring your mojito shines through the ice and soda.
2. Bacardí Superior Rum
Known for its rounded mouthfeel and crisp finish, Bacardí Superior is a go-to choice for a classic mojito. This rum has made a name for itself as a foundational ingredient in many traditional recipes.
3. Copalli Organic Cacao Rum
This unique Belizean rum incorporates cacao nibs, giving your mojito a slightly bittersweet profile. Its blend of mint and cacao creates a deliciously unexpected drink.
4. Palm Republic Silver Rum
This blend, distilled in Jamaica and the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers subtle notes of banana and sugarcane, creating a softly layered mojito. It’s a newer brand that can help you impress friends this summer.
5. Oxbow Barrel Aged Straight Rum
For those who appreciate an aged rum, Oxbow’s expression offers a molasses-forward flavor that changes the game for traditional mojitos. The aging process enhances its sweetness, allowing you to reduce added sugar and savor the drink in the evenings.
Experimenting with different rums not only revitalizes the classic mojito but also allows you to tailor the flavor profile to your liking. Whether sipping poolside or at an evening gathering, these variations promise a delightful cocktail experience.
Sip Into Summer: The 14 Best Campari Cocktails You Need to Try!
Campari has made a lasting impression in the cocktail world for over 150 years, beginning in the vibrant cafes of 1860s Milan. This bitter liqueur, with its iconic crimson hue originally derived from crushed insects, has shaped the aperitivo culture, marking various classic cocktails like the Negroni, Americano, and Garibaldi. Over the years, it has transformed into a global empire, contributing significantly to the cocktail scene, including a series of innovative recipes that enhance its flavor profile.
Here are 14 notable Campari cocktails, showcasing expert recipes that you can try at home or enjoy when dining out.
1. Negroni
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Directions: Mix ingredients with ice and strain into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
2. Café Negroni
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Orange peel
- Directions: Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with orange peel.
3. Boulevardier
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz rye whiskey
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Directions: Combine all ingredients with ice, stir, and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
4. Suy tu Duena Cocktail
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz Sotol
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 0.75 oz Campari
- 0.25 oz Primo Aperitivo
- 3 dashes grapefruit bitters
- 0.75 oz melted coconut oil
- Directions: Mix and stir all ingredients, then double-strain into a glass.
5. La Esquina Roja
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz raspberry syrup
- 0.25 oz Primo Aperitivo
- 0.25 oz Campari
- Sparkling wine
- Grapefruit peel
- Directions: Shake all ingredients except sparkling wine. Pour into a glass filled with ice and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with grapefruit zest.
6. The Jungle Fowl
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Plantation Stiggins Fancy Pineapple Rum
- 0.5 oz Ming River Baijiu
- 0.75 oz Campari
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz El Guapo Orgeat
- 0.25 oz Cherry Heering
- 0.25 oz Demerara Syrup
- 4 dashes MSG saline solution
- Directions: Combine ingredients in a shaker, shake vigorously, and serve in a Hurricane glass with tiki garnishes.
7. San Remo Cocktail
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz St. Germain
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1 oz Campari
- 0.5 oz bourbon
- Juice of 0.5 lime
- Orange twist for garnish
- Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
8. Bitter French
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz Plymouth gin
- 0.25 oz Campari
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Sparkling wine
- Directions: Shake gin, lemon juice, Campari, and simple syrup. Strain into a chilled flute and top with sparkling wine.
9. Americano
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Campari
- 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
- Chilled soda water
- Orange twist for garnish
- Directions: Mix Campari and vermouth over ice, top with soda water, and garnish.
10. Garibaldi
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Campari
- 4 oz fresh orange juice
- Directions: Combine Campari with orange juice in a glass over ice and stir gently.
11. Campari Spritz
- Ingredients:
- 3 oz dry Prosecco
- 2 oz Campari
- 1 oz club soda
- Orange slice for garnish
- Directions: Pour Campari into an ice-filled glass, add Prosecco and soda, and garnish.
12. Milanese Gin and Tonic
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz London dry gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 4 oz tonic water
- Orange slice for garnish
- Directions: Mix gin, Campari, and tonic in a glass with ice. Garnish with an orange slice.
13. Pegu Club 1880
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz London dry gin
- 0.75 oz Campari
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- Dash of Angostura bitters
- Dash of orange bitters
- Lime wedge for garnish
- Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and garnish with lime.
14. Campari Cosmo
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz citrus vodka
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 splash triple sec
- 1 oz orange juice
- Orange slice for garnish
- Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish and serve cold.
These drinks highlight Campari’s versatility and unique bitter-sweet flavor, perfect for any occasion from a casual summer evening to an elegant dinner party.
