Liquor-articles 2020

Deprecated: Creation of dynamic property InsertPostAds::$settings is deprecated in /home/icohol/public_html/wp-content/plugins/insert-post-ads/insert-post-ads.php on line 425

News / Glasgow & West

Results found that harmful chemical isopropyl was an ingredient in counterfeit vodka discovered in a Coatbridge shop.

A warning has been issued to the public after fake Glen’s vodka containing a potentially lethal chemical was found to be being sold to customers in Scotland.

Investigations are ongoing into the size and scale of distribution of the counterfeit product following the discovery at a shop in Coatbridge earlier this month.

Authorities from Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and North Lanarkshire Council have confiscated 40 fake bottles falsely branded as Glen’s following a complaint about an overpowering scent reminiscent of nail polish remover emerging from the beverage.

Analysis of samples from the 35cl bottles detected isopropyl, a hazardous substance that could lead to a range of severe health issues including abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, reduced breathing rate, coma, and even death.

Consumers are being urged to exercise increased caution while purchasing alcoholic drinks, with specific advice to be alert to bottles that exhibit an unusual odor and flavor.

“After our earlier consumer alert this month regarding counterfeit products, we urge the public to remain particularly watchful due to the severe risks involved in consuming any product contaminated with isopropyl,” warned Gordon Mitchell, the head of food crime operations at FSS.

“We are doing everything possible to ensure that any products which pose a danger to the public are taken off the shelves, but in the meantime we need to alert those who maybe have already bought counterfeit product to check and if there are any doubts then please do not consume and get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone who believes they may have consumed counterfeit alcohol and/or are showing any symptoms is asked to contact NHS 24 on 111 immediately.

Anyone with information on the manufacture or sale of counterfeit alcohol is asked to contact the Scottish Food Crime Hotline (0800 028 7926) or online, in partnership with Crimestoppers.

Get all the latest news from around the country

Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country

A classic Mai Tai cocktail is usually made with two flavors of rum mixed with pineapple juice and orange juice.

The Mai Tai is a cocktail that has carved out a distinct place in the world of mixology, often associated with tiki culture and tropical getaways. Despite its relaxed, beachy reputation, the history surrounding the Mai Tai is murkier than a bottle of dark rum.

The origin story (or stories) revolve around two prominent figures in the golden age of the cocktail world: Victor J. “Trader Vic” Bergeron and Donn Beach, also known as Don the Beachcomber. Both men are credited with creating the Mai Tai, though their versions of the story differ significantly.

“Cocktail culture in the post-war era was fueled by escapism and the fantasy of island life in urban locations,” Andrew Holmes, the Bermuda brand director at Goslings Rum, tells Forbes. “There is a lot of speculation surrounding the origins of the Mai Tai—Trader Vic or Don the Beachcomber. We know that Vic was inspired by Don. However, the two drinks in speculation with a common name do not resemble each other in terms of ingredients. Although it is Vic’s recipe that is more universally accepted as the Mai Tai.”

In 1944, Victor Bergeron, the founder of Trader Vic’s, claimed to have invented the Mai Tai at his restaurant in Oakland, California. According to Bergeron, the cocktail was created for his friends from Tahiti, who exclaimed, “Maita’i roa ae!” (meaning “out of this world, the best” in Tahitian) after tasting it. This exclamation led to the drink being named “Mai Tai.”

Bergeron’s original recipe called for aged Jamaican rum, fresh lime juice, orgeat syrup (a sweet almond syrup), orange curaçao and a dash of simple syrup. The cocktail was shaken with crushed ice and garnished with a lime shell and a sprig of mint. Trader Vic’s version of the Mai Tai was designed to showcase the complex flavors of high-quality rum, a spirit that was central to the tiki culture he helped popularize.

On the other hand, Donn Beach, a former bootlegger who opened the first tiki bar, Don the Beachcomber, in Hollywood in 1934, claimed that he created a drink similar to the Mai Tai in the 1930s. Beach’s version was a more complex concoction, featuring multiple rums, lime juice, falernum (a syrup flavored with lime, almond, and spices), and various other ingredients.

