October 2025 32
Sip into Summer: A Weeklong Sotol Festival Takes Over NYC with Exclusive Cocktails at Superbueno, Dante, and Beyond
Move over, mezcal—New York City is about to dive into the world of sotol, an earthy spirit hailing from northern Mexico. From October 6 to 12, the city will celebrate Sotol Week, showcasing this unique distillate with cocktail specials, tastings, and various events.
Over 70 bars and restaurants will feature cocktails made with sotol, including refreshing highballs and smoky stirred drinks. Noteworthy venues like Superbueno, Dante, and Cosme will serve up new creations, showcasing the spirit’s versatility. Expect everything from vegetal martinis to innovative spins on margaritas.
The initiative for Sotol Week emerged when Casa Lotos teamed up with José María “Chema” Dondé Rangel, founder of Panorama Mezcal, to create an event dedicated to promoting this lesser-known spirit. It aims to broaden sotol’s appeal and secure its status among the prominent spirits globally.
Kicking off with a distillation demonstration at the Consulate General of Mexico led by fourth-generation sotolero Gerardo Ruelas, the week will also include educational panels, culinary collaborations, pop-up tastings, and live music to celebrate the rich culture of northern Mexico.
Though sotol may be new to many in New York, it has a long-standing tradition in the spirits sector, distilled for centuries in regions like Chihuahua and Durango. Made from the wild-harvested Dasylirion plant, this rustic spirit is emblematic of the rugged landscape where it thrives, taking over a decade for each plant to mature.
For those eager to explore, Sotol Week presents an excellent chance to discover this untamed spirit, with 70 venues presenting varied and exciting offerings throughout the week.
6 Unexpected Ingredients to Elevate Your Fall Cocktails—Plus Tips on How to Use Them!
Stop relying solely on pumpkin spice for your autumn cocktails! While seasonal favorites like warm apple cider and cranberry juice have their place, it’s time to explore unexpected flavors that can elevate your fall drinks. Here are some surprising ingredients suggested by cocktail experts to help you refresh your autumn cocktail repertoire.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are making their way into fall cocktails in innovative ways, moving beyond the traditional Bloody Mary. Their mellow acidity complements various drink profiles, especially when using sun-dried tomatoes. Bartenders like Gianluca Passuello from BarChef New York emphasize their umami and earthy depth, which balances richer spirits.
Heirloom Garden Cocktail:
- .25 oz. celery bitters
- .25 oz. roasted chicory maraschino
- .50 oz. sweet vermouth
- .50 oz. Campari
- 1 oz. sun-dried tomato infused Bombay London Dry gin
Combine the ingredients and strain. Garnish creatively with dried heirloom tomato and fresh herbs.
2. Spices Beyond the Basics
Instead of the usual cinnamon and nutmeg, consider using spices like cumin, caraway, and cardamom, which add unique depth to your cocktails. The Charred Strawberry, for instance, reimagines the classic summer ingredient with an unexpected fall twist using these complex flavors.
Charred Strawberry Cocktail:
- .125 oz. Laphroaig Whiskey
- .25 oz. caraway maraschino
- .25 oz. TCS Bitters
- .25 oz. roasted chicory maraschino
- .25 oz. star anise syrup
- .50 oz. strawberry and elderberry bitters
- 1.50 oz. strawberry infused Bombay London Dry Gin
3. Beets
Beets’ sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant color make them perfect for fall drinks. Infusing spirits with fresh beets or using beet juice can add significant character. Aidan Bowie from The Dead Rabbit has perfected a modern Old Fashioned using beets, showcasing their versatility.
4. Herbal Infusions
Herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme can impart complexity and unique aromas to cocktails. Bartenders like Gerardo Romero have incorporated local herbs into their drinks, enhancing both flavor and cultural identity.
Brujo Verde Cocktail:
- 2 oz. mezcal infused with hoja santa
- 1 oz. fresh lime juice
- ¾ oz. fresh orange juice
- ½ oz. agave syrup
Infuse the mezcal with hoja santa leaves for at least six hours before crafting this aromatic drink.
5. Mushrooms
Mushrooms can add a surprising umami twist to cocktails. The Butter Mushroom Old Fashioned from Handshake Speakeasy highlights the deep, rich flavor of buttered mushrooms infused in bourbon. This unique approach creates a creamy and smooth drink perfect for fall.
