Unless you're one of the few nice people around who hasn't even savored a drop of liquor in their whole lives, chances are that you're at least marginally familiar of the drink whiskey. Whiskey - which is also spelled by other without the letter E - is the name used for a wide variety of delicious and distilled liquors that are produced from grains and later on aged in oak casts. Due to its grain content, a lot of people believe that whiskey is a good type of liquor to drink. In fact, there are numerous couples both in the United States and Europe who prefer to feed their babies whiskey rather than milk or water.
Whisk It that Way: How to Drink Whiskey
In the old days, Puritans had a very specific etiquette when it comes to drinking whiskey. For them, whiskey must be purely enjoyed from a tulip-shaped glass with a dash of still water. The addition of still water is necessary to maximize the uniquely delicious aroma of whiskey. Keep in mind that ice actually mutes rather than strengthens the aroma of whiskey.
Examples of whiskey-containing cocktails are the Manhattan, Whiskey Sour, Irish coffee and the very much simple ginger ale for people who are not used to drinking whiskey or any liquor for that matter.
How Do You Whisk It: The Different Kinds of Whiskey
The type of grain used in a certain mixture is usually the sole differentiating factor for the various kinds of whiskey available in the market today.
Scotch Whiskey - these drinks are usually distilled twice and aged for at least three years
Irish Whiskey - whiskey of this type would have to undergo distillation thrice and then spend at least four years in oak casts before it can be considered "drinkable"
American Straight Whiskey - these drinks require the use of a mash bill containing at least 51% or anything less than 80% of a single grain. The aging process must take place in new barrels made from American white oak that are charred prior to use.
Malt Whiskey - this term is only used for whiskeys made from 100% malted barley and nothing else. A single-malt whiskey on the other hand is exclusively produced by just one distillery and is the most expensive type of whiskey that's out in the market. Its one-distillery production makes it taste highly distinguishable from other malted whiskeys.
Pure Pot Still Whiskey - a kind of Irish whiskey, pure pot still whiskey is produced mainly by combining malted and unmalted barley.
Blended Whiskey - this is the name used to describe whiskies of different kinds that are blended together and contains straight whiskey as well as neutral spirits; its production process permits distilleries to preserve quite a consistent flavor and mellower than single-malt whiskeys.
Places to Whisk It: Significant Geographical Locations in the History of Whiskey Production
Scotland - Although all types of whiskey are made in Scotland, their favorite type of whiskey would be single-malt Scotches. Scottish people also prefer to call whiskeys as "whisky". Well-known Scottish brands of whiskey would be Glenmorangie, Chivas Regal and Glenlivet.
United States - The producers of whiskeys such as Bourbon, Tennesee and even the home brewed whiskey version called Moonshine, North America is also fond of calling Scotch whiskeys simply as "Scotch". Jim Beam Black Label and Jack Daniels are examples of Popular American brands of whiskey.
Ireland - Because of their triple distillation and 4 year aging process, Irish whiskeys are acclaimed for their extra smoothness and flavorful taste. Famous Irish whiskey brands would be Connemara and Tullamore Dew.
About the Author
Khieng 'Ken' Chho is the author and owner of Online Whiskey Resources. For more information, visit Ken's website: http://whiskey.1w3b.net/
Monday, February 26, 2007
The History of Tequila.
The history of tequila began with the Aztec people making a fermented beverage from the agave plant which they called octli (later and more popularly called pulque). This occurred long before the Spanish arrived in 1521. Then, in the 16th century when the Spaniards arrived in Mexico, the Conquistadors brought the process of distillation with them and the people of Tequila were quick to put it to good use. They knew that the blue agave plant contained sugars that could be fermented. When the Spanish conquistadors ran out of their own brandy, they began to distill this agave drink to produce North America's first indigenous distilled spirit . By fermenting and distilling the sweet sap of the blue agave plant, they produced liquor with a distinctive taste. For many years tequila was only consumed locally and most were sold almost exclusively at the distilleries. By the 90's, it became quite fashionable to sip tequila and its production soared. New brands were being introduced to a growing and discriminating market. People began to demand more authentic tequilas, particularly those made following artisan tradition and Premium Tequilas made 100% with the juices of the blue agave plant.
