“Joyful are those who attain wisdom, and those who acquire understanding, for her profit is greater than silver and her gain more valuable than gold. She is more valuable than precious stones, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand; in her left hand are wealth and honor. Her pathways are delightful, and all her routes lead to tranquility. She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; those who cling to her are deemed fortunate.” Proverbs 3:13-18 NRSVUE

“I feel deep sympathy for them, but I must remain silent. For how could we manage without sugar and rum?”

In 1788, William Cowper expressed these sentiments in his poem “Pity for Poor Africans.” It’s important not to plunge into the dark depths of slavery with this quote. Instead, reflect on the heartbreaking reality this statement represents and the constrained mindset that persists in our society.

What alternatives would they have had without the sugar and rum produced by their enslaved forebears? It’s a thought-provoking inquiry. The potential was immense, yet by dehumanizing others, one inevitably dehumanizes oneself—stifling one’s own critical thought, creativity, lasting peace, and recognition of God’s eternal presence.

Sugar and rum have certainly not faded away, and the old oppressive spirits manifest in various forms, sizes, and hues in today’s world. Nowadays, we simply refer to sugar and rum by different names. They are the forces that prevent us from recognizing both ourselves and others as human beings — the vessels of divinity.

They represent the deadly thirst for power that undermines our relationships with one another. They symbolize the beauty we waste in pursuit of convenience. Moreover, if one were stranded on a deserted island, sugar and rum would not provide the means for survival. What shall we do without our own version of “sugar and rum?” Perhaps, just perhaps, we would discover freedom.

Some attribute the writings of Proverbs 3 to King Solomon, while others suggest that it was composed by a group of wise individuals. Regardless, Proverbs 3 imparts wisdom gleaned from lived experience. Pricey lessons have gifted this author the insights found in verses 13-18. As the youth put it, “If you know, you know.”

Notice that this passage begins with “happy” and concludes with “happy.” This is no mere coincidence. We are presented with a narrative where wisdom emerges and recovers all her splendor.

This narrative emphasizes that wisdom is not synonymous with suffering or lack; rather, it is portrayed as the gateway to true happiness. The scriptures highlight the importance of wisdom in achieving joy. As Maya Angelou wisely said, “When you know better, do better.” The reality is that we possess more knowledge than our actions might suggest. Our Creator generously bestows the gift of wisdom upon those who seek a relationship with Him.

No matter what is delivered from the pulpit on Sundays, discussed during Wednesday Bible studies, or played on the radio during our commutes, engaging in a conversation with God about our life stories unveils themes of love, trauma, folly, passion, and the empowerment to navigate toward wiser choices and boundaries. A treasure trove of wisdom is accessible when we find stillness at the Tree of Life.

Often, the things we believe we cannot live without are not as vital as they seem. When we reflect on the divine potential for happiness, we realize that temporary pleasures like sugar and rum cannot truly fulfill us.

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Here are tasting notes on 20 rye whiskeys that have consistently received gold or higher awards in at least five international spirit competitions. These selections are recognized as some of the finest rye whiskeys in the world!

A glass of rye whiskey against a backdrop of rye grain.

The resurgence of rye whiskey has entered its second decade, with no indication of waning interest. With an extensive range of rye whiskeys available in different styles, there are numerous expressions to explore. Below are tasting notes for 20 rye whiskeys that have achieved gold or higher awards or obtained scores exceeding 90 points in at least five international spirit competitions. They stand out as some of the best rye whiskeys globally!

WhistlePig 10 YO Straight Rye Whiskey, WhistlePig Farm Distillery, Vermont

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) awarded Double Gold; the Ultimate Spirits Challenge (USC) rated it 96 points; the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) recognized it with Gold; the World Whiskies Awards (WWA) named it Best Rye Whiskey; and it also received Gold at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).

This rye whiskey, acclaimed as the most awarded in the world, boasts a rich and intricate profile featuring flavors of caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, and clove. It is completed by a long, peppery finish that offers subtle hints of oak and citrus.

