Liquor-articles 2020

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Vodka, oh vodka. It’s one of those spirits that instantly brings a flavor memory to mind, whether it’s from souvenir shot glasses or a neutral vodka-soda. Meaning “little water” in Russian, vodka certainly gets a bad rap, and the same is sadly true of vodka martinis. But to that end I say, no more!

Even the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, which previously stated that, technically speaking, vodka should be “without distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color,” (ouch!) has gone back on its rulings. The bureau’s new amended definition gives vodka martini drinkers a lot more excitement to look forward to — and it shows.

Plenty of vodka brands are making far more complex martinis to enjoy and mix, according to bartenders. If you often opt for the more classic gin martini, it’s time to stir things up (literally, please don’t shake!) with a vodka martini.

What’s the Best Vodka for Martinis?

What’s the trick to picking the best vodka for a martini? Know your grains! Contrary to popular belief, most vodkas are not made with potatoes, but from grains like wheat, barley, rye, and corn. Depending on the grain, you’ll get a wide variation in texture, sweetness, and, yes, a little burn.

After interviewing over a half-dozen bartenders, one grain was the cream of the crop when it came to vodka bases: wheat. “I prefer vodka distilled from 100% wheat,” says George Krpeyan, the general manager at The Grand Tier Restaurant at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, who says that many of the signature vodka cocktails he makes are with Grey Goose, a wheat-based vodka. “For my taste, wheat vodka tastes best.” Hailed for its delicate sweetness and smoothness, wheat vodka is some of the best for mixing, while rye-based vodka is often spicier, and corn-based vodka can tend to be on the buttery side.

Krpeyan is not alone in loving wheat-based vodkas, either. “My favorite vodka brand is Grey Goose. I’m French, so it is a plus, and I love the way the product is being curated and the full process and minds behind it,” says Simon Sebbah, the beverage director of Grand Tour Hospitality. “All of the vodka cocktails you can find at American Bar, Saint Theo’s, and Holiday Bar are based with Grey Goose.” Made from French winter wheat and brought up to proof with demineralized spring water from the nearby town of Cognac, Grey Goose has a crisp flavor that makes it the perfect backbone for a spirit-forward cocktail like the martini.

Buy: Grey Goose Vodka, $27.59 for 750 mL at Drizly

Grey Goose isn’t the only brand known for its crisp flavor profile. Other bartenders and beverage directors I interviewed sang the praises of other wheat-based vodkas, like Stoli Elite, Chopin, and Ketel One, all well-known for their crisp, clean finish with light hints of citrus.

How to Make the Best Vodka Martini at Home

Creating a martini with a high quality taste requires the careful selection of each component; this includes dry vermouth, vodka, as well as optional orange bitters or olive juice. It is essential that each component is thoroughly chilled. If the opportunity arises, freezing your glasses and stirring your martini will provide the drink with a creamy texture that is exceptionally smooth.

The majority of classic martini drink recipes call for either a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio of vodka to vermouth. This mixture should be stirred quickly in your mixing glass with a large ice cube before being strained into your martini glass. Following this, the addition of a garnish, such as a lemon twist, olives, or cocktail onions will complete the drink.

While creating martinis may appear to be a daunting task, there are methods that make it almost too simple. Simultaneously, the ideal texture is maintained such as making an ample amount for the freezer. The beverage director for Albert’s Bar in New York, Pete Vasconcellos, explains this process. “Obtain a one-liter glass bottle with a tightly-fitted lid. Determine the preferred ratio for your martini and Figure out your favorite martini ratio (of vodka to vermouth) and scale it up to 750 milliliters where it almost fills the bottle. Multiply the total volume by 20% (150 milliliters) and add that amount of distilled water. Place your large batch of martini in the glass bottle and freeze. When you’re ready to drink, just pour it into a chilled martini glass. No need to stir!”

Puerto Rico is notably considered the rum capital of the world, and the essence of sugarcane-distilled liquor is intrinsically a part of the island and her people. On the island, rum is either served straight or blended into cocktails, marking the rhythm of youthful nights of salsa dancing. This constant rhythm might not be always audible, but it certainly can be felt. No other brand personifies this better than Ron del Barrilito, the island’s oldest and most cherished rum.

The foundation of Ron del Barrilito can be attributed to Pedro Fernȧndez in 1880, after his educational pursuit in Paris, France. During his time in Paris, his engineering classmates profoundly inspired him, specifically one named Egrot, the lineage behind the distillation process utilized in European spirits including sherry and cognac. Equipped with a revolutionary vision for the island’s aged rum, Pedro returned to Hacienda Santa Ana (the land in Bayamón, Puerto Rico that had been gifted to his family about a century ago).

“This was a totally unparalleled process in the world of rum,” stated Maggie Matias, the Chief Commercial Executive at Ron del Barrilito. In her conversation with Tasting Table, Matias explained, “The procurement of the ex-oloroso sherry barrels for ageing was remarkably challenging and costly, and the flavor spectrum of rums aged in these barrels were uncharted at that time.” Though Pedro’s distinct formula is a well-kept family secret, the brand verifies that the exact same formula continues to be used till today.

The recommendations are based on personal encounters with promotional materials and products supplied by the manufacturer/distributor and so on.

Read more: 13 Liquors Your Home Bar Should Have

While Ron del Barrilito can’t specify its exact formula, Matias confirmed that all of the brand’s rums are aged in ex-oloroso sherry barrels. This makes sense, considering that these barrels are typically used for European spirits — with a particular focus on Cognac. Cognac gained significance in the upper-class European culture right when Pedro was studying in France. Though considered practically undrinkable before the mid-1800s, barrel aging transformed its reputation. The same way, barrel aging brought rum into the spotlight, separating its association from being solely pirate’s drink. Pedro’s inspired use of barrels for Ron del Barrilito is thus clear.

