The Ultimate Guide to the Best Whiskeys: Top Picks for Every Palate
Discover a new favorite whiskey with this collection of rich caramel spirits. If you hold a deep allegiance to your Emerald Isle heritage, we’ve curated Irish and Irish-inspired selections to help you stay true to your roots. For those captivated by the resurgence of Japanese whiskey, you’ll find numerous award-winning options on the list. Additionally, we’ve included some innovative flavors, such as cherry-infused and kettle-corn, perfect for those who dare to try a fresh twist on this timeless beverage.
Our selections are guided by editorial insight with input from a panel of travel experts. The final compilation is determined by Newsweek’s editorial team. Readers have the opportunity to vote once per category each day. For further information, please review our terms and conditions. If you have any inquiries, consult our FAQs or reach out to us at readerschoice@newsweek.com.
Amy Piper is a freelance travel writer, blogger, photographer, and author with a focus on luxury and multigenerational travel. Hailing from Michigan, she approaches her journeys through the perspective of a food enthusiast, having explored 45 states and 41 countries globally. From being pursued by bomb-sniffing dogs in Bogotá to facing travel delays in Buenos Aires due to visa issues, Amy has endless thrilling stories to share with her readers and fellow travel aficionados. Discover more at followthepiper.com.
Ryan Slough is a content creator, freelance travel writer, photographer, and co-owner of Wanderers Compass Travel Blog. He aims to inspire wanderlust in aspiring travelers, encouraging them to pursue genuine, independent, and transformative adventures. With a keen interest in whiskey, he completed a certification course in Edinburgh, enhancing his knowledge and appreciation for the craft. Ryan is also a dedicated father, a Master Sergeant in the Army Reserves, and a full-time college student. He belongs to the International Travel Writers Alliance (ITWA), the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), and the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA).
Contributors to Newsweek come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a wealth of knowledge across numerous subjects.
Somerville Brewery Paves the Way for a Sustainable Future in the Beer Industry
Portico Brewing emphasizes the importance of eco-friendly methods to lessen their ecological footprint.
Portico Brewing emphasizes the importance of eco-friendly methods to lessen their ecological footprint.
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Portico Brewing emphasizes the importance of eco-friendly methods to lessen their ecological footprint.
The craft beer sector is overflowing with creativity, particularly in terms of sustainability. Portico Brewing located in Somerville has aimed to be an environmentally conscious brewery since its inception. According to Better Bev, it qualifies as a green brewery due to its strong commitment to environmental preservation.
“When most breweries start out, the focus is simply on ensuring that you have enough glassware and can produce enough beer for customers,” states Portico founder Adam Rabe. “Considering sustainability often comes later, usually around year three when things are more stable.”
Portico is dedicated to minimizing waste throughout the brewing process, utilizing renewable energy, and lowering their overall carbon emissions. Their facility is entirely powered by electricity, and they have done away with plastic cups and other disposable items.
Unveiling the Origin Story of the Vodka Cranberry Cocktail: From Bar Scene to Classic Favorite
Few drink orders are as widespread as the refreshing and zesty vodka cranberry. This seemingly simple yet intricate blend of flavors balances the sharpness of cold vodka with the tangy sweetness of cranberry juice, creating a delightful mixed drink that is gentle on the palate. Often topped with a splash of lime for an added citrus kick, many might refer to it as the best drink mixer.
This cocktail has been around for almost a century, with origins tracing back to the early 1940s. Interestingly, unlike certain classic cocktails like the Sidecar or the Tom Collins, its appeal has never diminished. In fact, vodka cranberry drinks have only increased in popularity over time, evolving into various names and styles. But what is the fascinating story behind this iconic beverage? Its rich history reaches back further than one might assume.
For a deeper dive: 13 Types Of Beer Glasses And When To Use Them
Since 1930, Ocean Spray has dominated the cranberry juice market. Established by a collective of cranberry growers in Massachusetts, their mission was to create more products derived from cranberries. This initiative led to the creation of not only cranberry juice but also canned cranberry sauce, dried cranberries, and much more. These advancements initiated a surge in the cranberry-related food and beverage sector.
As reported by Chilled Magazine, the vodka cranberry was originally referred to as the “Red Devil” cocktail in an Ocean Spray newsletter from 1945. This was the first instance when this relatively new juice was marketed as a drink mixer. Despite the term “red” carrying a negative stigma during the era of McCarthyism, the name didn’t quite catch on. However, the appeal of this delightful mix remained undeniable, leading to a rebranding effort.
