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Alabama Entrepreneurs Behind Bushwacker in a Bottle Now Offering Stock in Their Innovative Company
Bushwacker Spirits, creators of the popular ready-to-drink Bushwacker Coconut Rum Cream, are now offering opportunities for investors to buy stock in the company through the crowdfunding platform StartEngine. Since its launch in 2020 by Alabama entrepreneurs Michael Smith and Carter Echols, the business has expanded significantly, reaching a valuation of $14.5 million and distributing their products across 17 states.
Their current goal is to raise $1.2 million to boost production to meet rising demand. Smith explained that this initiative allows fans and consumers to become partners in the business, which can be beneficial for both parties. Investment options start at $250 for 125 shares at $2 each, with higher tiers also providing perks like merchandise and exclusive experiences.
Bushwacker Spirits has ambitious plans for growth, targeting new states such as Texas and North Carolina for expansion in 2025. Additionally, they are working on a wine-based version of their product to comply with state laws that restrict spirit sales, making it easier for distribution in grocery stores.
The inspiration behind the Bushwacker in a bottle stemmed from the founders’ belief that a convenient, premixed version of the complex cocktail was needed. Despite the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, they successfully placed their product in around 300 stores by the end of 2020, including well-known retailers like Walmart and Winn-Dixie. Their efforts have been recognized with prestigious awards, including a Best in Class accolade at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
For further details about Bushwacker Spirits and investment opportunities, visit Bushwacker Spirits and StartEngine.
7 Festive Gin Cocktails to Elevate Your Christmas Celebrations
Christmas is a time filled with rituals, where traditions like putting up the tree and baking cookies take center stage. Amidst the festivities, cocktails become essential, with gin standing out as a versatile and botanical spirit that’s perfect for holiday celebrations.
Why gin? Its juniper-forward flavor mirrors the fresh, piney scent of Christmas trees, while its herbal and citrus notes complement seasonal flavors. Gin can be paired with warming spices, bright citrus, and sweet ingredients, providing a refreshingly light alternative to heavier holiday drinks.
Gin cocktails are not only creative but also appealing to a wide range of tastes. A classic Gin and Tonic can be enhanced with pomegranate seeds and rosemary, while a Negroni adds a festive twist with spiced orange liqueur. For those who prefer warm cocktails during the colder months, a hot gin punch infused with spices and citrus offers a comforting option.
Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, there’s a gin cocktail suitable for every occasion. Here are some festive gin cocktail recipes to elevate your holiday celebrations:
Big Sur Sunset
Ingredients:
- 2 parts Gray Whale Gin
- 1 part Lemon juice
- 0.75 parts Raspberry syrup
- 0.5 parts Orgeat
- 1 Egg white (optional)
- Fresh raspberries for garnish
Directions:Shake all ingredients with ice and fine strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with raspberries.
Raspberry Highball
Ingredients:
- 1.25 parts Silent Pool Gin
- 0.5 parts Dry Vermouth
- 0.75 parts Fresh Lemon Juice
- 0.25 parts Simple Syrup
- 1 Egg white
- 1 Tbsp Seedless Raspberry Jam
- 3 parts Ginger Ale
Directions:Shake all ingredients except ginger ale, pour in ginger ale, and gently pour into a glass. Garnish with raspberry powder.
Bramble
Ingredients:
- 1.5 parts Fords Gin
- 1 part Fresh Lemon Juice
- 0.5 parts Chambord
- 0.5 parts Simple Syrup
Directions:Combine ingredients and serve over crushed ice.
Sweet as Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Aviation American Gin
- 0.75 oz Apple Cider
- 0.5 oz Frangelico
- 0.25 oz Baked Apple Syrup
Directions:Stir all ingredients, strain, and garnish with a lemon twist.
Gin Punch
Ingredients:
- 0.2 oz Revivalist Garden Gin
- 0.75 oz Lemon
- 0.75 oz Simple syrup
- 1–2 oz Chamomile tea
Directions:Shake all ingredients and strain into a rocks glass over ice.
California Cornucopia
Ingredients:
- 2 parts Gray Whale Gin
- 1 part Fresh lemon juice
- 1 part Cranberry juice
- 0.75 part Honey syrup
- 1 Egg white
- Cinnamon powder and star anise for garnish
Directions:Shake with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish.
Gin Buck
Ingredients:
- 2 parts Fords Gin
- 1 part Ginger Syrup
- 0.75 parts Lime Juice
- 1.5 parts Club Soda
Directions:Combine in a glass with ice, stir, and enjoy.
