2025 Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Top Liqueurs for Unforgettable Cocktails
Toast to Mother’s Day with delightful cocktails featuring liqueurs that capture the spirit of spring. These refreshing drinks are easy to prepare, low in alcohol, and perfect for any gathering during this special celebration.
Juliette Liqueur
Originating from southwest France, Juliette Liqueur is an artisanal peach-flavored liqueur made from heirloom peaches harvested specifically in July. The Juliette Signature Cocktail combines one ounce of this liqueur with five ounces of Brut Champagne for a rosy glow.
St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
This elegant French liqueur, made from fresh elderflowers, offers a delicate floral flavor. The St-Germain Spritz incorporates 1.5 ounces of St-Germain, two ounces of Prosecco, and two ounces of soda water, garnished with a twist of lemon peel for a refreshing finish.
Gabriel Boudier Creme de Cassis
Produced in Dijon, France, this blackcurrant liqueur adds a sweet berry flavor and a stunning color to drinks. A classic Kir Royale mixes it with Champagne, or you can use Prosecco or Cava for a more budget-friendly option.
Italicus Calabrian Liqueur
Dubbed "The Drink of Kings," Italicus is a clear, complex bergamot liqueur. An Italicus Spritz can be enjoyed by mixing one part Italicus with two parts Prosecco, garnished with green olives.
Savoia Americano Rosso
Crafted in Turin, Italy, Savoia Americano offers a bittersweet profile with a complex herbal character. The Savoia Spritz consists of equal parts Savoia and dry Prosecco, garnished with grapes for a refreshing touch.
Disaronno Originale
Celebrating its 500th anniversary, Disaronno is a sweet almond amaretto liqueur known for its smooth taste. The Disaronno Fizz combines 1.5 ounces of Disaronno with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon, served over ice.
Pallini Limoncello
Hailing from Amalfi, Pallini Limoncello is made from hand-picked lemons. The Pallini Spritz combines two parts Limoncello with three parts Prosecco and sparkling water, garnished with an orange or lemon slice.
Alternatives for Stronger Cocktails
For moms preferring something with a bit more punch, options include G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato, an aromatic wine infused with spices, or Pio Cesare Vermouth, known for its aromatic and herbaceous qualities.
With these unique liqueurs and cocktail recipes, make this Mother’s Day a memorable occasion for the special moms in your life. Cheers!
Delicious Easter Delight: Ham with Root Beer, Rum, and Raisin Glaze Recipe
Easter is just around the corner, and if you’re still searching for the perfect dish for your Sunday brunch, look no further. Andrew Brow from the Wyckoff Country Club has an exquisite recipe for a ham glazed with root beer, rum, and raisins. This unique combination promises to deliver a rich flavor and elevate your festive gathering.
For further details on the recipe, you can check out the original post here.
Gervasi Spirits Triumphs with 9 Medals at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships
CANTON, Ohio — Gervasi Spirits has made a remarkable mark at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships, receiving two prestigious awards. The Canton distillery was honored as the Grand National Champion in the spirits division and secured the runner-up spot in the Whiskey Championship, marking a historic achievement as the first distillery ever to be recognized on both podiums in the competition’s history.
The competitive event drew participants from across the country, and Gervasi’s portfolio was celebrated with a total of nine medals. The medal breakdown is as follows:
- Whiskey Division: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Spirits Division: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze
Among the standout entries, Gervasi’s Wine Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Gin, and Spiced Rum each earned Gold medals. Additionally, Rum Barrel Bourbon, Maple Cask Bourbon, and Giava (a coffee spirit) received Silver medals, while Honey Heat Whiskey and Winter White Whiskey took home Bronze honors.
“This recognition is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation of our Head Distiller Shae Pridemore and Assistant Distiller Michael Phillips,” said Scott Swaldo, CEO of Gervasi Vineyard and Gervasi Spirits. “To be recognized among the nation’s finest in both whiskey and spirits is an incredible honor—and it reflects our deep commitment to crafting exceptional, world-class products right here in Ohio.”
Other Ohio distilleries also gained recognition at the event:
2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship Winners:
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Small Batch Bourbon 4-10 Years Over 100 proof:
- GOLD – Karrikin Spirits – Orion’s Reserve
- SILVER – Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – Northern Liberties Whiskey Co.
