Review: Cruzan Key Lime Rum and Passion Fruit Rum

Cruzan actually makes some credible flavored rums, but things are starting to change. Most notably: With its new flavors, the sugar level is clearly going up and the alcohol level is demonstrably going down. What was once a low 55 proof has now fallen even further to just 42 proof. These two new expressions don’t…

Read More about Review: Cruzan Key Lime Rum and Passion Fruit Rum

Review: Stone Farking Wheaton w00tstout 2013

I don’t want to delve into the deep and sordid story that led to this insane idea becoming a reality, but suffice it to say: Stone Brewing Company has partnered with, of all people, Fark.com founder Drew Curtis and geek legend/homebrewer Wil Wheaton to create their very own beer. The duo actually did time in…

Read More about Review: Stone Farking Wheaton w00tstout 2013

Review: 2010 Pina Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons

We’ve long been fans of Pina, one of Napa’s undersung wineries. This year, the winery has again provided a solid slate of four single-vineyard Cabernets for our tasting pleasure. While the 2010 crop initially appears uneven (at least at this point), you will find some tasty gems in store for you. 2010 Pina Cabernet Sauvignon…

Read More about Review: 2010 Pina Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons

Review: Louis Royer Cognac XO

Louis Royer has been producing Cognac since 1853, but it’s relatively obscure on U.S. shores. This XO, like most, doesn’t offer much information by way of production or aging notes (Royer uses grapes from the six big growing regions of Cognac), but I wouldn’t fret over it. This is quality Cognac that is worth visiting,…

Read More about Review: Louis Royer Cognac XO

Review: Pike Creek Canadian Whisky

Newly acquired from Corby Distilleries — a growing Canadian whisky producer whose products continue to be difficult to find in the U.S. — by Pernod Ricard, Pike Creek is the brainchild of one Don Livermore, who has a Ph.D. in — wait for it — wood science. That science has clearly taught Livermore a thing…

Read More about Review: Pike Creek Canadian Whisky

Recipe: Tabasco Cocktails

Looking to spice things up a bit? These cocktails, all involving Tabasco hot sauce, might be just the thing you’re looking for. Comedic Twist 2 cups pomegranate juice 1/2 cup white wine 1 tablespoon lime juice 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco Crushed ice 1/2 cup ginger ale, chilled Lime peel twists (for garnish) Combine pomegranate juice, white…

Read More about Recipe: Tabasco Cocktails

Review: Gallo Signature Series Wines, 2013 Releases

Gallo is one of the best-known wine brands in the world, but it makes more than jug wines designed for family reunion picnics. A lot more. The Gallo Signature Series, made by Gina Gallo (granddaughter of Julio), are all small-release wines designed to compete with the top shelf. The 2013 releases, covering the basics of…

Read More about Review: Gallo Signature Series Wines, 2013 Releases

Tasting Report: 2012 California Cabernet Sauvignon

The California Cabernet Society’s annual barrel tasting event has gotten smaller over the last few years, but that’s afforded guests more time to visit with each winery, and the chance to taste through some older vintages (something I rarely have the time for at the more exhaustive/exhausting events). 2012 Cabernet was the focus of this…

Read More about Tasting Report: 2012 California Cabernet Sauvignon