By the 1950s, vodka cranberries, commonly known as “Cape Codders” at the time, were gaining traction on the East Coast. Thanks to increased advertising by Ocean Spray, the vodka cranberry began to spread across the nation, ultimately establishing itself as a quintessential beverage.
Over the years, the vodka cranberry has evolved through various adaptations. The Sea Breeze incorporates a hint of grapefruit juice, whereas the Madras includes orange juice. A popular method to reduce sweetness is to add a splash of soda, a variation known as the Rose Kennedy in certain regions. With the emergence of premium cocktail bars, expectations for a “good drink” have escalated significantly since the vodka cranberry’s beginnings. Many bars see this as an opportunity to enhance this beloved classic. Though the origins of the vodka cranberry are rich, it remains a contemporary favorite as relevant today as it was at its creation. Keep its fascinating history in mind the next time you place your order.
For more details, check out the original article on Chowhound.
Join Ars Technica in DC for an Evening of Infrastructure, Cocktails, and Spycraft on October 29!
On the discussion agenda: Privacy, compliance, and making infrastructure smarter.
Following a fantastic event last month in San Jose, Ars is gearing up to head across the country to our nation’s capital this October. If you’re located on the East Coast and would like to join Ars EIC Ken Fisher and me for some engaging conversations with interesting speakers while we expand our knowledge, keep reading!
Continuing our collaboration with IBM, Ars proudly presents “AI in DC: Privacy, Compliance, and Making Infrastructure Smarter.” This time, our approach will be slightly more focused on policy compared to our San Jose event. We plan to host three panel discussions that will revolve around the following key topics:
Here are the specific panels and the panelists we have already confirmed:
In the ever-changing landscape of technology, from the transition to cloud computing in the 2010s to the advancements in AI today, businesses are constantly striving to innovate using new technologies. However, they must also navigate complex regulatory frameworks that often struggle to keep pace with technological progress. In this discussion, we will explore how companies can successfully introduce new products to the market while ensuring that compliance with regulations remains manageable.
Panelists confirmed so far:
As technology advances, so do the threats associated with it, often outpacing the measures taken to protect against them. For this conversation, we will assemble a group of esteemed information security professionals who are full of strategies to help you secure your infrastructure, safeguard your data, and protect your personnel from a wide range of adversaries, from amateur hackers to sophisticated nation-state actors.
Panelists confirmed so far:
For the near future, AI remains reliant on hardware—substantial computational and storage resources are essential for the current generation of solutions. In this panel, we will explore how companies are strategizing their infrastructure to effectively develop and implement their own AI tools.
Panelists announced thus far:
In San Jose, we were fortunate to host our gathering at the Computer History Museum; this time, we are excited to have secured the International Spy Museum for our event, which promises to be equally exciting. Once the panel discussions conclude, attendees will enjoy exclusive access to various exhibits during a private cocktail reception. I’m looking forward to discovering and practicing various secret spy handshakes with everyone.
The attendance policy remains consistent with what we had in San Jose: we want to accommodate all interested participants, but space is limited. To ensure local attendees have priority, we request anyone seeking a ticket to register at the event’s sign-up page.
Individuals who submit their applications can expect to receive an email right away confirming that their information has been received. We will follow up shortly after, typically within a couple of days, providing additional details regarding the schedule and attendance. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!
Savoring Whiskey Cocktails and Gold Rush Vibes: A Look Inside Ace of Spades’ New Bar
Attendees of Ace of Spades concerts frequently visit the nearby bars in the R Street Corridor for drinks before or after their shows. Now, the venue is eager to join in on the fun.
Good Luck Lounge is the new cocktail lounge adjoining Ace of Spades, opened on October 4th at 1421 R St. This second-floor bar is accessible to the public but offers a distinct advantage for those holding tickets to the evening performance: immediate access to the pit without needing to wait outside.
The latest addition to Sacramento’s bar scene boasts emerald green walls, cerulean velvet stools, and an array of gambling-themed decor, featuring faux dice and a mural reminiscent of face cards, crafted from thousands of glimmering pennies. Its cocktail offerings pay tribute to the Gold Rush saloons and Jerry Thomas, revered as “the father of American mixology” in the 1850s.
Thomas is renowned for creating classic cocktails like the Martinez (considered the predecessor of the martini, made with sweet vermouth), which is included on the menu alongside time-honored beverages such as Corpse Revivers. The bar’s signature cocktail is a contemporary twist known as a Gold Rush, a whiskey sour variation featuring honey syrup in place of simple syrup, and adorned with honeycomb.
