The Most Mind-Blowing Cocktails: Tasting Table Staff’s Ultimate Picks
While crafting exceptional cocktails at home is always an option, nothing quite compares to stepping into a vibrant bar and ordering a uniquely crafted drink that surprises and delights. Skilled bartenders devote countless hours to perfecting their craft, making their creations truly special. This exploration of flavors often involves unique ingredients sourced from various places, and while it’s exciting to experiment with high-quality components, there’s always the risk of wasting money on something that doesn’t meet expectations.
The best cocktails aren’t always elaborate; sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from an unexpected haven where a simple drink shines. Whether it’s the atmosphere or the feeling it evokes, often, it’s the context of the drink that leaves a lasting impression.
Staff members from Tasting Table have gathered their most mind-blowing cocktail experiences from cities like Venice, New York, Long Beach, and Mexico City. Here’s a look at some of these remarkable drinks:
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Piña Colada at Handshake in Mexico City: This refreshing version uses infused brandy instead of rum and is carbonated for a light, fizzy texture, transforming a classic vacation drink into a metropolitan treat.
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Born & Raised at Sugar Ray: You’ve Just Been Poisoned in Bangkok: This inventive take on Thai iced tea features gin infused with Thai tea, complemented by bright citrus notes and topped with a hint of pandan syrup, creating a multi-layered flavor experience.
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The Rosy Dawn at Library Of Distilled Spirits in Oklahoma City: Combining gin, orange marmalade, and Champagne, this cocktail is a celebration in a glass, enhancing the experience with the luxurious textures of foam and fizzy bubbles.
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Honey Bee at Dante in New York City: A blend of tequila, sherry, chocolate bitters, and salted honey cream, this drink presents a unique balance of flavors that makes it a must-try, perfect for digestif lovers.
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El Guapo at The Ordinarie in Long Beach: A tropical and spicy cocktail that incorporates tequila, mezcal, pineapple juice, and spicy bitters, making it a refreshing twist reminiscent of a smoky margarita.
These cocktails are just a glimpse of the extraordinary concoctions bartenders are creating worldwide, showcasing the artistry and passion that go into crafting the perfect drink.
Mendocino Wine Competition: A Harmonious Blend of Professional and Public Palates
The 46th annual Mendocino Wine Competition took place on August 17 in Hopland, showcasing a unique blend of public and professional judges tasting the same wines. This format proved effective in aligning preferences, as significant agreement was found between industry experts and consumers on their favorite selections.
Among the standout winners, the NV Roederer Brut Rosé claimed the People’s Choice in the sparkling wine category, with the 2011 Terra Savia Blanc de Blanc closely following. Conversely, the industry judges awarded Best of Class to the Terra Savia.
For chardonnay enthusiasts, the 2024 Kalpela Chardonnay won over the public, while the industry favored the 2023 Barra Reserve Chardonnay, demonstrating some divergence in taste preferences yet still a shared admiration for quality wines.
From nine entries in the sauvignon blanc category, the 2024 Husch Vineyards was designated Best in Class by industry judges, while consumers opted for the 2024 Bonterra Organic Estate. This trend of nearly identical preferences continued in the pinot noir category, where both groups recognized the 2023 Girasole Vineyards Pinot Noir as Best of Class.
The rosé section saw the Handley Cellars 2024 Pinot Noir Rosé awarded Best of Class by industry judges, while the People’s Choice was the 2024 Navarro Vineyards Rosé of Sangiovese. A noteworthy consensus also emerged with the 2023 Rustic Ridge Zinfandel earning Best of Class recognition across both categories.
In the Syrah category, the People’s Choice was awarded to the 2021 Handley Cellars Syrah, Kazmet Vineyard, while the industry judges chose the 2024 Omen Syrah for Best of Class. The Petite Sirah category reflected close results as well, with the 2021 Graziano Petite Sirah being favored by consumers, but industry judges awarded the 2022 Barra Petite Sirah as Best of Class.
In dessert wines, both judges aligned, selecting the 2024 Husch Vineyards Late Harvest Gewurztraminer and recognizing the 2018 Terragena Riesling and 2018 Nelson Family Vineyards Ice Riesling with Gold medals.
As harvest season commenced, vineyards in the area, such as Alamitos in San Jose and Madson in Santa Cruz, began reaping the rewards of their labor with the anticipation of additional grapes coming in due to warm weather.
In the local wine scene, Melanie Bauer’s long-awaited Winston Champagne Bar opened in downtown Los Gatos, and longtime Testarossa winemaker Bill Brosseau officially launched his Brosseau Wines Studio in Marina. He invites wine lovers to experience his family’s vineyard offerings and his own unique creations. For a tasting experience, reservations can be made at Brosseau Wines with an upcoming Harvest Party scheduled for October 25.