As the holiday season approaches, these gin cocktails can add a sparkling touch to your celebrations. From elegant cocktails to warm, comforting drinks, gin truly shines during this festive time.
Cheers to Change: Optimism Grows for Beer and Wine Sales in Grocery Stores This Year
A renewed push to allow the sale of beer and wine in grocery stores across Maryland has gained traction, especially with the backing of Governor Wes Moore. The effort seeks to modernize alcohol sales laws that have remained largely unchanged since 1978, and Moore is advocating for this initiative to be a priority in the upcoming legislative session.
Historically, Maryland has been one of the few states where consumers are restricted to purchasing alcohol exclusively from licensed liquor stores. In contrast, neighboring states like Virginia and Pennsylvania have embraced more flexible alcohol sales laws, reflecting changing consumer preferences and market practices. Polls indicate strong support among Marylanders for expanding access; for instance, surveys reveal approximately 60% of Prince George’s County residents favor allowing alcohol sales in grocery stores.
Governor Moore argues that allowing grocery stores to sell alcohol will bolster local economies, particularly in underserved areas. He emphasized that this change could help stabilize grocery stores—often operating on slim profit margins—by providing additional revenue streams through alcohol sales. This shift is viewed as a potential remedy to food deserts, where access to fresh food is often limited.
However, not all lawmakers and community members are convinced this is a beneficial move. Critics express concerns that increased alcohol availability could disproportionately harm already vulnerable communities. They argue that such changes would lead to a higher concentration of alcohol outlets, exacerbating existing issues related to addiction and public health. House Economic Matters Chair C.T. Wilson voiced his skepticism, indicating that adding more alcohol options in areas already rich in liquor stores isn’t a prudent decision.
The conversation around this legislation is not new, but the current political climate may lend it fresh momentum. Moore has not only indicated a desire to see the legislation advance but also aims to create a space for dialogue between competing interests: community safety, economic development, and the protection of small businesses against larger corporate retailers.
Senate President Bill Ferguson acknowledges the complexity of the issue, advocating for balance between supporting existing businesses and allowing new competition. This echoes concerns raised by other stakeholders, who worry that larger grocery chains would render smaller liquor stores and mom-and-pop businesses unsustainable in a changing market.
As discussions progress, legislators are exploring the potential for a framework that would provide grocery stores licenses—either through purchasing existing ones or through entirely new ones. Meanwhile, proponents like Delegate Marlon Amprey remain optimistic about their chances this session, driven by widespread public support and a potential willingness among lawmakers to address these long-standing regulations.
The outcome remains uncertain, balancing economic incentives against community welfare and the health implications of increased alcohol access in already vulnerable areas. As the legislative session approaches, advocates for both sides will closely monitor developments, hoping to shape the final proposal to reflect their interests and the needs of Maryland communities.
Chilling Whiskey or Glasses: Which is the Best Way to Serve?
While many people chill their vodka or gin, whiskey enthusiasts usually prefer to enjoy their spirits at room temperature. Adam Edwards, the national brand ambassador for Heaven’s Door Whiskey, emphasizes that chilling whiskey can mute its complex flavors, which can include notes of chocolate, tobacco, and oak.
According to Edwards, well-made whiskeys are crafted to be savored neat, meaning that chilling either the whiskey or the glass can detract from the tasting experience. "Cold whiskey tends to have muted flavors," Edwards notes, explaining that serving whiskey at a colder temperature can alter its viscosity and how flavors are perceived.
He advises against chilling the glassware as well, claiming it can be uncomfortable and hampers the overall experience of enjoying the whiskey. So, while chilling certain cocktails may enhance their flavor, when it comes to whiskey, he advocates for appreciating it at or slightly below room temperature to fully experience its intricate profile.
For those who enjoy their whiskey chilled, Edwards acknowledges personal preference but encourages whiskey drinkers to try it at room temperature for a richer tasting experience.
Read more about whiskey and its nuances on Chowhound.
The Surprising Tip from a Pro: Where to Store Red Wine Before Opening
Wine is often a delightful choice, but many people make subtle mistakes that prevent them from fully enjoying their bottles. To glean insights on avoiding common wine-related errors, we reached out to Jerry Chandler, the general manager of The Bohemian Wine Bar and a wine consultant. Here are five prevalent mistakes that can undermine your wine experience:
1. Serving Temperatures
White wine is typically served straight from the refrigerator, while red wine often comes straight from the counter. Both extremes can hinder the expression of their aromatic compounds. Ideally, white wine should be in the 40s or 50s Fahrenheit, and red wines should be in the 50s or 60s.
