Top 5 Rum Cocktails Curated by the First Female Master Blender
The world of rum cocktails is often misunderstood, overshadowed by sugary concoctions; however, the versatility of rum shines in various refined cocktails. Joy Spence, the Master Blender at Appleton Estate and the first woman to hold this title, shares her five favorite rum cocktails, enhanced by modern twists from Nathan Larkin, co-owner of Speak in Code bar in Manchester.
1. Daiquiri
The classic Daiquiri is a staple of rum cocktails, known for its simplicity and perfect balance of lime and sugar. Here’s the modern take from Speak in Code:
- Ingredients:
- 50ml White Rum
- 25ml Freshly squeezed lime juice
- 15ml 1:1 sugar syrup
- 3 drops saline solution (20% non-iodised salt in filtered water)
The key lies in mastering the shake to achieve a silky texture.
2. Mai Tai
Originally meaning “the very best” in Tahitian, a proper Mai Tai should be a balanced reflection of its rum origins, avoiding the common pitfalls of excessive fruitiness. Speak in Code’s version includes:
- Ingredients:
- 25ml White Rum
- 10ml Aged Rum
- 15ml Dry Curacao
- 5ml Angostura Di Amaro
- 5ml Overproof Rum
- 25ml Lime Juice
- 20ml Smoked Vanilla & Halva Orgeat
- Grated nutmeg for garnish
This tender balance showcases the rum without overly masking it with sugary additives.
3. Old Fashioned
A surprising contender for a rum-based drink, the Old Fashioned is traditionally a bourbon cocktail. Speak in Code enhances this with dandelion elements:
- Ingredients:
- 60ml Aged Rum
- 10ml Dandelion Demerara
- Dandelion Bitters
The dandelion adds an intriguing layer of flavor, exemplifying how rum accommodates greater experimentation.
4. Stormy Valley
A new interpretation of the Dark and Stormy, this cocktail reflects the essence of Appleton Estate’s Jamaican roots:
- Ingredients:
- 50ml Aged rum
- 10ml clarified lime
- 20ml Ginger cordial
- 70ml carbonated water
- Lapsang bitters on top
This variant uses homemade ginger cordial for depth without the overwhelming presence of standard ginger beer.
5. Rum Punch
Dating back to the 17th century, this rum punch pays homage to its origins while elevating the classic recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 35ml White Rum
- 10ml Peach wine
- 5ml Peach blossom distillate
- 10ml Lime juice
- 20ml Lacto fermented peach & oats
- 30ml Pimento spiced pineapple
Larkin’s twist on this classic results in a cocktail that emphasizes balance, highlighting rum’s unique abilities without overwhelming it with sweetness.
These five cocktails illustrate the true spirit of rum’s versatility, demonstrating that with the right ingredients and techniques, this misunderstood spirit can shine in sophisticated ways.
Unveiling Roseblood: Carla Bruni’s Vision for the Future of French Wine
In the spring of 2020, Carla Bruni, the former First Lady of France and a renowned fashion icon, became part of an investment group that purchased Château d’Estoublon, a 300-hectare estate in the Alpilles known more for its olive oil than its wine. Alongside Bruni, her husband Nicolas Sarkozy and Jean-Guillaume Prats, former CEO of Lafite Rothschild and LVMH Wines, joined this venture.
The goal was clear when they appointed Victor Joyeux, a respected rosé expert and winemaker, to lead production. They aimed to establish a modern vinicultural luxury brand centered around a flagship rosé: Roseblood.
Roseblood was designed to stand out in a saturated market. Bruni described it as capturing the essence of Estoublon and the true spirit of Provence. Unlike many rosés that thrive on the allure of the French Riviera, Roseblood draws from the profound beauty of the Alpilles.