Moreover, it attained additional accolades with SFWSC giving it Double Gold; USC scoring it 95 points; IWSC granting Gold; WWA again recognizing it as Best Rye Whiskey; and ISC awarding it Gold once more.

This notable rye whiskey is characterized by its bold and spicy nature, intertwining dark chocolate, caramel, and toasted oak notes. The finish is enduring, leaving behind lingering caramel nuances accompanied by a dash of cinnamon and pepper.

SFWSC, Double Gold; USC, 94 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; Whisky Advocate Awards (WAA), Top Rye.

Crafted at the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery operated by Sazerac, this rye whiskey masterpiece showcases a bold and spicy character, highlighted by notes of cinnamon, vanilla, and pepper. Its finish is prolonged and comforting, accented by a subtle hint of citrus.

SFWSC, Double Gold; USC, 95 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; ISC, Gold.

This historic Maryland rye from the 19th century is currently made by Heaven Hill in Kentucky. It offers a rich and spicy profile, featuring flavors of caramel, vanilla, and warming baking spices. The finish is extended and velvety, with a faint touch of pepper.

SFWSC, Gold; USC, 93 points; IWSC, Silver Outstanding; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; International Spirits Challenge, Silver.

This rye whisky offers a smooth and balanced experience, showcasing flavors of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of rye spice. The finish is long and sweet, leaving behind lasting notes of caramel and seasoned oak.

High West Double Rye, High West Distillery, Utah

SFWSC, Gold; USC, 92 points; IWSC, Silver Outstanding; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; ISC, Silver.

This whiskey showcases bold and spicy notes of mint, clove, and cinnamon, harmonized with a warm, peppery finish complemented by a hint of honey. It’s an exceptional choice for cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate rye whiskey!

Awards: SFWSC, Double Gold; USC, 94 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; ISC, Gold.

Deep and full-bodied, this esteemed rye whiskey comes from one of the oldest distilleries in America, featuring flavors of caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, and clove. The prolonged and warming finish carries a subtle touch of oak.

Awards: SFWSC, Double Gold; Ultimate Spirits Challenge, 93 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; WAA, Top Rye.

This whiskey is bold and spicy, embodying a classic Pennsylvania-style with a high rye content. It presents flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and pepper, culminating in a lengthy and warm finish accompanied by a subtle hint of citrus to enhance its profile.

Awarded Gold by SFWSC, received 92 points from USC, also recognized with Gold at IWSC and noted as Best Rye Whiskey by WWA, alongside a Gold from ISC.

Exhibiting a smooth and balanced character, this whiskey showcases flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spicy cinnamon. It concludes with a long, warm finish accented by a touch of well-aged oak.

It has garnered Double Gold from SFWSC, 93 points from USC, Gold at IWSC, named Best Rye Whiskey with WWA, and acknowledged as Top Rye by WAA.

This historic rye brand offers a bold and spicy whiskey, characterized by layers of caramel, vanilla, and pepper notes. It delivers a long and warm finish accompanied by subtle lingering hints of citrus.

Awarded a Gold medal at SFWSC; it earned 92 points at USC, a Silver Outstanding at IWSC, and was recognized as the Best Rye Whiskey by WWA, along with a Silver from ISC.

The whiskey presents a blend of fruity and spicy elements, prominently featuring stone fruit flavors like nectarine, complemented by caramel, vanilla, and rye spice. Its finish is long and warm, leaving a delicate touch of oak.

Achievements include a Double Gold at SFWSC; 94 points at USC; a Gold at IWSC; being named Best Rye Whiskey by WWA; and also recognized as Top Rye by WWA.

This whiskey offers a smooth and sweet profile, enhanced by flavors of caramel, vanilla, and maple syrup. The finish is notably long and sweet, accompanied by a hint of lingering spiciness.

