Absinthe, the high-proof, herbal elixir had its heyday in the late 1800s and early 1900s, particular among artists, painters and writers in European cities like Paris. It was eventually banned in the United States until around 2007. But absinthe is back! Along with...
It’s that time of year when the skies are as dark when you’re drinking your morning coffee, as they are when you’re imbibing on that evening’s cocktail. Coffee long ago found it’s way into spirits, but many of them are overly sweet and cloying, which doesn’t have...
I used to love a Manhattan garnished with a cherry, until I had a Manhattan garnished with an orange twist. When done well, the thin strip of orange peel is squeezed gently over the top of the cocktail to express the oils, then rubbed along the edge of the glass and...
Forget the cranberry “juice” found in plastic jugs in the supermarket. Next time you want to add tart, rich cranberry flavor to cocktails, think fresh, small batch and organic. Starvation Alley Farms, located on Washington state’s Long Beach Peninsula, is the state’s...
Vermouth is having it’s day in the sun among Pacific Northwest booze-ophiles. No longer considered “just for mixing,” this aperitif wine is great served on the rocks, with a dash of bitters or a twist, and even mixed with other styles of vermouth. In her new cookbook...
Sangria seems to be everywhere this summer. It’s popping up on restaurant menus, and making regular appearances at cook-outs and summer parties. Like punch, it’s an easy choice for a party on summer evenings. Combine wine (or cider), some seasonal fruit, spices, ice,...
The dry, sunny weather in Eastern Washington this spring and summer has resulted in a near record-breaking cherry crop for the state. Unlike the sodden crop of 2013, this year has redeemed itself with a harvest of just under 20 million boxes. Why am I talking about...
Is summer the season of the gin and tonic? Perhaps. While many would argue this cocktail tastes great year-round, it’s largely a warm weather refresher. With the summer solstice around the corner, we amp up to explore this classic cocktail. Building a quality cocktail...
There's Beer Week, Cocktail Week, Shark Week, and all manner of other occasions for imbibing throughout the year. From June 2 through June 8 however, is one of the my favorites: Negroni Week. During this seven-day period, bars around the world serve up their favorite...
In gardens around the Pacific Northwest this month, rhubarb plants are in full bloom. This crisp, tart and tangy vegetable is a favorite for pies and other desserts, but it’s an ingredient to consider for your liquor cabinet as well. DRY Soda Co., headquartered in...