Today, rosé is a significant component of global wine consumption, with France producing a substantial portion. However, the premium segment often relies on lifestyle marketing rather than quality. Roseblood distinguishes itself by offering a complex flavor profile that ranges from wild strawberry and peach skin to citrus and mineral notes, finishing with salted almond and chalk. Joyeux emphasizes the importance of balance, ensuring the wine offers the right complexity without being overly expressive.
The grapes for Roseblood—Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Rolle—are sourced from the high-altitude slopes in the Coteaux Varois, a region known for its ideal conditions for slow ripening. This extended maturation contributes to the wine’s finesse and aromatic depth.
However, Roseblood is just one aspect of the estate’s revitalization. The team has implemented a comprehensive strategy that includes revamping hospitality offerings, opening a boutique, and launching a non-alcoholic sparkling cuvée called L’Excessive, which targets the growing non-alcoholic wine market, projected to exceed $1 billion by 2027.
Simultaneously, they are developing white and red wines, and increasing their oenotourism efforts. The estate’s olive oil production has also been modernized, with new packaging and branding strategies.
Bruni’s influence is evident throughout the estate’s transformation. She draws upon her experiences in music and fashion, prioritizing authenticity and emotional resonance in Roseblood, aiming to tell a compelling story with the product. The Château itself exudes meticulous care, reflecting their commitment to excellence across all offerings.
Prats, with extensive experience in prestigious wine brands, applies commercial expertise to ensure that Estoublon achieves its ambitions with strategic execution and creative freedom. Roseblood stands as a testament to this approach, contrasting sharply with more commercially driven rosé brands like Whispering Angel, which gained popularity through mass accessibility.
Roseblood sets itself apart by emphasizing high-quality production and environmental sustainability, with most vineyards certified for high environmental value practices. It is now distributed in over 20 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Switzerland, and Japan, with its latest release in high demand at premium retailers and fine dining establishments.
Bruni envisions Roseblood as more than just a wine—it encapsulates a luxurious lifestyle experience. The term "Art de Vivre," frequently associated with LVMH, embodies this vision by merging the art of living with exceptional wine-making—all housed within a bottle.
Embrace the Festive Season with Craft Cocktails and Cozy Reads in Santa Barbara
Caroline Pardilla, a pioneer in the cocktail blogging scene, is celebrating the release of her new book, Margarita Time: 60+ Tequila & Mezcal Cocktails, Served Up, Over & Blended. This event will take place on Saturday, July 12, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Shaker Mill in Santa Barbara.
With over 60 recipes collected from mixologists worldwide, Pardilla’s book is a tribute to the beloved margarita. Her career in cocktail culture began over 20 years ago amid the cocktail renaissance in Los Angeles. She is recognized for her blog, Caroline on Crack, and has received accolades such as LA Weekly’s “Best Bar Blogger.” Pardilla has also served as a drinks editor for Los Angeles Magazine and is currently a judge for the LA Spirits Awards and the James Beard Awards.
To highlight her new book, the release party will feature a tasting sponsored by St. George Spirits, with an education table led by Carin Larson. Attendees can expect a variety of cocktails, including Shaker Mill’s award-winning Jaguar Moon margarita, a mezcal margarita jello shot, and a mango-mezcal Boozy Snow Cone.
The event promises a delightful combination of cocktails and Pardilla’s engaging writing, making it an enjoyable afternoon for all. Shaker Mill is located at 418 State Street, Santa Barbara. For more information about the venue, visit Shaker Mill’s website.
Wings to Cocktails: A Look Back at Memphis Restaurants That Permanently Closed in June
In June 2025, four restaurants in Memphis closed, with three of them being long-time favorites in their neighborhoods. Despite a relatively strong restaurant scene this year, these closures mark a notable shift, especially after only three closures were recorded in May.
Restaurants that Closed
Alchemy
The Cooper-Young cocktail bar, Alchemy, permanently closed on June 28. Co-owners Bert Smythe and John Littlefield founded the bar in November 2011, later passing it on to Nick Scott and Tony Westmoreland in 2016. Alchemy announced its closure on social media, expressing gratitude for the community’s support and reflecting on the joy it brought to patrons over the years.
