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The Rum Swizzle is a delightful tropical cocktail that captures the essence of summer, perfect for sipping during barbecues, social gatherings, or any hot day. Known as Bermuda’s national drink, this cocktail is characterized by its refreshing blend of rum, fruit juices, and a sweetener like falernum or grenadine.

The name "swizzle" comes from the unique method of stirring, where a swizzle stick—traditionally made from the branches of the Caribbean Quararibea tree—is used. This stick is whirled between the palms to mix and aerate the drink. For those without a swizzle stick, a long-handled cocktail spoon can do the trick.

Ingredients

• Unsweetened pineapple juice: Provides the tropical sweetness crucial for this drink.
• Orange juice: Freshly squeezed is preferred for the best flavor.
• Light and dark rum: Combining both adds depth and complexity to the cocktail.
• Falernum: This Barbados-originating liqueur contributes a unique mixture of lime, ginger, and spices. If unavailable, alternatives like grenadine or simple syrup can be used.
• Angostura bitters: They enhance the cocktail with additional aromatic flavors.
• Crushed ice: Ideal for quickly chilling the drink while diluting it at just the right rate.
• Optional garnishes: A slice of pineapple or orange adds a colorful touch.

Directions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a Collins glass, mix the pineapple juice, orange juice, both rums, falernum, and bitters. Fill the glass three-quarters with crushed ice and swirl using a swizzle stick or bar spoon.

2. Garnish: Add a pineapple wedge or orange slice on top for an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Variations

• Sunset Swizzle: Add a splash of cranberry juice for a beautiful sunset effect.
• Lime Swizzle: Replace the fruit juices with lime juice and sweeten with simple syrup for a less sweet option.
• Green Swizzle: Mix rum, falernum, lime juice, and a dash of crème de menthe, garnished with mint.

Tips for Group Servings

To make rum swizzles for a party, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and prepare in a pitcher. Serve over crushed ice and garnish as desired.

Crushed Ice

If you lack a crushed ice option in your fridge, you can easily create it by blending ice cubes or bashing them in a towel with a rolling pin.

With its vibrant flavors and festive presentation, the Rum Swizzle is sure to be a hit at your summer gatherings.

Eric Church’s whiskey brand, Whiskey JYPSI, is honoring America’s 250th birthday with a unique limited-edition release called "Legacy Batch 003: The Declaration." Founded in 2023, Whiskey JYPSI was created by Church and entrepreneur Raj Alva, alongside whiskey maker Ari Sussman, with the vision of crafting something special that stands out in the market.

This new release is particularly meaningful as it channels the spirit of George Washington, the nation’s first president and a known whiskey distiller. "The Declaration" is inspired by the spirits produced at Washington’s Mount Vernon estate and features a blend of three rare aged whiskeys. The components include a 60% blend of 8-12 year old rye from Indiana, finished in apple brandy barrels from Washington’s distillery, along with 30% corn whiskey and 10% malt whiskey from Virginia.

Sussman highlighted the historical importance of rye whiskey, stating it was known as the whiskey of revolutionaries, providing a blend that balances rye’s spiciness with the sweetness of corn. Church expressed his intent behind the release, emphasizing that it celebrates the grit and innovation that built America.

Reviewers have noted that "The Declaration" has a rich profile, packed with caramel and vanilla notes, while minimizing the typical burn associated with rye whiskeys. Alva added that the quality of their product comes from sourcing from historic distilleries, staying true to their commitment to excellence regardless of complexity or cost.

For more information about Whiskey JYPSI, you can visit here: Whiskey JYPSI.

Who Produces Sam’s Club Member’s Mark Vodka?

In the U.S., liquor laws vary by state, making it beneficial for customers when they can purchase alcohol alongside everyday groceries. Some grocery chains have enhanced this offer by introducing their own brands of spirits. Among these, the Member’s Mark American Vodka at Sam’s Club has stood out for its affordability and high quality, with prices ranging from $12 to $16 for a 1.74-liter bottle.

Notably, the vodka’s production is credited to the I.W.A. Distilling Company, which is based in Louisville, Kentucky. This company is an alternate name for Buffalo Trace Distillery, claimed to be the oldest continuously operating distillery in America. While Buffalo Trace is famous for its bourbon, I.W.A. specializes in private-label spirits, including the vodka sold at Sam’s Club.

Buffalo Trace itself falls under the Sazerac Company, one of the largest alcohol manufacturers globally, with over 450 brands. Their connection to Member’s Mark vodka has been documented in various official reports, confirming the high production standards associated with it.

Popularity Among Vodka Enthusiasts

Member’s Mark American Vodka is 80 proof and undergoes six distillations, contributing to its smoothness and versatility for cocktails like vodka martinis. Its quality has garnered a loyal following among vodka drinkers.

On platforms like Reddit, users have praised it for its exceptional value compared to more expensive brands. One user pointedly highlighted their surprise at the vodka’s quality considering its low price, claiming, "$14 for a 1.75L and incredibly smooth." Others have compared it favorably to Tito’s vodka, noting that it matches its quality at a significantly lower price.