With the dawning of the new millennium, more brands came into the market and tequila has become one of the top three best seller liquors in the world. Extensive fields of blue agave plants were planted where it was not harvested before. Traveling in the western states of Mexico, there are beautiful rolling hills covered by pale blue agave that seem to go on for miles.
The increasing world-wide popularity of tequila in the early 2000s drove a big cooperate interest in the drink. This resulted in the purchase of many tequila brands being purchased and new tequila brands being formed. There are now over 100 distilleries making over 2,000 different brand names of tequila now. Because of the high demand of tequila Mexico and the United States signed an agreement that allowed the continued bulk import of tequila into the US. This allowed the US to bottle tequila that has a minimum of 51% agave. The tequilas that have 100% agave still must be bottled in Mexico. It also created a tequila bottlers registry that identifies approved tequila bottlers.
As the brand 'tequila' is controlled by the Mexican government, it must comply with the strict Mexican government regulations. To make sure that tequila is genuine it has to be produced according to the strict standards. It also must bear the official standard, NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) and the Tequila Regulatory Council's monogram (CRT) on the label. All Premium Tequila must be adorned with the '100% Agave' marking on the label as well. Each approved tequila distiller gets its own NOM that ensures that the product complies with the official Denomination of Origin.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
With the dawning of the new millennium, more brands came into the market and tequila has become one of the top three best seller liquors in the world. Extensive fields of blue agave plants were planted where it was not harvested before. Traveling in the western states of Mexico, there are beautiful rolling hills covered by pale blue agave that seem to go on for miles.
The increasing world-wide popularity of tequila in the early 2000s drove a big cooperate interest in the drink. This resulted in the purchase of many tequila brands being purchased and new tequila brands being formed. There are now over 100 distilleries making over 2,000 different brand names of tequila now. Because of the high demand of tequila Mexico and the United States signed an agreement that allowed the continued bulk import of tequila into the US. This allowed the US to bottle tequila that has a minimum of 51% agave. The tequilas that have 100% agave still must be bottled in Mexico. It also created a tequila bottlers registry that identifies approved tequila bottlers.
As the brand 'tequila' is controlled by the Mexican government, it must comply with the strict Mexican government regulations. To make sure that tequila is genuine it has to be produced according to the strict standards. It also must bear the official standard, NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) and the Tequila Regulatory Council's monogram (CRT) on the label. All Premium Tequila must be adorned with the '100% Agave' marking on the label as well. Each approved tequila distiller gets its own NOM that ensures that the product complies with the official Denomination of Origin.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
The Myths About Tequila
#1. The worm in tequila.
Mexican-bottled tequila contains no worm. Some American-bottled brands put one in their bottle to boost sales, but this is only a marketing ploy and not a Mexican tradition. There is a worm - called a gusano, or a butterfly caterpillar - in some types of mescal. You may also get a small bag of 'worm salt' - dried gusano, salt and chile powder tied to a bottle of mescal tequila.
The worm-in-the-bottle myth is old and very tired. The truth has been broadcast and explained for many years by the makers of tequila. The worm in not a customary element in mezcal production. It is a recent development and marketing ploy that appeared only in the 1940s to try to get more attention to sell tequila. There is no need to defend tequila and this myth should not be dispelled any further. It is simply an urban legend. Another myth about the worm is that you are supposed to eat it. Not to worry if you swallowed a worm, it is quite well pickled and free of pesticides. But dismiss any ideas that it might have magical powers or that it is an aphrodisiac. The worm is merely a protein in alcohol.
#2.Tequila is made from cactus.