“The unique flavor sherry barrels impart on aging rums is a definitive part of the Barrilito flavor profile,” as Matias puts it. Cognac also influenced Pedro’s process for producing Ron del Barrilito significantly – covering everything from flavor specifications to controlled distillation, and aging processes that make rum more flavorful. “Pedro was meticulous in his rum production, right from the distillation and pre-aging techniques like maceration process, which is case with Barrilito,” she added.

The breakthrough product of Ron Del Barillito was its three-star variant, manifesting Pedro’s perfection and replication of the craft. Borrowing from the same classification once used for Cognac, Ron del Barrilito released their second product, a two-star rum, only after prohibition concluded in the U.S.

For nearly 80 years, Ron Del Barillito had two rums: one for drinking neat, and one for mixing into cocktails. In 2018 the brand released its limited edition four and five-star bottles. Both are made exactly how Pedro would’ve intended them to be — just with 20 to 35 more years under the brand’s belt. With the incorporation of older rums into their blends, these bottles have an elegance to them that’s best reserved for drinking neat, or with a singular ice cube at most.

“The entire Ron del Barrilito product line is aimed at preserving a history of nearly two centuries worth of brand building and legacy, and that all started with the iconic three stars label,” said Matias. “Ultimately, the philosophy of the brand is that, while the label is quirky and far from the standard when it comes to product labels, the value is what is inside of the bottle, the rum.” In fact, some fourth-generation Fernandez family members are still involved in the production side of the business and, until a year ago, one of Pedro’s grandsons was living on the estate. Today, guests are welcome to visit Hacienda Santa Ana, where they can experience what makes Ron del Barrilito one-of-a-kind for themselves.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.

Is there a correct method to enjoy Japanese whiskey? Is it similar to eating pizza in a proper manner? Your answer might be somewhere along the lines of sort-of, but not exactly. If you’re eating pizza with cutlery, you’re undoubtedly doing it wrong, but beyond that, it’s your call. If you’re adding Japanese whiskey to a margarita, your understanding of flavor pairing may be flawed, yet nothing about Japanese whiskey requires a different serving style than other whiskies.

In Japan, whiskey is generally consumed in two ways — neat or in a highball. Neat whiskey implies serving it straight up in a glass, perhaps with an ice cube. Japanese whiskey highballs come in tall glasses with a generous block of ice and a splash of club soda, essentially a trendy glass serving a blended drink. Both of these methods are indicative of the traditional Japanese approach to whiskey consumption. While serving whiskey neat is a global practice, highball is somewhat specific to Japan. In the United States, on the other hand, whiskey mixed drinks are typically served with Coke in a rocks glass rather than club soda.

More info at: The 25 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked

When done right, drinking should be enjoyable, but everyone has different versions of fun. A boisterous 14-hour boat party might be thrilling for some, while others prefer a serene whiskey bar where the tasting notes of one’s drink are quietly discussed. The old saying “Different strokes for different folks,” holds true here.

But if someone is telling you that what you’re doing is wrong and what they’re doing is right, you’re better off just letting whatever wise words they have to say just slide right off you. Nobody knows what you like better than you, so you should be the one who decides how to enjoy your glass.

Japanese whiskey comes in a wide variety of styles and flavors. A few are comparable to some of the best Scotch whiskies on the market, others are better diluted with soda. Each brand and each bottle is going to offer something unique to your palette. In this way, Japanese whiskey is just like any other type of whiskey. Have fun with it, experiment with new styles, and don’t let stuffy etiquette get you down.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.

Puerto Rico is widely considered the rum capital of the world, and the sugarcane-distilled liquor is profoundly ingrained in the culture of the small island and its inhabitants. There, rum is served neat or integrated into cocktails and accompanies convivial nights of salsa dancing. There’s a perpetual rhythm that, if not audible, is distinctly perceptible. Ron del Barrilito, the island’s oldest and most commendable rum, perfectly encapsulates this sensation.

Pedro Fernȧndez established Ron del Barrilito in 1880 after studying in Paris, France. His time spent there, particularly with his engineering peers, inspired him. Notably a colleague named Egrot, the originator of the distillation process used in European spirits like sherry and cognac, had a significant influence. Pedro returned to Hacienda Santa Ana (the land in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, gifted to his family nearly a century before) intending to revolutionize the island’s aged rum.

“This was an entirely distinctive procedure within the realm of rum,” explained Maggie Matias, Chief Commercial Executive at Ron del Barrilito, to Tasting Table. “Obtaining the ex-oloroso sherry barrels for aging was notably challenging and costly, and the taste profile of rums matured in these barrels remained discovered at that time.” Although Pedro’s exact formula is withheld as a cherished family secret, the brand affirms that the precise formula is continually used to this very day.

Some suggestions are rooted in first-hand experiences of promotional materials and items provided by the producer.

Read more: 13 Liquors Your Home Bar Should Have

While Ron del Barrilito can’t specify its exact formula, Matias confirmed that all of the brand’s rums are aged in ex-oloroso sherry barrels. This makes sense, seeing as they’re commonly used for European spirits — particularly Cognac. When Pedro was studying in France, cognac was having a moment in upper-class European culture. Before the mid-1800s, it didn’t have a reputation for anything besides being borderline undrinkable, but barrel aging changed that. Similarly, rum wasn’t known for anything apart from pirates before barrels had anything to do with it. One can see why Pedro took inspiration from it for Ron del Barrilito.

“Sherry barrels impart a unique flavor on aging rums that are a definitive component of the Barrilito flavor profile,” said Matias. But Cognac also played a pivotal role in Pedro’s eventual production process for Ron del Barrilito — all the way from the specifications of flavor to the controlled distillation and aging processes that make rum more flavorful. “Pedro learned how to be very diligent with the production of his rum from as early as the distillation and pre-aging techniques that are applied (in Barrilito’s case, the maceration process),” she explained.

Ron Del Barillito’s three-star, the brand’s breakthrough and long-time-only product, was a result of his perfection and replication of the craft. Using the same delineation that was once used for Cognac, Ron del Barrilito wouldn’t release their second rum, the two-star bottle, until prohibition ended in the U.S.

