Liquor-articles 1990

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In Netflix’s "72 Hours," we follow Joe Nixon, an ad executive in his 40s who finds himself in a professional crisis just as he is counting on a long-overdue promotion. His superiors believe he has lost touch with consumer trends, placing his job at risk. To reconnect with the younger demographic, he randomly joins a group chat and decides to immerse himself in their world for 72 hours, hoping to gather insights that could save his career.

As he navigates this unexpected adventure, Joe gets caught up in a bachelor party involving an array of wild escapades, including a confrontation with a drug cartel. His mission is to effectively market a new fictional vodka brand named Unlimited, created as a plot device in the film. Joe’s struggle represents a deep-seated challenge; he has always been successful in advertising, but he now faces the daunting task of staying relevant in a changing marketplace.

The Aida Agency, where Joe works, and the vodka brand Unlimited are both products of the film’s imagination. While they serve as significant elements of the story, they do not represent real companies. Interestingly, Kevin Hart, who stars in the movie, owns a tequila brand named Gran Coramino in reality, which highlights the intersection of fiction and reality in the marketing world.

Ultimately, Joe’s journey takes a transformative turn as he learns valuable lessons about life beyond work. The experiences from the bachelor party not only help him understand the younger crowd better but also lead him to reassess what truly matters in life. The film concludes with Joe embracing these revelations, suggesting a hopeful future beyond his career struggles.

I walked into Rab’s Country Lanes on Staten Island expecting a simple slice of pizza, but what I encountered in their kitchen was astonishing. They were crafting a double stuffed vodka pan pie that was nothing short of sensational. I couldn’t help but watch the entire process from start to finish.

The Layers Are Pure Genius

The adventure begins with fresh pizza dough stretched into a deep pan. They generously layer creamy vodka sauce along with thick slices of fresh mozzarella. Then, they fry up a skillet of pepperoni cups, adding a drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey, turning them into sizzling hot honey pepperoni cups.

• The Stuffed Layer: Every crumb of pepperoni and droplet of honey grease is tossed into the crust.
• The Extra Cheese: Shredded mozzarella and an additional scoop of vodka sauce follow, layering over the meats.
• The Second Crust: They stretch another dough over the top to seal all the goodness inside.

The Final Bake and Money Shot

The layering doesn’t stop there. The top crust gets smothered with even more vodka sauce, sliced mozzarella, shredded mozzarella, and parmesan. After being placed in the oven, the pie emerges bubbling hot, crowned with a golden crust. Finished with fresh basil and another hefty drizzle of hot honey, it’s a sight to behold.

When they slice through the pie, the cheese pull is legendary—stretching for an eternity. The combination of hot honey, vodka sauce, and melted cheese creates a divine bite. The perfectly crunchy bottom crust adds to the dish’s richness. The result? A pizza that’s heavy, loaded, and absolutely elite in flavor. If you’re in Staten Island, this is a must-try! Who wouldn’t want to devour such a culinary masterpiece?

When it comes to international whiskeys, Irish single pot still holds a special place for many enthusiasts. This spirit, known for its unique flavor profile and history, has garnered admiration across the globe. Recently, it has inspired various American distillers to craft their own interpretations. One standout is Talnua Distillery located in Arvada, Colorado, which has fully embraced this tradition by focusing on producing American single pot still whiskey.

Founded in 2017 by Patrick and Meagan Miller, Talnua aims to honor the traditional Irish style while adding an American twist. The Miller’s journey into distillation began during their honeymoon in Galway, where they fell in love with the complexities of single pot still whiskeys. Talnua prides itself on being America’s first distillery dedicated solely to this style, encapsulating their branding under the motto, "Gaelic Tradition Meets American Pioneerism."

Single pot still whiskey is defined by specific guidelines, including the requirement of at least 30% malted barley and 30% unmalted barley in its mashbill. Additionally, it must be distilled on copper pot stills and aged for at least three years. The history of this style dates back to the late 18th century when a tax on malt led distillers to use more unmalted barley, resulting in a creamy and spicy whiskey character.

Talnua’s own mashbill consists of 50% malted and 50% unmalted barley, with the whiskey undergoing a fermentation process before being triple distilled. They market their products as “American single pot still whiskey” since they cannot use the term “Irish whiskey” due to legal protections associated with that designation.

While Talnua is not the only American distillery creating single pot still styles—brands like Keeper’s Heart in Minnesota also produce similar whiskeys—it distinguishes itself with several bottled-in-bond offerings. For example:

• American White Oak Cask Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond: Aged a minimum of four years in new charred oak barrels, boasting a 100 proof.
• Bourbon Cask & Stave Series Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond: This whiskey is aged in ex-bourbon casks with virgin charred American oak staves, also at 100 proof.
• Sherry Cask Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond: Finished in Oloroso sherry casks for added depth.