Tequila is made from distilled juice of the agave plant. It is known as a succulent and it is not a cactus as it has a different life cycle. The mature agave leaves stand about 5-8 feet tall and is 7-12 feet in diameter. The lifespan of the agave plant depends on growing conditions, species and climate, but generally it is 8 to 15 years. In Mexico, there are 136 species of agave. Agave has been cultivated for at least 9,000 years. The blue agave is the only one allowed for use in tequila production. No Mexican alcoholic drinks are made from cactus. However, the cactus is used in some fruit drinks, salads and other food items.
#3.Tequila and mezcal are the same.
Technically, tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal is not tequila. Both are made from varieties of the plant called 'mexcalmetl'. Although there are many similarities tequila and mezcal are as different today as scotch and whiskey. Tequila is made from only blue agave. Mezcal can be made from five different varieties of agave in the region. Tequila is double distilled. Mezcal is often only distilled once. Mezcal piñas (the sugar-rich heart of the agave) are baked in the ground giving it a strong, smoky flavour. Tequila piñas are baked or steamed in above-ground ovens. Tequila and mezcal are similar in one respect and that is in the amount of alcohol in the bottle which tends to be around 38-40%. Mezcals however tend to be a little stronger.
#4:Tequila is only bottled home-brew.
The manufacturing of tequila is very tightly controlled by the Mexican government and the Tequila Regulatory Council. The bottle must have statements about age, style, and content to meet the legal requirements. There is also a non-profit council called the Chamber of Tequila Producers which regulates the industry. Tequila is not home-brew moonshine. It is carefully distilled and aged, although each company has its own process and quality control. Most manufacturers take considerable pride in their production. Tequila is not stronger than other liquors. Most tequilas have the same liquor content about 38-40%, as other liquors. The official norm allows a range from 38-55%.
#5:The best tequilas cost the most.
Price is not a good way to judge the taste of tequila. Fancy packaging, designer bottles large advertising campaigns and simply to status makes up a lot of the pricing of a bottle of tequila. A well-advertised, bottled, and well promoted blanco at $100 is not necessarily a better buy than a reposado at $10. It depends on your taste and what you expect in a tequila.
In Mexico, there is a large market of excellent tequilas available from $20 to $50. In the under $20 range most of the tequilas are mass produced for the local market, and usually not 100% agave. Tequila priced above that is aiming mostly for the premium markets using collector bottles and speciality bottles. The taste is the ultimate deciding factor. People have different tastes when it comes to tequilas. Some prefer the rough edged, more distinct flavor of young blanco tequila. Others like the more sharper, peppery flavour of a reposado. And then there are some that prefer the smooth, woody aroma in an añejo. What every you taste, there is a tequila made just for you.
#6: All tequilas are the same, only the bottles are different.
Tequilas vary according to the company making them, the process and the growing environment. It is affected by the temperature, soil, types of equipment, the age of the plants and the way the plants were prepared. All of these things will affect the body and flavor of the tequila. Traditional methods produce much stronger agave flavour than modern, mass production. Aging in barrels also affects the taste of tequila but not always for the better. The woody flavor imparted by the oak can overpower the natural agave. And some manufacturers are now adding wood essence to darken the tequila so it looks more aged. There is a very wide variation in tequila flavours between styles like blanco, reposado and añejo. This makes it difficult for any new partakers to make a distinction between each type of tequila. Fancy packaging, wooden boxes and elegant bottles and are now common with premium tequilas. These fancy bottles have become collector's items. While they do not add to the basic quality of the drink in the bottle, they do add to its charm and certainly has visual appeal.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
Mexican-bottled tequila contains no worm. Some American-bottled brands put one in their bottle to boost sales, but this is only a marketing ploy and not a Mexican tradition. There is a worm - called a gusano, or a butterfly caterpillar - in some types of mescal. You may also get a small bag of 'worm salt' - dried gusano, salt and chile powder tied to a bottle of mescal tequila.
