Recipes 346

There’s an exciting development in Nevada’s legislative scene regarding alcohol consumption, particularly focusing on the Picon Punch and cocktails to-go. Assembly Bill 375, introduced by Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager (D-Las Vegas) and Assemblyman Bert Gurr (R-Elko), proposes to designate Picon Punch as the state drink and permit the sale of cocktails for off-premises consumption.

Yeager has pointed out that this initiative arose from the experience during COVID-19 when alcohol delivery was allowed to support struggling restaurants. The bill also includes a fee of up to 50 cents per cocktail sold to fund DUI enforcement and education efforts.

Picon Punch, a cocktail associated with the Basque culture, includes ingredients like Torani Amer, sodas, and a float of brandy. The bill has gained strong backing from local businesses but faces opposition from the Nevada Resort Association, which advocates for a restriction on deliveries to resort areas.

Moreover, the bill outlines a framework that local governments can choose to adopt for alcohol-to-go, ensuring that drinks are sold in sealed and tamper-proof containers while maintaining current open-container laws, which limit public intoxication.

In addition, Assembly Bill 404 aims to facilitate the movement of craft brews from breweries to their own taprooms without requiring a distributor as an intermediary. Currently, breweries must sell their products to a distributor and then buy them back to offer them in taprooms. This bill intends to simplify the process, allowing craft brewers to directly manage their products while still limiting them to three locations for distribution.

The legislative efforts surrounding these bills are aimed at enhancing local businesses and generating additional revenue, with projections estimating that the cocktails-to-go measure could net over $11.4 million annually to support responsible drinking initiatives.

For further updates on these legislative proposals, you can visit the Nevada Legislature’s website.

Much of the discussion about cocktail trends this year primarily focuses on the U.S., but there’s an array of bartenders, drinkers, and flavor enthusiasts globally eager to explore new tastes. If you’re looking for some inspiration, Zacapa Rum has a selection of cocktail recipes that channel flavors from various cultures, including the refreshing mint and lime of Cuba, tropical notes such as hibiscus and guava, and the popular Japanese essence of matcha tea.

Zacapa Habana

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Zacapa No. 23
• 6 whole mint leaves
• 1 oz Simple Syrup
• 0.75 oz Lime Juice
• 2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
• 2 ounces Champagne, chilled
• Mint Sprig (for garnish)

Method:

1. Muddle mint leaves with the simple syrup and lime juice in a shaker.
2. Add Zacapa, bitters, and ice; shake until well chilled.
3. Double strain into a coupe glass.
4. Top with Champagne and garnish with a mint sprig.

Cafe Guayaba

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Zacapa No. 23
• 0.75 oz Mr Black Coffee Liqueur
• 0.5 oz Guava Puree
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake and strain into a coupe glass.
3. Garnish with sliced guava and three coffee beans.

Zacapa Matcha Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Zacapa No. 23
• 0.25 oz Matcha Syrup*
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters

Matcha Syrup:

• 1 tbsp Ceremonial Matcha Green Tea Powder
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups cane sugar

Method:

1. In a pot, combine matcha and sugar, whisk together, then add water.
2. Bring to a boil while stirring gently to mix matcha, then reduce heat and stir for about 3 minutes.
3. Let cool and store in a jar in the fridge for up to two weeks.
4. In an Old Fashioned glass, combine Matcha Syrup with orange bitters and Zacapa Rum.
5. Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir gently. Garnish with an orange twist.

Zacapa Hibiscus Twist

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Zacapa No. 23 Rum
• 0.25 oz Hibiscus Simple Syrup*
• 2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
• Grapefruit Twist (for garnish)

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir and strain into a rocks glass.
3. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.

Hibiscus Infused Simple Syrup

To make:

• Combine ¼ cup dried hibiscus or three bags of hibiscus tea into a simple syrup. Let it infuse at room temperature for one hour. Optionally, add a dash of grated cinnamon for added flavor.

These cocktails represent a fusion of flavors from around the world, perfect for any occasion or gathering.

