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The Ultimate Rye for Whiskey Cocktails: My Top Pick Under $30 After Reviewing Hundreds of Spirits
Three hours into a whiskey tasting at the Sazerac House in New Orleans, I began to feel the effects of palate fatigue. The event featured rare bottles from Buffalo Trace’s collection, including the newly released Eagle Rare 12 and the E.H. Taylor Distiller’s Council Bourbon. While these spirits were impressive, the most exciting moment came when I sampled the new 100-proof version of Sazerac Rye.
I have always enjoyed the standard Sazerac Rye at 90 proof, but this higher proof version was a revelation. The increased proof means less dilution, resulting in a bolder flavor with enhanced spice, vanilla, and stone fruit notes. This whiskey is optimized for cocktails, aligning with the brand’s intention behind its creation.
The introduction of this higher proof rye is significant given the recent resurgence of rye whiskey in the market. Previously, only a few brands produced it, with Rittenhouse Rye being a favorite among bartenders, also bottled at 100 proof. Now, many brands offer high-proof rye options, including Old Overholt, Knob Creek, and WhistlePig.
What makes 100 proof notable is its cocktail compatibility. According to Jonathan Goldstein, vice president of Park Avenue Liquor Shop, 100 proof whiskey balances well with mixers without overwhelming the drinker, making it a preferred choice among many.
Historically, rye whiskey was typically bottled at 90 to 100 proof, dating back to the 1800s. The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 solidified this norm by establishing production standards, thus enhancing the reputation of 100-proof whiskey among bartenders and consumers alike. Distillers in eastern states embraced this act, leading to a thriving market for high-quality ryes, often aged for six years or more.
This trend endures today, particularly among bartenders who favor 100-proof rye for classic cocktails. David Wondrich, editor-in-chief of The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails, notes that the complexity and flavor profiles achieved at this proof level add considerable depth to drinks. Additionally, being at a higher proof allows for better stirring without excessive dilution, as highlighted by beverage experts who appreciate the balanced nature of 100-proof ryes.
Ultimately, whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a whiskey enthusiast, the broad availability of budget-friendly, high-proof options means that there’s plenty of quality whiskey to enjoy without breaking the bank.
Rediscovering Large Format Cocktails: The Rise of Shareable Sips and Community Spirits
Recently, large format cocktails have made a significant comeback in bars across the country, drawing attention not just for their taste but for the unique experiences they offer. Once associated with overly sweet fish bowls and pool parties, today’s large format options are being embraced as a means of bringing people together in a memorable way.
Brian Galati of Machine Hospitality Group noted that these communal cocktails began appearing on their menus in 2019 and have become increasingly popular. At their newest establishment, Machine Cocktail Bar, they feature signature drinks like the "Breakfast at Tiffany’s," a mix of rose gin and fresh berries meant for sharing among four to six guests. Galati points out that such cocktails transform a simple night out into a more indulgent experience.
Similarly, L.A. Jackson in Nashville has noticed a rising interest in large cocktails, catering to groups of friends looking to enjoy shared experiences rather than just individual drinks. Danielle Filoramo and lead bartender Paul Morrison explain that despite individual cocktails remaining popular, their establishment serves an average of twelve large format cocktails per shift. The communal nature of these drinks enhances the social atmosphere, prompting others in the bar to also order them out of curiosity.
The trend also taps into the impact of social media, where eye-catching presentations can attract attention. For instance, at The National in Telluride, unique offerings are presented in traditional Spanish porrón pitchers, inviting guests to engage playfully while enjoying their drinks.
Economic factors also contribute to the resurgence of large format cocktails. With rising inflation, many customers feel that sharing one large drink is a more budget-friendly option compared to ordering multiple individual drinks. Galati suggests this shift reflects a desire for value and a premium experience without overspending.
While there are benefits from an operational standpoint—large formats streamline service during busy times—they also enhance the dining experience by fostering an energetic atmosphere. This focus on shared moments and conversation is becoming more prevalent in today’s drinking culture, as people seek meaningful interactions over mere indulgence.
In this evolving landscape, bars are adapting to meet the demand for not just bigger drinks, but for experiences that emphasize connection, storytelling, and enjoyment of the moment.
5 Sonoma County Wineries Where the Experience is Just as Amazing as the Wine
Sonoma County wineries are revolutionizing the wine-tasting experience by prioritizing unique, immersive activities that engage visitors beyond traditional tastings. As Millennials and Gen Z increasingly seek distinct experiences over cost, these wineries are stepping up their game, blending exceptional wines with unforgettable moments.
Contrary to the myth that younger people lack the financial means or desire for premium experiences, Millennials and Gen Z are investing in memorable events, as illustrated by their attendance at high-profile festivals and concerts. According to American Express Travel’s 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, a significant 79% of Millennials value experience over price, demonstrating a shift in consumer priorities.