The worm-in-the-bottle myth is old and very tired. The truth has been broadcast and explained for many years by the makers of tequila. The worm in not a customary element in mezcal production. It is a recent development and marketing ploy that appeared only in the 1940s to try to get more attention to sell tequila. There is no need to defend tequila and this myth should not be dispelled any further. It is simply an urban legend. Another myth about the worm is that you are supposed to eat it. Not to worry if you swallowed a worm, it is quite well pickled and free of pesticides. But dismiss any ideas that it might have magical powers or that it is an aphrodisiac. The worm is merely a protein in alcohol.
#2.Tequila is made from cactus.
Tequila is made from distilled juice of the agave plant. It is known as a succulent and it is not a cactus as it has a different life cycle. The mature agave leaves stand about 5-8 feet tall and is 7-12 feet in diameter. The lifespan of the agave plant depends on growing conditions, species and climate, but generally it is 8 to 15 years. In Mexico, there are 136 species of agave. Agave has been cultivated for at least 9,000 years. The blue agave is the only one allowed for use in tequila production. No Mexican alcoholic drinks are made from cactus. However, the cactus is used in some fruit drinks, salads and other food items.
#3.Tequila and mezcal are the same.
Technically, tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal is not tequila. Both are made from varieties of the plant called 'mexcalmetl'. Although there are many similarities tequila and mezcal are as different today as scotch and whiskey. Tequila is made from only blue agave. Mezcal can be made from five different varieties of agave in the region. Tequila is double distilled. Mezcal is often only distilled once. Mezcal piñas (the sugar-rich heart of the agave) are baked in the ground giving it a strong, smoky flavour. Tequila piñas are baked or steamed in above-ground ovens. Tequila and mezcal are similar in one respect and that is in the amount of alcohol in the bottle which tends to be around 38-40%. Mezcals however tend to be a little stronger.
#4:Tequila is only bottled home-brew.
The manufacturing of tequila is very tightly controlled by the Mexican government and the Tequila Regulatory Council. The bottle must have statements about age, style, and content to meet the legal requirements. There is also a non-profit council called the Chamber of Tequila Producers which regulates the industry. Tequila is not home-brew moonshine. It is carefully distilled and aged, although each company has its own process and quality control. Most manufacturers take considerable pride in their production. Tequila is not stronger than other liquors. Most tequilas have the same liquor content about 38-40%, as other liquors. The official norm allows a range from 38-55%.
#5:The best tequilas cost the most.
Price is not a good way to judge the taste of tequila. Fancy packaging, designer bottles large advertising campaigns and simply to status makes up a lot of the pricing of a bottle of tequila. A well-advertised, bottled, and well promoted blanco at $100 is not necessarily a better buy than a reposado at $10. It depends on your taste and what you expect in a tequila.
In Mexico, there is a large market of excellent tequilas available from $20 to $50. In the under $20 range most of the tequilas are mass produced for the local market, and usually not 100% agave. Tequila priced above that is aiming mostly for the premium markets using collector bottles and speciality bottles. The taste is the ultimate deciding factor. People have different tastes when it comes to tequilas. Some prefer the rough edged, more distinct flavor of young blanco tequila. Others like the more sharper, peppery flavour of a reposado. And then there are some that prefer the smooth, woody aroma in an añejo. What every you taste, there is a tequila made just for you.
#6: All tequilas are the same, only the bottles are different.
Tequilas vary according to the company making them, the process and the growing environment. It is affected by the temperature, soil, types of equipment, the age of the plants and the way the plants were prepared. All of these things will affect the body and flavor of the tequila. Traditional methods produce much stronger agave flavour than modern, mass production. Aging in barrels also affects the taste of tequila but not always for the better. The woody flavor imparted by the oak can overpower the natural agave. And some manufacturers are now adding wood essence to darken the tequila so it looks more aged. There is a very wide variation in tequila flavours between styles like blanco, reposado and añejo. This makes it difficult for any new partakers to make a distinction between each type of tequila. Fancy packaging, wooden boxes and elegant bottles and are now common with premium tequilas. These fancy bottles have become collector's items. While they do not add to the basic quality of the drink in the bottle, they do add to its charm and certainly has visual appeal.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
Traditional Drink, Modern Crowd
Why is it that scotch always seem to be ignored in the bar scene? It is understandable that most people find scotch too harsh to drink while dancing the night away but it could certainly be introduced in some mild cocktails. It is commonly assumed that the sweeter drinks tend to give you the staying power on the dance floor as they are usually loaded with sugar.