Hooters Downtown
The Hooters location in Downtown Memphis shut its doors on June 4 as part of a wider closure of nearly 30 locations nationwide, following the company’s bankruptcy filing in March. The brand reassured customers of its commitment to supporting team members during this transition and emphasized its intention to continue its legacy through a franchise model.
Sidecar Cafe
After operating for 25 years, Sidecar Cafe closed on June 21. This beloved sports bar on Whitten Road was known for fostering a tight-knit community among locals and bikers. A heartfelt message shared on Facebook reflected on the cafe’s role as a home for many and paid tribute to its late owner, Mike Robilio.
The Archives Bar & Bistro
Located in Hotel Napoleon, The Archives Bar & Bistro closed in late June, just shy of its one-year anniversary. Chef Phillip Dewayne announced his departure without elaborating on the reasons for the closure but expressed gratitude for the support received during the establishment’s brief operation.
These closures highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the Memphis restaurant scene amidst an otherwise strong year for new openings and business stability.
Local Beer Giant to Acquire Suburban Cincinnati Distributor: What It Means for the Community
A Greater Cincinnati beer distributor, Ohio Eagle Distributing, has announced plans to lay off over 100 employees as it prepares for an acquisition. A recent Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) letter revealed that 178 workers across Ohio will lose their jobs, including 124 from the local area. The layoffs are expected to take effect around September 8, primarily impacting staff at their facilities in West Chester Township and Lima.
Despite the layoffs, the company’s president remains hopeful that most, if not all, affected workers will be rehired under the new ownership. Ohio Eagle Distributing is currently in negotiations to sell all its assets, a move that will lead to the termination of its current workforce.
For more details, you can read the full story here.
Quicksplained: The Paradox of Rising Vodka Consumption Amidst Decreasing Production in Russia
According to Russia’s Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation, liquor production saw a significant decrease of 16% in the first half of 2025, a surprising trend given that Russians are reportedly consuming more alcohol than they did in 2024.
Traditionally, vodka is an integral part of Russian culture, used in various social occasions from weddings to funerals. The historical roots of this iconic beverage trace back to its name, derived from the Russian word voda, meaning water.
Despite vodka’s cultural significance, the country is producing less of it. The production fell to 31.38 million decaliters in 2025 from 33.40 million decaliters in 2024. Interestingly, there has been an uptick in consumption of other spirits, including rum, whiskey, brandy, and tequila.
Multiple factors contribute to this decline in vodka production. Rising alcohol prices and the ban on Russian alcohol exports to the EU and the US, especially following the Ukraine war, have severely impacted revenues for vodka manufacturers. A report indicated that vodka exports were merely worth $34.6 million in 2024, a stark drop from $168.3 million in 2021.
The increase in minimum pricing for vodka, with the cost of a half-litre bottle going up from $2.99 to $3.49, further exacerbates the issue. Kazakhstan remains the primary market for Russian vodka, accounting for more than 92% of its imports, while China accounts for a mere $1.5 million.
Despite expectations for sales increases in markets like China and Turkey, the trajectory has not met the predictions as vodka faces tougher competition, including from Polish spirit exports now leading the market.
In summary, while Russians are drinking more, the combination of geopolitical issues, market dynamics, and rising prices is leading to a curious paradox in the vodka industry: less production amid higher consumption.
Dramatic Decline: Vodka Production Takes a Dive in Russia
Production of vodka in Russia has significantly declined, despite an increase in overall alcohol consumption. According to the Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation, spirits manufacturing fell by over 16 percent in the first half of 2025, with vodka production specifically down by 10.9 percent year-on-year. This dropped from 33.40 million decaliters in 2024 to 31.38 million in 2025.
