New Cocktails-to-Go Law Set to Take Effect This July: What You Need to Know
Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were tragically found dead in their home, and their son, Nick Reiner, is currently under investigation as a suspect. The couple, both prominent figures in the entertainment industry, were discovered with fatal injuries, leading to a police inquiry into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Sources have reported that there was a family altercation that may have escalated prior to the incident. Nick, 32, reportedly had a heated argument with his parents before the killings, according to witnesses at a party earlier that same day. Friends described him as behaving erratically, which raised concerns among those present.
Their daughter, Romy Reiner, made a shocking claim to law enforcement, suggesting that another family member could be dangerous and should be considered a suspect in the case. As the investigation unfolds, family dynamics and past grievances are coming to light, painting a complex picture of the Reiner household. Additionally, a houseguest who was present during the dispute left prior to the violence due to discomfort with Nick’s behavior.
As the community grapples with this shocking event, the Reiner family’s friends and colleagues express their disbelief and condolences. The investigation by authorities continues, focusing on the relationship between Nick and his parents to uncover the truth behind this tragic incident.
David Chang’s Unexpectedly Basic Favorite Beer Revealed
David Chang has carved out a unique spot in the culinary world, renowned not just for his innovative cuisine but also for his surprisingly conventional choice in beer. Despite the explosion of craft beer brands since the 1990s, Chang remains loyal to Bud Light, viewing it as his beverage of choice for its simplicity and nostalgic value. He has openly expressed his preference, citing fond memories associated with the drink, which he describes as the “only foodstuff” he consistently buys for his home.
In a 2014 article for GQ titled "My Name Is David Chang, and I Hate Fancy Beer," Chang made it clear that his preference for Bud Light isn’t solely based on taste; he finds many craft beers superior in flavor. However, what he values more is the experience and memories tied to drinking Bud Light, which has been a staple throughout his life. "There’s no beverage that I’ve drunk more of in my life than Bud Light… And there’s no drink I love more," he remarked.
Chang’s aversion to craft beers stems partly from his annoyance with the snobbish culture that often accompanies them. He argues that while beers like imperial stouts and barrel-aged saisons can be enjoyable, he doesn’t want complexity from his beer; he just wants something refreshing. This disdain mirrors sentiments shared by the late Anthony Bourdain, who also enjoyed craft beer but expressed disinterest in dissecting it.
For Chang, the attraction to Bud Light is deeply personal, intertwined with his life experiences rather than a pursuit of flavor. He embraces the truth that drinking should be enjoyable without unnecessary pretensions, distinguishing himself from the "beer snobs" he criticizes who complicate what should be a straightforward pleasure.
Will Tariff Relief Be on the Horizon for the Wine Industry?
Last week, Representative Mike Thompson, a Democrat from St. Helena, along with co-chairs of the Congressional Wine Caucus, introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at supporting local winegrowers and winemakers who are suffering due to economic impacts from tariffs.
The proposed legislation, named the Specialty Crop & Wine Producer Tariff Relief Act, is designed to complement President Trump’s $12 billion aid package intended for U.S. farmers impacted by trade disruptions. While a substantial majority of this funding—approximately $11 billion—focuses on row-crop producers, only $1 billion is allocated for specialty-crop farmers, which includes those cultivating wine grapes.
Members of the Congressional Wine Caucus have expressed that the current funding does not fully meet the wine industry’s pressing needs, especially given its struggles with escalating costs linked to tariffs. Thompson emphasized the importance of the agricultural community, stating, “When our producers are targeted with tariffs, their families feel it immediately. This bill would give them the targeted relief they need to stay competitive.”
Should the legislation pass, it would provide financial assistance to winegrowers and winemakers experiencing losses due to tariffs. This includes support for inflated costs of imported materials, lost export revenue, canceled contracts, and associated labor expenses. “If a foreign tariff raises production or marketing costs or causes a grower or winery to lose export sales, that loss is eligible for relief under the bill,” explained Lauren Ott, Thompson’s communications director.
If enacted, the legislation could create a direct payment program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for qualifying wine and specialty-crop producers through 2030. Additionally, it would grant the USDA the ability to purchase surplus specialty crops for nutrition programs like school meals and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
As of now, there is no set timeline for a vote on the bill, with House Speaker Mike Johnson directing the chamber’s schedule. Thompson and the other co-authors are expected to discuss the bill further during the upcoming negotiations regarding the next Farm Bill, which governs federal agricultural and food policy.