Brewing Excitement: How the World Cup and Qingdao’s Beer Culture Create the Perfect Match
With many World Cup matches airing in the early hours across North America, Qingdao’s late-night beer houses and seafood stalls have become go-to spots for soccer fans. The coastal city in Shandong province is bustling with supporters gathered around screens, toasting with freshly poured Tsingtao beer accompanied by delicious seafood. With cheers of joy erupting for every goal, the atmosphere is electric, filled with the enticing aromas of malt, grilled skewers, and the ocean breeze.
The World Cup has reinvigorated Qingdao’s summer nightlife, blending soccer with its rich beer culture. Bars are filled with diverse groups watching the games, like German expatriate Lucas Schmidt, who appreciates the unique beer experience. Having lived in Qingdao for three years, Schmidt was first introduced to Tsingtao beer in Germany and appreciates its refreshing taste. Since moving to the city, he has enjoyed the locally brewed draft and raw ale, with the latter being a cloudy, fresh option that offers a more intense flavor profile.
Wang Gen, who owns a bar in Qingdao, has noticed that customer traffic increases by around 30% during major soccer events. He highlights a shift among consumers toward valuing freshness, quality, and the overall drinking experience rather than just price.
For residents like 42-year-old Zhang Kai, beer is woven into daily life, exemplified by the tradition of buying "bag beer" after work—fresh beer is carried in transparent bags while bikers and pedestrians make their way home. This custom has become an iconic part of Qingdao’s culture, symbolizing both a beverage choice and a social connector.
Qingdao’s identity is deeply linked to beer, reflected in its annual festivals and renowned brewery districts, making it one of China’s premier culinary destinations.
Crushing It: How Canned Cocktails Dominated British Summertime
One Sunday morning last October, Scott Gibbins was taken aback when he opened Facebook to find photos of a local park littered with debris left by a large gathering of youths the night before. Seeing the aftermath prompted him and fellow volunteers from the South Leicestershire Litter Wombles to take action. Gibbins, who has a reputation for his litter cleaning efforts, noted that he collected an astounding 1,600 bags of trash in 2025 alone.
On that fateful day, alongside discarded energy drink cans, Gibbins encountered approximately 700 nitrous oxide canisters, commonly used for their fleeting highs. Among the waste, he was also met with unfamiliar items—small, round containers that at first glance seemed to contain juice. Upon closer inspection, these turned out to be BuzzBallz, ready-to-drink cocktails that are rapidly becoming a staple for Gen Z party-goers. Unfortunately, their unique combination of plastic and aluminum also presents recycling challenges.
BuzzBallz, created by Texas schoolteacher Merrilee Kick, is now recognized as the fastest-growing alcohol brand in the UK, with almost 1,000% sales growth in the last year. These 200ml cocktails pack 13.5% alcohol by volume and come in various flavors, making them popular for their vibrant branding that emphasizes that "Life’s too short for boring drinks."
The rise of BuzzBallz is reflective of a broader shift in drinking habits over the last decade, moving from traditional cocktails served in bars to convenience-oriented, pre-mixed options that can be found at music festivals and supermarkets alike. This trend is observed not just among youths but across various demographics, signaling a growing acceptance and popularity of ready-to-drink cocktails.
Despite some criticism of this canned cocktail trend as being a youth-driven approach to drinking, evidence shows that these beverages are contributing positively to the broader alcohol market that has faced challenges post-pandemic. Sales in this category are booming while other segments, such as beer and wine, are seeing declines.
Retailers like Tesco have reported that the RTD (ready-to-drink) segment has doubled in size over recent months, driven by factors such as affordability during the cost of living crisis and a desire among consumers for novelty. BuzzBallz and others like Moth are leading within this category, with Moth co-founder Rob Wallis noting a shift away from subdued drinking habits and a ready desire for unique cocktail experiences.
Established retailers have adapted too—Marks & Spencer, for example, pioneered the introduction of gin in cans and reports that its Hugo Spritz has emerged as a runaway bestseller, demonstrating consumers’ eagerness for new cocktail flavor options.
Overall, despite some skepticism from bartenders and cocktail purists, the uptake of quality canned cocktails indicates a market expanding towards convenience without sacrificing taste. With RTDs evolving beyond simple mixes to include complex cocktail profiles, they offer a middle ground that appeals to both casual drinkers and aficionados. As the market continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: today’s consumers are keen to indulge in unique, flavorful drinks that fit seamlessly into their diverse lifestyles.
Reduce Whiskey Bitterness: A Simple Pantry Ingredient Trick
Whiskey is often considered an acquired taste, appreciated for its complex flavors but sometimes criticized for its bitterness. For those who find whiskey’s strong notes a bit overwhelming, there’s a straightforward remedy that you can easily apply whether you’re at home or in a bar: a touch of sugar. According to experts Rodrigo Urraca and Eric van Beek from Handshake Speakeasy, sugar can help mellow out the bitter taste of whiskey.