Acknowledged with numerous accolades, it has received the following: SFWSC, Gold; USC, 92 points; IWSC, Silver Outstanding; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; ISC, Silver.

Considered a standout among new craft rye whiskeys, it is both robust and spicy, showcasing notes of caramel, vanilla, and pepper. The finish is prolonged and warm, with lingering hints of caramel and a touch of oak.

This expression has garnered impressive ratings as well: SFWSC, Double Gold; USC, 94 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; ISC, Gold.

This rye whiskey boasts a wealth of accolades, showcasing its rich and intricate profile with notes of dark cherry, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of rye spice. The finish is prolonged, offering lasting cherry undertones complemented by a touch of oak.

Bulleit Rye, Bulleit Distilling Co., Kentucky

Awarded Gold at SFWSC; rated 93 points by USC; received Gold at IWSC; honored as Best Rye Whiskey by WWA; awarded Gold at ISC.

Regarded as one of the finest values in rye whiskey, it delivers a bold and spicy experience with flavors of dried citrus zest, caramel, vanilla, and pepper. The finish is warm and lengthy, leaving a persistent citrus hint.

SFWSC awarded a Gold medal; USC scored it 92 points; IWSC recognized it with a Silver Outstanding; WWA named it Best Rye Whiskey; ISC granted a Silver medal.

This whiskey, a classic high rye from Pennsylvania, offers a robust profile filled with rich flavors of caramel, rye spice, and dark fruit, all enhanced by a lingering, peppery finish that carries a hint of oak.

SFWSC awarded another Gold; USC gave it 93 points; IWSC presented it with a Gold medal; WWA designated it as Best Rye Whiskey; ISC also awarded a Gold.

This rye whisky is both smooth and spicy, featuring flavors of caramel, vanilla, and pepper, along with nuances of stone fruit. It serves as an excellent foundation for cocktails, boasting a long, warming finish that includes a touch of citrus.

SFWSC, Double Gold; USC, 95 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; ISC, Gold.

This distinguished rye whiskey consistently excels in competitions, showcasing floral and herbal aromas, complemented by a rich and intricate palate. It offers a blend of brown sugar, caramel, vanilla, and rye spice flavors, along with subtle hints of tropical fruits. The finish is long, sweet, and fruity, rounded out by a touch of oak.

SFWSC, Double Gold; USC, 94 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; WAA, Top Rye.

Renowned for its legacy, E.H. Taylor Straight Rye boasts bold and spicy characteristics, delivering a medley of orchard fruit, caramel, vanilla, pepper, and rye spice, with a slight herbal note. The finish is prolonged, sweet, and spicy, highlighted by a hint of citrus zest at the conclusion.

SFWSC, Gold; USC, 92 points; IWSC, Gold; WWA, Best Rye Whiskey; ISC, Gold.

This whiskey is crafted from a mash bill composed of 95% rye and employs the Lincoln County maple charcoal filtration method. It presents a delightful combination of sweetness and smoothness, featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and rye spice. The finish is notably long and sweet, leaving a subtle hint of oak. Priced at an average of $25, it offers excellent value.

These rye whiskey offerings stand out as some of the finest representations of the style, each carefully produced by their respective distilleries. Rye whiskey is celebrated for its bold, caramel and spicy attributes, often enhanced by hints of stone and tropical fruits, exemplifying the rich depth and complexity that this grain can produce.

For those new to rye whiskey as well as seasoned aficionados, these selections provide a wide array of flavor profiles to discover. Each whiskey has distinguished itself among the best in the world, recognized for its excellence and artistry in various esteemed competitions.

Additionally, check out the World’s Best Rye Whiskeys According to the International Wines & Spirits Competition.

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Many factors unite us as a community, be it through literature, music, or films. For those of us who enjoy indulging in a drink, cocktails surely make the list as well. There’s a charming aspect to cocktail culture worldwide — while you’re enjoying your favorite mix, someone far away in a different nation might be savoring the same concoction. When it comes to global connections in the realm of spirits, vodka stands out as the frontrunner. You may wonder why vodka? As a versatile spirit that excels when paired with other flavors, vodka can be complemented by countless ingredients, no matter their origin.