The cocktails at Good Luck Lounge were expertly crafted by Sean Kenyon, a talented mixologist affiliated with Live Nation, the parent company of Ace of Spades. Kenyon is also the co-founder of Williams & Graham in Denver, which was recognized as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2015. Additionally, he has established a more laid-back bar, Occidental, noted as one of Esquire’s top 18 bars in the U.S. in 2016, as well as the two-story whiskey venue American Bonded.
Currently, Kenyon is focused on developing bar programs for Live Nation, each one infused with a sense of local identity, as seen in Good Luck Lounge.
“Our cocktails are modern interpretations of classics, with some recipes tracing back to the Gold Rush cocktail era,” Kenyon remarked. “We drew significant inspiration from our local surroundings in Sacramento, aiming to incorporate a touch of the city into our offerings.”
Sacramento’s music landscape features everything from small venues to the expansive Golden 1 Center, leaving a gap in the middle. With a capacity of 1,000, Ace of Spades falls on the smaller side for a mid-tier venue, yet it has continued to flourish, partly due to its position as one of the few venues that can accommodate moderately popular performers. It’s noteworthy that Channel 24, a concert hall currently under construction at 24th and R streets, is expected to boast a capacity of 2,150 when it opens early next year.
There’s a compelling need for Ace of Spades to carve out a unique identity. The Good Luck Lounge welcomes visitors from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 5 p.m. to midnight on Thursdays, along with all other evenings when Ace of Spades features a performance.
I wrapped up one of Sacramento’s last scorching 100-degree days (hopefully) by visiting Sumer Nights, an Iraqi dining establishment by Abbas Allaftah located in Arden Arcade. Having opened its doors last June in a spacious venue at Country Club Plaza, it took over from a previous Cajun seafood restaurant, with remnants of nautical ropes and decor still visible on the wood-paneled walls.
<p/I have a pretty hearty appetite, which has enabled me to tackle a local fast food joint’s 10×10 smashburger earlier this year, and even to secure second place out of 12 competitors in a Jimboy’s Tacos-eating contest last month.
So let me assure you: the entrees at Sumer Nights are generously portioned, perfect for sharing among at least two diners. Each dish is accompanied by a rich yellow lentil soup, a selection of four sides including options like tabbouleh or baba ghanoush, along with khubz, a delicious round flatbread that overflows from the serving basket.
Moving on to the entrees, the dolma plate ($35) is anything but a simple starter. It features substantial grape leaf wraps filled with rice and ground lamb, simmered in a rich tomato broth, and accompanied by lamb ribs, zesty pickled vegetables, pomegranate molasses, along with additional rice served on khubz.
The Quzi ($35), recognized as one of Iraq’s signature dishes, is similarly impressive. With two succulent lamb legs perched atop a delicate combination of rice, vermicelli, raisins, and almonds, the meat is so tender that it easily separates from the bone with just the slightest touch. Drenched in saffron for a vivid yellow hue but retaining a perfect pink center, it is garnished with cumin and paired with a comforting tomato-white bean soup known as fasolia.
Beyond the extensive kebab and shawarma selections, smaller dishes are available—think falafel wraps, chicken burgers, and lamb tikka sandwiches. Even starters like shwandaria ($7), featuring julienned pickled beets garnished with parsley, provide ample servings. Thankfully, leftovers taste just as delightful the following day, as do most main dishes when warmed up again.
Location: 2316 Watt Ave., Sacramento
Operating Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.
Contact Number: 916-750-5088
Official Website: sumer-nights.com
Beverage Selection: Offering a variety of tea and sodas.
Vegetarian options: Falafel dishes or wraps, along with several appetizers
Noise level: Tranquil during weekdays, more energetic on weekend evenings
Outdoor seating: A patio next to the parking lot, enhanced with synthetic turf and palm trees
• Lucky’s Drive-In commenced operations on October 3 at 2565 Franklin Blvd., taking over the Curtis Park location that once housed the Hideaway Bar & Grill. This nostalgic fast food spot has been offering burgers, shakes, fries, and more since 2015 at a sister establishment located near Tacoma, Washington.
▪ Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has launched its sixth location in the capital region on Tuesday, situated at 8055 Madison Ave. in the southeastern area of Citrus Heights. Established in 1945, this Ohio-based chain now serves frozen desserts at approximately 125 sites across 12 states, with other parlors located in North Natomas, Folsom, Roseville, Elk Grove, and Rancho Cordova.
▪ Shorebirds Brewing Co., the only brewery in Sacramento County focused on hard kombucha production, announced its closure via social media last Thursday. The owners, Randall Echevarria and Monte Hudock, will throw a farewell party on October 19 at 11327 Trade Center Drive, Suite 355, located in Rancho Cordova’s Barrel District, and are hoping to partner with another local brewery to continue brewing their kombuchas.