For nearly 80 years, Ron Del Barillito had two rums: one for drinking neat, and one for mixing into cocktails. In 2018 the brand released its limited edition four and five-star bottles. Both are made exactly how Pedro would’ve intended them to be — just with 20 to 35 more years under the brand’s belt. With the incorporation of older rums into their blends, these bottles have an elegance to them that’s best reserved for drinking neat, or with a singular ice cube at most.

“The entire Ron del Barrilito product line is aimed at preserving a history of nearly two centuries worth of brand building and legacy, and that all started with the iconic three stars label,” said Matias. “Ultimately, the philosophy of the brand is that, while the label is quirky and far from the standard when it comes to product labels, the value is what is inside of the bottle, the rum.” In fact, some fourth-generation Fernandez family members are still involved in the production side of the business and, until a year ago, one of Pedro’s grandsons was living on the estate. Today, guests are welcome to visit Hacienda Santa Ana, where they can experience what makes Ron del Barrilito one-of-a-kind for themselves.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.

Although distinguishing a high-rye bourbon from a rye whiskey might be tricky for even the keenest of brown liquor fans, there are key differences to note between the two. Both might appear quite alike and their aromas might deceive you into believing they are the same. Even their tastes can confusingly overlap if they contain equal proportions of rye. These two liquors might appear interchangeable at first glance, with both usually bearing the same alcohol content, yet crucial distinctions exist. These differences between high-rye bourbon and rye whiskey matter and significantly influence how you experience them.

Compared to regular bourbon, high-rye bourbon leans towards a less sweet profile. It must be produced in the United States, similar to other bourbon whiskeys. The augmented proportion of rye in these bourbons gives them a more zesty, peppery taste, while maintaining a touch of the typical bourbon sweetness. In contrast, production of rye whiskey can occur anywhere in the world and its taste leans towards the strictly spicy, recalling the flavors of baking spices such as clove and cinnamon. What sets these two liquors apart, however, is the main grain employed in their making. Both contain rye — as the names suggest — yet high-rye bourbon is primarily corn-based while rye whiskey is made primarily from at least 51% rye.

Facts for Liquor Lovers: The 25 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked

In most bourbon making, corn serves as the main grain. The distinct factor in high-rye bourbon is the significant addition of rye. For any whiskey to be classified as bourbon, it must contain at least 51% corn. High-rye bourbons, however, include around 20% rye. Common bourbons generally have a sweeter taste due to the high percentage of corn present. The addition of rye in high-rye bourbon effectively offsets some of this sweetness. The flavor impact of high-rye bourbon is usually described as punchier than standard bourbon, indicating a stronger taste experienced on the initial sip.

High-rye bourbon, like traditional bourbons, is created in new charred oak barrels, with the incorporation of rye making a drier liquor. This inclusion leads to more dominant herbal, bitter notes that are generally absent in bourbons. Thus, if you are a bourbon enthusiast searching for a less sweet and more intricate flavor, high-rye bourbon might be to your liking.

For a liquor to be categorized as a rye whiskey, it must contain at least 51% rye. Rye whiskeys are recognized for their spicy and slightly burning sensation when consumed, owing to the spicier taste of rye compared to other distilling grains. Some rye whiskeys even go beyond the 51% rye requirement to amplify the spicy kick. These types of whiskeys offer a sharp and dry sensation in your mouth, providing a more dynamic mouthfeel than bourbon and even high-rye bourbon.

Rye whiskies, like bourbon and other whiskey varieties, are matured in charred oak barrels but are allowed to age in pre-used barrels. This aging process infuses the liquor with hints of vanilla sweetness and a touch of smoky wood flavor. Longer-aged rye whiskeys exhibit more pronounced sweet flavors, while younger ones are rich in spice. However, the sweetness is invariably minimal in rye whiskey.

High-rye bourbons contain more rye than traditional bourbon whiskeys, yet the primary ingredient remains corn. To be officially recognized as a bourbon in the United States, a spirit must contain 51% or more corn. As reported by New Riff Distilling, bourbon was first made in Kentucky in the 1700s when settlers used mostly corn in a mash to make the liquor. Due to the widespread availability of corn in the United States, bourbon soon became the preferred spirit for many Americans. Corn provides bourbon its unique sweet flavor and lends a smoother mouthfeel, making it an easy drink.

Rye whiskeys are distilled mostly from rye, which also became a popular choice for distilling in the 1700s and originated in Pennsylvania, according to Limestone Branch Distillery. Rye was easily grown in the climate and also provided a sharper flavor that was different from other whiskeys at the time, but its accessibility was a big selling point.

Compared to other whiskeys, bourbon whiskeys have some of the strictest rules when it comes to classification. Bourbon whiskeys may not have any other additives used besides water. By law, nothing else can be used to alter the color, sweeten the bourbon, or enhance the flavor in any way. This process is in place to keep bourbon pure and offer clarity on the ingredients. This law was part of President Taft’s Pure Food and Drug Act in 1906, according to Jeptha Creed Distillery. Though these strict requirements may seem silly, it’s what has preserved authentic American bourbon for well over 100 years.

Rye whiskey, on the other hand, can feature additives if it is not labeled as “straight whiskey.” Straight whiskey simply refers to whiskey that has no other additives — different types of whiskeys can be straight, including rye whiskeys. If a rye whiskey is not labeled as straight, though, up to 2.5% of the liquor could be additives. These additives can be used to bring a more uniform color to the whiskey or to bring out the tasting notes more. With heavy regulations in place, these additives don’t alter the whiskey too much.

Part of the appeal of a high-rye bourbon is that extra kick from the spicy rye. If you are drinking a high-rye bourbon to experience that intense flavor of the spice, you are probably best off enjoying this liquor neat. You can chill your glass and bourbon before pouring to get a little crispness from the cold. If you are worried about the spice feeling too intense for a bourbon, you can opt to drink it on the rocks; the addition of ice will help water down the intensity. A high-rye bourbon can also be a fun way to spice up a mint julep cocktail.