-
Single Barrel Whiskey:
- GOLD – Knox Joseph Distillery – Knox Joseph Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-
Rye Whiskey – Under 100 Proof:
- SILVER – Karrikin Spirit – Rye Whiskey
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Craft Whiskey:
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Rubicon Creek Myth
-
Anything Goes:
- GOLD – Iron Vault Distillery – FrankenBlend
2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship Winners:
-
Traditional Moonshine:
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Copperas Mountain Corn
- SILVER – Flatrock Distilling Company – Flatrock Sweet Corn Moonshine
-
Flavored Moonshine:
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine
-
Barrel-Aged Gin:
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Harpers Armagnac Gin
-
Specialty Spirits:
- GOLD – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Gypsy Queen
A complete list of winners is available here.
Gervasi Spirits Shines at 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships with 9 Medals
CANTON, Ohio — Gervasi Spirits has achieved remarkable success at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships, securing two prestigious awards: the Grand National Champion in the spirits division and the runner-up in the highly competitive Whiskey Championship. This historic achievement makes Gervasi the first distillery ever to reach the podium in both categories.
The competition drew distilleries from across the country, and Gervasi stood out by earning a total of nine medals, broken down as follows:
- Whiskey Division: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Spirits Division: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze
Among the standout entries were Gervasi’s Wine Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Gin, and Spiced Rum, each winning Gold. Additionally, Rum Barrel Bourbon, Maple Cask Bourbon, and Giava (a coffee spirit) received Silver awards, while Honey Heat Whiskey and Winter White Whiskey were awarded Bronze.
“This recognition is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation of our Head Distiller Shae Pridemore and Assistant Distiller Michael Phillips,” commented Scott Swaldo, CEO of Gervasi Vineyard and Gervasi Spirits. “To be recognized among the nation’s finest in both whiskey and spirits is an incredible honor—and it reflects our deep commitment to crafting exceptional, world-class products right here in Ohio.”
Other local winners in the competition included:
2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship Medal Results
-
Small Batch Bourbon 4-10 Years Over 100 proof
- GOLD – Karrikin Spirits – Orion’s Reserve
- SILVER – Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – Northern Liberties Whiskey Co.
-
Single Barrel Whiskey
- GOLD – Knox Joseph Distillery – Knox Joseph Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-
Rye Whiskey – Under 100 Proof
- SILVER – Karrikin Spirits – Rye Whiskey
-
Craft Whiskey
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Rubicon Creek Myth
-
Anything Goes
- GOLD – Iron Vault Distillery – FrankenBlend
2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship
-
Traditional Moonshine
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Copperas Mountain Corn
- SILVER – Flatrock Distilling Company – Flatrock Sweet Corn Moonshine
-
Flavored Moonshine
- GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine
-
Barrel-Aged Gin
- BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Harpers Armagnac Gin
-
Specialty Spirits
- GOLD – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Gypsy Queen
-
Other Spirits
- BRONZE – Agave – Karrikin Spirits – Blaze
Delightful Liqueurs to Elevate Your Mother’s Day Cocktail Experience
Crafting the perfect cocktail for Mother’s Day can elevate the occasion, making it festive and memorable. Here are some delightful liqueurs that can transform your celebrations into something extraordinary, offering fresh and vibrant drinks that are both low in alcohol and easy to enjoy.
Juliette Liqueur
Produced in small batches in southwest France using heirloom peaches harvested in July, Juliette Liqueur adds a touch of sweetness to cocktails. The Juliette Signature Cocktail, combining one ounce of this liqueur with five ounces of Brut Champagne, creates a beautiful rose-colored drink.
St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
This French liqueur, made with handpicked elderflowers, offers a floral aroma and exquisite taste. The St-Germain Spritz, combining 1-½ ounces of St-Germain with two ounces of Prosecco and soda water, garnished with lemon peel, is both refreshing and elegant.
Gabriel Boudier Creme de Cassis
Hailing from Dijon, France, this blackcurrant liqueur lends a rich berry flavor to cocktails. The Kir Royale mixes this liqueur with champagne, while a still wine variant is simply called a Kir.
Italicus
Reviving the traditional Rosolio category, Italicus is a clear bergamot liqueur with complex citrus notes. The Italicus Spritz, made with one part Italicus and two parts Prosecco, garnished with green olives, is a refreshing choice.
SAVOIA Americano Rosso
Crafted in Turin, this bittersweet liqueur infuses cocktails with a rich flavor. The Savoia Spritz, made with equal parts of Savoia Americano Rosso and dry Prosecco, offers a vibrant ruby red hue.
Disaronno Originale
This sweet amaretto liqueur celebrates its 500th anniversary and is cherished globally. The Disaronno Fizz, combining 1.5 ounces of Disaronno with five ounces of sparkling water and fresh lemon juice, makes for a delightful drink.
Disaronno Velvet
For those who enjoy a smoother taste, Disaronno Velvet combines well with coconut water in the Disaronno Velvet Batida, delivering a refreshing snow-white cocktail perfect for warm weather.