In light of this trend, Sonoma County wineries have crafted experiences that cater specifically to this demographic’s desire for the extraordinary. Here are five standout wineries making a mark with their innovative offerings:
Gloria Ferrer
Known for its sparkling wines and breathtaking views, Gloria Ferrer provides visitors with cellar tours, workshops, and even a three-course culinary experience. Their Champagne Brunch on the Vista Terrace is particularly popular, offering an idyllic way to enjoy exquisite bubbles and views.
Gary Farrell Winery
Situated in the picturesque Russian River Valley, Gary Farrell Winery combines sophistication with a laid-back atmosphere. The winery encourages guests to take their time and savor the moment, with an emphasis on expertly paired tastings and stunning vistas.
Fulcrum Wines
Located in the charming Sonoma Square, Fulcrum Wines focuses on fostering connections with visitors through intimate tastings and engaging events. The winery offers unique experiences like mini-doughnut pairings, making it a fun destination to visit.
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards
This winery stands out by blending wine tasting with culinary artistry. Their wine and food pairing events feature seasonal, sustainable dishes crafted by Executive Chef Peter Janiak, elevating the experience to new heights.
Gracianna Winery
Gracianna is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere where tastings often come with personal stories from the owners. The winery aims to create a heartfelt experience, offering casual tastings and the occasional homemade Basque-inspired dish.
Overall, these wineries in Sonoma County are embracing the evolving expectations of younger consumers by creating distinctive experiences. With an emphasis on engagement and unforgettable moments, they are setting a new standard in the wine industry, proving that wine is not just about what’s in the glass but also about the experiences that come with it. As Sonoma leads the charge, other wineries may find inspiration in their approach to creating memorable wine adventures.
New Mexico Wine Month Makes a Comeback After Pandemic Hiatus
After being on hold for several years due to the pandemic, New Mexico Wine Month is set to return in August, rekindling the festive spirit around the state’s vibrant wine industry. This celebration was initiated in 2017 but faced interruptions beginning in 2020, like many other events worldwide.
The festivities kick off on August 1 at Winrock Park, during the Winrock Fest – End of Summer Block Party, featuring wine-related activities throughout the month. From "Wine Wednesdays" at the Oasis Event Center to various unique wine events, there’s a lot for enthusiasts to look forward to.
For more details on the events planned during New Mexico Wine Month, visit nmwine.com.
A Wine Expert’s Take on Meghan’s Rosé: Here’s What She Thought!
Meghan Markle recently launched her own brand of rosé wine from Napa Valley, known as "As Ever". This wine, an elegant blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah, is characterized by its 14.5% alcohol content and is priced at £22 ($30) per bottle.
The wine’s debut coincided with an expansion of Markle’s lifestyle brand, which also includes various food items like fruit "spreads", herbal teas, and shortbread mixes. The branding emphasizes simple elegance, designed for leisurely outdoor gatherings.
To assess the wine’s quality, The Telegraph enlisted Diane Gross, a seasoned sommelier and owner of a popular wine bar in Washington, DC. In a blind taste test alongside two other rosés, Gross described Meghan’s wine as millennial pink with a nose of cooked fruit, cherries, and candy. Although she noted that the wine lacked sweetness and tasted "a little hot" due to the pronounced presence of alcohol, she found it appealing.
Despite being the least favored in the tasting, Gross expressed that the wine’s darker fruit notes create an interesting flavor profile. While she stated that she wouldn’t take it to a dinner party due to her personal standards for wine, she acknowledged that others might find it enjoyable and that it wouldn’t be seen as embarrassing to serve.
Moreover, Gross praised the thoughtful effort behind the wine, suggesting that there was genuine intention and care put into its creation. She highlighted its representation of California’s vibrant terroir.
The article also included feedback from other tasters at Gross’s bar. One enjoyed the full-bodied flavor of the wine while noting its artificial scent. Conversely, another found it too aggressive for their palate.
In conclusion, while Meghan Markle’s rosé has received mixed reviews from critics, it has managed to create a buzz within the celebrity wine industry, with an appreciation for the effort and identity it aims to convey.
Unveiling the Maker: The Popular Brand Behind Costco’s Kirkland Signature Spiced Rum
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Spiced Rum has become a popular choice for home bartenders, often paired with refreshing mixers like Coke or ginger ale. This spiced rum is not just any store brand; it’s bottled by Sazerac in Louisville, Kentucky, a detail that was recently made clear on its label. Previously, there was much speculation about its production origins, with fans guessing that renowned brands like Cruzan or Captain Morgan might be behind it.
The confusion stemmed from the fact that the rum was known to originate from St. Croix and tasted similar to recognizable brands. However, informed social media users, following changes in taste and design noted over the past year, eventually revealed Sazerac as the true producer. The transition in flavor and appearance suggests Costco may have switched suppliers recently.