Ogden Beer Fest Celebrates the Spooky Season with Its Second Annual Event
OGDEN — Following its successful launch in the spring, where around 1,100 eager Ogden residents gathered at The Monarch, the Ogden Beer Fest is returning to celebrate the upcoming spooky season.
The event, titled “Boo’s & Brews,” presented by Ogden Beer Fest, will take place on October 19 from 4-10 p.m. at The Monarch once again. Tickets are available starting at $23, which includes entry to the event along with five complimentary sample pours.
For those looking to indulge further, additional sample pours can be pre-purchased or bought at the venue, with expectations that the event will reach capacity. Reduced-price non-alcoholic tickets are also offered. Tickets can be purchased by visiting https://www.ogdenbeerfest.com.
In line with the Halloween spirit, Chase Burch, co-founder and lead producer of the event, has encouraged attendees to embrace the festive atmosphere by coming in costume, as reported by the Standard-Examiner.
Boo’s & Brews steps in to replace the now-closed Peculiar Pours event and is benefiting from the positive vibes following the successful debut of the Ogden Beer Fest, as noted by Burch.
“The initial event was, I would say, just incredibly successful,” Burch remarked. “Honestly, our main challenge was — when we reached capacity and there were so many attendees — we were simply doing our best to manage the flow and the volume.”
Burch assures that the upcoming second event will have a more efficient system in place, showcasing a variety of craft offerings from numerous breweries and distilleries.
Participating vendors for Boo’s & Brews include Ogden Beer Company, Red Rock Brewing Co., Epic Brewing Co., UTOG Brewing Co., Roosters Brewing Co., Kiitos Brewing, Uinta Brewing Co., Proper Brewing Co., Second Summit Hard Cider Co., Sugarhouse Distillery, and Ogden’s Own Distillery.
The gathering will also feature culinary delights from Lucky Slice and Weller’s Bistro, complemented by live music from Ogden’s own Bryson Dearden.
While it may seem that Utah isn’t a prominent player in the beer and brewing industry to those unfamiliar, Burch highlights that the state has a surprisingly vibrant scene.
“At first glance, many might think that due to the strict regulations regarding alcohol and beer in Utah, it creates a stifling atmosphere. However, my experience, particularly after participating in Beer Fest last spring and collaborating with the numerous excellent breweries and distilleries across the state, has shown me just how false that perception is,” Burch explained.
“The culture here is incredibly lively, dynamic, and filled with enthusiasm.”
Burch expressed admiration for the camaraderie among the numerous breweries that have emerged in the area.
“It’s refreshing to witness such a supportive environment, rather than one that is dog-eat-dog or overly competitive,” Burch noted. “They are joining forces to produce amazing results, which ultimately benefits all.”
Healdsburg Plaza Welcomes a Wine Deluge: Get Ready for Unforgettable Sips!
Even if the sun is shining, expect a downpour of fun at the Healdsburg Plaza for the Boys and Girls Club of Sonoma-Marin Healdsburg Crush event taking place from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Join over 60 wineries as they showcase some of their finest selections at this delightful wine tasting event, featuring delectable varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines.
VIP tickets are priced at $185, granting early access to the festivities starting at noon, while general admission tickets are available for $135.
Additionally, there are several supplementary winemaker events on offer on Friday and Saturday, as well as Sunday morning. These include a hands-on harvest experience for $65, hosted by Daniel Wines, and a Bayou Brunch for $85, featuring the delightful collaboration between Healdsburg Bubble Bar and Parish Café.
Discover additional details and buy tickets at bgcsonoma-marin.org/healdsburgcrush. Location: Healdsburg Plaza.
13 Spooktacular Halloween Cocktails to Brew Up This Season
Get ready for a thrilling selection of Halloween cocktails that are sure to elevate your spooky festivities. Whether you prefer haunting shooters or ghostly punches, these drink recipes will help you cast a spell over your guests.
Prepare to infuse some enchanting vibes into your upcoming Halloween party with these chilling cocktail recipes crafted by skilled bartenders from fabulous locations. With a mix of dark, enigmatic ingredients and bright autumnal hues, these drinks will captivate your attendees and keep the excitement flowing throughout the evening.
Every cocktail comes with its own unique background—drawing inspiration from ancient myths to exclusive mixes from renowned bars worldwide. Here’s your essential guide to 13 simple Halloween cocktail ideas for your eerie celebrations.
A striking red cocktail adorned with a blood orange garnish, ideal for embracing the ghostly glow of moonlight during Halloween.