Alcohol consumption in Russia has risen, with citizens drinking more than at any point in the last eight years, highlighting a shift in preferences toward beverages like rum, whiskey, brandy, and tequila, as noted by Russian financial auditing firm Finexpertisa. In 2024, per capita consumption of these liquors grew by 10.2 percent, overtaking vodka consumption in some regions. Despite this, vodka remains the drink of choice nationwide, constituting 60 percent of annual sales.
The decrease in vodka production is largely attributed to rising prices of alcohol and a ban on alcoholic beverage exports to the EU, U.S., and other nations, a consequence of Western sanctions related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This ban has significantly hampered revenue for Russian vodka producers, affecting their overall market stability.
Sip in Style: The 13 Best Boston Breweries, Taprooms, and Beer Halls to Quench Your Craft Beer Thirst
Boston boasts a rich history of brewing, with roots tracing back to the Bell in Hand Tavern, established in 1795. Today, the city’s craft beer scene is alive and thriving, showcasing a blend of traditional and inventive breweries. With venues featuring live music, trivia nights, and unique offerings, Boston’s breweries cater to a diverse crowd. Here are some highlights:
Aeronaut Brewing Co.
Located in Somerville, Aeronaut combines a cozy atmosphere with a selection of creative brews like the Tangerine Coriander Sour Planet. Visitors can bring food or enjoy offerings from local Venezuelan food truck Carolicious.
Address: 14 Tyler Street, Somerville
Phone: 617-987-4236
Website: aeronautbrewing.com
Drawdown Brewing Co.
This woman-owned brewery in Jamaica Plain is known for its malty beers like the cream ale "Let’s Goooo." The relaxed vibe is heightened during events focusing on women’s sports and local entertainment options.
Address: 3204 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain
Phone: 617-553-2363
Website: drawdownbrewing.com
Dorchester Brewing Co.
Offering stunning skyline views from its greenhouse/roof deck, Dorchester Brewing serves thirst-quenching beers including the refreshing New Moon wheat beer, and the Cobblestone stout.
Address: 1250 Massachusetts Avenue, Dorchester
Phone: 617-514-0900
Website: dorchesterbrewing.com
Harpoon Brewery & Beer Hall
Founded in 1986, Harpoon stands as a beacon in Seaport for reliable brews like its classic IPA. Enjoy homemade pretzels or pizza while participating in onsite events.
Address: 306 Northern Avenue, Seaport
Phone: 617-456-2322
Website: harpoonbrewery.com
Lamplighter Brewing Co.
A hybrid coffee shop and brewery, Lamplighter is famed for its Rabbit Rabbit double IPA and an assortment of local cheeses and cured meats.
Address: 284 Broadway, Cambridge
Phone: 617-945-0450
Website: lamplighterbrewing.com
Long Live Roxbury
Long Live offers excellent food, tasty IPAs, and an array of entertainment options for non-beer lovers. This welcoming environment ensures everyone has a good time.
Address: 152 Hampden Street, Roxbury
Phone: 617-334-5633
Website: longlivebeerworks.com
Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co.
Known for its flagship Cloud Candy IPA, Mighty Squirrel’s Fenway location boasts a menu with Latin-inspired dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Address: 1 David Ortiz Drive, Fenway
Phone: 857-557-5700
Website: mightysquirrel.com
Notch Brewing
Specializing in Czech and German-style beers, Notch Brewing in Brighton has a biergarten feel complete with communal seating and hearty fare like pretzels and sausage.
Address: 525 Western Avenue, Brighton
Phone: 617-548-2947
Website: notchbrewing.com
Portico Brewing
With inviting outdoor spaces for families and dogs, Portico stands out for its exceptional beers and a menu featuring tacos from Taqueria El Barrio.
Address: 101 South Street, Somerville
Phone: 617-764-5215
Website: porticobrewing.com
Remnant Brewing
Famed for its patio and charming taproom, Remnant serves thoughtful brews like the Dream Pop pale ale and supports local initiatives with its food offerings.