Texas Roadhouse’s Unique Beer Policy: Keeping Your Brew Ice Cold Every Time
At Texas Roadhouse, enjoying a cold beer with dinner is a cherished experience for patrons, especially as many fast-food establishments have phased out alcohol options. Texas Roadhouse stands out by serving a selection of 14 beers globally, each adhering to a strict requirement of being served at 36 degrees Fahrenheit, deemed the perfect temperature for draft beer.
This commitment to cold beer is not merely a suggestion; it’s an integral part of the dining experience, much to the delight of its customers. While some may find their beers slightly below the ideal temperature, the thin layer of icy foam that forms is appreciated for enhancing the refreshing quality of the drink throughout the meal.
Temperature can significantly influence the taste and experience of beer. Most American light lagers are best enjoyed between 33 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, specific beers, such as dark lagers and stouts, benefit from being served at warmer temperatures ranging from 45 to 55 degrees. This suggests that while Texas Roadhouse’s emphasis on colder beers may not suit every beer variety, it aligns perfectly with the preferences of many American beer drinkers, especially for their lighter offerings.
The restaurant ensures that customers can consistently enjoy their beer cold and refreshing, making it a staple of their dining experience.
Cheers to the Bills: Snow-Crafted Beer for the Final Game at Highmark Stadium!
Bill Wolcott from the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reports that fans of the Buffalo Bills will have the chance to enjoy a unique beer crafted from snow collected at Highmark Stadium. This limited-edition “Blizzard Brew” is a collaboration between Bud Light and the Bills, recognizing the dedication of fans who tirelessly shovel the stadium over the years.
The specially brewed beer will be available at the stadium and in local retailers for the Bills’ final home game of the regular season against the New York Jets on January 4, 2026. Bud Light collected snow after the first snowfall of the season and transported it to the Anheuser-Busch brewery in Baldwinsville, where it was integrated into the brewing process.
Hall of Fame wide receiver Andre Reed will be on hand at the final game to celebrate alongside Bills fans. Todd Allen, Bud Light’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, expressed the strong connection between the passionate Bills fans and their unwavering support for the team, highlighting how Blizzard Brew reflects that commitment.
For a last taste of the infamous Bills Mafia spirit, fans can grab their Blizzard Brew during Week 18 of the NFL season, marking a fitting tribute to an iconic fan base.
14 Delightful and Festive Cocktails to Savor This Christmas Season
The holiday season brings a unique blend of celebrations, and what better way to enjoy the festivities than with creative cocktails? Here’s a list of delightful drinks to savor during this time of merriment.
Under The Mistletoe
At The Chandelier Bar in Las Vegas, this bright cocktail features cranberry punch enhanced with bubbly rosemary and Douglas Fir foam. A mix of Belvedere 10 vodka, Uncle Val’s botanical gin, herbaceous Genepy, and Suze Gentian Liqueur, it offers a sweet-tart balance, perfect for the holidays.
Velvet Noel
At Powder at Waldorf Astoria Park City, indulge in this concoction of Rumple Minze, Tempus Fugit Creme de Cacao, Grand Marnier, and hot chocolate, creating an elevated yet nostalgic experience reminiscent of classic hot cocoa.
Peppermint Espresso Martini
A festive twist at Tommy’s Tavern + Tap, this cocktail combines Absolut Vanilla Vodka, fresh espresso, Kahlua, and Monin Peppermint Syrup, delivering a rich and refreshing celebration of winter flavors.
Tis’ The Season
At EDGE Steakhouse in Las Vegas, this bourbon-driven Old Fashioned features house-made Christmas Demerara syrup and aromatic bitters for a warm, inviting cocktail experience.
Tree Topper
At Foxtail in New York City, the Tree Topper is a festive blend of gooseberry, Lillet Rouge, and elderflower combined with Champagne, culminating in an effervescent and celebratory drink.
Navidad en la Riviera
Mixologist Ricardo Colli at Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen offers a tropical take on Christmas with tequila, Aperol, Tulum strawberries, and coconut, culminating in a vibrant, fruity cocktail topped with a pink foam and chocolate Christmas tree.
Bananas de Noel
At Assembly Food Hall, this delightful drink features Old Forge’s Bananas Foster Moonshine mixed with Amaretto Rum, Butterscotch Liqueur, and cream, served in an "ugly sweater" glass topped with a torched marshmallow.
Gingersnap Old Fashioned
Sixty Vines presents a Gingersnap Old Fashioned that blends Benchmark Bourbon with St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, Gosling’s Dark Rum, and gingerbread syrup, creating a warm and spiced holiday classic.
Merry Maker Marg
Chili’s offers the Merry Maker Marg, featuring Lunazul Blanco Tequila and festive flavors that bring holiday cheer with a fun Santa straw.
Cranberry & Fig Hot Toddy
At ART SoHo, this warm cocktail combines fig and cranberry with rye for a comforting drink perfect for sipping in a cozy teacup.