We consulted a range of vodka authorities: Claire Mallett from Catch One LA, Mark Simmonds from Broken Shed Vodka, Jennifer Jackson from Thompson Hotels, Ross Hensley from Aspen Vodka, and Sean Kenyon from Blue Collar Cocktails, to hear their thoughts on the vodka cocktails that are cherished and frequently ordered worldwide. Additionally, these drinks are a must-try if you haven’t experienced them yet. Cocktail lovers and creators, whether near or far, often pull inspiration from a variety of cultures and flavors. However, they unanimously agree that vodka serves as a creative canvas, inviting inventiveness with ingredients to craft cocktails that break boundaries and expectations.

Discover more: The 40 Absolute Best Cocktails That Feature Only 2 Ingredients

The classic gimlet cocktail, traditionally prepared with four parts gin and one part sweetened lime juice, is steeped in English heritage, yet at its core, it serves to highlight a quality base spirit. If you’re using an exceptional gin, your gimlet will undoubtedly impress. So why not replace the gin with a premium vodka and give it the same appreciation?

Mark Simmonds, the master distiller at Broken Shed Vodka, has observed the rising trend of the gimlet, particularly its transformation into a vodka version rather than the traditional gin. “Vodka is experiencing a revival as consumers begin to appreciate the subtle richness of high-quality premium vodkas. It’s the perfect moment to enhance the classic gin gimlet into a vodka variant,” Simmonds remarks. He views this evolution as a sophisticated way to savor premium vodka, and given the wide variety of vodkas produced across different countries, it’s no wonder it has garnered international popularity.

Many are familiar with the kamikaze shooter, which combines vodka, lime juice, and orange liqueur. This shot is a sweet and sour delight best taken with friends, often followed by a jubilant “Woo!” Nevertheless, if we strip it of its lively persona, it’s actually a fairly simple sour cocktail quite similar to a margarita, just swapping vodka for tequila.

Originating on an American naval base in Japan during World War II, this cocktail has transitioned into a widely enjoyed drink not just as a shooter but also as a classic cocktail for any season. For optimal enjoyment, Mark Simmonds recommends preparing it in the style of a martini: the vodka as the main spirit, the orange liqueur serving a role akin to vermouth, and an additional squeeze of lime juice to adjust the sourness to your preference.

While vodka is a prominent choice in the U.S. today, thanks to our love for vodka martinis, Claire Mallett, beverage director at Catch One, shares that it took approximately twenty years for vodka to gain a foothold in America following its introduction in the 1930s. It was James Bond’s famed “shaken, not stirred” martinis that drew American attention to vodka. Meanwhile, in Europe, especially in Russia and Poland, vodka has always been the favored spirit and remains so to this day. “We are currently enjoying the era of the martini,” Mallett notes. “Its simplicity on the palate and versatility in cocktails has made it a favorite, and all vodka truly asks for is to be chilled.”

The dirty martini perfectly embodies the essence of European simplicity. A quick rinse of dry vermouth, followed by 3 ounces of vodka and ½ ounce of olive juice, creates a cocktail that highlights the excellence of quality vodka. To reach that ideal level of ice cold, Mallett advises shaking the martini until ice chips form at the top before it’s poured into the glass.

The Kukur Tihar cocktail, named after the Festival of Dogs in India, beautifully showcases the flavors of India and the South Asia region, which is why Claire Mallett is a huge admirer of this Indian-inspired beverage. This drink is crafted with vodka, olive juice, grapefruit juice, and grapefruit soda, drawing from the inspirations of a Greyhound and a Salty Dog, while introducing Indian spices through cardamom bitters for an extra layer of flavor and flair.

