Recipes 337

Summer drinks offer a refreshing escape from the heat, and this collection of cocktails ensures there’s something for everyone—whether you’re aiming for a classic vibe or a modern twist. Here are eight superb cocktail recipes to celebrate the season:

BA’s Best Piña Colada

Get transported to a tropical paradise with this creamy blend of coconut cream, fresh pineapple, light rum, and lime juice. For an extra kick, consider adding an optional float of dark rum.

Recipe: BA’s Best Piña Colada

Breakfast Martini

This cocktail whimsically suggests breakfast with its orange marmalade ingredient. A mix of gin, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and marmalade makes it perfect for any time of day.

Recipe: Breakfast Martini

Caribbean Ember

Combining dark rum, pineapple juice, and ginger beer with rye whiskey and Angostura bitters, the Caribbean Ember merges tropical flavors with an old-fashioned twist, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy complexity in their drinks.

Recipe: Caribbean Ember

Cucumber Basil Margarita

This refreshing variant on the classic margarita combines summer staples, basil and cucumber, with a touch of elderflower liqueur and blanco tequila, offering a deliciously herbaceous option.

Recipe: Cucumber Basil Margarita

Dirty Spritz

Enjoy the light, refreshing quality of a spritz without the alcohol with the Dirty Spritz. This mix uses tonic, olive brine, and a nonalcoholic aperitivo to create a delightful drink that captures the essence of summer.

Recipe: Dirty Spritz

Garibaldi Granita

This icy treat combines orange juice, Campari, and vodka, then is frozen for a delightful fluffy drink that straddles the line between cocktail and sorbet. Simply scrape to serve!

Recipe: Garibaldi Granita

Gin Gimlet

A classic cocktail, ideally made with gin, melds botanicals with lime juice and simple syrup for a refreshing experience. The simplicity of this drink is what’s truly captivating.

Recipe: Gin Gimlet

Yazoo Street Scandal

Combining bourbon, hibiscus syrup, ginger syrup, lemon juice, and cold black tea, this powerful cocktail is perfect for gatherings—simply multiply the recipe for larger crowds.

Recipe: Yazoo Street Scandal

Enjoy mixing up these cocktails this summer to make each warm evening a little more special. Whether lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, these drinks will surely impress your guests.

More than 100 educators, parents, and community leaders gathered on June 10 at the Harbour Club for "Cocktails for a Cause," an event focused on addressing the literacy crisis in Charleston and South Carolina. With nearly two-thirds of students in the state struggling to read proficiently, the need for effective teaching methods in classrooms has become urgent. A report by the National Council on Teacher Quality indicates that teachers typically receive less than two hours of training in their preparation programs specifically for reading instruction.

The evening highlighted successful initiatives, particularly the Lowcountry Literacy Project, which trains educators in the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach—a research-based, systematic method aligned with reading science. Featured panelists included educators and literacy leaders who shared their experiences and insights, focusing on the transformative impact of this training on student outcomes.

One poignant moment came from Christi Ascue Kershaw, who recounted her struggles in finding effective reading intervention programs for her daughter, illustrating the personal stakes involved in literacy education. Catherine Hagberg presented data showcasing the effectiveness of the OG interventions, where 97% of students at a partner school achieved their English Language Arts growth goals, with over half of those students coming from poverty-stricken backgrounds.

Lindsey Ballenger, Co-Founder and Board Chair, emphasized the importance of investing in educators to ensure that every child has the opportunity to become a confident reader, regardless of their background.

The event was moderated by Octavia Mitchell, an award-winning anchor, and also featured a trailer for an upcoming documentary that captures the essence and achievements of the Lowcountry Literacy Project. The full documentary is expected to premiere in the fall.

The Ideal Life Foundation sponsored educator tickets, prioritizing the inclusion of those closest to the grassroots literacy efforts. One of the event’s highlights was a group photo of the dedicated educators at the forefront of this movement in Charleston County.

For further information, visit the Lowcountry Literacy Project here.

In a recent wave of protests across the United States, demonstrators have voiced their concerns about various social and political issues, including immigration and police violence. Notably, protests centered around the immigration policies have gained momentum, particularly in Los Angeles. Activists have organized gatherings to rally against these policies and support affected communities, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and unity.

The protests in Los Angeles have drawn considerable attention as activists strive to create awareness and promote change. A detailed map illustrating the areas affected by the demonstrations reveals that while the protests have spread across the city, only certain neighborhoods have experienced significant activity.