Pro Tip: Briefly chill red wine in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. For white wine, remove it from the fridge 15 to 20 minutes prior, or chill it in a bucket of ice water. Avoid leaving a bottle in the freezer too long, as this can negatively impact the wine.
2. Incorrectly Opening Sparkling Wine
The pop of a sparkling wine bottle can be exciting, but it also jeopardizes the carbonation and can be dangerous. To safely open a bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine, leave the cage on the cork while loosening it, allowing for controlled release of the pressure.
3. Improper Storage
Even a few hours of improper storage can impact a bottle of wine. Factors such as light, heat, and motion can degrade wine quality. Avoid storing wine in places with fluctuating temperatures or direct sunlight. For better quality wine preservation, store bottles on their sides in a cool, dark place.
4. Being a Packaging Snob
While it may seem that heavy bottles or cork closures guarantee quality, recent advancements in wine technology have changed this perception. Many high-quality wines now come with screw tops, which are perfectly acceptable for wines consumed within a short period. Don’t dismiss wines based solely on packaging—some may surprise you.
5. Sticking to the Familiar
Many wine drinkers tend to stick to familiar labels and grape varieties, missing out on the diverse landscape of wines available. Instead of repeatedly purchasing the same brands, consider exploring new options and communicating with wine professionals who can recommend based on your taste preferences.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can elevate your wine experience and discover the delightful spectrum of flavors each bottle has to offer.
Interactive Map Reveals Locations to Grab a Beer at McDonald’s!
In several countries around the globe, a trip to McDonald’s can include the option of enjoying a beer alongside the iconic burgers and fries. While American locations primarily focus on soft drinks, various international McDonald’s go beyond that to offer alcohol as part of their menus.
Countries Where You Can Buy Beer at McDonald’s
- Germany: Beer has been available at McDonald’s since 1971, starting with its Munich location.
- France: Beer is also on the menu for dining customers.
- Spain and Portugal: Both countries frequently feature beer as a standard offering.
- Austria: Notably, in 2016, McDonald’s offered free six-packs with large orders during a major soccer tournament.
- Italy: Select meals come with beer options.
- Czech Republic: Known for its beer, it’s another country where McDonald’s serves this alcoholic beverage.
- Other European countries like Sweden, Belgium, Lithuania, Switzerland, Serbia, and the Netherlands also boast McDonald’s locations that sell beer.
- South Korea: This is the only non-European country where beer has been introduced, starting in 2016 during a gourmet burger promotion.
Why No Beer at U.S. McDonald’s?
Despite beer’s popularity among Americans, McDonald’s in the U.S. does not serve alcohol for several reasons:
- Regulatory Challenges: Navigating the complex state and local liquor licensing laws can be burdensome and costly for franchisees.
- Family-Friendly Brand Image: As a family-centered restaurant, introducing alcohol could compromise McDonald’s commitment to a child-friendly environment.
- Operational Complexities: Serving beer would increase the operational burden, forcing locations to manage aspects like storage and service, which complicates the fast food model.
- Customer Demand: McDonald’s may not perceive enough demand to justify the costs associated with introducing alcohol, especially when other fast food chains cater to that market.
Types of Beer Offered
In countries where it is available, McDonald’s serves a variety of beers, including well-known brands such as Heineken, Mahou, Pilsner Urquell, and Sagres.
For more detailed information, McDonald’s offerings can be explored on their official platform.
Savoring Tradition: Exclusive Tamale and Wine Pairing Event in Sonoma
Enjoy an enchanting evening of tamales and wine at a special Posada Navideña on December 14, from 5 to 8 PM, at Los Palos Vineyard and Art Studio in Agua Caliente. This intimate event, organized by winemakers Luies Gallegos from Surcos Wines and Salvador de la Cruz from Gibson Family Wines, promises to be a delightful culinary experience. Attendees will be guided through a unique tasting of specifically chosen wines that beautifully complement a variety of tamales, featuring flavors from spicy and savory to sweet.
Due to the exclusive nature of this event, attendance is limited to just 30 guests. Tickets are priced at $85 plus tax and can be purchased through Eventbrite. The exact location details will be shared with guests upon booking.
For more updates on food and wine happening in the area, check additional news here.
Unlocking Flavor: The Science Behind Adding Water to Your Whiskey
Whiskey lovers often debate the best way to enjoy their favorite spirit, and many bartenders have a habit of adding a few drops of water into the mix. This practice is far from an attempt to dilute the drink; rather, it enhances the whiskey’s flavor profile.
According to Adam Edwards, a National Brand Ambassador for Heaven’s Door distillery, adding a splash of water helps reveal more of whiskey’s complex character. Rich in oils, esters, and lipids, whiskey contains many flavors, including fruity notes that become more pronounced with the addition of water. These oils and compounds interact with the water, allowing them to disperse and release their aromas, ultimately enhancing the tasting experience.