As cocktail enthusiasts explore more adventurous flavors and textures, the Kukur Tihar stands out as a prime example of how global palates are evolving, allowing bold and aromatic flavors and spices to take center stage. In this cocktail, vodka serves as an excellent base spirit, letting the savory and sour notes shine. One sip takes you straight to the bustling streets of Mumbai, where the air is rich with citrus and fragrant herbs.

Meanwhile, the espresso martini maintains its status as a classic favorite in many parts of the United States. According to Claire Mallett, it’s also Australia’s “self-confessed favorite cocktail.” This passion for the coffee-infused drink makes sense, considering Melbourne’s renowned magic coffee culture—one could easily dedicate an entire weekend to exploring the city’s numerous coffee houses if they wished.

Although the espresso martini has its roots in late 1980s London, the Australian variant enhances it with a splash of Mt. Black Coffee Liqueur, ensuring a local twist on a global classic. The Aussie rendition replaces simple syrup with vanilla vodka and coconut rum, providing a smoother and richer sweetness. It also incorporates real espresso alongside the coffee liqueur, contributing to a more intense and robust coffee taste.

The Scots have certainly mastered many things, including the Scotch egg, haggis (which may not be for everyone but has its loyal fans, including this writer), and Scotch whisky as a whole. As noted by Claire Mallett, during World War II, the British Isles turned to Scotch in place of vermouth for martinis due to a shortage, and this substitution became a long-standing tradition, giving rise to the Scottish Pete’s martini. A bold, peaty Scotch, with recommendations pointing to Laphroaig, is floated on top after shaking vodka and olive juice, lending a unique complexity that typically comes from vermouth, but without overpowering the vodka.

This cocktail not only enjoys popularity among martini enthusiasts in the U.K., but it has also won over Scotch aficionados thanks to that distinctive peaty floater. For presentation, decorate it with a fresh rosemary sprig and an olive spear, particularly if you have blue cheese-stuffed olives available.

The cosmopolitan is widely regarded as a quintessential cocktail in the United States. Emerging from a marketing effort in the 1960s aimed at boosting Ocean Spray cranberry juice sales, the cocktail—comprising vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and a dash of fresh lime—struck all the right chords to become immensely popular nationwide, as explained by Jennifer Jackson, beverage enterprise manager at Thompson Restaurants. The drink was further popularized by Dale DeGroff, known as the “King of the Cocktail,” during his time at the iconic Rainbow Room in New York City.

What about the drink’s popularity beyond the U.S.? The answer lies in the influence of the series “Sex and the City.” The show’s international success soared when it became accessible for streaming in various countries on platforms like Netflix and HBO Max. As the favored drink of the iconic character Carrie Bradshaw, the cosmopolitan became synonymous with the image of a glamorous, thriving journalist in New York City, enjoying life with her equally successful friends. (One could debate the plausibility of a journalist afforded a junior one-bedroom apartment on the Upper East Side based on a local paper’s weekly column, but that’s a discussion for another time.) Regardless of your location, even if it’s not listed on the cocktail menu, a competent bartender will effortlessly whip up a cosmopolitan for you, no questions asked.

Any fervent brunch enthusiast knows that no brunch is complete without a cocktail, and more often than not, that drink is a bloody mary. There are countless variations, but the classic bloody mary features vodka as the primary spirit, complemented by a spicy, savory tomato juice blend, garnished with a celery stalk and olives. While it’s nearly impossible to find a brunch menu in the U.S. that doesn’t prominently feature a bloody mary, this beloved drink actually traces its origins back to Paris at Harry’s New York Bar, where it was first created by a bartender named Fernand Petiot.

As stated by Ross Hensley, the global brand ambassador for Aspen Vodka, the cocktail gained widespread attention when Petiot relocated to New York City and added it to the menu at the St. Regis King Cole Bar. By introducing local variations of the bloody mary in St. Regis locations across the globe, the cocktail has transcended its American roots and won over brunch lovers worldwide.

The vesper martini represents a perfect blend of styles: Combine three parts gin, one part vodka, and ½ part Lillet Blanc or dry vermouth, and you’ve created a delightful fusion of flavors all in one glass.