Elf’d Up
Santa Saloon at Palms in Las Vegas presents this festive cocktail made with Casamigos Reposado and a medley of citrus and ginger flavors.
Old Fashioned Christmas
At Velvet Bar in Westgate Las Vegas, the Old Fashioned Christmas features Crown Royal Chocolate Whisky and roasted chestnut cordial for a picturesque drink.
Naughty But Spiced
Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour in Phoenix serves a warm concoction of Patrón Reposado, coffee, and winter spices, finished with oatmilk eggnog foam and cinnamon, evoking holiday nostalgia.
These festive cocktails are sure to add joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations.
10 Festive Holiday Cocktails That Outshine Eggnog
These holiday cocktails elevate December gatherings with a delightful variety of flavors, spices, and garnishes that go beyond traditional eggnog. There’s something for everyone—from the cocktail novice to the seasoned bartender.
The perfect drink for Christmas parties would ideally come from a pitcher, allowing hosts to serve guests efficiently. A refreshing mix can be made with chilled sparkling white wine, cherry brandy, and dry ginger ale, creating a deliciously festive beverage.
In December, two types of people emerge: those who eagerly await their first holiday cocktail, and those who become impromptu bartenders at every event. The holiday season transforms familiar drinks into festive treats, with rosemary, cranberries, and spices adding a creative touch. Whether hosting a dinner, a casual gathering, or needing a cozy drink to unwind, these cocktails bring joy and character to any occasion.
Notably, the cocktails on offer range from classic adaptations to innovative seasonal creations. For instance, there’s a rosemary-infused martini reminiscent of a walk through a winter herb garden and a mezcal-tequila blend that adds a unique smoky flavor with a festive twist. For a taste of the tropics, the spicy mangonada, featuring frozen mango, spices, and a fresh ginger beer topping, embraces the holiday spirit with a bright kick.
Among the array of drinks, nostalgia reigns with flavors like maple and cocoa, while bright citrus accents enhance the palate. A comforting hot toddy makes its debut for those needing a moment of relaxation. Each cocktail promises to delight, making them perfect additions to holiday celebrations.
Cocktail Recipes
Rosemary-tini
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 oz Staple Gin
- 3/4 oz dry vermouth
- 1-2 dashes of orange bitters
- splash of olive brine
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
Directions: Muddle rosemary leaves with olive brine in a shaker. Add gin, vermouth, and bitters, then stir with ice. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with rosemary and a lemon twist.
Oy to the World
Ingredients:
- 0.5 oz Ilegal Mezcal
- 1.5 oz Patron Silver Tequila
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 1 oz Cheeky Hot Honey or Apricot Syrup
Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and fine strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with a gelt chocolate coin bag.
Spicy Mangonada
Ingredients:
- 2 fl oz Captain Morgan Sweet Chili Lime
- 4 oz frozen mango
- 0.5 fl oz agave
- 0.5 fl oz fresh lime juice
- Chamoy sauce and Tajín for garnish
Directions: Blend all ingredients and rim a glass with chamoy and Tajín. Pour in the blended cocktail.
Holiday Blizzard
Ingredients:
- 0.5 oz Mijenta Tequila Blanco
- 0.25 oz white crème de cacao
- 1 oz roasted coconut cream
- 0.25 oz cinnamon syrup
- 2 bar spoons soursop pulp
- 2-3 dashes of chocolate bitters
Directions: Shake with ice and serve in a highball glass with crushed ice.
Holiday Humbug Sour
Ingredients:
- 0.75 oz DEWAR’S 12 Year Old
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz cherry juice
- 0.5 oz maple syrup
- 1 pipette Miracle Foamer or egg white
Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and double strain into a glass.
Cranberry Bourbon Mule
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz cranberry syrup
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Rosemary sprig and cranberries for garnish
Directions: In a mule mug filled with ice, mix bourbon, cranberry syrup, and ginger beer. Stir and garnish with a rosemary sprig and cranberries.
With these recipes in hand, you’re ready to stir up some holiday magic. Cheers to merry moments and delightful sips!
Are Justin Herbert and Madison Beer Wedding Bound? Exploring Their Relationship Timeline
Justin Herbert and Madison Beer have been dating for less than six months, but they have already sparked significant interest among fans and online sleuths. Beer has been frequently seen supporting Herbert at Chargers games and attending various events together, indicating that she is fully embracing the role of a WAG (wife and girlfriend of an athlete). The enthusiasm surrounding their relationship has led many to speculate that she might already be considering wedding gowns and engagement rings.