Gallura’s Harvest Cocktail:
- 1.25 oz Calvados
- .5 oz Lustau brandy
- .5 oz Joseph Cartron T Thé Noir Fumé
- .5 oz oloroso sherry
- 1 dropper MSG
- 5-6 dashes mushroom bitters
6. Specialty Teas
Unique teas offer a nuanced flavor profile; bartenders are opting for bold selections like Turkish tea. The cocktail Turkish Tea Manhattan combines complex flavors with infused vermouth, creating a delectable autumn drink.
Turkish Tea Manhattan:
- Maker’s Mark Bourbon
- Averna Amaro
- Black tea infused Cocchi di Torino
- Orange bitters
Explore these innovative ingredients to bring a new twist to your fall cocktails and impress your guests with your mixology skills!
Revitalizing History: Medford Wine and Cheese Bar Transforms Downtown Landmark
MEDFORD, Wis. — Just two years ago, a historic building on Medford’s main street was in disrepair. Now, it has been transformed into The Prickly Pear, a vibrant wine and cheese bar that opened last year after two years of restoration work.
John Gasek, a Missouri native who moved to Medford in 2020, is the owner of this new establishment. He and his husband had the idea of opening a wine bar after finding that the community lacked such a venue. “We started doing some research and started thinking maybe a wine bar would be cool because that’s something that Medford didn’t really have,” Gasek explained. “Then we just kind of tossed it all together where we have some wine and cheese and books.”
Originally, the building served as a bank and still features its original vaults. It has a rich history, having also been home to a newspaper and an immigration office that assisted many German immigrants in the area. Gasek noted that visitors occasionally mention their family history, recalling how their ancestors learned English in the upper floors of the building.
However, by the time Gasek purchased the property in 2022, it was in a state of disrepair. “Oh boy, it was horrible,” he recalled. “I mean the windows were falling out onto the sidewalks and you could stand in the basement and see through the whole building and see the sky.” The structure, approximately 140 years old, had suffered fire damage, water damage, and was infested with pests.
Transforming the building into a functioning wine and cheese bar took intense effort over a two-year period. Gasek now offers local and international wines, a selection of cheeses, a small menu, and a cozy reading nook. He believes that wine and books complement each other perfectly, saying, “There is nothing quite like sitting down with a book and a good glass of wine and just relaxing and forgetting about the world for a bit.”
10 Best Substitutes for Red Wine Vinegar: Enhance Your Cooking with These Flavorful Alternatives
Determining which types of vinegar to keep in your pantry can feel overwhelming due to the wide variety available, each with a distinct flavor profile that can significantly impact your recipes. Among these, red wine vinegar is particularly essential for those who regularly prepare dressings and marinades.
Red wine vinegar is derived from fermented red wine, aged to a specific acidity—typically around 7%. This tangy, slightly fruity vinegar enhances the flavors of red meats, vegetables, beans, soups, and gazpachos. Although it is a staple found in most grocery stores, it’s important to know that you can find various substitutes if you run out during cooking.
Here are some suitable alternatives to red wine vinegar that can still bring that needed acidity and flavor to your dishes:
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White Wine Vinegar: This is the easiest swap as it’s similar in acidity and density. Use a 1:1 ratio, keeping in mind it won’t add the same color as red wine vinegar, but it maintains a comparable flavor.
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Red Wine: Although not a perfect substitute due to the lack of acidity, red wine can provide a deep flavor. Use half the amount of red wine compared to what you would use for red wine vinegar and adjust to taste.
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Sherry Vinegar: A complex flavor from fermented sherry wine, sherry vinegar can add a depth similar to red wine vinegar. Substitute at a 1:1 ratio, but consider reducing other sweet ingredients in your recipe.
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Balsamic Vinegar: A sweeter option that works well in salads and marinades. Use the same amount as red wine vinegar, but reduce other sweet components in your recipe to balance the flavors.
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Mix of Red Wine and White Vinegar: Combine equal parts red wine and white vinegar for a quick homemade alternative.
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Apple Cider Vinegar: While fruitier, apple cider vinegar can substitute in dressings. Use three parts apple cider vinegar to one part red wine for the best effect.
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Lemon or Lime Juice: These citruses can add acidity to your dish but should be used carefully as they can easily overpower flavors. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
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Rice Vinegar: Milder than red wine vinegar, it can be suitable for certain recipes, especially those with strong flavors. Replace it in equal parts but be ready to add more if needed.
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Champagne Vinegar: Slightly milder, champagne vinegar can work in light dressings or sauces. Substitute at a 1:1 ratio.
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Tamarind Paste: With its sour flavor, tamarind paste can be a strong alternative for marinades. Use sparingly, as it can be overpowering.
