12 Most Interesting New Products for Cocktails

The Twelve most interesting new products for cocktails? Certainly there are more than 12, but for the intent of this assignment, I chose 12 that influenced me in positive ways this past year. Sure there are some recognizable brands and a couple of under the radar finds. I was a Ministry of Rum judge in 2010, so Rum fits the profile as do bitters and of course Bourbon! This year I was named the “On Whiskey” Columnist for OKRA Magazine in New Orleans- and that led me to the discovery of Absinthe- another historic spirit enjoyed in New Orleans, location of Tales of the Cocktail. Twelve? Only Twelve? I’d better get cracking!

Day 7: Root Beer Flip!

Philly Homegrown Holiday Drink Round-Up

With the holiday shopping season upon us, we thought it might be helpful to give a few suggestions on where you could stop, take a break and actually enjoy some holiday spirit(s). Below is a list of some of our favorite haunts and festive drinks, with a slight locavore bent, of course!

The Best New Spirits of 2011

I don't think wine makes a great gift. Its perceived value is tarnished by the way bottles are casually dealt out at the door by dinner party guests upon arrival. However, I do think fine spirits make splendid gifts. Elegant bottles can be found in whatever price range suits your fancy—from $30 on up—and, even better, a spirit makes a lasting impression, since it's unlikely to be consumed right away. Here are my picks of the year's best new spirits.

RHUBY: Art in the Age’s Organic Spirit

This 80-proof Philadelphia spirit harkens back to Ben Franklin and John Bartram's recipe for rhubarb-flavored tea.