While Beach’s claim is supported by some, it is Trader Vic’s version that became widely known as the Mai Tai. The cocktail gained popularity through the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in Polynesian-themed restaurants and tiki bars that proliferated across the United States during this period.

The Mai Tai became synonymous with tiki culture, a mid-20th-century social movement in the United States that appropriated heavily from Polynesian, Melanesian and Micronesian cultures. Tiki culture was characterized by beach themes, palm tree décor and rum-based cocktails. The Mai Tai, with its tropical flavors and presentation, became the ultimate symbol of this trend.

During the 1950s and 1960s, tiki bars and restaurants became popular design choices. The Mai Tai, served in a distinctive glass or mug and often garnished with fruit, became one of the most recognizable drinks of this era.

The cocktail’s popularity was further cemented by its association with Hawaii. After the islands became a U.S. state in 1959, Hawaii became a popular tourist destination, and the Mai Tai was often marketed as Hawaii’s flagship drink, despite its Californian origins.

“At one point in my bartending career, the Mai Tai was a full juice bomb—layered with dark rum and a grenadine float,” Lauren Trickett, a brand ambassador for Mount Gay Rum, tells Forbes. “While I am not sure how this version came into play, tourism and cruise ships likely contributed to keeping this version of the drink on menus as it’s much cheaper to fill glasses with pineapple juice and grenadine than it is to use quality rum, orgeat and fresh lime juice. This style of drink also began to pigeonhole rum into the ‘vacation drink’ category, which does rum a disservice as it’s one of the most versatile spirits.”

The Mai Tai has experienced several revivals over the decades, particularly as interest in classic cocktails has grown.

“The Mai Tai has evolved into one of the most requested rum cocktails on the planet,” Holmes says. “The challenge is the variety of orgeats, the quality of the lime juice, the sweetness of the Curacao-style liqueurs and, of course, the base rums used in the cocktail, resulting in many variations on the tiki era classic.”

Today, the Mai Tai is still a staple on the menus of tiki bars worldwide. According to Liquor.com, the traditional Mai Tai is made up of the following:

“If crafted well, the ingredients used in the Mai Tai should highlight the complexity of the blend of rums used,” Trickett says. “This drink is all about the rum, enhancing its bold flavor profile with fresh lime juice and orgeat that isn’t overly sweet. With those elements, you’re on your way to a refreshing glass of happiness.”

The Mai Tai has also made its way into trendier cocktail bars and upscale restaurants, where it is often served with various modern twists.

“For the past decade, the Mai Tai has been appearing on drink lists of establishments that do not identify as tiki bars, and even chain accounts will have their version of a Mai Tai right next to the Mojito and Dark N’ Stormy, which are arguably some of the most famous and most requested rum cocktails in the world,” Holmes says. “Consumers associate the Mai Tai with a refreshing drink, tropical flavors and do not seem too fussed if it is not made to its original specifications.”

Post-pandemic, Holmes acknowledges, there has been more conversation around the cultural appropriation of Polynesian culture in tiki establishments. “Therefore, I feel the renewed interest is not necessarily in tiki, rather in tropical cocktails as rum continues to trend and consumers wish to escape reality by imbibing.

And while it might not have the classic cool factor of the martini or the general popularity of the margarita, Mai Tais are still selling. According to data from Nielsen CGA, sales of tropical cocktails were up by 15% in 2022 compared to the previous year, driven by a resurgence in tiki culture and a growing interest in rum-based drinks. And in 2023, as the average national price of a cocktail rose to an average of $13 per drink, the drink to command the highest price still, on average, was the Mai Tai.

“This is a fantastic drink especially when crafted with balance. As to why it’s not as popular as a margarita or martini, the ingredients are more complex so it will never have the same volume opportunity,” Trickett notes.

The Mai Tai’s journey from a disputed origin story to a global icon reflects the cocktail’s adaptability and appeal. While the debate over its true origins may never be settled, there is no doubt that the Mai Tai has earned its place as one of the most beloved cocktails in the world.