The resurgence of rye whiskey has brought on a new age of rye whiskey cocktails. Many classic whiskey cocktails such as the Manhattan and old fashioned would have featured strong rye whiskey flavors back in the times of their creation, so using rye whiskey for them today will get you closer to how these drinks were originally imagined. Rye whiskey can cut through the mixers of cocktails for a subtle edge. You could also go for rye whiskey neat or on the rocks if you want to fully experience the spice.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.

Vodka, oh vodka. It’s one of those spirits that instantly brings a flavor memory to mind, whether it’s from souvenir shot glasses or a neutral vodka-soda. Meaning “little water” in Russian, vodka certainly gets a bad rap, and the same is sadly true of vodka martinis. But to that end I say, no more!

Even the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, which previously stated that, technically speaking, vodka should be “without distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color,” (ouch!) has gone back on its rulings. The bureau’s new amended definition gives vodka martini drinkers a lot more excitement to look forward to — and it shows.

Plenty of vodka brands are making far more complex martinis to enjoy and mix, according to bartenders. If you often opt for the more classic gin martini, it’s time to stir things up (literally, please don’t shake!) with a vodka martini.

What’s the Best Vodka for Martinis?

What’s the trick to picking the best vodka for a martini? Know your grains! Contrary to popular belief, most vodkas are not made with potatoes, but from grains like wheat, barley, rye, and corn. Depending on the grain, you’ll get a wide variation in texture, sweetness, and, yes, a little burn.

After interviewing over a half-dozen bartenders, one grain was the cream of the crop when it came to vodka bases: wheat. “I prefer vodka distilled from 100% wheat,” says George Krpeyan, the general manager at The Grand Tier Restaurant at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, who says that many of the signature vodka cocktails he makes are with Grey Goose, a wheat-based vodka. “For my taste, wheat vodka tastes best.” Hailed for its delicate sweetness and smoothness, wheat vodka is some of the best for mixing, while rye-based vodka is often spicier, and corn-based vodka can tend to be on the buttery side.

Krpeyan is not alone in loving wheat-based vodkas, either. “My favorite vodka brand is Grey Goose. I’m French, so it is a plus, and I love the way the product is being curated and the full process and minds behind it,” says Simon Sebbah, the beverage director of Grand Tour Hospitality. “All of the vodka cocktails you can find at American Bar, Saint Theo’s, and Holiday Bar are based with Grey Goose.” Made from French winter wheat and brought up to proof with demineralized spring water from the nearby town of Cognac, Grey Goose has a crisp flavor that makes it the perfect backbone for a spirit-forward cocktail like the martini.

Buy: Grey Goose Vodka, $27.59 for 750 mL at Drizly

Grey Goose isn’t the only brand known for its crisp flavor profile. Other bartenders and beverage directors I interviewed sang the praises of other wheat-based vodkas, like Stoli Elite, Chopin, and Ketel One, all well-known for their crisp, clean finish with light hints of citrus.

How to Make the Best Vodka Martini at Home

Creating a martini, which is a simple cocktail, relies heavily on the quality of every ingredient. It is crucial to use chilled dry vermouth, your preferred vodka, and possibly some orange bitters or olive juice. To achieve an ultra-smooth or even creamy cocktail, freeze your glasses and stir your martini if possible.

Most traditional martini recipes recommend a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio of vodka to vermouth, a short stir in your mixer with a large ice cube for about 30 seconds, and then strain into your martini glass. Then, you can add a garnish such as a lemon twist, olives, or cocktail onions and you’re all set.

Martinis can seem complex to prepare, but there’s a technique that not only simplifies it but also keeps the amazing texture: prepare a large batch and keep it in freezer. Pete Vasconcellos, the beverage director at Albert’s Bar in New York, explains the freezer martini method: “Take a one-liter glass bottle with a secure lid. Determine your favorite martini ratio (vodka to vermouth) and scale it up to 750 mls, until it almost fills up the bottle. Increase the total volume by 20% (150 mls) and add this amount of distilled water. Store your martini mixture in your glass bottle in the freezer. When it’s time to serve, simply pour it into a chilled martini glass. There’s no need to stir it!”

Even for enthusiasts of brown beverages, distinguishing between a high-rye bourbon and a rye whiskey can be challenging, particularly as bourbon is considered a type of whiskey. The two drinks bear a striking aesthetic resemblance and aren’t easy to differentiate by aroma. Even their flavors can mimic each other if an identical quantity of rye is used. Despite sharing an alcohol percentage, there exist several key differences that establish high-rye bourbon and rye whiskey as distinct entities which can significantly influence how to appreciate them.

High-rye bourbon, compared to standard bourbon, is not as sweet. It remains restricted to production within the United States like any other bourbon whiskey. These bourbons acquire a more peppery zest due to their additional rye, yet conserve some of the characteristic bourbon sweetness. Conversely, rye whiskey can be manufactured anywhere globally. It proffers a predominantly spicy palate, reminiscent of classic baking spices such as cloves and cinnamon. What principally sets these beverages apart is their primary grain. As their names suggest, both comprise rye, but high-rye bourbon uses corn predominantly while rye whiskey needs a minimum of 51% rye.

Read further: The 25 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked

Bourbon is usually brewed with corn as the main ingredient. High-rye bourbon introduces a significant portion of rye as well, thus the designation. For a whiskey to earn the bourbon label, it must contain at least 51% corn. High-rye bourbons incorporate around 20% rye as well. The sweetness in bourbons typically arises from the high corn content. The inclusion of rye in high-rye bourbon aids in mitigating some of this sweetness. High-rye bourbon is considered more impactful than standard bourbon, delivering a potent initial flavor burst.

High-rye bourbon, similar to classical bourbons, is crafted in new charred oak barrels and the added rye results in a drier spirit. This gives you more profound herbal and bitter tasting notes, not usually associated with bourbons. High-rye bourbon might be interesting to you if you relish bourbon but are curious about a less sugary and more sophisticated flavour.