Pallini Limoncello
Crafted from hand-picked Amalfi lemons, this liqueur is both natural and refreshing. The Pallini Spritz combines two parts Limoncello with three parts Prosecco and a splash of sparkling water for a bright lemon-yellow drink.
Alternatives for Stronger Tastes
For mothers who prefer bold flavors, consider:
- G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato, an aromatized wine perfect for sipping.
- Pio Cesare Vermouth, an aromatic wine from Piedmont, Italy, ideal for sipping with lemon zest.
These liqueurs and cocktail recipes create a delightful way to toast your special day together, ensuring that every sip is as memorable as the moments shared.
Southern Colorado Wine Makes Historic Debut at Yellowstone National Park
Wine from Southern Colorado is now featured at Yellowstone National Park, marking a significant achievement for the state’s wine industry.
The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, launched by Catholic monks in Cañon City over two decades ago and now owned by Larry Oddo, has created history by being the first Colorado winemaker to expand its reach nationally in a wholesale capacity. Oddo expressed the magnitude of this accomplishment as it allows for recognition beyond state lines, with their wines being included in menus at eight lodges and restaurants across Yellowstone, including the iconic Old Faithful Inn. The selected offerings include a Merlot, Syrah, and a unique red blend known as The Theurgist, which leveraged the expertise of a winery sales consultant for placement.
Among these, the 2022 Merlot features grapes from Palisade on Colorado’s Western Slope and presents a mid to full-bodied profile with rich flavors of baked cherry and plum, ideally complementing red meats and cheeses. The 2020 Petite Syrah, sourced from Washington’s Columbia Valley, is described by Oddo as embodying the character of a French Rhone Valley wine, boasting big fruit flavors balanced with oak and spice, ideally suited for wild game meats.
The Theurgist, part of the winery’s “As Above So Below” collection, has a light, fruit-driven style, reminiscent of Chianti or Pinot Noir, blending various grape varieties, including Petite Pearl, cultivated to withstand challenges posed by climate change.
Although only a small percentage of grapes used at the winery are locally sourced due to Southern Colorado’s cooler climate, Oddo notes that some brave local grape growers are experimenting with cultivation along the Arkansas River, producing wines like the Wild Canyon Harvest made from blends of different grape types.
The expansion into Yellowstone comes as a response to challenges faced in the wine market, particularly due to a recent state law allowing liquor sales that have shifted significant market share towards grocery stores and affected independent liquor shops. Oddo anticipates that this park sale could provide crucial support for their winery amid changing consumer preferences.
The winery is expected to produce around 6,000 cases this year, a drop from the 11,000 cases in past years, impacted by the broader market fluctuations and decreased tourism. Through creating an inviting environment, Oddo aims to ensure all patrons, regardless of their wine knowledge, can find something enjoyable to take home.
For more information, visit The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey.
Over 70 Arrested Amidst Violence in Athens as Molotov Cocktails Target Police
During a weekend of unrest in Athens, police arrested over 70 individuals as violent clashes erupted in the Exarchia neighborhood. The riots began following a music performance in a nearby park, escalating into widespread chaos as protesters hurled Molotov cocktails, stones, and fireworks at police, igniting vehicles in the area.
Local authorities reported that 72 people were detained, with one officer sustaining injuries during the confrontations. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the disturbances intensified late Saturday night, specifically around the junction of Kallidromiou and E. Benaki streets. In response to the aggression, police employed chemical agents to disperse the crowd.
The turmoil unfolded just days after a bomb exploded near the offices of Hellenic Train, Greece’s primary railway operator. Fortunately, the explosion caused limited damage and resulted in no injuries, as the attackers had notified two media outlets shortly before the detonation.
This unrest coincides with the second anniversary of a devastating railway disaster in which 57 people lost their lives when a freight and passenger train were mistakenly placed on the same track. The incident highlighted significant flaws in Greece’s railway safety system, prompting protests from victims’ relatives against the current government.
In recent weeks, numerous demonstrations have taken place across Greece, with citizens rallying for higher wages amid soaring living costs. Popular demand for better financial support continues, as many households struggle to manage increasing expenses for food, housing, and utilities, despite the government’s cumulative 35% increase in the minimum wage since 2019.
From Lawyer to Wine Leader: Stepan Baghdassarian’s Journey to Success Through Specialization
Stepan Baghdassarian, the president of Rio Joe’s Brands, transitioned from a 14-year law career to the wine industry in 2005. His passion for wine stems from its natural variability and cultural significance, which he believes fosters connections among people.
