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...]

Salt… it isn’t just for rims. Every great cocktail walks the line between too much and not enough. Too sweet, and it’s cloying. Too tart, and it becomes abrasive. The magic lies in balance—where ingredients don’t compete but complement. While sugar and citrus are the most common tools bartenders reach for to achieve this equilibrium, they are far from the only … [Read more...]

Texans have long reached for something quick and simple to provide relief from the summer heat. While plenty of cocktails are popular in Texas, only a handful get to call themselves Texan. The Chilton and Ranch Water are two drinks that were created right here in Texas, starting out as regional favorites and quietly growing into national staples. Both are shaped by local … [Read more...]