In a recent appearance on the podcast Call Her Daddy, Madison expressed her happiness in the relationship, stating that Herbert makes her feel safe and supports her in overcoming past trauma. This indicates that their romance is deepening, despite its relatively short duration. They first attracted media attention in August 2025, and their romance became more apparent when they were spotted kissing on the sidelines in October.
While Madison has shied away from public discussions about wedding plans, some fans believe they may have found a Pinterest board attributed to her that features wedding dresses. However, it remains unclear if the board actually belongs to her, as the account’s name does not directly connect back to her. Meanwhile, Madison’s mother, Tracie, has been actively engaging with comments suggesting she’s entering her "mother-in-law" phase, which fans interpret as approval of Madison’s relationship with Herbert.
Although the couple is still relatively new, there are signs that both Madison and her family are hoping for an even more serious commitment in the future.
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Wine Openers: Tested and Reviewed
Best Wine Openers Tested and Reviewed
A great bottle of wine can elevate an occasion, but nothing dampens the mood quite like struggling with a cork. With a multitude of wine openers available—from electric models to classic hand types—the choice can be overwhelming. To simplify the selection process, a variety of wine openers were tested to recommend the best options for different needs.
Top Picks
Best Wine Opener: Le Creuset One-Step Waiter’s Friend Corkscrew Opener
The Le Creuset corkscrew is compact, versatile, and features a built-in bottle opener and foil cutter. Its design allows for easy removal of corks and is pocket-friendly, making it ideal for gatherings.
Best Rabbit-Style Wine Opener: Rabbit Original Lever Corkscrew
This opener utilizes a lever system that removes corks in one smooth motion, ensuring ease of use and reducing the risk of cork damage. It is perfect for larger gatherings where multiple bottles may need to be opened swiftly.
Testing Methodology
To determine the best wine openers, each was evaluated on:
- Cork Extraction: Effectiveness in removing corks, from fresh to fragile types.
- Leverage and Control: Force required for operation and ease of use.
- Consistency: Reliable performance across multiple uses.
- Design and Ergonomics: Comfort, weight balance, and intuitive operation.
- Value for Money: Price versus performance.
Multiple bottles were opened using each opener to ensure thorough assessments.
Additional Recommendations
- Rabbit Vertical Lever Corkscrew: A solid option but can be cumbersome for some users.
- Cuisinart Electric Wine Opener: Although convenient, struggles with certain corks and requires frequent charging.
- Williams Sonoma Signature Twist Wine Opener: Elegant design but can be awkward and less practical for regular use.
FAQs
How do you open a wine bottle without a corkscrew?
Try using the hard-soled shoe method or push the cork into the bottle using a sturdy handle as alternatives.
How long does wine last after opening?
Most wines last 2-3 days after opening and should be stored in the fridge. Sparkling wines typically last only a day or two.
How do you use a wine key?
Cut the foil below the bottle’s lip, insert the corkscrew’s tip into the cork, twist it nearly all the way in, and leverage the double-hinge on the bottle’s rim to pull the cork free cleanly.
Expert Insights
Insights were provided by wine professionals like Adrienne Cooper and Torrey Grant, who emphasize the reliability and efficiency of traditional wine keys for both amateur and expert wine drinkers.
By focusing on ease of use, comfort, and efficiency, this comprehensive guide aids in selecting the right wine opener tailored to different preferences and occasions.
Introducing Still Austin Whiskey Co.’s New Bourbon: The Ultimate Complement for Cigar Enthusiasts
Still Austin Whiskey Co. has unveiled its latest creation, the Tanager Cigar Blend Bourbon Whiskey, designed for those who appreciate the rich pairing of bourbon with cigars. This limited-edition whiskey boasts a strength of 107.5 proof and is crafted from a unique blend of blue, red, and white corn.
With a maturation period of at least six years in charred American oak barrels, this bourbon stands out due to its meticulous selection of ingredients, overseen by Master Blender Nancy Fraley and Master Distiller John Schrepel. Unlike many cigar blends that are finished in distinct barrels such as cognac or sherry, the Tanager Cigar Blend emphasizes the quality of its whiskey and the local Texas terroir.
The tasting experience begins with an inviting nose filled with notes of manuka honey, toasted coconut, marzipan, herbal tea, and cherries. On the palate, drinkers will encounter flavors of dried cherries, butterscotch, and candied grapefruit, rounded off with spice and herbal accents in the finish.
Released on December 6, 2025, the Tanager Cigar Blend Bourbon Whiskey is priced at $150 for a 750ml bottle. It’s available for purchase directly from Still Austin’s distillery and select retailers across Texas. This whiskey is expected to be a delightful addition to holiday gatherings for those who enjoy fine spirits.