As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, flags seem to wave a little higher, traditions feel a little deeper and it’s only natural to reflect on where we’ve come from. Anniversaries like this have a way of bringing the past into sharper focus. Not just the major moments memorialized in history books, but the atmosphere surrounding them. It makes you … [Read more...]

Aperitifs and digestifs—if these words make no sense, you’re not alone. I was well into my cocktail journey before I could reliably remember what they were or which was which. At their simplest, they’re just pre-and post-dinner drinks, but when you take a closer look, they reveal something more nuanced. They aren’t trends, specific bottles or even a category of cocktails so … [Read more...]

It’s the start of a new year. Temperatures have dropped, bars are quieter and chances are you know a few people choosing “Dry January” — the practice where some abstain from alcohol for the month. But a hundred years ago, America didn’t choose to go dry…it was forced into it by law. On January 17, 1920, the 18th Amendment went into effect, enforcing the Volstead Act, which … [Read more...]

Whether it’s a cozy dinner party or a full-blown holiday celebration, hosting is always a balancing act—being present with your guests while also making sure their needs are met. If cocktails or mocktails are part of the plan, the secret to keeping things easy and enjoyable can be summed up in one word: preparation. Taking the time—whether it’s weeks in advance or just a … [Read more...]