Overview of Brandy Types Brandy is a distilled spirit predominantly made by distilling wine, which typically contains 35-60% alcohol by volume. There are several types of brandy, each with unique characteristics based on the region of production, distillation practices, and ageing processes. The type of brandy is typically influenced by factors such as the variety…
Absinthe is a spirit that has been mired in myth, rumor, and falsehoods for much of its existence, especially in the United States. Sometimes known as Green Fairy, absinthe is a potent blend of alcohol, wormwood, and other flavors. It generally has a pronounced anise flavor to it, and comes in multiple grades, styles, and…
Espolon is a tequila brand produced in Los Altos, Jalisco at the Casa San Nicolas facility (NOM 1440) and owned by the Campari group. Originally created in 1998 by Master Distiller Cirilo Oropeza, Espolon is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and has a core line of Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo tequila, each bottled at…
Monkey Shoulder is a blended Scotch aimed at cocktail enthusiasts and Scotch aficionados alike. It was created by William Grant and Sons in 2005 and was designed specifically for use in cocktails. The goal was to make scotch more approachable for those drinkers who prefer a cocktail to a neat pour of spirit. They named…
Introduction to Rum Rum is a distinctive spirit revered for its rich history and diverse styles. Originating from the Caribbean, it is traditionally made from molasses, a by-product of sugarcane refining, although some rums also derive from fresh sugarcane juice. The spirit is synonymous with islands like Barbados and Jamaica, where the climate lends itself…
Introduction to Tequila Tequila, an emblematic spirit of Mexico, has a distinct origin story and classification system that aficionados and novices alike should appreciate for its depth and structure. The Origin of Tequila and Historic Roots Tequila’s history is deeply entwined with the heritage of its native region of Jalisco, Mexico. This spirit is crafted…
Personally, I don’t generally recommend vodka as a spirit. Most vodka cocktails would simply be better as gin drinks. If you’re drinking vodka with soda, tonic, or another carbonated mixer, then the brand really isn’t going to make a huge difference. Brands like Graingers, Deep Eddy, Stoli, Skyy, and Smirnoff are all similarly priced or…
Whiskey (or Whisky) is among the most popular spirits on earth. Distilled from grains such as corn, rye, barley, or wheat, it can be made anywhere, though certain regional styles are protected by law. Whiskey is usually barrel aged after distillation for a relatively long period of time. It is commonly used in cocktails, as…
The Bombay Gin brand is a line of London Dry Style Gins known for their strong juniper influence and citrus-forward flavor profiles. The Bombay Gin brand is owned by Bacardi. Launched in 1986, the Bombay line was named due to the association with and popularity of gin in India during the British rule. The Bombay…
Blanton’s Bourbon is produced at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. Blanton’s was the first single-barrel bourbon to be sold commercially. It’s bottled without an age statement, which may turn off some whiskey aficionados, but this is due to each bottle being from a single barrel. Blanton’s bourbon is selected by a master distiller…