Address: Bow Market, 2 Bow Market Way, Somerville
Phone: 617-764-0641
Website: remnantsomerville.com
Roundhead Brewing Co.
Focused on community and inspired by Peruvian flavors, Roundhead in Hyde Park serves distinctive styles like Chimú, a red ale brewed with purple corn.
Address: Westinghouse Plaza Building, Number 10, Hyde Park
Phone: 617-360-7070
Website: roundheadbrewing.com
Trillium Brewing
Trillium’s original Fort Point location remains a favorite for its celebrated IPAs. Its new locations provide diverse beer experiences alongside food options from nearby vendors.
Address: 50 Thomson Place, Fort Point
Phone: 857-449-0083
Website: trilliumbrewing.com
Widowmaker Brewing
Located in Braintree, Widowmaker features craft beers like Blue Comet and seasonal specialties that rotate throughout the year, offering something for every palate.
Address: 190 North Beacon Street, Brighton
Phone: 617-390-0660
Website: widowmakerbrewing.com
Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or looking to explore Boston’s vibrant brewing scene, these locations offer something for everyone.
Sip in Style: Discover Iconic Bars Serving Limited-Edition Rum Cocktails This July
With the winter chill enveloping New Zealand, it’s the perfect time to warm up with a drink, and what better way to indulge than during Rum Month? Appleton Estate has partnered with top bars across the country to create unique rum cocktails that are exclusively available this July.
North Island Highlights
Sardine, Auckland
Sardine is pulling out all the stops with six delicious rum specials priced at $20 each, showcasing a range of enticing flavors.
The Grange, Takapuna
Known for its vibrant and bittersweet concoctions, The Grange offers the Grange Signature—a tropical mix that blends Appleton Estate rum with Campari, passionfruit, and egg white.
Deadshot, Ponsonby
At Deadshot, the Blackbeard’s Fix combines Appleton Signature rum with black tea and Amaro Averna, served over crushed ice for a refreshing sip.
Bar Mea, Auckland CBD
Experience the Tropical Hummingbird at Bar Mea, which features Appleton Estate 8Yo rum, Aperol, passionfruit, and mango foam for a fruity delight.
Park Hyatt, Auckland CBD
For a refined experience, Captain’s Bar is serving a bespoke rum flight featuring three fine expressions from Appleton Estate paired with sumptuous canapés.
Panacea, Auckland CBD
At Panacea, the Universally Speaking cocktail offers a unique blend of Appleton Estate Rum, mango, lychee, and ume sake, served in a fine-dining context.
Albert’s Post, Mount Albert
Sip on the Pineapple Ginger Rumbada—a delightful combination of rum, ginger, and pineapple, presented in a hollowed-out pineapple for a fun presentation.
The Corner, Remuera
Try their Old Fashioned for a local take on a classic, infused with smooth island flavors that blend well with the cozy atmosphere.
Picnicka, Tauranga
With three distinct rum cocktails, Picnicka features drinks like the Black River Joy and Nassau Sour, celebrating the essence of the Appleton Estate distillery.
South Island Highlights
SODA, Queenstown
SODA’s Sunset Sip marries Appleton Estate Signature Rum with port, cinnamon, and bitters for a warming treat.
Habana Rum Bar, Queenstown
The Rum Reverie combines Appleton Estate Signature Rum with Crème de Cassis and nutty orgeat, offering a mouth-watering tiki experience.
Little Blackwood, Queenstown
Elevating the Mai Tai with Appleton Estate 17YO rum, Little Blackwood’s version incorporates pistachio orgeat for a rich, nutty flavor.
O.G.B., Christchurch
Try the Vin Brûlé Tai, which combines mulled wine syrup with Appleton Estate rum—a perfect winter warmer.
Austin Club, Christchurch
For something playful, the Hokey Pokey Mai Tai mixes rum with chocolate and honeycomb for a sweet yet sophisticated cocktail experience.