This unrest is not confined to a single region; protests have occurred nationwide, with many connecting their activism to broader concerns regarding law enforcement practices and community rights. These actions highlight a growing movement among citizens determined to challenge systemic issues and advocate for justice and equality.

Amidst these protests, various figures, including politicians and activists, have spoken out, drawing significant media coverage. The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing developments and updates related to protests, public responses, and potential political ramifications.

For the latest updates on the protests, visit the following linked resources:

• ICE Protests Updates
• Map of L.A. Protests

Snively’s Lounge, a new cocktail bar located in Historic City Hall on 132 E. Superior St., officially opened its doors on June 1. The establishment is the latest addition to the Brewhouse Family, which includes notable venues like Fitger’s Brewhouse and The Oliver Inn.

The lounge occupies a spot that formerly housed Wasabi sushi restaurant, which closed down earlier this year after six years. Following Wasabi’s departure, the Brewhouse Family decided to invest in renovations rather than search for a new restaurant tenant. The area has been transformed to include cocktail seating, maintaining the vintage ambiance and enhancing the space with natural lighting from large windows. A new outdoor patio is planned to be added soon, pending new furniture.

Named after Samuel F. Snively, Duluth’s longest-serving mayor (1921-1937), the lounge has a cozy capacity of up to 45 guests. According to Brewhouse Family’s Marketing Director, Dan Grew, Snively’s Lounge provides a warmer, more casual atmosphere compared to its lower-level counterpart, The Rathskeller. It features live music on select nights from a mix of genres including jazz and folk, enhancing the lounge’s laid-back vibe.

The drink menu, crafted by manager David Thompson III, features a selection of “cocktails of the era” inspired by Duluth’s history, including options like the Edmund Fitzgerald and North Shore Mule. In addition to these creative cocktails, the menu also offers fresh-squeezed drinks, house-made botanical infusions, craft beer from Fitger’s, and non-alcoholic choices.

Snively’s Lounge will also offer a charcuterie selection from the nearby Rocket Deli, further diversifying its options for guests to enjoy pairings with their drinks.

The legacy of Mayor Snively continues to be honored through the bar’s name and its commitment to community engagement. He was instrumental in developing scenic park drives in Duluth, enhancing the city’s natural beauty and tourism appeal.

For more about Snively’s Lounge, visit Snively’s Lounge.

Now that we’re well into June, it’s officially grilling season, a warm-weather tradition closely tied to Father’s Day. As families fire up their grills, they often reach for classic beverages like beer and soda. However, cocktails can elevate the grilling experience, complementing the smoky flavors of barbecued meats superbly.

Here are ten refreshing cocktails that are not only easy to make but will also delight any father figure during the grilling season:

1. Charred Citrus Margarita

This large-format Margarita serves four, blending blanco tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, and grilled citrus juices for added depth. A chili-lime salt garnish enhances the drink’s savory and smoky flavors. Get the recipe.

2. Godfather

A simple blend of blended Scotch whisky and amaretto, this cocktail has a smoky aroma that pairs wonderfully with grilled foods. Get the recipe.

3. Ranch Water

This refreshing drink from West Texas combines tequila, fresh lime juice, and sparkling water. It’s a light and simple composition that complements grilled foods. Get the recipe.

4. Stinger

A classic two-ingredient cocktail made with cognac and white crème de menthe. This refreshing drink offers a minty, light flavor while still retaining its strong alcohol content. Get the recipe.

5. Wild Gin & Tonic

A bold twist on the classic Gin & Tonic, this version incorporates Szechuan peppercorns for a spicy flavor that stands out during a cookout. Get the recipe.

6. 50/50 Martini

Combining equal parts dry vermouth and gin, this low-ABV martini is perfect for a sunny afternoon. Prepare it in advance and chill it for an extra refreshing experience. Get the recipe.

7. Jungle Bird

For a tropical twist, this cocktail features dark rum, Campari, lime juice, pineapple juice, and simple syrup, providing a balanced flavor ideal for summer barbecues. Get the recipe.

8. Coffee Old Fashioned

A modern take on the classic Old Fashioned, this recipe combines rye whiskey, coffee liqueur, and orange bitters, pairing well with rich grilled meats. Get the recipe.

