It’s hot right now here in the Bay Area, so I created this cool and refreshing spring cocktail to beat the heat.

Cucumber, cilantro and lime combine to give this drink a mild flavor that makes it great for barbecues, pool parties … or just chilling out.

I have been seeing more bars offer cucumber cocktails, and I say it’s about time! You may even want to muddle some cucumbers into the drink. This would … Read more

Now that we Americans can finally visit Cuba legally, what else could we feature this but the Cuba Libre. Although its origins are a bit foggy, it is said to have been created around 1900 in Cuba. To help celebrate this momentous occasion the folks at Matusalem Rum are sharing their Ultimate Cuba Libre recipe. Matusalem was first produced in Santiago de Cuba in 1872 and was produced there until 1959. The brand is now … Read more

This week we’re giving the classic mojito a Springtime twist! Mixology Monday XXXVIII is being hosted over at the Wild Drink Blog, and the theme is “Superior Twists.” The idea is add a twist to a classic cocktail that sends it over the top of cocktail goodness.

Strawberries and basil make a great combination—each has its own brand of sweetness. The two complimentary flavors are an ideal match for the light and refreshing mojito. What … Read more

Absolut has released its newest flavored vodka, mango. Why mango? It’s one of the most popular fruits in the world and grown in nearly every tropical region, and they are tasty. According to Matthias Aeppli, Vice President Marketing, V&S Absolut Spirits, “The mango is quite unique. It is a year-round source of natural sweetness, and it has a juiciness and aroma beyond all comparison. Personally, I love to mix mango with chili or pineapple.”

To … Read more

Born from the glaciers of Iceland IS Vodka (pronounced “ice”) is a beautiful blend of European wheat and pure esker water distilled seven times to create one of the most smooth and drinkable wheat vodka’s I’ve tasted. While I generally enjoy my vodka in martini form sans vermouth, and yes, this one works great, try this cocktail as it truly brings out the clean flavor of this premium vodka. IS Vodka is distilled in Hertfordshire, … Read more

Even though St. Patrick’s Day is over, it’s time again to whip out the Guinness, Baileys and Jameson’s whiskey and turn them into delicious cupcakes!

The Irish Car Bomb is a well-known (although not very tactfully named) drink consisting of a layered shot of Jameson’s and Bailey’s dropped in a ¾ full glass of Guinness and chugged like crazy. (Don’t let it sit; curdled Bailey’s in your beer is not an appetizing sight.)

Well, here … Read more

Spring is upon us again, and not a moment to soon! As we shake of the cloak of winter, we can once again enjoy light refreshing cocktails that make a Spring evening so wonderful. This week’s cocktail was created by Manny Hinojosa, winner off last year’s Shake It Up: The Battle of the Mixologists competition. The Cielo Rosso, Manny’s creation using Campari, SKYY infusions Citrus, Ruby Red grapefruit juice, Lemon Juice and simple syrup laced … Read more

Firefly Distillery in South Carolina has managed to stand out in the crowded world of flavored vodkas with a uniquely Southern take on vodka.

Its Sweet Tea and Muscadine Wine flavored vodkas are “sippin’ vodkas” that also work well for simple cocktails like a vodka tonic.

This month marks the first time the company can distribute its product to all 50 states, so now it will be easier to find!

Here’s a Firefly concoction I … Read more

The Tourment of the Irish. OK, St. Patrick’s Day cocktails should probably start with Irish Whiskey, but the Absinthe Irish from Le Tourment Vert is to tasty to pass up. So why not? Go Absinthe this St. Patrick’s Day!

After having an excellent muddling lesson in Vegas with Tony Abu-Gamin, I have become a fan of all things muddled. Muddled cucumber and Jett energy vodka make a green, refreshing and simple St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail. OK the name doesn’t really suggest a St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail, but why not. Leave a comment with your “Irish” name for this cocktail. Recipe courtesy of Jett Vodka, photo by Steve Bao.