Featuring a hauntingly delightful twist, the Blood Moon cocktail embodies the chilling spirit of Halloween with its striking deep red color and a refreshing spiciness from ginger beer. This drink, combining blood orange and Amarena cherries, not only stands out visually but also makes for a perfect toast during the spooky season.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Mix Bacardí Superior Rum, lime juice, and blood orange syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake it well, then pour into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Add ginger beer on top, stir gently to mix and garnish with a slice of blood orange and an Amarena cherry.
Nightmare In Florence
Drawing inspiration from the enigmatic atmosphere of Florence after dark, this cocktail features a mix of Martini & Rossi’s Fiero, Bitter liqueur, Bombay Sapphire gin, and cold brew coffee. The outcome is a striking drink that balances boldness and bitterness, complemented by a subtle caffeine kick—an excellent choice for autumn nights.
Instructions: Mix the ingredients well, pour into a coupe glass, and adorn it with a slice of orange.
A mesmerizing cocktail boasting a vibrant hue and a unique garnish that is both whimsical and intriguing.
The hint is clear: this cocktail must be prepared. With a harmonious blend of Tres Agaves Blanco Tequila, black currant juice, and Campari, this drink showcases a deep color enhanced by spicy ginger syrup, making it perfect for an atmospheric fall evening. A chicken feather garnish adds an ethereal element to this delightful drink.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Begin by shaking all the ingredients vigorously without ice to create a dry mixture. Next, incorporate ice and continue shaking until well chilled. Strain the mixture into a pre-chilled cocktail glass, and for a decorative touch, garnish with a chicken feather and a maraschino cherry.
A luxurious dark cocktail showcasing notes of coconut and coffee, finished with a sprinkle of espresso salt—this drink is perfect for late-night enchantment.
The Midnight Widow embodies intrigue—a beverage that harmonizes Bacardí coconut rum with cold brew and vanilla, resulting in a rich, smooth, and slightly energizing delight. This cocktail is the perfect companion for those evening gatherings when the magic of the night unfolds.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker. Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice, stir to combine, and finish with a sprinkle of espresso salt on top.
A deep red and herbaceous concoction, this Bloody Negroni is vibrant in both color and flavor—a true classic for the fall season.
This variation on the traditional Negroni features the rich red tones of Martini & Rossi’s Riserva Speciale Rubino and Bitter. When mixed with Bombay Sapphire gin, the Bloody Negroni creates a delightful balance of bitterness, spice, and herbal undertones—ideal for those cool autumn nights.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Combine the ingredients and pour the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. Top it off with an orange peel garnish.
A punch bowl overflowing with a smoky allure and spooky eyeballs makes for an ideal focal point at a Halloween gathering.
Eye Luv It dazzles at Halloween festivities, presented in a punch bowl that features a striking smoky dry ice effect. Crafted with Bacardí Superior Rum, elderflower liqueur, and passionfruit juice, this drink is adorned with mint and rambutan cherries, crafting an enchanting display of “eyeballs” floating within the bowl.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Serve in a large punch bowl with dry ice to create a smoky ambiance. Pour into a glass over ice and finish with a garnish of a mint sprig and a rambutan cherry.
A velvety and aromatic Manhattan accompanied by a brandied cherry—a delightful and warming cocktail for fall.
This variation of the Manhattan delivers a luxurious experience through the inclusion of Averna. The Black Manhattan beautifully combines the herbal intricacies of amaro with the spicy notes of Russell’s Reserve Rye, resulting in a deep, smoky flavor that’s ideal for cool autumn evenings.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Combine all ingredients with ice and strain into a coupe glass. Finish with a brandied cherry on top.
A striking red margarita featuring beet juice, certain to excite and refresh this Halloween.
Embrace your inner spirit with Beet-le Juice, a colorful tequila drink crafted with fresh beet juice. The rich earthiness combined with lime and agave creates a one-of-a-kind, delightfully eerie spin on the traditional margarita.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Combine all ingredients with ice and shake until thoroughly chilled. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Complete the presentation with a dehydrated lime wheel for an added touch of eeriness.
A haunting mojito featuring floating green “eyeballs” that will surprise your guests.
Mojito Mischief transforms the traditional mojito by introducing a spooky element, incorporating green boba pearls that resemble eerie eyes bobbing in the drink. The revitalizing blend of Bacardí Superior Rum, lime, and mojito syrup makes this cocktail an ideal choice for a spine-tingling refreshment.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Begin by shaking the rum, lime juice, and syrup with ice. Next, strain this mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice. Top it off with club soda and stir gently. For the finishing touch, garnish with a lime wedge, a sprig of mint, and some green boba pearls.