“The Mai Tai currently is not as popular as the martini or margarita due to the inconsistency of the way in which it is served,” Holmes adds. “Once more bartenders are educated on the origins of the Mai Tai, consumers will gain more confidence in the quality of the cocktail and it will continue to trend for years to come.”

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Our community focuses on fostering connections through open, thoughtful dialogues. It’s a platform where readers are encouraged to exchange their perspectives, ideas, and factual information within a respectful environment.

Please adhere to the posting guidelines outlined in our Terms of Service. Below is a summary of some key rules to follow, emphasizing the importance of maintaining civility.

Your post will be rejected if it is found to contain prohibited content.

User accounts will be suspended if they engage in or are suspected of engaging in inappropriate activities.

So, how can you be a power user?

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site’s Terms of Service.

Two years ago, we reported on the announcement that the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) had proposed a legally binding definition for the American single malt category. Well, that still hasn’t happened, although there has been a recent push to get things moving. That includes the campaign by the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission and Distilled Spirits Council to collect 1,000 letters in support of the new guidelines. Despite the delay, distilleries continue to release American single malts, and one of the best new-school Kentucky bourbon distilleries just launched its second expression.

American single malt has been around for decades, with craft distilleries like Westland and Westward exclusively focusing on the category and legacy distilleries like the James B. Beam Distilling Co and Jack Daniel’s more recently getting in on the action. New Riff has been around for just about a decade, and for years its focus was on making bourbon and rye whiskey which it released as bottled-in-bond expressions (at least four years old, exactly 100 proof, the product of one distillery and one distillation season). In January, we reported on the distillery’s first single malt release, the excellent Sour Mash Single Malt. Well, that whiskey is back for another run, but there are some differences.

More from Robb Report

Heaven Hill’s Bold New Unicorn Malt Whiskey Is Finished in Cognac Barrels

Jim Beam’s New Little Book Bourbon Is an Infinite Blend of Whiskey

Garrison Brothers’s New Cowboy Bourbon Is Hotter Than a Texas Rodeo in August

The new version of the single malt is crafted from the same 100 percent barley mashbills, featuring varieties such as Golden Promise, Maris Otter, and Scottish peated barley, plus two beer-inspired mashbills derived from classic barleywine and Belgian Quadrupel recipes. The original release comprised barrels aged for around seven to eight years, however, the latest iteration includes nine-year-old barrels. Additionally, it integrates Madeira cask-aged malt in the blend for a novel taste profile. “This year’s blend has matured in a manner that remains recognizable to aficionados of last year’s single malt, notably in the harmony of sherry cask and peaty-smoky flavors despite the alterations in the internal blend,” stated Jay Erisman, co-founder and vice president of New Riff. “Actually, I deem it to be even more cohesive and well-integrated.”

While we have yet to sample this latest release, we are hopeful that it matches the quality of last year’s edition. According to Bryon Martin, the sensory manager, the official tasting notes include rich, dark, and zesty citrus fruits on the palate, complementing earthy, savory, and smoky undertones. The whiskey is presented at a strong 114.5 proof and remains non-chill filtered. The 2024 Sour Mash Single Malt will be available from tomorrow at the distillery’s gift shop (SRP $70), and subsequently at online retailers in the coming weeks. It is also possible to purchase the previous version from Seelbach’s, while the complete New Riff range is currently on sale at ReserveBar.

Best of Robb Report

Why a Heritage Turkey Is the Best Thanksgiving Bird—and How to Get One

9 Stellar West Coast Pinot Noirs to Drink Right Now

The 10 Best Wines to Pair With Steak, From Cabernet to Malbec

Sign up for Robb Report’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.

The Bluewater family, which encompasses nine west-based seafood dining establishments, has been chosen as the first to showcase the Catalina Rum Company’s new light and dark rum.