The canned cocktail market in Japan is expanding, particularly with the introduction of high-alcohol options. Suntory is set to release two new flavors in its popular Horoyoi line this spring, launching products with an alcohol content of 14 percent, a significant increase from the current 3 percent.

Horoyoi, which means "faintly intoxicated," has been known for its low-alcohol fruity cocktails that provide a lighter drinking experience. However, the upcoming Horoyoi no Moto, or Horoyoi Base, deviates from this trend by offering a concentrated liqueur intended for mixing with soda water or other beverages. This new product is designed to be customized, allowing consumers to control their alcohol intake while still enjoying the flavors.

Suntory recommends a mixing ratio of one part Horoyoi Base to three parts of a mixer, which results in a slightly higher alcohol content of 3.5 percent. Some online discussions have questioned whether this new product will allow for stronger drinking experiences, with comments from drinkers expressing excitement about the possibility of enjoying it straight or questioning the term "faintly intoxicated" in light of its stronger alcohol content.

Horoyoi Base will become available on April 1 for 390 yen per 250-milliliter bottle, marking a new chapter in the evolution of canned cocktails in Japan.

For more information, check the full story on SoraNews24 here.

Alexus Davila recently visited David’s restaurant, where they celebrated National Cocktail Day by showcasing a variety of premium craft cocktails and mocktails. Alongside Food and Beverage Manager Dorothy Marshall, Alexus sampled some of the establishment’s best offerings, signaling the arrival of spring with refreshing drink options. David’s aims to provide a unique experience for guests, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the season.

As we approach the midpoint of the 10th annual Alcohol Free for 40 Challenge, it’s common for motivation to wane, making it essential to keep things fresh with non-alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re participating in this challenge, observing Lent, or choosing to cut back on alcohol for personal reasons, this is an ideal chance to experiment with new flavors.

A compelling method to enhance your alcohol-free drinks is the addition of functional ingredients—specifically adaptogens and botanicals that promote physical and mental wellness, adding depth to your zero-proof cocktails.

Bar manager Paul Loggins from Zuzul Coastal Cuisine in Shreveport, seven years sober, has honed his skills in creating sophisticated alcohol-free beverages featuring ingredients like Ashwagandha, L-theanine, lemon balm, and lavender. Here, we discuss the potential benefits of these ingredients and how to incorporate them into your zero-proof favorites. They can also be added to smoothies, teas, or other drinks.

Important Note: Some of these ingredients may lower blood pressure or blood sugar and can interact with medications such as sedatives and antidepressants. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before trying new supplements.

Energize and Focus

• L-Theanine

  • Description: Found naturally in green tea, it promotes calmness and alertness.
  • Benefits: It may improve cognitive function and focus without causing jitters.
  • Dosage: Typically, 200-400 mg daily.
  • Use: Its savory flavor fits well in citrusy or herbal drinks.

• Ashwagandha

  • Description: An adaptogenic herb that helps the body handle stress.
  • Benefits: May lower cortisol levels, enhance sleep, and improve mental focus.
  • Dosage: Around 600-1000 mg daily.
  • Use: Its earthy flavor complements various profiles.

Relax and Unwind

• Lemon Balm

  • Description: A lemon-scented herb from the mint family that alleviates stress.
  • Benefits: Can reduce anxiety, boost mood, and enhance sleep quality.
  • Dosage: Aim for 600 to 1200 mg daily.
  • Use: Citrus and herbal flavor, pairs well with multiple flavors.

• Lavender

  • Description: A fragrant botanical known for its calming effects.
  • Benefits: May alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms.
  • Dosage: Commonly around 80-160 mg daily.
  • Use: Its floral notes require moderation in use.

Ready-to-Drink Zero Proof Cocktails

For those seeking convenient options to share at gatherings or outdoor events, many brands now offer canned zero-proof cocktails infused with functional ingredients. One notable brand is Peak Cocktails, which provides transparency on the sugar content and amount of beneficial ingredients, such as 200 mg of Ashwagandha and L-theanine.