A strikingly enchanting cocktail featuring a sugar-charcoal rim, ideal for celebrating the spooky season in an elegant manner.
This eerie yet delightful drink blends the tartness of cherry compote with the rich creaminess of coconut cream, producing a flavorful concoction inspired by Halloween. The sugar-charcoal rim adds a dark, enigmatic allure, making it a perfect choice for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake thoroughly. Coat the rim of your glass in cherry compote, followed by a mixture of sugar and charcoal. Fill your glass with ice and carefully pour the cocktail over the fresh ice. Finish with a garnish of a dehydrated lime wheel.
A whimsical and spirited interpretation of candy corn, featuring lively layers of lemon, orange, and creamy white gelatin—a delightful treat for Halloween.
This multi-layered shot is inspired by traditional candy corn, showcasing vibrant layers of lemon, orange, and sweetened condensed milk gelatin, all enhanced with Kōloa Kauaʻi Rum. It makes for a fantastic adult treat at any Halloween celebration and can be tailored for different events using various flavors and colors.
Ingredients (Serves 16):
Instructions:
Lemon Layer: Begin by pouring 3/4 cup of boiling water into a small bowl. Add the lemon gelatin mix and stir until it dissolves completely. Next, measure 1 cup of Kōloa Kauaʻi Gold Rum in a glass measuring cup and add enough ice to reach a total of 1 1/4 cups. Mix this into the lemon gelatin until it thickens slightly, ensuring to remove any unmelted ice. Pour the lemon gelatin mixture into shot glasses, filling each one a third of the way. Place these in the refrigerator to set, which should take at least 90 minutes.
Orange Layer: For the orange layer, pour the remaining 3/4 cup of boiling water into the same small bowl. Add the orange gelatin mix and stir until completely dissolved. Again, pour the remaining 1 cup of Kōloa Kauaʻi Gold Rum into a glass measuring cup and add enough ice to bring it to 1 1/4 cups. Stir this into the orange gelatin until it slightly thickens and remove any unmelted ice. Carefully pour this orange gelatin over the set lemon layer. Refrigerate once more until fully set, which will take at least 90 minutes.
Milk Layer: Begin by pouring 2 tablespoons of warm water into a bowl. Add unflavored gelatin and mix until it fully dissolves. Incorporate condensed milk along with 1/2 cup of Kōloa Kauaʻi Spiced Rum. Carefully pour this mixture over the orange gelatin layer. Place it in the refrigerator until the top layer has completely set, which should take at least 30 minutes.
These gelatin shots are versatile and can be modified for various celebrations by altering the colors and flavors of both the gelatin and the rum. The essential factor is to ensure that each layer is completely set prior to adding the next, in order to achieve neat and defined layers.
A lively shot garnished with a lemon twist, making it an ideal choice for Halloween gatherings infused with a touch of spookiness.
The Jack The Ripper is a captivating and colorful shooter that combines fresh carrot juice with the zesty flavors of Bauchant Orange Liqueur. Its rich orange hue and citrus garnish render it an excellent selection for the Halloween season.
Ingredients:
Instructions: Combine the ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake thoroughly and pour into a shot glass. Finish by garnishing with a twist of lemon.
A tropical, eerie punch adorned with bone-shaped candies, adding an element of fun and fright to your Halloween celebrations.
The Kraken Bones Punch is a rich and tropical beverage for Halloween, featuring the intense flavors of Kraken Black Spiced Rum mixed with pineapple juice and a hint of grenadine. The bone-shaped candies contribute a whimsical, spooky flair to this lively cocktail, making it an ideal choice for marking the season.
Ingredients:
Instructions: In a shaker filled with ice, blend together Kraken Black Spiced Rum, pineapple juice, and grenadine. Shake thoroughly and then pour the mixture, including the ice, into a glass. Decorate with a cherry and some bone-shaped candies for a festive touch.
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Introducing Myers’s Rum: Unveiling Two New Premium Collections
Myers’s Rum has unveiled two premium offerings: the Signature Legends Collection and the Signature Cask Collection. The latter is uniquely crafted using whiskey barrels sourced from Sazerac’s renowned Antique Collection.
Myers’s Rum Signature Cask Range
With a legacy spanning over 140 years, Myers’s Rum stands as one of Jamaica’s esteemed rum brands. Recently, they have introduced two exciting collections, the Signature Legends Collection and the Signature Cask Collection. These collections truly reflect the rich heritage of Myers’s Rum, showcasing their centuries-old expertise in sourcing, distilling, and blending premium rums from across the globe. They serve as a remarkable example of how a brand can enhance its offerings through collaborations with other iconic labels.