Based in Van Nuys, Baghdassarian’s company specializes in niche e-commerce platforms like WinesOfArmenia.com and the upcoming WinesOfGeorgia.com. These sites focus on importing and distributing specific regional wines directly to consumers across the United States.
Initially, Baghdassarian faced challenges competing against larger companies as a generalist in the online wine market. However, his strategic pivot towards specialization has positioned Rio Joe’s as a go-to source for Armenian and Georgian wines, which he attributes to the company’s success.
He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and adapting to market changes. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Baghdassarian offers key advice: stay focused, seek mentorship, avoid negativity, be ready to pivot, and practice delayed gratification.
For more insights from innovators in various industries, visit Innovators Unplugged.
Cheers to Spring: Bent Water Pilsner—Your Ideal Seasonal Brew!
Despite a recent cold snap, the arrival of spring has many beer enthusiasts looking for a refreshing pilsner. One standout option is the Bent Water Pilsner from Bent Water Brewing in Lynn, Massachusetts. This beer features a radiant straw color and offers an "earthy, floral, and slightly spicy" aroma.
Bent Water Pilsner adheres to the classic pilsner style while introducing a distinct edge with its slightly elevated bitterness. The malt balances this with a hint of sweetness, leading to a crisp finish that boasts a gentle hop bitterness. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.2%, it’s a perfect companion for the warming weather.
Tony Porreca, the brewery’s production manager, shared insights about the pilsner. He points out that Bent Water Brewing offers three distinct pilsners, each developed with different flavor profiles in mind. The Common Hope is a dry-hopped Italian pilsner, while the others closely resemble traditional German pilsners. The flexibility of the Italian style allows for more creativity in brewing.
Porreca elaborates on the brewing process, noting that crafting a pilsner requires precision and skill, as it prioritizes clean, smooth flavors rather than overpowering hops found in other beer styles like IPAs. The use of Magnum hops for bitterness, along with a touch of Saaz hops, enhances the beer’s complexity without overshadowing its crisp character.
The malt blend, centering around pilsner malt with added Vienna malt for color and flavor, supports the beer’s gentle sweetness and full body. Porreca suggests that those unfamiliar with Bent Water Pilsner may not find a direct comparison to other pilsners but notes that it leans more towards the bitterness of German varieties rather than the more subdued American styles.
As a pilsner enthusiast, Porreca mentions that a good way to evaluate a brewery is by tasting their lagers, and he personally enjoys the offerings from local breweries like Notch.
Bent Water Brewing Company operates out of 180 Commercial St. #18 in Lynn, Massachusetts. More information can be found on their website at bentwaterbrewing.com.
Amarillo’s Bomb City Distillery Launches Bourbon Whiskey with Plans for Nationwide Expansion
Bomb City Distillery in Amarillo, Texas, celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of its first bourbon whiskey, marking an expansion from its successful vodka production. The distillery held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil this new product that has been aging for over two years. Available in limited quantities, the initial offerings include 251 bottles of 750ml and 36 bottles of 375ml.
Established on July 16, 2019, Bomb City Distillery is known as the first distillery in the Texas Panhandle. The name "Bomb City" pays homage to Amarillo’s connection to the Pantex Plant, which specializes in the assembly and disassembly of nuclear weapons, influencing the distillery’s identity and community ties.
Owner Kyle Michels expressed enthusiasm for the bourbon, which has a mash bill made from blue corn, winter wheat, and red-malted barley. This unique blend gives the bourbon a distinctive flavor profile, greatly influenced by the region’s temperature variations that enhance the aging in charred oak barrels. “We’re really excited about this bourbon. It’s something special,” Michels stated, emphasizing the craft aspect of the production process.
The distillery first gained recognition with its vodka, distilled 12 times from locally sourced corn and high-purity water, which soon won a silver medal at the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition. Michels noted that branching out into bourbon allows them to attract a different customer base, as bourbon enthusiasts tend to appreciate the flavors of grains and oak.
Bomb City Distillery was conceived by Michels and his late partner Ryan Barnard, who had backgrounds in business and pharmaceutical industries. After becoming inspired by the "Moonshiners" television show, they restored a historic 1947 building for the distillery, preserving its character through the use of original materials.
Reflecting on Barnard’s contribution, Michels mentioned the profound pride he feels in their achievements, stating, "It was always our dream to eventually have a bourbon."
The distillery has quickly become a highlight in Amarillo’s tourism scene, and Michels mentioned plans to distribute their bourbon throughout Texas and eventually on a national scale. “Texas is a big state, so we’ve got a lot of ground to cover,” he said, looking ahead with ambition.
For more information, visit Bomb City Distillery.