Spirits « TaylorEason.com: Wine, Food and Recipes

The wonders of hard apple cider: A substitute for beer fatigue?

Sean Ludford | April 20th, 2012

The mention of cider in the U.S. takes most Americans’ thoughts to the cloudy, amber, delicious, but decidedly non-alcoholic beverage found in groceries and farm stands in the fall. Ask for a cider in the U.K. and Ireland, however, and you will be presented with a very different drink. There, cider is most often clear, carbonated, and most definitely possessing alcohol. Many in the states still refer to this variety as hard cider.

Fancy, whisky cocktail recipe: The Highland Sour

Sean Ludford | March 23rd, 2012

Sours are often a great and versatile cocktail style taking the essence of the spirit of choice with a fresh, tart, and semi-sweet citrus mix. We love rum, whisky, and Pisco sours and greatly enjoy tweaking the standards.

Easy, classic cocktail recipe: Knickerbocker

Sean Ludford | February 17th, 2012

This classic cocktail is one of the oldest drinks you will find in English print. The exact origins are much fodder for debate. Perhaps it was a signature drink of the old Knickerbocker Boat Club in New York. Regardless of its origins, there is no denying that it is a tasty cocktail in any era.

Cocktail recipe: The classic Brandy Alexander

Sean Ludford | January 20th, 2012

At times there is nothing like an “Old School” cocktail made without embellishment. The Brandy Alexander evokes visions and the mood of cocktail parties long disbanded but one I would love to attend from time to time. One of the greatest things about our current cocktail revival is the rediscovery of cocktails long considered passé. The Brandy Alexander is a theme party just waiting to happen.

Winter warm cocktail: Hot Toddy recipe

Sean Ludford | December 9th, 2011

This classic winter cocktail can soothe us and at times heal us with its warmth and clever dose of Whiskey. It can be made with great ease and requires no special skills or ingredients. Be sure to brew your tea (loose is best) and use a quality honey.

Whiskey review: Bushmills “Black Bush” Irish Whiskey, Ireland

Sean Ludford | November 20th, 2011

This iconic Irish Whiskey was first introduced in the 1930s as “Old Bushmills Special Old Liqueur Whiskey,” a special blend of old malt whiskey matured in Sherry casks. By the 1960s, the distillery had a shortage of old stocks and the label was dropped. Human nature being what it is, the “Black Label” Bushmills’ reputation grew in its absence, moving Bushmills to reintroduce this special blend. Re-branded as “Black Bush,” this upscale whisky was and is a blend of roughly 75% malt whiskey with a respectable portion of Sherry casks.

Cocktail recipes: What to do with leftover Halloween pumpkin

Taylor Eason | November 2nd, 2011

So the little kiddies have left with their candy stash, leaving you with a super spooky-pumpkin on your doorstep. But don’t throw it out. Recycle that gourd, turning its orange-hued pulp into a few different rich and luscious pumpkin-based cocktails like these.

Cocktail recipe: Caramel Apple

Sean Ludford | October 29th, 2011

This caramel apple won’t cause an emergency visit to your dentist. A great cocktail for a Halloween or fall theme party. It’s fruity with a crisp, tart edge just like a good apple. This recipe can easily be multiplied to create a tasty punch for your Halloween and fall parties.

Home bar essentials - tools you need to make great cocktails

Sean Ludford | October 10th, 2011

Whatever the task, you need the right tool for the job. The same is true for making cocktails at home. Luckily, the right tools are easy to find, thanks to the magic of the Internet, and pretty economical as well. You can put together a basic starter kit of the five essential items we have listed below for under $40. With these five tools, along with a few standard kitchen items, you can make every cocktail out there.

National Vodka Day: A celebration in spirits

Taylor Eason | October 4th, 2011

Although some people might celebrate it every day, National Vodka Day is actually today. Who knew? I didn’t until I received a press release touting the fabulousness of this versatile, chameleon spirit. And a quick internet search indicates October 4th has been declared National Vodka Day for at least the past five — actually ordained by the U.S. government. I’ve included a list of why we should all appreciate this lowly, under-appreciated spirit, cocktail recipes and trivia.