The Signature Legends Collection features the unique Legacy Blend #1, crafted in collaboration with Richard Seale, the Master Blender from Foursquare Rum. Meanwhile, the Signature Cask Collection boasts five distinct aged rums, each elegantly finished in barrels that once held the famed whiskeys from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection.
Meyer’s, once viewed as a mainstream rum manufacturer for the general public, became part of the Sazerac Company in 2018. The company stated that it embraced the innovative approach Sazerac is renowned for in its bourbon production to explore new horizons in the premium rum sector.
Each of the five new offerings in the Signature Cask Collection has been meticulously developed by Sazerac Master Blender Drew Mayville, who has experience with all the award-winning creations from Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Mayville remarked:
In developing these rums, we concentrated on sourcing and experimenting with exceptional spirits and producers to create groundbreaking products. With these new collections, we’re merging spirit categories to see how the flavors intertwine, pushing ourselves to think outside the box to produce items that encourage consumers to explore options they may not have considered before. The outcomes are genuinely remarkable.
Myers’s Signature Legends Collection: The Legacy Blend
Myers’s presents the Signature Legends Collection, a thoughtfully curated series of exclusive, limited-edition rums that highlight innovative techniques and unique collaborations with industry legends.
For the debut release, Mayville collaborated with Richard Seale, the Master Distiller and Blender at Foursquare Rum Distillery, to develop Legacy Blend #1. Their combined experience of over 70 years in the industry was reflected in this exquisite blend of Jamaican and Barbados rum, which honors Myers’s heritage and pays tribute to all who are passionate about creating remarkable rums.
Myers’s Legends Legacy Blend embodies the essence of classic rum. It features tropical fruit notes, particularly ripe bananas, pineapple, and mango, which blend beautifully with profound hints of molasses and dark brown sugar, creating an enticing aroma. On the palate, this rum offers a rich, full-bodied sweetness, complemented by a smooth, creamy texture enriched with flavors of fruit and honey, alongside spicy clove notes and an earthy, almost smoky essence. The finish is long-lasting and fruity, leaving a delightful sweetness behind.
The Myers’s Rum Signature Cask Collection presents five unique expressions, each finishing Myers’s Original Dark Rum in barrels that once aged spirits from the esteemed Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. This celebrated collection includes renowned whiskeys such as George T. Stagg, William Larue Weller, Sazerac Rye 18 YO, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, and Eagle Rare 17 YO, all known for their exceptional distillation and aging processes.
The rums are released at various proof levels, highlighting the individual characteristics imparted by each barrel. This collection promises an unparalleled tasting journey, marrying the distinctive profile of Myers’s Original Dark Rum with the nuanced influences of each barrel. Tasting notes from Myers’s Rum have been provided.
This rum presents a bold character, with its aroma richly layered with dark molasses, leather, coffee, and the charred oak notes derived from the barrel aging. Among the five expressions, this taste is the most robust and complex, showcasing profound flavors of dark cherries and brown sugar. Its higher proof delivers an invigorating punch while allowing the rum’s essence to emerge prominently. The finish is full-bodied, featuring a significant oak presence alongside a lingering smoky note, complemented by a touch of bitterness that enhances its complexity.
This expression reveals a deep and rich nose, with prominent aromas of brown sugar, butterscotch, and ripe bananas. Oak and caramel rise to the forefront, alongside a subtle hint of toasted coconut. The flavor profile is exquisitely balanced, offering toffee and dark cherry notes, while the bourbon barrel enriches it with elements of vanilla, charred oak, and delightful baking spices. The bourbon and oak finish lingers pleasantly, and a delicate nuttiness at the close adds an extra dimension to the overall flavor experience.
This rum presents a lively aroma with hints of rye spice, orange zest, and a variety of subtle spices. On the palate, the bold rye flavor intertwines seamlessly with fruity notes of banana, pineapple, and vanilla. The natural sweetness lends a pleasing contrast to the sharp rye, resulting in a well-balanced flavor experience. The finish is moderate, with a lingering peppery essence from the rye.
This rum’s aroma encompasses pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and fruit. The flavor is bright and harmoniously balanced, showcasing tropical fruit elements. The rye spice from the barrels enhances the deep molasses and banana flavors, producing a nicely layered tasting profile. The finish is intriguing and spicy, accompanied by hints of dried fruit and herbal notes.