An exclusive distribution deal was struck by Bluewater Grill for a newly crafted rum drawing inspiration from the secretive yet vibrant rum-running history of Catalina Island. This week, the network of nine sustainable seafood restaurants across California and Arizona will debut as the initial point of introduction for Catalina Rum Company‘s light and dark aged rums. These rums were created in collaboration with R6 Distillery in El Segundo, Calif., and actively developed by Bluewater Grill owners Jimmy Ulcickas and Richard Staunton to enhance their rich legacy tied to Catalina. The rum will first be served exclusively at various Bluewater locations including Coronado’s Bluewater Boathouse, before being distributed on a national level.

“Identifying the chance to introduce a bespoke rum that not only delights in flavor but also captures the famed rum-running culture of our local communities was an opportunity we couldn’t ignore,” remarked Jimmy Ulcickas, co-owner and founder of Bluewater Grill. “We are excited for our patrons to be the first to enjoy the unique and smooth flavors of Catalina Rum Company’s light and dark rum.”

Bluewater will celebrate its partnership with Catalina Rum Company on National Mai Tai Day on Aug. 30 by offering the Captain’s Mai Tai, crafted with Catalina Rum Company rum, for a special price of $10, saving customers $5. This favorite cocktail at Bluewater combines both light and dark aged rum with pineapple juice, triple sec, almond, and simple syrup, following a recipe originally devised by Vic Bergeron from Trader Vic’s.

Ulcickas and Staunton have developed two rums for Catalina Rum Company using molasses and cane sugar, named Amid the Sunny Skies Light Rum and Amid the Dusky Skies Dark Aged Rum. These rums reflect the history of rum smuggling on Catalina Island during the Prohibition era, when the locals provided refuge for smugglers. The label designs on the bottles depict Avalon Harbor, complete with boats and seaplanes, invoking the style of old posters.

These specialty rums have been integrated into signature Bluewater cocktails and are available for purchase in 750 ml bottles at Bluewater and El Galleon restaurants, excluding Phoenix. The pricing is set at $24.50 for the Light Rum and $34.50 for the Dark Rum, which is aged for three years.

Additionally, Bluewater Grill offers a Catalina Rum Company Gift Set which includes 750 ml bottles of both the Light Rum and Dark Aged Rum and a set of Bluewater Grill Classic Mai Tai Mugs featuring the Captain’s Mai Tai recipe by Bergeron. This gift set is priced at $70.

Catalina Rum Company’s rum will be distributed to additional bars and restaurants later this year, following the conclusion of its exclusive contract with Bluewater Grill.

 

Log in to leave a comment

If you’re on the hunt for environmentally friendly alcoholic options, Aspen Vodka might just be what you’re looking for. In a press release, the company shared an exciting achievement: obtaining the LEEDv4 BD+C Platinum certification.

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and was developed by the nonprofit U.S. Green Building Council. This system is aimed at encouraging the construction and operation of buildings that achieve several key objectives: mitigating climate change impacts, boosting human health, conserving water resources, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem health, advancing sustainable material use, and improving community quality of life.

The LEED certification evaluates various aspects of building design and functionality, covering considerations from insulation and energy use to water management and air pollution contribution. The Platinum certification represents the highest standard of sustainable building recognized by this system.

Aspen Vodka’s achievement as the world’s first LEEDv4 Platinum-certified distillery is notable. It is one of only three distilleries in the U.S. with any LEED certification and one of the three buildings in Colorado to hold a Platinum certification. More details are provided in the company’s press release.

“We are incredibly proud to lead the industry with our ambitious and innovative environmental practices,” stated Matthew Patel, founder of Aspen Vodka, in a remark. “Producing a luxury vodka of unmatched quality at the cleanest distillery worldwide sets a new standard for sustainability. Our LEEDv4 BD+C Platinum certification exemplifies our dedication to both quality and environmental stewardship, and we aim to motivate our peers in the industry to improve their sustainability practices.”

Aspen Vodka achieved this milestone through a comprehensive approach where every element collaborates towards sustainability goals. The facility, as mentioned in their press release, generates more clean energy than it consumes, primarily through solar power. It also treats its wastewater to ensure it returns to the Roaring Fork River cleaner than before, and the land around the distillery has been restored and rehabilitated from its previous use as a lumber yard, generating a net positive environmental impact.