In addition to the American Vodka, Member’s Mark also markets a French Vodka, which has garnered accolades for its quality, likened to premium brands like Grey Goose, and is also produced by the Sazerac Company.

For more details on the various offerings and to explore the product, visit Sam’s Club.

Cheap vodka can often be harsh and unpleasant, especially when served neat or in simple cocktails. To improve the taste of a subpar bottle, a surprisingly effective trick is to run the vodka through a carbon filter. Beverage director Albert Beltran from Wayfare Tavern suggests using a water pitcher with a carbon filter, like Brita, to filter the vodka twice, which can significantly reduce its harshness by trapping impurities and undesirable flavors.

This filtration method is similar to the processes used by many vodka brands in production, where activated carbon plays a key role in ensuring a cleaner taste. While this technique won’t transform a low-quality vodka into a gourmet product, it certainly makes it more palatable.

For optimal results, filter the vodka several times, if possible, and ensure the water filter is fresh to maintain efficiency. Additionally, serving the filtered vodka cold or on ice can help mask any lingering harsh flavors. To fully hide the vodka’s taste, consider using it as a mixer in cocktails that incorporate fruit juices or soda, which can effectively balance the flavors.

For more tips on enhancing your drinking experience, you can explore various cocktail recipes that don’t highlight the vodka too prominently, making them perfect for those cheaper bottles.

Wyoming Whiskey, recognized as the state’s first legal distillery, has returned to local ownership for the first time since 2018. Co-founder David DeFazio and WW Partners, LLC, a Wyoming-based investment group, have reacquired the 80% stake previously held by Edrington, a Scottish spirits giant. This repositioning marks a pivotal moment for the distillery, founded in 2006.

Since its inception, Wyoming Whiskey has gained acclaim for its locally sourced grains and unique distilling processes, which began in earnest in 2009. The distillery, founded by the Mead couple and DeFazio, built a reputation for its authentic American whiskeys. In 2018, amidst a flourishing whiskey market, the distillery sold a portion of its ownership to Edrington, which later escalated its stake to 80% by 2023.

Under new management, the distillery is set to embrace a more localized, community-focused approach. DeFazio expressed enthusiasm for the direction of the brand, supported by the return of famed blender Nancy Fraley as Master Blender. Fraley previously announced her retirement from Joseph Magnus but is excited to join forces with Wyoming Whiskey once again.

“It has been a pleasure working with the Mead family and David DeFazio on a brand steeped in heritage and authenticity,” commented Edrington’s Mike Zitelli, wishing the distillery success under its new ownership.

Fraley echoed this sentiment, emphasizing her preference for working with local distilleries driven by passion for their craft. She anticipates collaborating closely with DeFazio and the production team to further elevate Wyoming Whiskey’s stature in the industry.

For more information about Wyoming Whiskey and its products, you can visit their website.

Grapefruit juice shines as a cocktail mixer due to its sweet, tart, bitter, and refreshing qualities. It’s the star ingredient for a variety of drinks, including the classic Greyhound cocktail, which requires minimal effort for a delicious outcome. This cocktail is created using just two ingredients: vodka or gin and grapefruit juice, making it an effortless option for any occasion.

To craft a Greyhound, simply pour four ounces of freshly squeezed ruby red or pink grapefruit juice over ice, then add two ounces of vodka or gin. Stir well, and if desired, a touch of simple syrup can be mixed in for extra sweetness. A slice of lime or grapefruit garnishes the drink beautifully.

Here are a few tips for cocktail enthusiasts:

• One medium grapefruit yields enough juice for one cocktail. Fresh grapefruit is ideal, but bottled juice can be used if it is 100% juice.
• When hosting a party, consider preparing a batch in advance. Combine 6 1/3 cups of grapefruit juice with one bottle of vodka or gin in a pitcher, refrigerate, and stir before serving for up to 12 drinks.

This simple and vibrant drink exemplifies the ease of cocktail-making, allowing you to impress guests or enjoy a refreshing sip at home.

Welcome to the latest addition to the whiskey world, where Coors, traditionally known for its beer, has decided to release a blended malt whiskey that’s surprisingly impressive. Coors Whiskey Co. has been on a journey since 2021, branching into spirits with various offerings such as Barmen Bourbon and the Five Trail series. Yet, their latest creation, the Coors Whiskey Co. Blended American Malt Whiskey, stands out as a notable realization of quality.

This whiskey is crafted using a proprietary mashbill that includes Coors’ malt and malt from Colorado, demonstrating the company’s expertise in understanding malt, a critical ingredient in both beer and whiskey. Distillation took place at the Bardstown Bourbon Company in Kentucky, with components aged for eight years before blending and bottling at a robust 110.5 proof. The result is classified as a blended malt whiskey, indicating a mix of whiskeys that do not solely come from one distillery or consist entirely of malted barley.