If you’re at a bar, opt for whiskey-based cocktails that incorporate syrups or other sweet ingredients. For home experiments, simple additions like a sugar rim or a spoonful of sugar can help. For a more adventurous twist, consider blending in canned or fresh fruits to your whiskey.
Alternatively, you can choose to enjoy whiskey neat and pair it with something sweeter on the side, like peanut butter or chocolate. This pairing technique can help train your palate to appreciate the rich flavors of whiskey while making its bitterness more tolerable. As Urraca and van Beek suggest, achieving balance is key to enhancing your drinking experience.
Sugar isn’t the only kitchen staple that can enhance your cocktails. Salt can also play a crucial role in elevating flavors. A tiny pinch of salt can make a cocktail come alive, adding depth without overwhelming the palate. The same principle applies to other salty ingredients, such as soy sauce, which can add complexity.
However, caution is advised when incorporating salt, especially in drinks meant to lessen whiskey’s bitterness. Salt pairs excellently with tequila, enhancing its flavor profile without masking it. For example, a salt rim can significantly elevate the flavor of margaritas.
By applying these tips to your whiskey experience, you can improve your enjoyment of this complex spirit. Whether you’re mixing at home or ordering at a bar, remember that small adjustments can lead to a more enjoyable drink.
For further exploration of whiskey and cocktails, check out:
Discover the Elusive Midwest Beer You Can Only Find in Wisconsin
If you’re in the Midwest, a visit to Wisconsin promises delightful experiences, particularly for beer enthusiasts eager to taste Spotted Cow, the flagship brew from New Glarus Brewing Co. Known for its immense popularity, Spotted Cow is a farmhouse ale that has become symbolic of the state, rivaling even the most prominent national brands like Busch Light and Miller.
New Glarus Brewing Co., founded by Dan and Deb Carey in 1993, is unique as it only sells its beer within Wisconsin. This limitation isn’t the result of a lack of ambition but is primarily about maintaining quality control and nurturing a community-centered ethos. The decision to keep their beloved Spotted Cow—or any beer—exclusive to Wisconsin stems from the brewery’s commitment to local sourcing and supporting the state’s economy. In fact, almost all production materials, right down to the cans, are sourced from within the state.
Although Spotted Cow was briefly available in Illinois from 1998 to 2003, overwhelming demand forced the brewery to revert to an "Only in Wisconsin" policy to sustain quality and manage production. Deb Carey has noted that her philosophy around food reflects a belief that it should have a regional character—something that resonates deeply with the brewery’s mission.
Spotted Cow, inspired by traditional German farmhouse ales, is crafted according to the German Reinheitsgebot purity laws, using just four ingredients: yeast, hops, water, and malted barley. Its unfiltered nature contributes to its complexity, presenting a well-balanced profile that’s both light and subtly sweet with a hint of sourness. This accessibility, combined with its nuanced flavor, resonates with both casual drinkers and craft beer lovers alike.
Fans of Spotted Cow express their admiration passionately online, with many lamenting its unavailability outside Wisconsin. Some describe it as the "best easy-drinking beer," perfect for summer patios. Its exceptional balance and approachable flavor profile contribute to its esteemed reputation and cult-like following.
In sum, New Glarus Brewing Co. and its flagship Spotted Cow represent a local treasure cherished by Wisconsinites and craft beer aficionados alike. The only question remains: will you make the pilgrimage to taste this acclaimed ale?
Exploring Culinary Delights: A Food and Wine Lover’s Journey Through Bilbao, Bordeaux, and Beyond
Traveling through northern Spain and southwestern France offers a delightful experience, especially for food and wine enthusiasts. The vibrant culture and rich history of this region entice visitors to explore its culinary gems.
A visit to Bilbao, known for its stunning architecture and the iconic Guggenheim Museum, is a great start. The city is famed for its Basque cuisine, inviting visitors to enjoy pintxos — bite-sized snacks traditionally served with drinks. Culinary delights can also be found in nearby San Sebastián, where the picturesque La Concha Beach and vibrant atmosphere enhance the dining experience.
Crossing into France, Bordeaux awaits with its lush vineyards and world-renowned wines. The region offers various wine tours, allowing you to sample some of the finest varieties and enjoy beautiful landscapes.
Throughout this journey, travelers can indulge in diverse local dishes, learn about the history embedded in the cuisine, and immerse themselves in cultural landmarks. This corner of Europe promises to be a feast for both the palate and the senses, creating unforgettable memories for any visitor.