9. Bloody Maria

This tequila-based variation of the Bloody Mary amplifies the savory flavors with earthy agave and citrus notes, making it a zesty option for brunch and grilling. Get the recipe.

10. Whiskey Smash

A historic cocktail combining bourbon, sugar, lemon, and fresh mint. This vibrant drink is highly versatile and can be adjusted based on seasonal ingredients. Get the recipe.

These cocktails are a fantastic way to enjoy grilling season and celebrate Father’s Day, adding a flavorful twist to your backyard gatherings.

Read the original article on Food & Wine.

At O by Brush, an innovative restaurant in Atlanta recently awarded its first Michelin star, the concept of elevated Japanese cuisine combines seamlessly with a unique zero-proof cocktail menu. Led by Chef Jason Liang, who has built a reputation with prior establishments like Brush Sushi and Cuddlefish, O focuses on an omakase experience defined by meticulous preparation and exquisite flavor.

The venue offers a 20-course omakase menu featuring masterfully prepared dishes, such as silky dry-aged sashimi and signature creations that utilize Binchō-tan, a type of hardwood charcoal, to enhance flavors. However, it is the non-alcoholic pairing menu that truly stands out, as it doesn’t merely substitute traditional cocktails but rather reimagines them with creativity and flair.

One standout pairing consists of a vibrant mix of grapefruit, jicama, rose hip, and basil, which captures the crispness of brut Champagne without any alcohol content. This refreshing brew pairs excellently with the umami-rich sashimi. Another notable zero-proof offering mimics a "Cognac" using Taiwanese alpine tea infused with oak, vanilla, and a touch of tamarind, beautifully complementing a rich dish like the Wheel Pie, made of monkfish liver and black truffle.

Throughout the meal, diners experience ten artistic zero-proof cocktails, each designed to evoke the essence of traditional drinks while offering a novel taste experience. The entire dining journey is paced perfectly, concluding with a thoughtful takeaway bag containing house-made cookies and specialty teas, adding a playful yet elegant touch to the experience.

Those in Atlanta seeking more zero-proof options will find inventive drinks at other Michelin-starred venues. AG at The Ritz-Carlton features creative cocktails like the No-Groni, while Lazy Betty offers refreshing drinks such as the Celery Gimlet. Omakase Table also provides a selection of zero-proof beverages worth trying.

For anyone exploring non-alcoholic options, O by Brush sets a new benchmark for sophistication and intentionality in dining without alcohol. It promises an elegant dining experience that is both delightfully thoughtful and deliciously satisfying.

Witnesses reported that Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the suspect in a Boulder, Colorado terrorist attack, used a makeshift flamethrower and hurled Molotov cocktails during the incident. This attack occurred during a demonstration where the suspect was heard shouting "Free Palestine," as per statements from Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn.

It was revealed that none of the victims had died as of the latest police updates. The Boulder Police Department issued a statement confirming that all individuals involved were safe, and law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the situation.

Molotov cocktails are commonly understood as bottles filled with flammable fluid that, when thrown, shatter upon impact, igniting the liquid inside and creating a fire hazard. Sean Watts, a West Point professor, described the mechanics of the device, explaining how it works when striking a hard surface.

Earlier this year, U.S. soldiers were trained by Estonian counterparts on how to construct and deploy Molotov cocktails. This knowledge is typically associated with guerrilla tactics and urban warfare, demonstrating the widespread use of such incendiary devices in various conflict scenarios.

The incident has raised questions about the immigration status of individuals entering the U.S. and the safety protocols in place, as the attack has put Biden-era immigration policies under scrutiny.

For further details, refer to the Boulder Police Department and FBI’s statements regarding this incident.

Paddock Spirits, a company based in Pullman, recently achieved notable recognition at the San Francisco World Spirits Ready-To-Drink Competition, where its Strawberry Red Apple cocktail won a prestigious double gold award. This cocktail will advance to compete for a best-in-class accolade, positioning it among four double-gold winners.

This award isn’t an isolated achievement for Paddock Spirits; the company had six of its cocktail flavors awarded in the competition. In addition to the double gold for Strawberry Red Apple, their Cucumber & Lime flavor earned gold, while Cantaloupe & Ginger, Powder Can, and Watermelon & Guava each received silver medals, with the company’s Course Can taking home a bronze.

The awards were distributed by a panel of more than 100 judges from the wine and spirits industry, who conducted a blind taste test. This competition has been held since 1980, emphasizing its longstanding prestige.