Rye whiskey, to fall under this categorization, ought to be created with a minimum of 51% rye. Rye whiskeys bring forth a spicy, mildly scorching sensation upon consumption. This emanates from rye’s spicy flavour compared to other grains for distillation. Certain rye whiskeys will include much more than 51% rye to impart an additional spicy punch. Owing to their arid disposition, these whiskeys will feel pronounced in your mouth, thus, making for a more diverse sensation than bourbon and even high-rye bourbon.

Just like bourbon and other whiskey types, rye whiskeys are aged in charred oak barrels, however, rye whiskeys can utilise previously used barrels. The charred oak grants the spirit notes of vanilla sweetness and a hint of smoky wooden flavour. Rye whiskey that’s been aged for an extended duration carries more pronounced sweet notes, whereas younger rye whiskeys emphasise the spicy aspect. Nonetheless, sweetness will be nominal in a rye whiskey.

Even though high-rye bourbons contain a greater amount of rye in comparison to traditional bourbon whiskeys, they are still predominantly composed of corn. For a bourbon to be classified in the United States, it ought to be made with 51% or more corn. According to New Riff Distilling, bourbon originated in the 1700s Kentucky when settlers brewed the spirit mostly from corn. Bourbon became the most favoured liquor for many Americans owing to the ample supply of the crop in the country. The distinctly sweet and enjoyable flavour people crave in bourbon whiskey comes from corn. Corn also conveys a smoother experience to the bourbon, rendering it easily consumable.

Rye whiskeys are predominantly distilled from rye, which gained popularity as a distilling choice in the 1700s and initially came to be in Pennsylvania, according to Limestone Branch Distillery. Rye was well-suited to the climate and introduced a sharper, distinct flavor compared to other whiskeys of that era, but its easy availability was its biggest appeal.

When contrasted with other whiskeys, bourbon whiskeys are subject to some of the most stringent rules for classification. Apart from water, no other additives can be used in bourbon whiskeys. There are laws ensuring that nothing else is used to modify the color, sweeten the bourbon, or boost the flavor in any manner. This system is in place to maintain the purity of bourbon and provide transparency about the ingredients. This law originated from President Taft’s Pure Food and Drug Act in 1906, stated by Jeptha Creed Distillery. While you might find these stringent requirements a tad ridiculous, they have preserved genuine American bourbon for more than a century.

On the contrary, it’s permissible to include additives in rye whiskey if it’s not labelled as “straight whiskey.” Straight whiskey is simply whiskey that contains no other additives — various types of whiskeys, including rye whiskeys, can be straight. However, if a rye whiskey isn’t tagged as straight, additives may constitute up to 2.5% of the liquor. Additives serve to achieve a more uniform color for the whiskey or to emphasize the tasting notes. Due to strict regulations, these additives don’t drastically change the whiskey.

One of the attractions of high-rye bourbon is the additional punch from the spicy rye. If you’re consuming a high-rye bourbon to savor that potent spice flavor, it’s best to drink this liquor neat. You can refrigerate your glass and bourbon prior to pouring, in order to get some freshness from the cold. If you’re concerned about the spice being too overpowering for a bourbon, you could choose to drink it on the rocks; ice will help dilute the intensity. A high-rye bourbon can also be a unique way to spice up a mint julep cocktail.

The resurgence of rye whiskey has brought on a new age of rye whiskey cocktails. Many classic whiskey cocktails such as the Manhattan and old fashioned would have featured strong rye whiskey flavors back in the times of their creation, so using rye whiskey for them today will get you closer to how these drinks were originally imagined. Rye whiskey can cut through the mixers of cocktails for a subtle edge. You could also go for rye whiskey neat or on the rocks if you want to fully experience the spice.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.

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Eligibility – Who may Enter: The Sweepstakes is open to legal U.S. residents residing in the State of Washington, aged twenty-one (21) or older at the time of entry, with a valid U.S. driver’s license or government issued photo I.D. Employees, officers, and directors of Sponsor, Administrator, Seattle Hockey Partners LLC d/b/a Seattle Kraken , Seattle Arena Company, LLC, the National Hockey League (“NHL”), its member clubs, NHL Enterprises, L.P., NHL Enterprises Canada, L.P., NHL Enterprises B.V., NHL Interactive CyberEnterprises, LLC, National Hockey League Foundation, NHL Foundation, other members of the NHL, each of their respective franchisees, parents, affiliate companies, subsidiaries, wholesalers, distributors, alcoholic beverage retailers, printers, advertising and promotion agencies, and any and all other companies associated with the Sweepstakes, along with their immediate family members or households are not eligible to enter, participate or win.

How to Enter – Online Registration: To enter, scan the participating QR code in point of sale materials using your mobile device’s camera or visit the Sweepstakes website at www.KrakenOnIce.com. Each entrant must complete the online registration page providing their name, a valid email address, phone number, address, date of birth and other requested information. After agreeing to the Official Rules, click the submit button to submit your online entry.

By entering the Sweepstakes, you consent to Sponsor, Administrator and their respective designees to contact you with promotional messages using automated/pre-recorded/artificial technology.

All entries must be submitted by 11:59:59p PT on March 15, 2024 to be eligible. Only one (1) entry per person allowed during the entire Registration Period. Each entrant must submit an entry on his/her own behalf. Entries made on behalf of other individuals, using another person’s name, email, submitting false or fake information, or using duplicate accounts will be disqualified. Mechanically produced or automated entries are not permitted. Use of any automated system to participate will result in disqualification and all such entries will be deemed void. False and/or deceptive entries, including misrepresentation of age or address, will render such entries ineligible.

All entries submitted for the Sweepstakes will be owned exclusively by the Sponsor and will not be returned. The Sponsor retains the right of disqualification and removal of any entry that doesn’t comply with the Official Rules. Each entry should meet the required conditions stated above and below, or it may face disqualification from the Sweepstakes.