For those looking to enjoy Kirkland’s spiced rum, the recommended classic is a rum and Coke, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. Mixing the rum with ginger ale creates a spicy-sweet refreshment, and root beer or cream soda offers a creamy, mellow alternative. Adding pineapple juice introduces a tropical twist, while incorporating spiced rum into cocktails like espresso martinis or daiquiris opens the door to creative mixology.
With the clear source of Costco’s spiced rum now known, many are excited to explore its versatility both in simple drinks and more elaborate cocktail recipes.
Remembering Jack McAuliffe: The Pioneer of the Craft Beer Revolution Passes Away at 80
Fresno State’s quarterback battle is heating up as the team preps for the upcoming season. With multiple candidates vying for the starting position, the competition is fierce and the pressure is on.
Returning players like Jake Haener, who led the Bulldogs to a successful campaign last year, aim to maintain their starting spots. However, promising newcomers and transfers are eager to make their mark, pushing everyone to elevate their performance.
The team is focusing on sharpening their skills through intense practices, allowing each quarterback to showcase their strengths. Offensive coordinator and the head coach emphasize the need for quarterbacks not just to be proficient passers, but also effective leaders on the field.
As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike are keeping an eye on the developments in training camp. The coach indicates that they might not finalize the starting choice until shortly before the season opener, maintaining an air of mystery and excitement around the positional competition.
The outcome of this battle could significantly shape the Bulldogs’ prospects for the season. As Fresno State fans hold their breath, the team works hard to refine their strategies and select the best fit under center.
Crafting the Perfect Brew: A Beer Expert’s Guide to Beer Cocktails
Once you discover beer cocktails, you’ll find yourself captivated by their potential. Beer’s diverse flavors, textures, and aromas offer a unique depth to various drinks, making it a perfect match for cocktail creation beyond the standard brew. London-based beer writer Melissa Cole shares her insights and tips on crafting refreshing beer cocktails, particularly suited for summer enjoyment.
Having written about beer cocktails in her book The Little Book of Craft Beer, Cole emphasizes the importance of understanding the characteristics of the beer you’re working with. It’s crucial to identify its flavor profile, alcohol content, and aromas before crafting your cocktail. For instance, hoppy IPAs or sweet wheat beers can significantly impact the final drink. Cole notes that using beers with American hops can infuse your cocktails with delightful citrus undertones.
Another interesting aspect she highlights is using the beer’s carbonation to enhance your drink. For example, high-carbonation beers like Belgian saisons add body and complexity, serving as a fantastic substitute for soda water in cocktails.
Cole also encourages experimenting with non-alcoholic beers to create mocktails, opening up even more creative possibilities. She mentions using non-alcoholic stout for fun and flavorful floats.
Here are a couple of recipes from Cole’s book to try out:
A Quick Session
Inspired by the classic Greyhound cocktail, this refreshing drink showcases the grapefruit flavors typical of pale ales and IPAs. It’s designed for batching, making it perfect for gatherings.
- 2 parts vodka (chilled)
- 3 parts well-chilled grapefruit juice
- 2 parts well-chilled session IPA or American pale ale
Mix the vodka and grapefruit juice, pour into a highball glass, and top with the beer. For an extra twist, rim the glass with salt for a salty dog variation.
A Rube Icon
This punch-like cocktail uses tart sour beer combined with lychee liqueur for a tropical flavor profile. It’s elegant when served in a martini glass.
- 2 oz. lychee liqueur
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 5 oz. tropical fruited beer (like a gose or Berliner Weisse)
Shake the liqueur and lime juice with ice, strain into a martini glass, and gently top with the beer.
Embrace the flavors of summer with these delightful beer cocktails, and always remember to drink responsibly and share with loved ones.
Cheers to 50 Years: How to Score a Free Beer with Miller Lite’s Anniversary Celebration!
Miller Lite is celebrating its 50th anniversary by giving away 50,000 free beers across various bars in the United States. On August 1, coinciding with International Beer Day, the popular beer brand will host this giveaway at 450 participating bars. In addition to the bar giveaway, a special "Beer Drop" event will take place at the Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee, where cans will drop from a large six-pack installation at 4:50 p.m. local time, with a livestream available for fans.
To participate, fans aged 21 or older can visit millerlite.com/find-celebration to locate a nearby bar offering free beers. For those who cannot visit the bars in person, there will be an online option available.
Ann Legan, Vice President of Marketing for the Miller family of brands, emphasized that this milestone is a celebration of the brand’s history and its connection with fans over the past five decades. Earlier this summer, Miller Lite began its celebratory activities by releasing limited-edition gold cans and partnering with comedian Marcello Hernandez from "Saturday Night Live" for promotional events.
