Low-Calorie H2O Cocktails

The idea behind H₂O cocktails is simple: Infuse water with fruit, spices and herbs and mix that infusion with a complimentary spirit. What you get is a light, fresh and low-calorie cocktail. I learned about this intriguing cocktail concept at Tales of the Cocktail from mixology master Tony Abou-Ganim and culinary superstar Kathy Casey. Here’s my favorite concoction from their presentation.

Mandarin Hibiscus Cocktail

Created by Tony Abou-Ganim

Ingredients

1 oz Purity Vodka

… Read more

Happy National Scotch Day!

Just in case you need an excuse to drink Scotch: Today is National Scotch Day. So drink a dram to celebrate! Scotch is a polarizing whisky … most people either love it or hate it. I fall into the “love it” camp.

The strong character of this whisky often makes it a challenge to mix, but when it’s done right, a Scotch cocktail can really blow your mind. Here are a few to try:

The… Read more

Brugal Añejo Rum Review

Brugal Añejo is a Dominican rum that’s a blend aged three to five years in American white oak casks. The first thing I noticed when they sent me a bottle for review was the gold net over the bottle, which made me think of pirates … for some reason.

But once I cracked it open, I found a pleasing rum that’s a good value at $20 a bottle. The nose is almost all wood and … Read more

How to Muddle

Many cocktails have “muddled” ingredients, so recipes tell you to grab your muddler and muddle away. But what does that even mean?

A muddler is a wooden pestle that looks like a miniature baseball bat. The flat end is used to smash ingredients, such as the lime and mint in a Mojito. We recommend wood because it won’t damage your glasses. Some muddlers have teeth on the end, which is great for fruits but too … Read more

Boozy Popsicle Roundup

It’s July, and it’s hot! One of my favorite ways to cool down is with a cocktail popsicle. Here are some delicious frozen liquor treats to help you beat the heat:

Mai-Tai Pops — A tiki classic adapted for your enjoyment

Campari-Orange Pops — A sophisticated twist on the classic orange popsicle

Strawberry Peach Vodka Collins Popsicles — This just shouts out “SUMMER!”

Margarita Pops — A better way to have a frozen margarita? You … Read more

Brooklyn Brew Shop Beer Kits

If you want to get started brewing your own beer, the Brooklyn Brew Shop has some interesting kits and mixes for you!

Although the products seem to be designed with the beginning brewer in mind, they still keep it exciting with varieties like Peanut Butter Porter, Mustard Brown Ale and Grapefruit Honey Ale.

They have a Brew of the Month Club if you truly want to get your beer on.

Here’s a fun video they … Read more

How to Make Flavored Syrup

Flavored syrups are a simple way to add flair to your cocktails. But you don’t need the store-bought variety. You can take your favorite fruit, herbs and even vegetables and turn them into a cocktail syrup. It’s as easy as boiling water! And who says the syrup is just for cocktails? Mix it with club soda or sparkling water for an easy homemade soda.

Here is the basic formula and instructions:

Ingredients

1 part water… Read more

Father’s Day Food & Drink recipes

Celebrate Father’s Day by eating and drinking … with Dad, of course!

Here are some recommendations for food and drink to help you say, “Thanks for being my Dad!” After all, he doesn’t need another tie or coffee mug.

Cocktails

Manhattan or Martini — Traditional, strong and the best! If that sounds like your father, one of these may be the drink for him. Garnish with easy homemade cocktail cherries!
Blood & Sand —

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Memorial Day Food & Drink Recipes

In honor of those who have died in service to the country, America celebrates Memorial Day on the last Monday of May. It’s also a great time to say thanks to men and women who have served or are still serving in our military.

Since many people have the day off, it’s also one of the biggest barbecue and picnic days of the year. If you’ll be spending the day outdoors, here are some food … Read more

Bräuler

If you like craft beer, chances are you’ve gotten a growler (half gallon) from your local brewery.

The Bräuler is a durable and stylish alternative to glass growlers.

It’s shatter- and crack-proof, with a 1.75-inch mouth, a deep-thread cap to keep your beer carbonated longer. Oh and you can have it laser etched.

Bräuler [via Uncrate]… Read more