One of Talnua’s most prestigious releases is the Olde Saint’s Keep Special Release Whiskey, which is crafted from a selection of casks sourced from various Colorado distilleries. This bottling typically sees a limited run of around 1,200 bottles and uniquely matures in a mix of rum casks, apple brandy casks, rye whiskey casks, and more, resulting in a flavor profile that evolves with each sip.

After tasting Talnua’s range, the whiskey stands out for its rich, spiced nose and a palate reminiscent of cream soda with notes of baking spices and orchard fruits. The bottled-in-bond variations offer a robust experience that appeals to those who prefer higher alcohol levels.

As American interest in single pot still whiskeys grows, Talnua is well-positioned to lead the charge, delivering quality products that honor both tradition and innovation in whiskey-making.

If you enjoy cocktails and cola, transforming your favorite drink into something special can be effortless. Ayisha Mares, a distiller at Vara Winery & Distillery, suggests elevating a basic rum and coke into a delightful "dirty" rum and cola.

According to Mares, achieving a balanced cocktail is key. The sweetness and fizz of cola are perfect starting points, so the goal is to complement rather than overwhelm its flavors. Cody Fredrickson, the Tasting Room Manager at Las Vegas Distillery, emphasizes that anything added should enhance the drink’s natural qualities.

How to Make a Dirty Rum & Cola

For a refreshing Dirty Rum & Cola, follow Mares’ simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz aged rum
• 4 oz sugar-free cola
• ¾ oz coconut cream
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters (optional)
• Lime wheel for garnish
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine rum, lime juice, and bitters with ice. Shake until chilled.
2. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
3. Top with sugar-free cola, stirring gently to maintain carbonization.
4. Slowly add coconut cream on top for a lovely float.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Mares points out that the flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spice in aged rum pair nicely with cola, while fresh lime brightens the drink. Coconut cream not only adds richness but also creates an attractive layered look.

Other Ways to Elevate Your Cola Experience

If you’re looking to explore even more creative concoctions, here are five additional summer cocktail ideas:

1. Tequila Batanga: Mix tequila, cola, and fresh lime juice in a salted glass for a simple, zesty cocktail.

2. Rum and Cola with Orange Cinnamon Syrup: Enhance your drink by adding homemade orange cinnamon syrup, which amplifies the flavors already present in the cola.

3. Cola Float Cocktail: Combine cola with your favorite spirit and a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a delightful dessert drink.

4. Good Grief: Inspired by the Southern tradition of adding peanuts to cola, mix white rum with Mexican Coke and top it with salted peanut foam.

5. Espresso Twist: Introduce a splash of chilled espresso into your classic rum and coke to deepen the flavor profile.

These variations offer refreshing options to enjoy classic cola in fun new ways throughout the summer.

American distilleries continue to celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary with unique whiskey releases. These special editions of bourbon and rye recognize historical figures and events, perfect for collectors or celebratory toasts.

Here are 10 noteworthy releases:

1. Barrell Bourbon Batch 038 ($85)
   This blend from Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, and Maryland features bourbons aged 8 to 15 years, delivering a rich flavor profile of oak, toffee, and clove.

2. Bhakta 1868 America250 Edition ($250)
   This luxurious whiskey combines bourbon with Armagnacs spanning 100 vintages, celebrating historical figures like Washington and Lincoln.

3. George Washington’s Spirit of ’76 Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey ($1,000)
   The first release from Washington’s Virginia distillery in centuries, only 350 bottles were made, crafted using 18th-century methods. Available exclusively at The Shops at Mount Vernon.

4. Horse Soldier Liberty Edition ($799)
   Created by former Green Berets, this limited-release bourbon honors the Statue of Liberty, with a portion of sales benefiting the Statue of Liberty Foundation.

5. Lost Lantern United States of Bourbon 100 Proof ($80)
   This independent bottler sourced 50 bourbons from all 50 states to commemorate the anniversary, featuring transparency by listing all contributing distilleries.

6. Oak & Eden America 250 Founder’s Bourbon ($85)
   Finished with a maple syrup-soaked oak spire, this unique release pays homage to the year 1776 with limited availability.

7. Rittenhouse United States 250th Anniversary Commemorative Edition ($100)
   A 10-year-old rye whiskey bottled-in-bond, this edition enhances the standard Rittenhouse Rye using Pennsylvania’s Monongahela grain.

8. Sagamore America 250 Eight-Year-Old Straight Rye ($125)
   Highlighting Maryland’s historic rye style, this limited release focuses on the spicy characteristics of rye softened by corn.