This anniversary event is expected to be a joyful occasion for beer lovers as they celebrate in various locations nationwide.
For more details, visit Miller Lite’s official site.
Power Ranking Every Weller Whiskey, Plus a Sneak Peek at Two Exciting New Bottles!
Today marks the 200th birthday of William Larue Weller, and in celebration, Buffalo Trace has introduced two new expressions to its Weller whiskey lineup. The Weller collection is highly sought after among bourbon enthusiasts, known for its exceptional quality.
The longstanding range includes favorites like Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique, and Weller 12, but has expanded to feature newer releases such as Weller C.Y.P.B. (2018), Weller Full Proof (2019), and Weller Single Barrel (2020), among others. The latest additions are Weller Millennium Batch #2 and Weller 18.
Weller Millennium Batch #2 is a blend that includes components distilled in 2001, 2003, and 2006. This batch is distinctive, maintaining the blend of wheated bourbon and wheat whiskey introduced in the first batch. The updated label features a gold-plated info card, setting it apart visually from its predecessor.
Weller 18 is notable as the oldest age-stated product in the Weller family and features a full wheat whiskey profile. It will be available in select international airports, making it the first travel-exclusive offering from Buffalo Trace.
I had the privilege of tasting both new expressions recently and am excited to share reviews of these alongside the entire Weller lineup.
Weller Special Reserve
ABV: 45%
Average Price: $32
Nose: Sweet honeysuckle and corn notes.
Palate: Floral flavors dominate, with clover honey and light vanilla.
Finish: Flavors linger, providing a mellow exit.
Bottom Line: While not my favorite, it offers a glimpse of the brand’s potential with better aging and proof.
Daniel Weller
ABV: 47%
Average Price: $3,000
Nose: Grain-forward with strawberries and herbal notes.
Palate: Sweet with lively fruit flavors.
Finish: Moderately dry but inviting for additional sips.
Bottom Line: A unique bourbon, though overshadowed by others in the lineup.
Weller 18
ABV: 45%
Average Price: $500
Nose: Hazelnuts and cherry cordials.
Palate: Dates, clove, and smooth texture.
Finish: Medium-length with vanilla and wheat toast notes.
Bottom Line: Distinct ebb and flow of flavors, appealing for bourbon fans.
Weller Single Barrel
ABV: 48.5%
Average Price: $700
Nose: Red apples with savory notes.
Palate: Juicy fruit balanced by oak notes.
Finish: Sweet caramel and black pepper spice.
Bottom Line: A solid, if not groundbreaking, single-barrel bourbon.
Weller Full Proof
ABV: 57%
Average Price: $250
Nose: Cherry, caramel, and spicy notes.
Palate: A robust blend of diverse flavors; a bold experience.
Finish: Lengthy yet somewhat drying.
Bottom Line: Full of character but might challenge some palates.
Weller 12-Year
ABV: 45%
Average Price: $280
Nose: Brown sugar and black tea.
Palate: Rich and flavorful with oak undertones.
Finish: Closing with an oak presence; complex yet pleasant.
Bottom Line: Rich offering that showcases maturity, but has potential for more.
Weller C.Y.P.B.
ABV: 47.5%
Average Price: $300
Nose: White chocolate and cherries.
Palate: Sweet and refined flavors; well-crafted.
Finish: Satisfying, though slightly shorter than desired.
Bottom Line: A strong representation of Weller’s quality; highly enjoyable.
Weller Antique 107-Proof
ABV: 53.5%
Average Price: $59
Nose: Candied apple and honey.
Palate: Balances sweet and tart flavors.
Finish: Rich stone fruit notes with a pleasant medium length.
Bottom Line: A versatile and often underrated choice; excels in blind tastings.
Weller Millennium Batch #1 (2024)
ABV: 49.5%
Average Price: $7,500
Nose: Fruit-forward with wheat notes.
Palate: Rich flavors of honey and cherries; luxurious mouthfeel.
Finish: Prolonged and satisfying; a true treat.
Bottom Line: A rare gem that exemplifies the luxurious side of bourbon.
Weller Millennium Batch #2 (2025)
ABV: 49.5%
Average Price: $7,500
Nose: Rich and inviting fruity aromas.
Palate: Sweet with layers of flavor; well-balanced.
Finish: Exciting and dynamic with lingering spice.
Bottom Line: An upgrade over its predecessor; a standout experience.
William Larue Weller Bourbon (2025)
ABV: 62.9%
Average Price: $1,800
Nose: Complex aromas of caramel and cherries.
Palate: Rich and well-developed flavors; deeply satisfying.
Finish: Lengthy with a mix of sweet and spice.
Bottom Line: A definitive showcase of bourbon excellence; continues to impress.
As whiskey enthusiasts celebrate Weller’s legacy, these new releases further enhance the rich tradition of quality bourbon, making them remarkable additions to any collection.