Sugar is not an ingredient that one would normally associate with scotch and many of club-goers will shy away from the so-called "old mans drink." Yet they really do not understand the impact that scotch in small doses in sweet drinks can have. It can liven up any party in a relatively short amount of time.
Of course, there are the few drinks out there that may garner interest from the up-and-coming young professionals who are trying to mature. One of these mild drinks with scotch is the Rusty Nail. This delicious drink contains 1 1/2 ounces of scotch, 1/2 ounces of Drambuie and a twist of peel from a lemon.
This drink eschews the common rule of no ice in scotch, as the glass should be filled nearly to the brim with cubes. Once the ice fills the glass, the Drambuie and scotch are poured in together, stirred vigorously and garnished with the lemon peel. This makes a delectable, small mixed drink that is much easier on the throat as well as the stomach than pure scotch.
The whiskey sour is another popular drink. This is a drink that all classes and generations can enjoy. This drink contains 2 ounces of blended whiskey, the juice of half a lemon, half a teaspoon of powdered sugar, one cherry, and half a slice of lemon.
This drink is also easy to make. Shake the blended whiskey, the lemon juice, and the powdered sugar with ice then strain into a whiskey sour glass. For the final flourish, top with the cherry and garnish the drink with the lemon slice.
Another tasty drink that the younger crowd may enjoy is the Rob Roy. This is a very simple drink that many relish and is quickly made so you can be back on the dance floor in little time.
This drink contains 1 and a half ounces of scotch whiskey and three-quarter ounces of sweet vermouth. You simply stir the contents with ice and strain into a cocktail glass.
About the Author
Richard Brown is an author for several web sites, on product ideas and shopping and products topics.
Sugar is not an ingredient that one would normally associate with scotch and many of club-goers will shy away from the so-called "old mans drink." Yet they really do not understand the impact that scotch in small doses in sweet drinks can have. It can liven up any party in a relatively short amount of time.
Of course, there are the few drinks out there that may garner interest from the up-and-coming young professionals who are trying to mature. One of these mild drinks with scotch is the Rusty Nail. This delicious drink contains 1 1/2 ounces of scotch, 1/2 ounces of Drambuie and a twist of peel from a lemon.
This drink eschews the common rule of no ice in scotch, as the glass should be filled nearly to the brim with cubes. Once the ice fills the glass, the Drambuie and scotch are poured in together, stirred vigorously and garnished with the lemon peel. This makes a delectable, small mixed drink that is much easier on the throat as well as the stomach than pure scotch.
The whiskey sour is another popular drink. This is a drink that all classes and generations can enjoy. This drink contains 2 ounces of blended whiskey, the juice of half a lemon, half a teaspoon of powdered sugar, one cherry, and half a slice of lemon.
This drink is also easy to make. Shake the blended whiskey, the lemon juice, and the powdered sugar with ice then strain into a whiskey sour glass. For the final flourish, top with the cherry and garnish the drink with the lemon slice.
Another tasty drink that the younger crowd may enjoy is the Rob Roy. This is a very simple drink that many relish and is quickly made so you can be back on the dance floor in little time.
This drink contains 1 and a half ounces of scotch whiskey and three-quarter ounces of sweet vermouth. You simply stir the contents with ice and strain into a cocktail glass.
About the Author
Richard Brown is an author for several web sites, on product ideas and shopping and products topics.