The science behind this method lies in the fact that water disrupts the surface tension in the whiskey, making volatile flavor compounds rise to the top. Therefore, to truly appreciate the nuances of your whiskey, it is best to order it neat instead of on the rocks, as ice can lead to melting and an unintended dilution of flavors.
The ideal ratio of water to whiskey is subjective, but starting with a minimal amount and gradually increasing it can help find the right balance, personalizing the experience to your taste preferences.
For those interested in maximizing whiskey enjoyment, exploring the addition of water could be a rewarding endeavor.
Sip in Style: The 9 Best Holiday Cocktails, from Eggnog to Boozy Hot Chocolate
December is a month brimming with cheer, marked by the warmth of holiday gatherings and the indulgence of festive cocktails. While there’s no official holiday cocktail for events like Easter or Arbor Day, December is a different story, teeming with unique drinks that celebrate the season.
The magic of December invites indulgence, making it the perfect time for cozy cocktails that help us escape the cold. From Mulled Apple Cider to classic Eggnog, holiday drinks serve not just to warm the body but also to enhance the spirit of the season.
Here are nine delightful cocktails to try this December:
Peanut Malt Flip Cocktail
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz. scotch
- 1 oz. cream
- 0.75 oz. simple syrup
- 1 tbsp. peanut butter
- 1 egg
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker, shake without ice to emulsify the egg, add ice, and shake well. Strain into a glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
Hot Toddy
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz. whiskey
- 0.75 oz. lemon juice
- 0.75 oz. honey/ginger
- 4-6 oz. boiling water
- Instructions: Pre-warm a mug with boiling water, then add all ingredients, topping with hot water. Garnish with a lemon slice studded with cloves.
Old Cuban
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. aged rum
- 0.75 oz. lime juice
- 0.75 oz. simple syrup
- 6-8 mint leaves
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 2 oz. sparkling wine
- Instructions: Shake all ingredients except the wine with ice, strain into a glass, and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with mint.
Boozy Hot Chocolate
- Ingredients:
- 6 oz. milk or cream
- 45 g semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp. sugar
- 1.5 oz. reposado or añejo tequila
- Instructions: Warm milk and sugar, add chocolate, and stir until melted. Pour into a pre-warmed mug with tequila and top with marshmallows.
Eggnog
- Ingredients:
- 12 egg yolks
- 18 oz. white sugar
- 36 oz. whole milk
- 24 oz. heavy cream
- 12 oz. aged rum
- 12 oz. Cognac
- 8 oz. bourbon
- ½ tsp. salt
- Instructions: Beat yolks and sugar until light. Add milk, cream, liquor, and salt. Store in the fridge; serve chilled with nutmeg.
Mulled Apple Cider
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. Irish whiskey
- 4.5 oz. hot mulled apple cider
- 1 oz. unsweetened half-whipped heavy cream
- Instructions: Pour whiskey and cider into a mug, layer with cream, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
French 75
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz. gin
- 0.5 oz. lemon juice
- 0.5 oz. simple syrup
- 3 oz. Champagne
- Instructions: Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, strain into a flute, and top with Champagne.
Brandy Alexander
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. Cognac
- 1 oz. cream
- 1 oz. crème de cacao
- Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a coupe glass, and garnish with nutmeg.
Spiced Tequila Punch
- Ingredients:
- 6 oz. spiced syrup
- 18 oz. añejo tequila
- 6 oz. Amontillado sherry
- 6 oz. lemon juice
- 30 oz. chilled cinnamon tea
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients and serve over ice with garnishes.
These drinks not only add delicious flavors to your holiday gatherings but also embody the spirit of togetherness and joy that defines the season. Cheers to a festive December filled with warmth and wonder!
Indulge in Holiday Joy with Our Buttery and Boozy Rum Pound Cake!
A recent security breach at a Massachusetts hospital has raised significant concerns, as officials warn that the personal data of hundreds of thousands of patients may have been compromised. The breach underscores ongoing vulnerabilities within healthcare data security systems, emphasizing the need for enhanced protective measures.
Healthcare institutions are tasked with safeguarding sensitive information, but such incidents often highlight the challenges they face in maintaining robust security protocols. As the investigation into the breach unfolds, affected individuals are encouraged to monitor their personal data and remain vigilant about potential identity theft.
This breach follows a troubling trend of increasing cyberattacks on healthcare providers, prompting calls for reforms and improved security infrastructure to better protect patient information moving forward.