Aug 18, 2023 | city guides, cocktails, gin, Maine, mezcal, pisco, rum, tequila, vermouth
I moved away from the Portland area about 22 years ago – yikes! I return once or twice a year to visit friends and family. It’s been enjoyable to keep up with the local food and drink scene every time I return. Growing up, it was mostly breweries and... 
Mar 23, 2022 | cocktails at home, mezcal, spirits
It’s no secret that I love mezcal. If I see it in a drink on a menu, I have to order whatever the cocktail is. There is such a wide range of flavor profiles in mezcal. Not unlike whiskey, you’ll find mezcal that is light and others that are super smokey. I... 
Nov 12, 2021 | amaro, cocktails, cocktails at home, Mexico, mezcal, recipe, rum, tequila
I used to hate spicy drinks. You know the ones that are so hot it numbs your tastebuds and makes you thirsty? Then I discovered more balanced cocktails with some heat that highlighted all the flavors in the cocktail without making me sweat. I was hooked from then on.... 
Aug 12, 2021 | cocktails, cocktails at home, gin, mezcal, recipe, rum, tequila
I’ve always been a sucker for watermelon. I like the artificial flavor but fresh watermelon is best. It takes a little work to juice a watermelon but it’s so worth it. Summer isn’t official in my book until I am sipping on some watermelon cocktails.... 
Aug 8, 2021 | brandy, cocktails, cocktails at home, lists, mezcal, rum, tequila, whiskey
When it comes to tasting spirits, the glass matters. While you may not think there’s a huge difference, try getting the full flavor from a plastic shot glass. In order to nose a spirit, which just involves inhaling gently, a copita glass can make it easier.... 
Jun 19, 2021 | cocktails, cocktails at home, gin, Mexico, mezcal, recipe, rum, tequila
The first time I tried tepache cocktails, my palate expanded a bit. Cocktail vinegars (or shrubs) were big for a year or two, but they can be a little harsh for some people. Tepache has a much less aggressive flavor that still adds a kick to drinks. With a slightly...