These substitutions will help maintain the essence of your dishes, ensuring you never miss out on flavor – even when your red wine vinegar runs out.
North Olmsted Police Blotter: OVI Suspect Confesses to Vodka Consumption Before Two-Vehicle Crash
Officers in North Olmsted responded to reports of a motor vehicle accident involving a Ford car and a Nissan SUV at the intersection of Porter Road and Mill Road on September 16. Upon arrival, both drivers claimed they had the green light, with the SUV traveling northbound and the car attempting to turn east onto Mill Road.
The driver of the car exhibited signs of alcohol consumption, such as the smell of liquor, slow and slurred speech, and glossy eyes. He seemed to be attempting to mask the scent of alcohol by smoking cigarettes. Despite his denials of drinking, he agreed to perform field sobriety tests but struggled, losing his balance and saying he was "scared." He ultimately admitted to consuming a $4.99 bottle of vodka. A breath alcohol test later revealed a level of 0.218, leading to charges for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and other violations.
In a separate incident on September 15, officers were called to Dillard’s department store regarding a shoplifting complaint. Security personnel apprehended two women after they were recorded stealing items, including sunglasses, a necklace, and a tester bottle of perfume. The total value of the stolen goods was approximately $288, resulting in both women being charged with misdemeanor theft.
Unveiling the Best Whiskey in the World: Insights from the Author of The World Whisky Tour
Award-winning author Joel Harrison’s latest book, The World Whisky Tour, serves as a valuable guide through 52 distilleries around the globe. He showcases not only the exceptional whiskies produced at each location but also immerses readers in the unique visitor experiences each distillery offers, from the heart of Kentucky to Japan.
Harrison’s top recommendation is the Hakushu distillery in Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture, which he describes as an enchanting destination resembling a blend of Tolkien’s Middle-earth and the Eyrie from Game of Thrones. This distillery is notable for its stunning scenery and the exclusive opportunity to enjoy a single estate highball, with water, ice, and whiskey all sourced from the same location.
For whisky enthusiasts, Harrison highlights the Hakushu 12 Year Old as the best "everyday" dram, balancing notes of smoky flavor, honeyed orchard fruit, and earthy undertones. He identifies it as a perfect addition to any whisky collection, available for around $190 in U.S. liquor stores. Alongside Hakushu, Harrison recommends a lineup of other whiskies, including Bowmore 15 Scotch, Bushmills 16 Irish Whiskey, and Eagle Rare 10 Bourbon, suggesting a comprehensive starter cabinet for those keen on exploring diverse flavors.
The profiles of each distillery in Harrison’s book come with specific bottling recommendations, aimed at making these whiskies accessible not just in distilleries but also at local bars and retailers. By emphasizing availability, he encourages readers to broaden their tasting horizons throughout the year.
Though Harrison lives nearby the famed Port Ellen, which recently reopened, his preference lies with the Maker’s Mark distillery in Kentucky. Celebrated for its serene and artsy atmosphere, Maker’s Mark stands out as a pioneer in offering visitor programs since 1968. Harrison believes this approachable distillery, with its smooth offerings, deserves recognition alongside the greats of Scotch whisky.
His book promises to be a delightful read for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers, making it a thoughtful gift for any whisky lover during the holiday season.
For more insights on these recommendations and an exploration of the whisky world, you can check the book The World Whisky Tour.
Top Tennessee Whiskeys to Savor After Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel
When considering Tennessee whiskey, the first name that often comes to mind is Jack Daniel’s, renowned for its wide popularity. Close on its heels is George Dickel, another well-known brand with roots going back to the same era. However, there’s another small but historic contender that deserves attention: Nelson’s Green Brier.
Founded in 2009 by brothers Andy and Charles Nelson, the brand revitalizes a legacy that traces back to the 1800s. Their great-great-great-grandfather, Charles Nelson, established a distillery in Green Brier, Tennessee, called Old No. 5 Distillery. At its peak in 1885, it was the largest Tennessee whiskey producer, boasting sales of 2 million bottles. Unfortunately, the company closed in 1909 due to Prohibition, and it wasn’t until a century later that the Nelson family would rekindle the brand.
The Nelson siblings launched their new distillery in Nashville in 2014, eager to recreate their ancestor’s whiskey using a traditional family recipe. Their product is made utilizing the Lincoln County Process, a crucial step that distinguishes Tennessee whiskey from Kentucky bourbon. At an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 45.5%, Nelson’s Green Brier is notably stronger than George Dickel’s Signature Recipe No. 12 and exceeds Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7.