Conclusion

While the integration of functional ingredients into your beverage routines can offer noteworthy benefits, they’re not a substitute for overall healthy living, which should include staying physically active and sleeping well. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions or take prescription medications.

Cheers to discovering new flavors and making the most of your alcohol-free journey!

Adam Matthew Lansky, a 41-year-old man from Salem, has been indicted in federal court following allegations of vandalism linked to a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. The indictment includes multiple charges, specifically two counts of attempting arson of property used in interstate commerce and one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device, namely a Molotov cocktail.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lansky faced earlier charges for illegally possessing these explosive devices. He is associated with two distinct incidents at the Tesla dealership. The first incident on January 20 involved the use of a Molotov cocktail to ignite a car and resulted in a broken window. A second incident occurred on February 19 when several windows at the dealership were reportedly damaged by gunfire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during either event.

The Salem Police Department is treating the fire at the Tesla dealership as arson. This case occurs amid increasing vandalism incidents involving Tesla properties across the U.S. and abroad, which have been characterized by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as “domestic terrorism.” Such crimes have notably surged in relation to tensions surrounding the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s initiatives.

For further details regarding these incidents, you can refer to the following links:

• Indictment Details
• Tesla Dealership Vandalism
• Shooting Incident
• Attorney General’s Statement

The recent spate of severe hailstorms has left several states facing significant damage, with some regions bearing the brunt of the storms more than others. These hailstorms are part of a broader pattern of extreme weather that has become increasingly common due to climate change.

Heathrow Airport recently experienced significant disruptions due to a fire, leading to delays and confusion for travelers. As the airport begins to resume normal operations, affected passengers are advised to understand their rights regarding compensation.

In another concerning development linked to climate change, researchers have observed that spring seasons are starting earlier and becoming both warmer and rainier. This shift has implications for agriculture, ecosystem dynamics, and weather patterns across the globe.

Meanwhile, rising sea levels continue to threaten coastal communities, with new reports indicating they are escalating at an unprecedented rate. Affected regions are warned to prepare for potential flooding and other adverse effects as the situation worsens.

Lastly, after decades of being declared ‘eliminated’, there are fears that measles could regain a foothold in the U.S. as vaccine hesitancy increases. Health officials are closely monitoring this trend to avert major outbreaks.

For more information on these topics, check out the following links:

• Severe Hailstorms
• Heathrow Airport Disruption
• Climate Change Impacts on Spring
• Rising Sea Levels
• Measles Resurgence Concerns

Spring is a time for renewal, and what better way to refresh than through a cocktail celebration? Inspired by the tradition of Oktoberfest, which revolves around celebrating a specific type of beer, this approach encourages an event dubbed "Marchfest." Here, we focus on using up any leftover winter spirits to make room for the lighter drinks of spring and summer.

As winter cocktails are often rich with flavors—think whiskey, brandy, and roasted red wines—Marchfest brings a fresh twist, perfect for mixing seasonal drinks. By incorporating winter’s bounty, particularly citrus fruits like Meyer lemons, a range of delightful cocktails can be crafted.

Cocktail Recipes for Marchfest

New York Sour

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Unsinkable Bourbon from Sausalito Liquor Co.
• 1 ounce fresh Meyer lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• ½ ounce aquafaba (a chickpea water substitute)
• 1 ounce leftover red wine

Directions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Meyer lemon juice, simple syrup, and aquafaba. Shake until cold and foamy.
2. Strain over fresh ice in a glass and carefully layer with red wine on top for a visually appealing effect.

Sonoma Sazerac

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Barrel 151 reserve brandy from Griffo Distillery
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• 2 dashes Bitter Girl Garden Party bitters
• ¼ ounce Absinthe Blanche from Barber Lee Spirits

Directions:

1. Mix brandy, simple syrup, and bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled.
2. Coat a chilled glass with absinthe, discard the excess, and strain the mixture into the glass, garnishing with an orange twist.

An Almost Naked and Almost Famous

Ingredients:

• ¾ ounce Mezquila from Santo Spirits
• ¾ ounce California Amaro from Geijer Spirits
• ¾ ounce Flora Green from Accompani
• ¾ ounce Meyer lemon juice
• ½ ounce aquafaba

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake until cold and foamy, then pour into a chilled coupe glass, topping with a generous mound of foam.