What makes this whiskey exceptional is its drinking experience. It boasts a smooth profile without the usual youthful flavors often found in younger whiskeys. Notes of cherry, pear, and apple interplay with deeper flavors such as chocolate and vanilla, giving a rounded taste that is both welcoming and complex. A hint of spice from the higher proof adds a kick but does not overpower the subtler flavors.

Coors intends this release to be the first in a series focused on innovation and exploration within whiskey production. Based on the quality of this blended malt, it paves the way for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike to look forward to future offerings.

If you’re curious about this whiskey, you may find it a pleasant surprise, proving that even a brand rooted in beer can produce an admirable whiskey.

Score: 88

For more information, you can check out additional whiskey-related articles here.

Vodka has often been labeled as harsh and burning, especially when discussing budget brands, leading many to believe that only expensive options can offer a smooth drinking experience. However, the tide is changing with the rise of well-regarded budget vodkas that provide exceptional quality without breaking the bank. One standout is New Amsterdam, which has earned recognition for its appealing taste at an affordable price.

Launched in 2012, New Amsterdam quickly made waves in the spirits market by becoming the fastest brand to sell one million cases in its first year. This grain-based vodka is five times distilled and triple-filtered, which contributes to its smoothness, making it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Notable bartender Katie Miller even mentions New Amsterdam among trusted brands suitable for cocktails.

Consumer reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its smoothness and a diverse range of flavored options. New Amsterdam boasts 13 distinct flavors along with its original offerings, making it versatile for various drinkers. Its affordability further cements its appeal, particularly to college students who have found it a superior choice over other budget brands due to its taste and smoother finish.

Additionally, the brand has received notable accolades, such as a gold medal at the Beverage Tasting Institute’s Spirits Review and a high rating from The Tasting Panel Magazine in 2021. Retailing at around $11.99 for a 750-milliliter bottle, New Amsterdam offers a great value, making it a standout choice in the world of budget vodkas, without sacrificing quality.

For further details, you can visit the links related to New Amsterdam Vodka and see what reviewers are saying about this affordable yet high-quality option.

Coors Whiskey Co., a division of Molson Coors, launched its first American Blended Malt Whiskey in mid-June 2026, aiming to highlight the unique characteristics of Coors’ grain heritage. This whiskey is made by blending their proprietary malt with Colorado-grown barley, and is aged for eight years. While Coors has previously ventured into whiskey with Barmen 1873 and Five Trail, this new release is notable for bearing the Coors name itself.

In a recent tasting, the whiskey proved to be surprisingly smooth, despite having a high alcohol content of 55.25%. The initial aromas featured dried fruit and spices, leading to flavors of butterscotch and cream, while the typical barrel notes were more subdued, putting the focus squarely on the grains.

The tasting experience involved evaluating the whiskey neat with a Glencairn glass before diluting it with water, which did not significantly alter its character. Mixing it with flavor-forward cocktails like peach nectar or ginger beer was also a hit, transforming it into exciting cocktail options.

Despite being relatively expensive for a blended malt whiskey—with a suggested retail price of $79.99—its flavor and versatility in cocktails make it enticing. However, availability is limited, with only 1,200 bottles released and distribution confined to Colorado and Illinois. The whiskey is presented with unique packaging that includes individual numbering and a copper topper.

Overall, Coors Whiskey Co. has successfully crafted a whiskey that reflects its brewing legacy, though its limited availability may pose a challenge for those eager to try it.

Redwood Empire Whiskey has recently launched its latest creation, Colonel Armstrong Wheated Bourbon, showcasing a blend of modern American whiskey techniques and Northern California craftsmanship. This unique four-grain bourbon, designed for a smooth and complex experience, incorporates a substantial 30% wheat in its mash bill, which is notably higher than that of many typical wheated bourbons.

The whiskey is a crafted blend of Redwood Empire’s own distillate and select high-wheat bourbons aged four to fourteen years from Kentucky and Indiana. Master Blender Lauren Patz notes that each ingredient is chosen strategically to enhance the whiskey’s complexity, adding layers of flavor that create a rich and balanced profile. Tasting notes include ripe stone fruit, honeyed grain, vanilla, and a hint of strawberry jam, complemented by gentle baking spices and oak.

The bourbon draws its name and inspiration from Colonel James Armstrong, who played a pivotal role in preserving California’s redwood forests in the 1870s. In an act of love and stewardship, he transferred land that would eventually become Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve to his daughter, Kate. This connection to conservation continues to resonate with Redwood Empire, as they also promote initiatives for planting trees.

Fans of great whiskey can find Colonel Armstrong Wheated Bourbon available for purchase online and at retailers across the nation, with a suggested price of $39.99. This release further emphasizes Redwood Empire’s commitment to connecting their products with the unique culture and land of California, including coordinates on the bottle that lead consumers to the Colonel Armstrong Tree, a notable 1,400-year-old redwood.

For more information, visit RedwoodEmpireWhiskey.com.