Affordable, priced around $30 a bottle, the whiskey offers good value from a relatively young distillery. In addition to their Tennessee whiskey, the Nelsons produce straight rye whiskey and bourbon under the Nelson Bros. label. The distillery also welcomes visitors for tours and is recognized as one of the best distilleries with a restaurant experience in the United States.
For those interested in exploring beyond the usual suspects in Tennessee whiskey, Nelson’s Green Brier is a compelling choice that combines history and quality.
Rumble Stock Soars After Strategic Partnership Announcement with Perplexity
Rumble Inc. (NASDAQ: RUM) shares experienced a notable increase during Thursday’s after-hours trading, following the announcement of a strategic partnership with Perplexity, an AI-driven answer engine. This collaboration aims to assist users in navigating the crowded media landscape.
The partnership encompasses multiple initiatives, including the integration of Perplexity’s AI tools and the launch of a new subscription bundle. Furthermore, Perplexity’s new Comet product will be promoted throughout the Rumble ecosystem. Rumble’s founder and CEO, Chris Pavlovski, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Perplexity as we dive deeper into the AI space across our customer base.”
Rumble plans to gradually roll out the integration of Perplexity’s search technology on its platform. The subscription bundle and promotion of Comet are expected to launch alongside enhanced search functionalities.
In terms of market performance, Rumble’s shares rose by approximately 13.94%, trading at $8.42 at the time of publication, as reported by Benzinga Pro.
For those interested in investing in Rumble, purchasing shares typically requires a brokerage account, with many platforms allowing the purchase of fractional shares. Short selling requires an options trading platform or a broker willing to lend shares for sale. More information on this can be found through various trading resources.
Shaken or Stirred: The 25 Most Iconic Cocktails of the 2000s – From Penicillin to Porn Star Martini
Milk & Honey, a pivotal cocktail bar in New York City, kicked off the craft cocktail revival when it opened on New Year’s Eve in 2000. This establishment was built on the foundational work of influential bartenders and introduced numerous modern classics, including the Gold Rush and the Penicillin, which have left an enduring mark on cocktail culture.
The trend rapidly spread, with bars like Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco, The Violet Hour in Chicago, and Pegu Club in NYC at the forefront of redefining cocktail standards. These new establishments combined classic recipes with innovative techniques and ingredients like amaro and culinary methods such as fat-washing.
Over the years, modern classic cocktails emerged globally, often blending familiar ingredients with modern interpretations. Noteworthy drinks from this era include:
- Gin-Gin Mule (2000): A refreshing mix that combines elements of a Moscow Mule and a Mojito, gaining popularity at Pegu Club.
- White Negroni (2001): Created when traditional Negroni ingredients were unavailable, leading to a unique blend of Suze and Lillet.
- Gold Rush (2001): A simple yet delicious mix of bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon juice, showcasing the minimalist style of Milk & Honey.
- Old Cuban (2001): A refined twist on the Mojito that incorporates Champagne and aged rum, maintaining its popularity even after the bar closed in 2020.
- Penicillin (2005): A landmark cocktail made with blended Scotch, honey-ginger syrup, and lemon, demonstrating its classic status within a few years.
As the cocktail renaissance advanced, bartenders began creatively riffing on established recipes, leading to an explosion of diverse drinks. Innovations included unique ingredients and high-quality spirits, further popularizing cocktails like the Oaxaca Old Fashioned and Naked & Famous, which introduced mezcal to cocktail aficionados in the U.S.
Craft cocktails have not only influenced trends but also created a new generation of bartenders committed to pushing the boundaries of drink-making. The legacy of these modern classics continues to shape cocktail menus across the globe today, reflecting a blend of nostalgia and innovation that defines contemporary mixology.
For recipes of these cocktails and to explore more about them, check out the drinks from this revitalization including the Gold Rush and Penicillin.
Exploring Matka Vodka: The Unique Spirit of Tradition and Taste
Matka Vodka presents itself as a premium spirit that captures both subtle sweetness and sophistication. Crafted in small batches using heirloom spelt grains, this vodka boasts a clean and ultra-smooth finish. The brand expertly merges traditional Polish heritage with contemporary distilling practices, enhancing its appeal in the booming spirits market.
A standard 700-milliliter bottle of Matka Vodka is priced between $35 and $42, which makes it an enticing choice for those seeking quality without excessive expense. For more information, visit Matka Vodka.