Perfectly Clear Spring Manhattan

Ingredients:

• 2½ ounces White Whiskey from Griffo Distillery
• ½ ounce Alessio Vermouth Bianco
• ½ ounce Vya Whisper Dry Vermouth
• 1 all-natural Bada Bing cherry

Directions:

1. Stir the whiskey and vermouths in a mixing beaker with ice until very cold.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a stemmed cherry for an unconventional twist.

Marchfest offers an excellent way to enjoy cocktails and transition into spring while celebrating the final sips of winter. Each drink is a unique invitation to explore flavors and creativity that represent both seasons.

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your cocktail repertoire, and Irish whiskey offers a unique twist to warm-weather drinks with its lighter flavors. Here are some delightful recipes featuring Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey that are sure to invigorate your spring gatherings.

Proper Sour

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Garnish: lemon wedge and cherry

Method:

1. In a shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a lemon wedge and cherry.

Proper Green Tea Shots

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
• 3 oz Peach Schnapps
• 3 oz Sour Mix
• Splash of Lemon Lime soda

Method:

1. Pour all ingredients into a Boston shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake and strain into four shot glasses.

Apple Mule

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple
• 3-4 oz Ginger Beer
• Lime wedge for garnish

Method:

1. Over ice, mix Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple with ginger beer.
2. Garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing twist.

Proper Irish Coffee

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
• 4 oz hot coffee
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• 2-3 oz heavy cream

Method:

1. Shake or whip the heavy cream until slightly thickened.
2. In a mug, combine whiskey, hot coffee, and simple syrup. Stir well.
3. Layer the thickened cream on top and optionally grate nutmeg over it.

Proper Irish Apple & Soda

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple
• 3-4 oz soda
• Apple slices for garnish

Method:

1. Pour Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple into a glass.
2. Top with soda and garnish with apple slices.

These recipes highlight the versatility of Irish whiskey and are sure to bring a refreshing taste to your springtime celebrations. Enjoy mixing and sipping these delightful cocktails!

Attorney General Bondi has announced charges against three individuals involved in a series of firebombings targeting Tesla dealerships and charging stations. These attacks are reportedly fueled by animosity toward Elon Musk and his relationships within the federal government. President Trump has labeled these violent actions as acts of domestic terrorism.

The Justice Department has indicated that the charges against the three suspects are serious, with the possibility of up to 20 years in prison for each if convicted. In a stern statement, Bondi warned, “the days of committing crimes without consequence have ended.” She emphasized that participating in these acts of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties would lead to incarceration.

The alleged attackers attempted to use Molotov cocktails to destroy vehicles at Tesla locations in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina. One suspect, identified as Matthew Lansky from Oregon, was apprehended after reportedly throwing eight Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership. Another suspect from Colorado is accused of attempting to ignite vehicles while possessing materials for making more incendiary devices. A third defendant, Daniel Clarke-Pounder from South Carolina, is suspected of writing messages against Trump and setting Tesla charging stations ablaze.

Clarke-Pounder allegedly spray-painted phrases like “F–k Trump” and “Long Live Ukraine” around charging stations before throwing multiple Molotov cocktails. He was tracked down by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms shortly after the incident. Lansky was captured on surveillance footage throwing incendiary devices and reportedly fired rounds at the dealership as well.

Tesla sales have recently dwindled, with shares plummeting nearly 40% year-to-date. Amid these challenges, Musk has received support from figures in the Trump administration, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who encouraged the public to invest in Tesla.

During a recent event, Trump himself publicly showed support for Musk by purchasing three Tesla vehicles. He stated that attacks on Tesla dealerships should be treated with the severity of domestic terrorism and assured that those responsible would face significant repercussions.

Musk reacted to the coordinated attacks on X, questioning the level of violent opposition directed at Tesla, and noted the company’s response to enhance security measures, including activating Sentry Mode on all vehicles at their stores.