9. Silver Brothers Distillery American Single Malt ($78)
   Made from 100% New York-grown barley, this light and fruity single malt emphasizes local terroir.

10. Tenmile Revolutionary Whiskey – General Washington ($95)
    This five-year-old single malt is part of a year-long series of 12 whiskeys, honoring the battles of the Revolutionary War.

These unique whiskeys are not just drinks but also a tribute to the history and heritage of America, ensuring that the celebration of independence continues in flavorful styles.

My liquor cabinet reflects my aspirations, much like my library, built on the hope that I will someday utilize all it holds. Spirits seem to accumulate faster than they are consumed, with bourbon and brandy finding their way into regular use, while wine flows with dinners. Other bottles, however, languish on the shelf, waiting for their moment in the spotlight, sometimes for months or even years.

This brings me to Bacardi Black Rum, a spirit that has often been overshadowed by others. It sits on my shelf, a fixture waiting for a second chance. Recognizing that Bacardi Black offers more than just a basic rum experience, I’m re-evaluating its place in my collection.

Typically overlooked in favor of more premium brands, Bacardi Black has a storied history and a balance of flavors that can hold its own in cocktails and sips alike. Understanding its unique characteristics invites new opportunities for experimentation in mixing and paired cocktails.

As I reconsider this spirit’s place in my drinking repertoire, I remind myself that the best experiences often come from exploring the lesser-known or disregarded options. Bacardi Black, with its rich notes and distinct profile, holds the potential for a fresh take on traditional rum cocktails. It’s an invitation to revisit and appreciate what’s been waiting quietly on the shelf, encouraging us to brew something special.

New Riff Distilling is launching a limited edition whiskey blend, the 2026 Headliner, which combines three whiskeys aged for a minimum of ten years. This release not only appeals to whiskey enthusiasts but also aims to support local charities, with proceeds benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cincinnati and Tri-State Trails.

According to Mollie Lewis, the president of New Riff Distilling, every bottle purchased contributes to building stronger community ties by funding organizations dedicated to positive change. The whiskey itself consists of 50% 11-year-old malted rye bourbon, 25% 11-year-old rye, and 25% 10-year-old balboa rye, marking an important milestone as the first mixture featuring components all over a decade old.

Tasting notes describe the whiskey as beginning with aromatic layers of rich oak, dark fruits, and a blend of spices. Flavors of fig, raisin, and honeyed currant are complemented by deep oak and spicy notes, leading to a long, satisfying finish.

The 2026 Headliner will retail for $150 per bottle and is set to go on sale through New Riff’s Whiskey Club starting at 11 a.m. on July 24. Membership for the club is free, though purchasing is limited to one bottle per individual and available for local pickup only.

Fat Mike, the frontman of NOFX, has ventured into the vodka business with a brand called "Fatty’s Bottom Shelf." His rationale for starting this venture stems from his belief that all vodkas have a similar taste. He shared that he sampled over five different recipes, finding it difficult to distinguish between them. Consequently, he instructed the vodka makers to create a product that was easy to produce, resulting in a vodka that supposedly tastes "almost like good tasting vodka."

Fat Mike humorously mentions that many of his friends have commented, “I’ve had worse,” which leads him to declare, “if it’s almost good enough for them… it’s good enough for me!”

The vodka, which comes in at 40% alcohol by volume, is being sold in packs that include an exclusive 7-inch record featuring Fat Mike.

Martha Washington’s favorite drink, a delightful rum punch, has its roots in a cherished family recipe passed down from her mother. During her time in the White House from 1789 to 1797, Martha became known for her hospitality, often serving this punch at her famed gatherings.

The recipe, preserved at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, includes an enticing mix of white rum, dark rum, orange curaçao, simple syrup, fresh lemons and oranges, along with spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. To prepare, she would muddle the fruits with the spices and syrup, adding the spirits and water before straining the mixture for a smooth finish.

Rum was an integral part of the colonial economy and culture, with estimates suggesting that the average colonist consumed about 3.7 gallons of rum annually by the American Revolution. George Washington even operated one of the largest distilleries of the time, so it’s likely that the rum in Martha’s punch was distilled by him.

Throughout the 1600s to 1700s, rum surpassed whiskey in popularity, largely due to its availability from molasses, a byproduct of the sugar trade with the West Indies. This spirit was not only enjoyed socially but also often used as currency in the colonies.

As tastes evolved in America, the preference shifted toward whiskey in the 1800s, reflecting the changing palates of the country’s citizens. However, Martha’s legacy lives on, inviting modern enthusiasts to recreate her punch for festive gatherings, encouraging a return to Colonial-style celebrations.

For those interested in trying Martha Washington’s rum punch, you can find the recipe on the Mount Vernon website.