All entries should contain the necessary information indicated. An entry with false, incomplete, indecipherable or other erroneous information will face disqualification. The Released Parties, encompassing the Sponsor, Administrator, Seattle Arena Company, LLC, the Seattle Kraken and their various equity holders, owners, partners, etc., are not liable for misdirected, late, lost incorrect, unreadable, incorrect, null, indecipherable, or harmed entries, or for any submitted entries via unapproved methods as per the Official Rules. Furthermore, they are not accountable for entries not submitted or received due to any technical or human error, including damages or harm caused to a participant’s or any other individual’s computer linked to or resulting from participation in this Sweepstakes; such entries will face disqualification.

In case of any disagreements regarding any entry, the authorized holder of the email account used for registration, linked with the entry, will be viewed as the registrant, and they should be eligible as per these Official Rules. The “authorized email account holder” refers to the natural person assigned an email address by an Internet service provider, online service provider or other organizations responsible for assigning email addresses linked with the domain of the submitted address. Evidence of being the authorized account holder may be demanded.

When participants submit an entry, they acknowledge that the Sponsor and participating parties are permitted to contact them through email, mail, phone, or any other means of media to update them with pertinent Sweepstakes information. They may also share information about the Sponsor(s) featured events, products, special events, or promotional offers. Participants can opt-out of further email communication any time by replying REMOVE to any email message, or following the given opt-out instructions. Entry into the Sweepstakes doesn’t require any available opt-in opportunities and checking the opt-in boxes will not increase the chances of winning.

By registering and submitting an entry, you affirm that you have read and accepted these Official Rules. The laws of the U.S. govern this Sweepstakes, and any claims must be raised and resolved in the U.S. Any information collected by registering and entering the Sweepstakes will be used only in a manner consistent with these Official Rules and Sponsor’s Privacy Policy. By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant agrees that they may be contacted by the Sponsor. They accept that their comments may be used by the Sponsor in any manner related to the Sweepstakes. Information collected in connection with the Sweepstakes will be in accordance with Sponsor’s Privacy Policy available at proximospirits.com/privacy/.

Winner Selection and Notification: A random drawing will be conducted by the Administrator on or about March 18, 2024, to select one (1) potential winner from all the eligible entries received. If the number of eligible entries is less than the number of prizes available, the remaining prizes will not be awarded.

The eligible entrant whose entry is randomly selected will be designated as the potential prize winner, pending verification of eligibility and compliance with these Official Rules. Only the entrant whose entry is randomly selected shall have the chance to claim the prize. All other entries will be disqualified.

The potential prize winner will be contacted via phone or email after being selected. The potential winner must follow the instructions provided to confirm eligibility and claim the prize. If the Administrator cannot reach the selected potential winner, or if the winner does not respond within forty-eight (48) hours, that entrant may be disqualified. An alternate potential winner may then be randomly selected from the remaining eligible entries.

Please be aware: we will not leave phone messages during the winner notification process.

The selected potential prize winner, during the notification process, must confirm their eligibility and express their readiness to accept the prize. If the chosen winner fails to meet the eligibility criteria, is unable or unwilling to accept the prize, or decides to reject the prize, they will be disqualified. If time allows, the Sponsor may select an alternative winner randomly from the remaining eligible entries. Any disqualified participant will not receive any alternative prize substitution or compensation. The decisions made by the Sponsor and Administrator in selecting the prize winner and all matters relating to this Sweepstakes are final and binding.

The winner of the prize must do the following: (1) complete and submit a prize acceptance form, including an affidavit of eligibility and liability/publicity release within two days of notification (where permitted); (2) may be required to present a valid driver’s license or government-issued photo ID and appropriate social security card to participate or receive any prize; and (3) pay all applicable taxes (including, but not limited to, all local, state and federal taxes) on their prize award.

Prize Award (maximum 1 prize award): The eligible entrant identified as the prize winner will be awarded the following prize:

The prize’s approximate retail value (ARV) is $250. The prize does not include any other costs or expenses, such as transportation, parking, accommodations, or incidental expenses. Winners and guests must adhere to the rules and conduct policies of the venue and team, which may include requirements for COVID-19 testing or vaccination. The team or venue, as well as the sponsor, have the right to deny entry to anyone not complying with these policies or engaging in disruptive, unsportsmanlike, or annoying behavior.

The date and time of the game are at the discretion of the league or team and can be subject to change. In case a game isn’t played or attendance is restricted due to any unforeseen circumstance (Force Majeure events), the terms of the tickets awarded will prevail. The sponsor will not be responsible for the postponement, rescheduling, or cancellation of the game.

General Prize Conditions: * No prize includes alcoholic beverages. * The prize can be digitally delivered, transferred via mobile ticket, or shipped to the winner’s residential address as provided during entry or winner notification using USPS or another designated shipping/mail carrier. Once the prize is delivered or shipped, the sponsor will not be responsible for delayed, lost, damaged, undelivered, or stolen prizes or incorrect address provided by the winner. Prizes will not be replaced or compensated in case of any delivery issues.

The winner is solely responsible for all other expenses related to accepting, delivering, redeeming, or using the prize not specified here. The winner is also responsible for all income, federal, state, and local taxes. Prizes are provided as-is and without any warranty. Prizes are non-transferable, and no cash redemption or substitution is allowed unless at the discretion of the sponsor. Uncollected or improperly claimed prizes will be forfeited and remain the property of the sponsor. All properly claimed prizes will be awarded, and unclaimed prizes will not be awarded.

Additional Rules and Restrictions: By taking part, participants concur to comply and be constrained by the Official Rules and the conclusions of the Sponsor and Administrator, this will be the last decision in all matters relating to this Sweepstakes. If a participant wins a prize, but thereafter is found to be in breach of these Official Rules, he or she will be required to forfeit the prize or to repay the Sponsor for the stated ARV of the prize if such an infringement is discovered after the winner has utilized the prize. Entering the Sweepstakes grants permission for the sponsor and its designees to use the participants names, location and/or likenesses for the purpose of advertising in any and all media now or hereafter worldwide without limitations or extra repayment, unless prohibited by law. False, fraudulent or deceptive acts or entries will disqualify participants from any prize.