Bloody Mary’s, Christchurch
Explore their two standout cocktails featuring the Appleton Estate 12-Year rum. The Butcher’s Pour adds a smoky twist with bacon flavors, while the Irie incorporates a spicy tiki flair.
For those looking to dive deeper into the world of rum, seek out your favorite local bar and enjoy the unique cocktails crafted for Rum Month this July. For more details, visit Appleton Estate.
Top 46 Bars in Metro Phoenix for Unforgettable Cocktails, Wine, and Beer
The metro Phoenix area boasts an impressive variety of bars that cater to every taste and preference, making it a vibrant spot for nightlife enthusiasts. From cocktail bars to dive spots, here’s an overview of some of the best venues to explore.
Beer & Cider Bars
Arizona Wilderness
Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Wilderness combines great beer with delectable food. Popular selections include the Camp Light Lager and Buffalo Cauliflower, a family favorite.
Details: azwbeer.com
Cider Corps
This veteran-owned taproom in Mesa specializes in gluten-free ciders, with the Mango Foxtrot being a standout choice.
Details: 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa. cidercorpsaz.com
Wandering Tortoise
Known for its extensive beer selection and food truck, this spot offers unique bar food options like shumai dumplings.
Details: 2417 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. thewanderingtortoise.com
Live Music Bars
Linger Longer Lounge
This hidden gem features local musicians and serves delicious German bar food. With an inviting happy hour, it’s a perfect neighborhood hangout.
Details: 6522 N. 16th St., Phoenix. lingerlongerlounge.com
The Womack
Famed for its live music and nostalgic vibe, The Womack features local talent and a rich cocktail menu.
Details: 5749 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. thewomack.us
Valley Bar
This intimate venue hosts a mix of national and local acts, with a unique bar atmosphere that includes imaginative cocktails.
Details: valleybarphx.com
Award-Winning Cocktail Bars
Carry On
Designed with a vintage travel theme, Carry On has received accolades for its unique ambiance and cocktail creativity.
Details: 2 N. Central Ave., Suite 101, Phoenix. carryonphx.com
Little Rituals
With inventive cocktails and an inviting atmosphere, this bar has garnered national attention for its drink quality.
Details: 132 S. Central Ave., Phoenix. littleritualsbar.com
Bitter & Twisted
Housed in a historic courthouse, this cocktail parlor is known for its imaginative drink menu and has received numerous awards.
Details: 1 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix. bitterandtwistedaz.com
Unique Cocktail Experiences
Stardust Pinball
A blend of arcade fun and expertly crafted cocktails, this spot is a quirky choice for those looking for an unusual night out.
Details: 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix. stardustpinbar.com
Rough Rider
This speakeasy features a Victorian-era vibe with creative cocktails that encourage exploration of unique flavor combinations.
Details: 1001 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. roughrideraz.com
Rooftop Bars
Don Woods’ Say When
Ideal for sunset views, this rooftop bar combines a classy indoor setting with innovative drink options.
Details: 400 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix. riseuptownhotel.com
Cowboy Bars
Buffalo Chip Saloon
Offering a true country experience with line dancing and mini-rodeos, this saloon is perfect for a traditional cowboy night out.
Details: 6823 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. buffalochipsaloon.com
Dive Bars
Coach House
A classic dive bar with a relaxed vibe, offering affordable drinks and casual eats, perfect for any time of day.
Details: 7011 E Indian School Road, Scottsdale. coachhousescottsdale.com
Gay Bars
Boycott Bar
One of the few lesbian bars left in the U.S., offering a cozy atmosphere that hosts a range of events from karaoke to dance parties.
Details: 4301 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix. instagram.com/boycott_bar
Explore these recommended bars across metro Phoenix to experience a diverse nightlife ranging from laid-back dive bars to upscale cocktail lounges. Each venue offers something unique, ensuring that whatever your vibe, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.