“LEED certification is the highest mark of global green building leadership and implies that a building has undergone rigorous third-party verification, meeting top green building standards,” explained Peter Templeton, president and CEO of USGBC.

That puts Aspen Vodka at the head of the pack in eco-friendly vodka.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

Every year for the past 18 years, Heaven Hill releases a new whiskey as part of its Parker’s Heritage Collection, which often includes bottles that significantly appreciate in value on the secondary market. The 2024 edition is a malt whiskey finished in Cognac barrels, anticipated to potentially achieve unicorn status.

The Parker’s Heritage Collection is created in tribute to the late Heaven Hill master distiller Parker Beam, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2010. Sales from these whiskeys have raised over $1 million to support ALS research. Previous releases have featured diverse Heaven Hill mashbills and aging processes, with notable editions such as the 2021 Heavy Char Wheat Whiskey, the 2018 Orange Curaçao Finish, and the 2016 24 Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. This year’s offering differs as it’s a malt whiskey comprised of 65 percent malted barley and 34 percent corn, aged since March 2009 for 14 years on the Rickhouse O and Q’s fourth and sixth floors, respectively. After aging, 128 barrels were moved to 56 restructured heavy toast Cognac barrels for an additional four months on Rickhouse H1’s fifth floor.

More from Robb Report

Jim Beam’s New Little Book Bourbon Is an Infinite Blend of Whiskey

Garrison Brothers’s New Cowboy Bourbon Is Hotter Than a Texas Rodeo in August

WhistlePig and Brother’s Bond Just Dropped a Pair of Eco-Conscious Whiskeys

The 2024 release is the third collaboration in Parker’s Heritage Collection between Heaven Hill and master blender Alain Royer, a sixth-generation member of a Cognac-producing family in France. “We are excited to continue to work with Alain Royer as we look for more ways to innovate with barrel-finished products,” said Susan Wahl, vice president of American whiskey at Heaven Hill, in a statement. “With this latest expression, we celebrate Parker’s influence on and dedication to innovating outside of Heaven Hill’s traditional bourbon mashbills by crafting a whiskey that embodies his spirit as we continue to support ALS research and patient care.” Tasting notes describe a rich and velvety texture, with notes of molasses, bittersweet chocolate, cloves, and nutmeg, and the whiskey was bottled at 107 proof with no chill filtration.

The new Parker’s Heritage Collection will be available starting in September with an SRP of $170, but be prepared to pay more than that… maybe. A look at the secondary market finds a few past releases selling for close to their original asking price, while others like the first edition Cask Strength Bourbon are going for about $4,000. If you have some extra cash, grab a few past editions to compare and contrast to this newest release.

Best of Robb Report

Why a Heritage Turkey Is the Best Thanksgiving Bird—and How to Get One

9 Stellar West Coast Pinot Noirs to Drink Right Now

The 10 Best Wines to Pair With Steak, From Cabernet to Malbec

Sign up for Robb Report’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.

A well-known American vodka brand is soon to hit UK stores.

This acclaimed label is gearing up to introduce four distinct varieties to the UK market.

Enthusiasts of spirits can look forward to buying White Claw Vodka in its premium (unflavoured), Black Cherry, Pineapple, and Mango options, aiming to foster social connections among people.

These variants are intended to perfectly complement any of White Claw’s invigorating hard seltzer selections.

Michael Dean, Marketing Director UK at White Claw, expressed his enthusiasm about their latest product launch by stating: “We are so excited to introduce White Claw Vodka to the UK market and give consumers a new, fresh option in the vodka space to bring new flavour to your social occasions.”

He emphasized the distinctive quality of their product, mentioning, “Our Triple Wave Filtering process sets a new standard in the spirits industry, delivering a level of smoothness and clarity that is truly unparalleled.”

Dean further explained the innovative aspect of their vodka, “By harnessing the power of the ocean, we’ve created a vodka that not only complements our existing range of hard seltzers but also offers a fresh and exciting way for consumers to elevate their cocktail experiences.”