Ross Hensley attributes the widespread appeal of the vesper martini to the suave and insatiable James Bond 007, who made the drink famous in the film “Casino Royale.” The key distinction between Bond’s order and the modern version lies in the use of Kina Lillet, which is no longer produced. The British secret agent and his remarkable cocktail choice have captivated audiences globally, shedding light on the vesper’s presence in cocktail bars worldwide.

The martini, in its essence, is not just a classic cocktail; it serves as a source of inspiration for numerous other drink recipes. While the authentic version typically features gin as its foundational spirit, there’s no reason why a quality vodka can’t take its place. Given Europe’s reputation for excellent vodkas, it’s understandable that the vodka martini enjoys immense popularity across the globe. “Over the past 20 years of the cocktail renaissance, we’ve sought more complexity, unique flavors, and nuances in our drinks,” noted Sean Kenyon, bartender and owner of Blue Collar Cocktails. “The vodkatini has seen a resurgence, but in a new and, I believe, more refined manner; we’re now using vodkas with character and depth.”

Regardless of its origins, the martini’s straightforward nature allows it to be adapted across different cultures, languages, and, importantly, cocktail menus. Wherever you find yourself, if there’s vodka available at the bar, it’s highly likely that patrons are savoring vodka martinis.

Check out the original article on Tasting Table.

Christmas mornings filled with family and friends become even merrier when you indulge in a spiked coffee after exchanging gifts. This comforting and energizing drink is perfect for the chilly holiday season and those long summer afternoons as well. Spiked coffee is enjoyable not only for the warm feelings it brings but also for its versatility. Sometimes it’s iced and enhanced with Irish whiskey, while at other times it’s simply enjoyed hot with a splash of creamy Bailey’s. For a new spin on this boozy coffee treat, consider using flavored vodka for a unique twist.

Regular vodka is a neutral spirit, lacking its own distinct taste and aroma. However, when combined with flavor-forward ingredients, it creates a fantastic canvas for those flavors to shine. When you incorporate flavored vodka into your spiked coffee recipe, the vodka’s infusion becomes the dominant flavor, ensuring that you don’t have to worry about how its taste will blend with your coffee and creamer.

While vodka itself is straightforward, flavored options add richness and intricacy to your spiked coffee, enhancing each sip with a vibrant and refreshing feeling. Just select your favorite flavor-infused vodka and mix it into your coffee — and there you have it — a spiked cup of coffee with a striking yet smooth finish.

Discover more: 13 Types Of Beer Glasses And When To Use Them

If you haven’t tried creating a vodka-infused coffee yet, you might not have a reliable recipe ready to go. While mixing flavored vodka with coffee can be a quick fix, the key to an exceptional drink lies in a carefully considered blend of ingredients and thoughtfully chosen flavors — so it’s important to know about the best mixers for vodka.

One classic pairing is vanilla vodka, which has long been a favorite for coffee enthusiasts. This flavor, known for its warming and cozy nature with a hint of spice, can be enhanced by incorporating cinnamon, a touch of pistachio syrup, and whipped cream, resulting in a rich, nutty, and sweet-spiked coffee. For a bolder option, consider blending coffee with espresso-infused vodka, Irish cream liqueur, and cocoa powder for a thrilling holiday boost.

Feeling a bit creative? Try a vibrant summery mix using citrus-flavored vodka, orange zest, vanilla extract, and a dash of almond syrup; this combination adds a lively and refreshing touch to the deep flavors of dark-roasted coffee. Likewise, spiking coffee with peppermint vodka, white chocolate syrup, and a generous dollop of whipped cream offers a spirited and invigorating experience. Don’t shy away from experimenting with other flavors like maple, hazelnut, and pumpkin spice. Of all the various liquors that pair well with coffee, flavored vodka remains one of the most versatile and flavorful options.

Discover more in the original article on Chowhound.