By taking part, participants agree to hold all Released Parties harmless from any claims, losses, actions, or damages, whether actual, incidental or consequential, for injury including personal injury or death, damages, loss of personal property, or expenses resulting from participation in this Sweepstakes, acceptance, possession or use/misuse of any prize, or involvement in prize-related activities, and to assume all responsibility. The Released Parties shall not be accountable to the winner or any other person if they fail to supply the prize or part thereof, due to any Force Majeure Event which shall include acts of God, industrial disturbances, war, cyber-attack, governmental orders, natural disasters, epidemics, rescheduling of the NHL® season, actions of communications carriers, or any other cause beyond the control of the Released Parties.

Participants must use regular and standard computer and mobile phone equipment and networks. The Sponsor denies all liability for entrants incapability to complete or continue an entry due to equipment failure, overrun lines, inadvertent disconnections, actions beyond the Sponsor’s control, or otherwise. The Sponsor denies all responsibility for entries not received due to technical glitches or transmission error. The Sponsor denies all liability for any delays, mis-delivery, or failure in the delivery sent by any delivery method. The Released Parties are not accountable for any mechanical, technical, electronic, communication, telephone, computer, or software errors of any kind. Sponsor, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person tampering with the entry process or the function of the Sweepstakes Website.

Sponsor has the authority to halt, adjust, or close the Sweepstakes for various reasons, which can include fraudulent activity, inappropriate behaviour, regulatory needs, unexpected external events, changes in the NHL season schedule or when guided by applicable laws. If there are any technical issues, online connection problems or programming mistakes that can potentially harm or destroy the integrity of the Sweepstakes, the Sponsor/Administrator can intervene. Further, if any online elements, such as viruses or bugs compromise or affect the Sweepstakes’ administration, safety, or proper execution, the Sponsor/Administrator reserves the right to take necessary steps. When the Sweepstakes is terminated early, the Sponsor can choose the winners from all eligible and non-fraudulent entries received up until the time/date of termination.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION: By participating in the Sweepstakes, all participants consent that: (1) All arguments, claims and legal courses of action resulting from or related to the Sweepstakes or any prizes given out will be resolved individually, without resort to any class-action, and any legal proceedings will happen in a state or federal court within New York State, specifically in the County of New York; (2) Any and all claims, judgments and awards will only cover actual costs incurred, such as entering the Sweepstakes costs, and the participant will not be entitled to receive attorneys’ fees or other legal costs; and, (3) The participant will not be permitted to procure awards for, and hence waives the right to claim, any punitive, incidental or consequential damages, excluding actual expenses, and any and all rights to have these damages multiplied or otherwise increased. All queries and issues about the construction, validity, interpretation of these Official Rules, rights and obligations of participants and Sponsor related to the Sweepstakes, shall be decided by, and in line with the laws of the State of New York, without considering any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions (be it from the State of New York or from any other jurisdiction), that would ensure the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than New York State.

WARRANTY DISCLAIMER:  SPONSOR IS PROVIDING THE SWEEPSTAKES “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE.” THE SPONSOR DOESN’T REPRESENT OR WARRANT THE SWEEPSTAKES OR THE TECHNOLOGY UTILISED TO DELIVER IT: (1) WILL RUN UNINTERRUPTED OR SECURELY; (2) WILL BE DEFECT, INACCURACY OR ERROR-FREE; OR (3) WILL MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS OR ENABLE YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN IT. THE RELEASED PARTIES HAVE NO WARRANTIES, EXCEPT THOSE MADE EXPRESSLY IN THESE OFFICIAL RULES, AND HEREBY REJECT ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, MERCHANTABILITY AND NON-INFRINGEMENT.

Odds: The odds of winning a prize depend on the total number of eligible entries received. 

Official Rules and Winner List: For a copy of these Official Rules or the name of prize winner, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to be received by May 15, 2024 to: The Kraken on Ice Seattle Kraken Sweepstakes, c/o Million Dollar Media, P.O. Box 278, Woodbridge, NJ 07095. PLEASE SPECIFY which you are requesting, official rules or winners list.

NHL & TRADEMARKS: Seattle Kraken, NHL, the NHL Shield, the word mark and image of the Stanley Cup and NHL Conference logos are registered trademarks, copyrights and property of Seattle Hockey Partners, LLC and the National Hockey League. All rights reserved. All NHL logos and marks and NHL team logos and marks as well as all other proprietary materials depicted or described herein are the property of the NHL and the respective NHL teams and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of NHL Enterprises, L.P. © NHL 2021.

Seattle Hockey Partners LLC, Seattle Arena Company, LLC and the NHL Entities, are not a sponsor of the Sweepstakes, and are in no way responsible for the administration of the Sweepstakes but may partner with Sponsor to provide promotional support, the verification of winners or the fulfillment of prizing, and will have no liability or responsibility for any claim arising in connection with participation in the Sweepstakes or the prize. All inquiries regarding the Sweepstakes should be direct to Sponsor or Sweepstakes administrator, Million Dollar Media.

©2023 Kraken Rum Co., Jersey City, NJ. Like the deepest sea, The Kraken should be treated with great respect and responsibility, so please drink responsibly.

Vodka produced in the abandoned zone at Chernobyl has been labelled a “propaganda exercise” by a victims’ charity.

The Chernobyl Spirit Company, a social enterprise which creates apple schnapps and vodka from fruit and grain grown in the so-called “Zone Two”, sells the drinks to tourists and in the UK. It launched pear and plum versions of its schnapps in 2022.

While previous scientific inquiries have found that the liquor does not contain radiation, the drinks have faced criticism from victims’ charities for making light of the risk of radiation poisoning.

Linda Walker, executive director at the Chernobyl Children’s Project, which works with people who have disabilities caused by the accident, said the spirit production was “inappropriate”.

She pointed out victims of the disaster are still suffering long-term health effects from the fallout of the 1986 disaster.

Ms Walker said: “It’s just such a bizarre thing to do. It’s so easy to grow apples, apples are grown everywhere, absolutely all over the place in Belarus and Ukraine.