He concluded with an invitation, “Get ready to ride the wave and experience White Claw Vodka. It’s time to elevate your cocktail game and make some serious waves.”

White Claw Vodka, launched in the US Spirits market in 2023, quickly earned significant recognition, including a Double Gold for its non-flavored Premium variant at the New York International Spirits Competition.

Starting September 20, all four flavors of White Claw Vodka will be available in the UK at uk.whiteclaw.com for £21.

This release of White Claw Vodka occurred shortly after a well-known tequila label launched in the UK. Casa Don Ramon recently introduced 11 varieties of its premium tequila and mezcal, marking the brand’s debut on the British market.

The surge in popularity of the beverage is evident across the UK.

Statistics from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association show that sales of the drink have increased from £24 million in 2022 to £35 million in 2023.

Premium Unflavoured:

Mango:

Pineapple:

Black Cherry:

Consumers can purchase Don Ramon beverages from seven different sellers, with prices beginning at £41.

Alcohol enthusiasts can acquire a 70cl Punta Diamante Plata tequila for £41, featuring a smooth profile suitable for those new to tequila.

The beverage is aged over six months in French and white oak barrels offering notes of wood, herbs and flashes of sweetness.

There is also the 70cl Mezcal Salmiana to choose from, which is matured for eight to 10 years and offers herbal and fruity notes. Prices start from £50.

All 11 varieties from Casa Don Ramon can be picked up from The Bottle Club, Speciality Drinks, Master of Malt and Amazon.

They are also available on The Whiskey Exchange, Threshers and Soho Wine Supply.

Bear in mind, the above prices are just what Casa Don Ramon UK is recommending retailers sell the bottles at and may be cheaper or more expensive depending on where you buy from.

Since its launch in 2017, Little Book has been a standout whiskey selection from the James B. Beam Distilling Co, the same distillery that produces the famed Jim Beam. The creator of Little Book is Freddie Noe, an eighth generation master distiller, the son of current master distiller Fred Noe and the grandson of the legendary former master distiller Booker Noe. This pedigree ensures that each new Little Book release, like The Infinite: Edition 1, is uniquely impressive. This particular edition is a blend of aged bourbons that will incorporate a new component annually, creating a perpetual infinity blend.

This concept of an infinity blend parallels the solera method used in some whiskey and sherry production, where barrels are never fully emptied and are continually topped off with new spirit, maintaining a blend of different ages. The basis of The Infinite will remain consistent, but each year’s new whiskey addition will enhance and evolve the profile. “Working together as master distillers, my father and I are fortunate,” Noe remarked. “He always hoped to work closely with his father, my grandfather Booker, and this series honors that wish.” He further explained that Little Book The Infinite aims to build on this legacy, laying a multi-generational foundation for future iterations. Each year, Noe plans to bottle and share this evolving creation with the world.

More from Robb Report

Garrison Brothers’s New Cowboy Bourbon Is Hotter Than a Texas Rodeo in August

WhistlePig and Brother’s Bond Just Dropped a Pair of Eco-Conscious Whiskeys

Beyoncé Is Releasing a New Rye Whiskey, and We Got a First Taste

For the inaugural release of Little Book the Infinite, four different whiskeys were blended together, each inspired by a different family member: 20-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (Booker Noe’s component), 14-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (Fred Noe’s component), seven-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (Freddie’s component), and eight-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (shared family component). The focus is still on the art of blending, as is the case with the Little Book series overall, but as mentioned before Noe will select a new whiskey to add for every future release. We have not been able to sample the Infinite yet, but official tasting notes describe different flavor components based on each whiskey: Booker’s brings notes of oak, char, and smoke; Fred’s provides dark fruit, cherry, and brown sweets; and Freddie’s offers caramel, vanilla, and spice. The whiskey was bottled at 59.65 percent ABV.