25 Must-Try Foods and Drinks at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World is an annual celebration that showcases a vast array of flavors from around the world. This year, it features an exciting selection of both food and beverages that cater to a wide variety of palates, from classic American dishes to innovative international cuisine.
The festival runs alongside engaging activities like Emile’s Fromage Montage, a scavenger hunt for cheese lovers, and nightly entertainment, including the Eat to the Beat Concert Series and a spectacular fireworks display, Luminous: The Symphony Of Us.
Highlighted Foods and Drinks:
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Chicago-Style Hot Dog: This classic dish at the Flavors of America booth is topped with vibrant green relish, pickles, tomato slices, and onions, served on a soft poppy seed bun.
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Strawberry Basil Cocktail: Available at the U.K. Beer Cart, this cocktail is made with strawberry basil syrup, Beefeater Pink strawberry gin, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, and Seagram’s ginger ale, offering a refreshing summer flavor.
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Braised Beef Poutine: A hearty option from the Refreshment Port that includes fries topped with braised beef, herbed Boursin cheese, and gherkin relish.
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Poblano Margarita: This drink from the Mexico Booth features Lalo Tequila Blanco and Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur, providing a citrusy kick perfect for hot days.
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Adobo Yuca Fries: Found at The Fry Basket, these delicious yuca fries come with garlic-cilantro aioli and are a crispy treat that’s quite addictive.
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Pickle Milkshake: A unique offering at The Brew-Wing Lab, this quirky shake blends creamy goodness with a subtle pickle flavor, creating a conversation starter among festival-goers.
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Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich: Served at Connections Café and Eatery, this sandwich includes tender grilled chicken and a mountain of fries, making it a satisfying meal option.
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Brioche Aux Escargots: A delightful twist on traditional escargots, this dish features sautéed snails inside a brioche bun at the France Booth.
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Guava Cake: A plant-based dessert at Shimmering Sips, this guava cake topped with whipped cream and coconut is a tropical indulgence at an affordable price.
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Kyoho Grape Sour: A refreshing cocktail from the Japan Booth, it blends black grape juice with shōchū and vermouth, making it a perfect choice for a hot day.
With so many culinary experiences, the festival truly offers an exquisite journey through diverse flavors, ensuring that attendees leave with full stomachs and happy hearts. For more details on the event, you can visit the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival page.
CQ Investigates: Discovering Curt Cignetti’s Favorite Postgame Beer!
Athletes and coaches often share common interests with everyday fans, and Indiana’s head football coach Curt Cignetti is no exception. After a long day, it seems Cignetti looks forward to enjoying a beer, much like many of us do. This has sparked a playful debate about what type of beer he might choose postgame.
Here are some interesting predictions from various voices in the Indiana sports community:
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Colin believes Cignetti’s high standards lead him to favor Miller High Life, though he might opt for a more robust option like Bell’s Two Hearted depending on the game’s outcome.
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LC speculates Cignetti likely has a reliable selection of local options, like Hoosier Gameday Lager or something more intense like 3 Floyds Gumballhead or Rhinegeist Truth.
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@CheesyCheesy3 suggests he’s a “drink what’s around” kind of guy and guesses he’d go for Coors.
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@GucciGrimace envisions Cignetti as a no-frills person, choosing a simple Miller Lite at the end of the day.
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@BtownMoose thinks a Coors Light would satisfy both his need for a dependable choice and his serious demeanor.
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@BabarEsq questions Cignetti’s beer-drinking qualities but concludes he’s likely knocking back I.C. Lights while still passionate about his roots.
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@Tommy_Crimes suspects that Cignetti, known for his drive for excellence, would lean towards classic options like Miller Lite or PBR.
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@W_B_Rick is convinced that Miller Lite embodies Cignetti’s consistent, hard-working ethos.
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@HoosierSpeaker believes he prefers Coors Banquet, indicating a desire for quality without pretense.
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@TheMopLady throws in the idea of Yuengling, tying back to Cignetti’s Pennsylvania roots.
With such a variety of preferences, one thing is clear: wherever Cignetti places his postgame order, fans will be curious about how it matches his coaching style. The focus on simplicity, local pride, and authenticity reflects the values that resonate not just in football, but in the beer choices many of us make after a long day.
Tracing the Rumored Romance: A Complete Timeline of Madison Beer and Justin Herbert
Rumors are swirling about a possible romance between singer Madison Beer and NFL quarterback Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers. The speculation began in August when the two were spotted together in Los Angeles, following Herbert’s appearance at one of Beer’s photoshoots. Although they haven’t publicly confirmed their relationship, the sighting ignited fan excitement.