Paddock Spirits produces and cans its cocktails at a dedicated facility in Pullman. Their products are available in over 150 locations across Washington and Idaho, including stores like Nomnoms and A & B Foods in Lewiston, as well as Rosauers and the Moscow Food Co-op. They are also expected to be stocked at Rosauers in Moscow and Lewiston soon.

The origins of Paddock Spirits can be traced back to the COVID-19 pandemic when founders Cory and Blake Preston began offering cocktails from their bar, Etsi Bravo, in take-out containers. The business is a collective effort with partners who have strong ties to Pullman, namely Tony Poston, Nick Lee, and Nick Robertson. Poston leads CougsFirst!, a network for Washington State University alumni, while Lee supports Paddock Spirits with graphic design work in addition to his cybersecurity job. Robertson is the general manager at The Emporium, a bar in Pullman owned by the Prestons.

For more details about Paddock Spirits and their offerings, visit paddockspiritsco.com.

It’s exciting to explore the world of spicy cocktails, especially ones that bring a fiery kick to your happy hour! One standout drink is the Kicker Rock, inspired by a volcanic formation in the Galápagos Islands. This cocktail cleverly blends rhum agricole with bitter Campari, sweet pineapple, sour lemon, and a hint of chipotle heat, creating a unique flavor experience that surprises and delights.

Spicy cocktails are not just about heat; they also engage the senses. The compound capsaicin found in chiles adds a new level of sensation, triggering a response that can enhance enjoyment through the release of endorphins and dopamine, making drinks like a Tabasco-spiked Bloody Mary all the more appealing. Additionally, spicy elements can amplify other flavors, providing a delicious complexity.

Mixologists have embraced these principles, creating drinks that marry various flavor profiles with heat. A perfect example is the Wild Gin & Tonic from Austin’s El Raval, which pairs Szechuan peppercorns with yuzu juice for a refreshing twist. Similarly, the Spicy Rebujito incorporates serrano chiles into a traditional sherry highball, maintaining its classic flavor while injecting a touch of local spice.

Here are some spicy cocktail recipes to try:

Kicker Rock

A complex blend of smoky, tart, sweet, and fruity flavors centered around rhum agricole.Get the recipe

Spicy Rebujito

A modern take on the classic Andalusian sherry drink, enhanced with fresh serrano peppers.Get the recipe

Wild Gin & Tonic

Infused gin meets Szechuan peppercorns and citrusy yuzu juice for a tangy yet spicy refreshment.Get the recipe

Spicy Margarita

A popular twist on the traditional margarita, simply add jalapeño for a delightful kick.Get the recipe

Bloody Maria

This tequila interpretation of a Bloody Mary combines rich flavors from Worcestershire sauce and hot sauces for a savory delight.Get the recipe

Spicy Whiskey Ginger

A bold mix of whiskey, fresh ginger, and ginger beer elevates the classic drink with a spicy new profile.Get the recipe

Dark ‘n Stormy

Use a spicy ginger beer to enhance this classic cocktail, balancing sweetness with tart lime juice.Get the recipe

These recipes not only celebrate the warmth of spices but also contribute depth and creativity to your cocktail-making endeavors!

Morrisons has introduced a new line of cocktails priced at just £1.50 per drink, perfect for summer BBQs. This exciting offering comes as a result of a collaboration with The Drinks Bureau, enabling customers to enjoy premium cocktails from the comfort of their own homes.

Available in over 280 Morrisons locations across the UK, these cocktail boxes, which contain 1.5 litres each, are priced at £15. However, customers with a More Card can purchase them for just £12, equating to as little as £1.20 per serving. The boxes include a tap-style spout for easy dispensing, making them ideal for effortless summer gatherings.

Morrisons claims this is the first time premium cocktails have been offered "on tap" at a UK supermarket, a concept that has found success in bars and pubs. Initially, popular flavors such as Mojito, Passion Fruit Martini, and Cosmopolitan are included, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

In addition to the ready-to-drink cocktail boxes, Morrisons has also launched bottled cocktails, including Bliss on the Beach and Passion Fruit Martini, available at £6 each or two for £10. Other brands are also jumping in on the trend, with Aldi offering ready-to-drink cocktail cans starting at 99p and Schweppes unveiling a new line of alcoholic cocktails.

As summer approaches, Morrisons aims to provide budget-friendly alternatives for those looking to enjoy cocktails at home, without compromising on quality.