Little Book the Infinite: Edition 1 will be available to purchase nationwide, but it’s a pricy bottle at $200 a pop and is being released in limited numbers. You can also find past releases, like this year’s Path Not Taken blend of rye whiskeys, available to purchase from websites like Total Wine now.

Best of Robb Report

Why a Heritage Turkey Is the Best Thanksgiving Bird—and How to Get One

9 Stellar West Coast Pinot Noirs to Drink Right Now

The 10 Best Wines to Pair With Steak, From Cabernet to Malbec

Sign up for Robb Report’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.

New Release

New Release

Despite the signs of autumn like school buses and the array of pumpkin-flavored treats, it’s technically still summer. The U.S. Open, starting the last Monday of August, signals this with its annual commencement. Over the next two weeks, tennis enthusiasts will flock to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens or watch from home to see their favorite tennis stars compete. If you’re attending or tuning in, keep an eye out for the Honey Deuce, the U.S. Open’s official cocktail.

Last year, the tournament sold over 400,000 Honey Deuce cocktails, a blend of raspberry lemonade priced at a hefty $22 each! Fortunately, it’s quite simple to make this drink at home with just three ingredients, allowing you to enjoy it in your air-conditioned living room while saving money. Here’s everything you need to know about crafting the Honey Deuce cocktail at home.

Related: How to Make Cheap Red Wine Taste 10x Better

The Honey Deuce consists of vodka, lemonade, and raspberry liqueur, typically garnished with honeydew melon balls that mimic the appearance of tennis balls. Created by restaurateur Nick Mautone in 2007, this cocktail has been a staple of the tournament ever since.

Grey Goose, a sponsor of the U.S. Open, enlisted him to create a distinctive yet simple cocktail for the high-volume event. During his experiments, a visit to a farmer’s market led him to discover honeydew melon balls, which resembled tennis balls and sparked the idea for the perfect garnish for the Honey Deuce cocktail. The cocktail’s name, Honey Deuce, cleverly refers to the tennis term “deuce,” which represents a 40-40 score.

Related: The Chef-Approved Way to Make the Best-Ever Strawberry Lemonade

This homemade version of the cocktail includes the same ingredients used by the tournament’s bartenders: crushed ice, vodka, lemonade, Chambord (or any other raspberry liqueur), and skewered honeydew melon balls as a garnish.

Related: Homemade Strawberry Lemonade Recipe

In a highball glass, add crushed ice, 1 ¼ oz. vodka, 3 oz. lemonade, ½ oz. Chambord. Stir (or shake in a shaker if you prefer) and pour into your highball glass. Garnish with honeydew melon balls threaded on a drink skewer. For a frozen twist, blend the vodka, lemonade, Chambord, and ice together, then serve in a glass with a garnish.

If you prefer not to make it but still want to try, and you’re in Chicago or New York, good news. DoorDash offers a Honey Deuce kit until September 8, which includes premixed Honey Deuce cocktails in cans, metal straws, melon balls, and a Grey Goose insulated tote bag.

Related: The Secret Iced Coffee Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

This easy-to-make cocktail, bursting with a tart yet sweet flavor, has become my favorite for winding down the warm summer days. Its appealing color paired with the right mix of lemonade sweetness (homemade in my case), raspberry tartness, and the smooth flavor of vodka make it irresistible. The adorable melon ball garnish, resembling tiny tennis balls, adds a fun twist that elevates the entire drink.

Although the official recommendation for the U.S. Open is to use Grey Goose vodka because they sponsor the event, I used my favorite Aspen vodka that I already had at home. Feel free to use whatever vodka you prefer; it will still turn out beautifully refreshing and delicious—no wonder it’s a popular choice.

Many others share this sentiment. One enthusiast commented, “The Honey Deuce cocktail was easy to make, refreshing, and sweet. The melon balls were a fun garnish!” Another remarked, “I love to prepare the Honey Deuce throughout the year. Since I live in Miami where the weather is mostly hot, this drink is perfect for BBQs or a day at the beach.” Indeed, it seems it’s game, set, match with this drink.

Up Next:

Related: 20 Best Summer Cocktails You Need to Try