Madison Beer, 26, recently opened up in an interview with Cosmopolitan, describing herself as a "relationship person" who finds joy in connecting deeply with others. She expressed that her partners don’t need to fit a specific mold, as emotional connection is what truly matters to her. Interestingly, this revelation came just months after she described her intense relationship with social media influencer Nick Austin, hinting that she is someone who quickly forms attachments.
On September 5, 2025, the Chargers played against the Kansas City Chiefs in São Paulo, Brazil, with some fans crediting Beer for possibly influencing Herbert’s performance during the game, although this was said in jest.
Notably, in late August, photos of Beer and Herbert casually hanging out emerged, depicting them engaging in leisurely activities—Beer carrying a bottle of wine and Herbert with a Rummikub set—suggesting a cozy friendship, or perhaps more. Earlier that month, Herbert was also seen visiting Beer while she was working on a shoot.
While the timeline of events suggests that their connection might be blossoming, both Beer and Herbert have yet to make any official statements about their relationship status.
For updates on their journey, keep an eye on entertainment news and social media platforms where such celebrity rumors often unfold.
Delicious Rigatoni with No-Vodka Sauce: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic!
In a delightful twist on a classic dish, Mateo Zielonka shares a family-friendly recipe for rigatoni with a "no-vodka sauce." This rendition retains the rich and velvety flavors of the traditional vodka sauce, making it suitable for all ages.
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 360g dried rigatoni
- 30ml/2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 80g tomato purée
- 1⁄2-1 tsp chili flakes (adjust for spiciness)
- 250ml double cream
- 1⁄2 bunch of basil leaves (about 15g)
- Grated parmesan or pecorino cheese (vegetarian if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
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Heat olive oil in a large saucepan, then add the crushed garlic. Sauté for one minute before incorporating the tomato purée and chili flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture darkens and begins to stick slightly to the pan.
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Lower the heat and pour in the cream, mixing well (a balloon whisk can be helpful). Add the basil leaves, stir again, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside while cooking the pasta.
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In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil, adding salt. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain the pasta but reserve a ladle of the cooking water. Combine the drained rigatoni with the sauce, tossing to coat, and add some reserved cooking water if the sauce is too thick.
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Season to taste, serve with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese, and consider pairing it with green beans drizzled with lemon.
For a vegan alternative, substitute the double cream with oat cream and finish with nutritional yeast or crispy toasted breadcrumbs.
This recipe comes from "Pasta Pronto: Simple, Speedy Recipes to Make Again and Again" by Mateo Zielonka, providing a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish without the alcohol.
The IWSC’s Top Pick: Discovering the World’s Best Vodka
The International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) recently announced the world’s best vodkas for 2025, awarding the coveted Vodka Spirit Trophy to two exceptional brands: Sexy Fish Vodka from England and Gustav Dill Vodka from Finland. These selections highlight the diversity and elegance found in the world of vodka, elevating it beyond its typical neutrality.
Sexy Fish Vodka
Hawkridge Distillers produced the Sexy Fish Vodka, achieving a remarkable score of 98 points from the IWSC. This vodka is crafted through a collaboration with the luxury restaurant brand, Sexy Fish, which has locations in London, Miami, and Manchester. The production process involves small-batch distillation using copper stills to ensure purity and character, enhanced by a multi-stage distillation process.
This vodka is triple filtered, resulting in clarity and a smooth, velvety texture. The natural sweetness contributes to a refined palate, complemented by floral and fruity aromas, particularly stone fruit. Notable flavors include citrus, vanilla, almond, and a hint of spices, culminating in a long, floral finish.
Gustav Dill Vodka
Gustav Dill Vodka, produced by Lignell & Piispanen, also received an impressive 98 points along with the 2025 Vodka & Tonic Trophy. This Finnish distillery, established in 1852, focuses on local botanicals and pristine Arctic water. The vodka of this particular expression utilizes aroma distillation, incorporating fresh Finnish dill to capture the herb’s essence.
The base spirit is a highly purified neutral grain vodka, blended with dill distillate and pure Finnish water, designed specifically for pairing with tonic. The resulting product showcases a distinct aroma and flavor profile of fresh dill accompanied by cucumber and subtle citrus, providing a crisp and balanced finish.
Conclusion
The IWSC’s 2025 Trophy winners showcase vodka’s ability to transcend its traditional perceptions. Sexy Fish Vodka offers a smooth, multilayered experience with an elegant finish, while Gustav Dill Vodka exemplifies how flavor can enhance a classic spirit, making it an ideal choice for those seeking aromatic and refreshing options. Together, these bottles redefine the spectrum of vodka, proving its versatility and sophistication in the world of premium spirits.