“To choose to grow them in the area heavily contaminated by Chernobyl, it’s to make a point,” adding: “It’s a very strange propaganda exercise.”

Ms Walker said health problems continue in the region, especially in areas where people were hunting and eating contaminated foods.

She elucidated, “Mainly where individuals were hunting and consuming wild boar and rabbits, or people were digesting the edibles from the polluted area.

“This has perpetually led to numerous health issues in both juveniles and grown-ups.”

This happened post the seizure of approximately 1,500 bottles of the apple schnapps by the legal authorities in Ukraine in 2021, and these were only relinquished post a detailed scrutiny.

The conjecture is that the bottles were confiscated because of uncertainty regarding the accurate tax payment on the spirits.

The company’s vodka was inaugurated in 2019, crafted at the Palinochka Distillery in Ukraine, and then exported to the UK.

Profits gleaned from the sales are reinvested into communities still feeling the effects of the 1986 nuclear catastrophe.

As communicated by the 2022 accounts of Chernobyl Spirit, the company yielded a profit exceeding £10,000, following a generous donation of £15,000 towards the Ukrainian military cause.

Championed by Professor Jim Smith, from Portsmouth University in 2019, the social venture is backed by scientific data illustrating the radiation levels in mammals and fish within the area as being no higher than those found in neighbouring locations.

He stated, “In many parts of this semi-deserted region, you could safely cultivate and consume apples. You could safely grow a variety of crops. Farmers understand the crops, they understand the sort of fertilization required to produce crops that are under the Ukraine limit and well under the EU and UK limits.”

The professor continued to say that the Narodychi District, where the crops are grown, is “very lightly contaminated,” equating its level of contamination to the natural radiation found in Cornwall.

He also indicated that the region is severely underfunded, resulting in poor healthcare services and limited job opportunities for those who still reside there.

After the 1986 explosion, a 36-mile wide exclusion zone was established around the radioactive core by the Soviet Union.

A new concrete sarcophagus was placed over the site in 2016, minimizing the remaining radiation in the neighboring region, yet the decision about the abandoned land’s future remains uncertain for the authorities.

In the exclusion zone, Ukraine intends to create one of the biggest wind farms in Europe, supplying energy to about 800,000 households in Kyiv and its surrounding areas.

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Vodka, oh vodka. It’s one of those spirits that instantly brings a flavor memory to mind, whether it’s from souvenir shot glasses or a neutral vodka-soda. Meaning “little water” in Russian, vodka certainly gets a bad rap, and the same is sadly true of vodka martinis. But to that end I say, no more!

Even the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, which previously stated that, technically speaking, vodka should be “without distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color,” (ouch!) has gone back on its rulings. The bureau’s new amended definition gives vodka martini drinkers a lot more excitement to look forward to — and it shows.

Plenty of vodka brands are making far more complex martinis to enjoy and mix, according to bartenders. If you often opt for the more classic gin martini, it’s time to stir things up (literally, please don’t shake!) with a vodka martini.

What’s the Best Vodka for Martinis?

What’s the trick to picking the best vodka for a martini? Know your grains! Contrary to popular belief, most vodkas are not made with potatoes, but from grains like wheat, barley, rye, and corn. Depending on the grain, you’ll get a wide variation in texture, sweetness, and, yes, a little burn.

After conducting conversations with numerous bartenders, it became clear that one primary ingredient stood out for vodka: wheat. George Krpeyan, the general manager at The Grand Tier Restaurant at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, expressed a preference for vodka distilled from 100% wheat. Krpeyan suggests that most of the signature vodka cocktails that he crafts are made with Grey Goose, a vodka that uses wheat. Wheat vodka, according to his taste, is superior due to its delicate sweetness and smoothness. It is ideal for mixing, whereas vodka based on rye tends to have a spicier note, and those on corn are often buttery.

Krpeyan’s affinity for wheat-based vodka is shared by others. “My personal favorite vodka brand is Grey Goose. Being a French, I have a particular fondness for it. I appreciate the care with which the product is produced and the thought process behind it,” says Simon Sebbah, the beverage director of Grand Tour Hospitality. “At American Bar, Saint Theo’s, and Holiday Bar, all our vodka cocktails are based with Grey Goose.” Grey Goose, crafted from French winter wheat and brought up to proof with demineralized spring water from the nearby town of Cognac, has a crisp flavor perfect for a spirit-forward cocktail like a martini.

Buy: Grey Goose Vodka, $27.59 for 750 mL at Drizly

But it’s not just Grey Goose that’s renowned for its crisp flavor profile. Other bartenders and beverage directors also highly recommended other wheat-based vodkas, such as Stoli Elite, Chopin, and Ketel One, all well-known for their crisp, clean finish with light hints of citrus.

Guide to Making the Best Vodka Martini at Home

With a cocktail as simple as the martini, the quality of all your components really matter. You’ll need dry vermouth, your vodka of choice, and perhaps some orange bitters or olive juice, all of which should be very much chilled. If you have enough time, freezing your glasses and stirring your martini will keep the cocktail ultra-silky — almost creamy, even.

From there, most classic martini recipes will call for a 2:1 or 3:1 vodka to vermouth ratio, a quick 30-second stir in your mixing glass with a large ice cube, and then strain into your martini glass. Add garnish (like a lemon twist, olives, or cocktail onions) and you’re done.

While martinis might seem intimidating to make, there’s one method that makes it almost too easy while also maintaining an ambrosial texture: just make a large freezer batch. “The freezer martini method builds on that texture,” says Pete Vasconcellos, beverage director for Albert’s Bar in New York. “Get a one-liter glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Figure out your favorite martini ratio (of vodka to vermouth) and scale it up to 750 milliliters (until it almost fills the bottle). Multiply the total volume by 20% (150 milliliters) and add that amount of distilled water. Put your martini batch in your glass bottle and in the freezer. When you’re ready to drink, just pour it into a chilled martini glass. No need to stir!”