I love simple, classic cocktails. I’ll save you the “more is less” jargon and simply point out that the vast majority of classic cocktails rely upon four or fewer ingredients with a simple garnish. These classic cocktails have stood the test of time and have offered inspiration for thousands ... Read More »

There is no reason to fear Scotch Whisky. Be assured that there is no secret handshake, no Gaelic password, and no initiation rights to be performed (although a kilt doesn’t hurt). Your curiosity for new flavors and experiences is all that is required. If you have made the leap to distilled spirits ... Read More »

I blame John Wayne for America’s desire to waste good whiskey by slamming it down the gullet from a tiny glass or even straight from the bottle as proof of manliness. How many great cowboy movies or World War II flicks offer up images of heroic men hitting the hard stuff before running off to face ... Read More »

Things get interesting when you’re sitting around our Sonoma County kitchen with a friend from Tampa… who is into concocting fantastical cocktails. Like this Hendrick’s gin cocktail recipe… perfect for lounging about, playing cards or sharing laughs on the patio. Recipe courtesy ... Read More »

This complex yet refreshing cocktail utilizes the deep and mellow flavors of blended Irish Whiskey in an unexpected way by marrying it with flavors from south of the border. I absolutely love the flavor of tamarind and the sodas created with this unique fruit. (Tamarind soda can be found in most every ... Read More »

As the mercury falls, the days get shorter. And we could all use a tasty cocktail to warm our toes and lift our spirits. For the seasonal transition, I chose to update two classic cocktails (in dire need of makeovers) which best deliver optimal autumn satisfaction: The Stinger and The Sidecar. Both ... Read More »

This great drink shows the versatility of whiskey in cocktails and the spicy appeal of rye. The Algonquin is proof positivethat you don’t have to have a dozen ingredients to have a dozen flavors in a cocktail. It makes a great aperitif.

The Algonquin was named for the New York Hotel of ... Read More »

The iconic liqueur Grand Marnier has determined to follow their successful holiday release of last season, Quintessence, with another limited release liqueur that is just now hitting the shelves of fine bars and retailers. While Quintessence was aimed squarely at the luxury market, their latest creation ... Read More »

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail whose base spirit is whisky, most often bourbon. However, in the modern bar many variations exist including the use of rye, blended Scotch whisky, or brandy. Despite the many different twists, the Old Fashioned always uses a brown, wood-aged spirit as its base ... Read More »