For more information on the International Wine & Spirit Competition, visit IWSC.
Are Sam’s Club Member’s Mark Vodka and Costco’s Kirkland Brand the Same Product?
Wholesale retailers Sam’s Club and Costco have been known for their competitive prices and extensive selection of products, including alcoholic beverages. Among consumers, the Kirkland Signature vodka from Costco has gained attention, leading to rumors about its similarities to the Member’s Mark vodka available at Sam’s Club. It has been speculated that both vodkas are essentially the same product, potentially produced at the same facility as the well-regarded Grey Goose vodka.
However, these claims are not substantiated. The Member’s Mark vodka is labeled as distilled in Louisville, Kentucky, by I.W.A Distilling. In contrast, the Kirkland vodka at Costco is produced by the LeVecke Corporation, which operates out of Mira Loma, California. This distinction confirms that the two vodkas come from different manufacturers.
Despite the differences, consumers have expressed satisfaction with both products, often highlighting their quality relative to their price. On forums like Reddit, customers have praised the smoothness of Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark vodka, with users remarking how it compares favorably to more well-known brands, such as Tito’s, while being significantly less expensive. Similarly, Kirkland vodka has received accolades from consumers for its taste and affordability.
Ultimately, while both vodka brands are not identical, they have carved out a niche for themselves in the budget-friendly vodka market, pleasing many consumers who are looking for quality at a lower price point.
Cheers to Culture: Enjoying Beer and Wine at the Chautauqua Institution Amphitheater
For the first time ever, Chautauqua Institution is serving beer and wine in its renowned amphitheater, a significant milestone as it faces financial hurdles. This new service was launched during a concert featuring Bonnie Raitt, where attendees were allowed to buy alcoholic beverages and bring them into the venue.
Vanessa Weinert, a representative from Chautauqua, commented, "For the first time in Chautauqua’s history at the amphitheater, we will be doing concessions inside of the amphitheater." Patrons can now choose from a variety of drinks, including sauvignon blanc and sparkling rosé, which can be enjoyed during performances.
This shift marks a departure from Chautauqua’s long-standing policy of a dry campus, a tradition that had been upheld until concessions were first allowed in 2017. Weinert highlighted the historical context, referencing a local phenomenon of "Chautauqua tea" that has been humorously questioned regarding its true contents.
The decision to sell alcohol follows a period of significant financial strain for the institution, which has seen a drop in ticket sales and a decrease in Canadian visitors, along with a budget deficit. Kyle Keough, the interim CEO, discussed the institution’s struggles, noting a decline in attendance post-COVID and a need for substantial budget adjustments, estimated between $4 million to $6 million for the upcoming season.
To adapt, Chautauqua is looking to host more major concerts beyond its usual nine-week season, including the addition of alcohol sales at the amphitheater, following the model of other major performance venues.
Richard Zorn, venue operations manager, was busy preparing for this launch, hopeful that the new offerings would enhance the concert experience.
The move to serve alcohol is part of broader efforts by the Chautauqua Institution to revitalize attendance and ensure financial sustainability in a rapidly changing environment.
21st Amendment Brewery: A Bay Area Craft Beer Pioneer Announces Shutdown
The esteemed 21st Amendment Brewery, a cornerstone of the Bay Area craft beer scene, has announced it will be shutting down both its brewpub in San Francisco and its production facility in San Leandro. Co-founders Shaun O’Sullivan and Nico Freccia revealed that they will wind down operations in the coming months after 25 years of business.
Founded in 2000, 21st Amendment Brewery initially started as a brewpub and became notable for canning its beers, pioneering a movement that has since transformed the craft beer industry. The brewery expanded significantly in 2015 when it opened a large facility in San Leandro, becoming widely recognized for distributing its products across the U.S. and even engaging in contract brewing for other brands.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted sales, coupled with a general decline in beer consumption post-pandemic. To adapt, they sought a financial partner and attempted to diversify their offerings with alternative beverages like energy drinks. Despite these efforts, sales never rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, prompting their financial partner to withdraw support.
In light of these challenges, O’Sullivan and Freccia have made the difficult decision to close both locations. They plan to celebrate their legacy over the next few months, with the brewpub’s closure possibly aligning with the San Francisco Giants’ last home game on September 28. Meanwhile, they are seeking potential buyers for the brand and brewery assets and will finalize their production of popular brews like “Brew Free! Or Die Blood Orange IPA” in the meantime.