This rum is rich and appealing. Its aroma features soft vanilla intertwined with subtle hints of baking spices and dark fruit, alongside bourbon influences and traces of dark chocolate. The bourbon character derived from the Eagle Rare barrel complements the rum’s tropical fruit and classic notes, achieving a perfect balance between oak and fruit. The finish is smooth and gentle, with lingering hints of vanilla and dried fruit.
The Legacy Blend #1 will retail for a suggested price of $49.99. The remaining five expressions from the Myers’s Signature Cask Collection will be available individually for $79.99 each. All six rums are contained in 750 ml bottles and are set for a limited release in October 2024 through Sazerac’s American and international distribution networks.
If you enjoy bourbon, rye whiskey, rum, or a combination of these spirits, Myer’s Signature Collections presents a unique blend of the aromas and flavor profiles of legendary American whiskies along with Caribbean rum. All options are certainly worth experiencing.
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Your Ultimate Guide to Running a Stress-Free Wine Tasting Event
BORDEAUX, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 22: (NO UK Sales For 28 Days Post Create Date) King Charles III and … [+] Queen Camilla participated in a wine tasting at Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte to explore sustainable vineyard practices in the Bordeaux wine region on September 22, 2023. This marks the King and the Queen’s inaugural state visit to France, which will cover Paris, Versailles, and Bordeaux from Wednesday, September 20, to Friday, September 23, 2023. The visit was originally planned for March 26 to 29 but was delayed due to widespread strikes and protests.
In the past, the notion of hosting a wine tasting at home might have seemed like a snooty way to spoil a fun gathering. Nowadays, however, such tastings are viewed as much less pretentious and can serve as a delightful way to gather friends without the hassle and expense of a formal dinner. Plus, it’s unlikely anyone will get overly upset about losing a hand of poker during the evening!
That said, randomly selecting wines to taste can lack direction and may fall flat. While inviting wine enthusiasts is not essential, including guests with a moderate appreciation for wine can lead to an enjoyable and enriching experience for everyone involved.
With that in mind, here are some helpful tips for organizing a wine tasting aimed at those who possess a casual understanding and interest in wine, as opposed to those who engage in deep discussions about vineyard technology and pH levels during social events.
When hosting a wine tasting, it’s essential not to overdo it with the number of selections. Ideally, aim for four to six different wines. Offering fewer just doesn’t provide enough variety, while presenting too many can feel overwhelming.
The next consideration is whether you want to conduct a blind tasting. This approach allows participants to evaluate the wines without any bias from knowing the brands. If you choose this method, cover the bottles with paper bags to conceal both the labels and the shape, which can be a giveaway for certain varietals like Pinot Noir and Riesling that often come in unique bottles. Number the bags and unveil the labels only after everyone has made their evaluations.
You can showcase wines from specific regions such as Tuscany, New Zealand, Napa Valley, or Sicily. Alternatively, you could focus on varietal grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, or Chardonnay.
A vertical tasting involves sampling the same wine from a single producer across various vintages, which may not be ideal for those who are unfamiliar with wine.
On the other hand, a horizontal tasting consists of trying wines from the same vintage or grape varietal but produced by different winemakers.
When it comes to glassware, enthusiasts often prefer a specific shape, despite restaurants choosing varied styles for different wine types, such as serving Alsatian wines in green-stemmed glasses. Ideal wine glasses should be thin, allowing for a four-ounce pour to fill about half the glass. This design facilitates swirling and examining the wine’s aroma, which is essential for discussion. It’s important to note that a proper tasting experience differs significantly from sipping five half-glasses during a meal. Interestingly, you can find quality thin wineglasses for less than five dollars at large retailers like Costco.
Having plain water and some crackers or bread on hand is a good idea to cleanse your palate between wines during a tasting. Using salted butter on the cracker can also enhance the flavors of the wine, as the fat helps to deliver flavor more effectively.
If you plan to serve wine alongside dinner, it’s advisable to keep the food uncomplicated to ensure that the wine takes center stage: consider pairing simply grilled red meats with bold red wines, and cheeses or seafood with white wines, and vice versa.
Colorized engraving features a portrait of the British poet and writer George Gordon, Lord Byron (1788 – 1824), from the early 1800s. (Photo by Stock Montage/Getty Images)
As the host, it’s a great idea to encourage conversation, perhaps by raising a toast, reminiscent of Lord Byron’s words: “Let us have wine and women, mirth and laughter,/ Sermons and soda-water the day after.”
Additionally, it’s important to consider who will cover the cost of the wines; friends may wish to chip in to share the expenses. Keep in mind that one bottle can typically provide a tasting sample for about six friends, so having six bottles should be more than enough.
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