Tequila: The Proper Way to Drink It
Ah, the art of you can go back to the traditional method of drinking with salt, tequila,and lime, via the lick, sip consumption of a premium liquor. Who says that I have the right to tell you how you should drink your tequila. I must admit, I have tried the many different brands of Tequila. Whether you sip it, serve it with lime and salt add it to margarita mix, drink it room temperature or serve it chilled, Tequila is meant to be savored and enjoyed. If you want to really appreciate the full bouquet and body, try it at room temperature. Tequila is meant to be enjoyed neat. Taste it like a fine wine. It would be a shame to miss out on its full body, its aroma and its wonderful taste. Once you have appreciated its character and flavor, you can return to the salt, tequila, and lime - the lick, sip and bite- method.
The traditional way to drink tequila is using a tall, narrow shot glass, 'caballito". It has been claimed that Añejos are better served in brandy snifters in order to appreciate the nose, by my favorite way to consume it is the traditional way. The caballito is said to be modeled after the original bull horn that tequila was drank from. It is the perfect size and shape.
The same rules apply when drinking a premium Mezcal. Enjoy the rich, smoky flavor. Why rush a good thing. Coolers and drinks such as margaritas may not have any real tequila in them. They are usually syrupy concoctions of alcohol and flavouring. In 1997 Herradura recognized a growing market for margaritas and introduced their own pre-mixed drink including grapefruit juice and real tequila. Other distillers have since followed their lead and the demand for these sweet drinks in the market. These however are not traditional Mexican drinks. They are attempts to cater to a fad in the North American market. Some people think that the more traditional way to drink tequila is as a shot with salt on one hand and a bite of lime following the shot. Few people drink it this way. Some people do however put lime juice in their tequila or bite the lime before sipping it. Many restaurants in Mexico bring you a small tray with your favorite brand of tequila, a caballito with a sangrita chaser, salt and half a lime. It is a good practice to have the waiter bring the tequila bottle right to your table and have it poured in front of you. Some places might say that they keep a fair stock of brands, but they do not and will serve you something different than what you ordered.
Remember that when you open a bottle of tequila, you subject its contents to oxidization, just as you would a bottle of wine. This will rob the tequila of its agave flavours in a matter of a few weeks to a month. You can also lose alcohol to evaporation. Your tequila will not last indefinitely. You must drink it soon - within 1-2 months - otherwise it starts to lose its wonderful zest.
However you choose to drink your tequila, make sure to choose the one that you like and enjoy it thoroughly. There is really no right or wrong way to drink, sip or a right way to drink, sip, or guzzle tequila. After all, it is a matter of taste.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
The traditional way to drink tequila is using a tall, narrow shot glass, 'caballito". It has been claimed that Añejos are better served in brandy snifters in order to appreciate the nose, by my favorite way to consume it is the traditional way. The caballito is said to be modeled after the original bull horn that tequila was drank from. It is the perfect size and shape.
The same rules apply when drinking a premium Mezcal. Enjoy the rich, smoky flavor. Why rush a good thing. Coolers and drinks such as margaritas may not have any real tequila in them. They are usually syrupy concoctions of alcohol and flavouring. In 1997 Herradura recognized a growing market for margaritas and introduced their own pre-mixed drink including grapefruit juice and real tequila. Other distillers have since followed their lead and the demand for these sweet drinks in the market. These however are not traditional Mexican drinks. They are attempts to cater to a fad in the North American market. Some people think that the more traditional way to drink tequila is as a shot with salt on one hand and a bite of lime following the shot. Few people drink it this way. Some people do however put lime juice in their tequila or bite the lime before sipping it. Many restaurants in Mexico bring you a small tray with your favorite brand of tequila, a caballito with a sangrita chaser, salt and half a lime. It is a good practice to have the waiter bring the tequila bottle right to your table and have it poured in front of you. Some places might say that they keep a fair stock of brands, but they do not and will serve you something different than what you ordered.
Remember that when you open a bottle of tequila, you subject its contents to oxidization, just as you would a bottle of wine. This will rob the tequila of its agave flavours in a matter of a few weeks to a month. You can also lose alcohol to evaporation. Your tequila will not last indefinitely. You must drink it soon - within 1-2 months - otherwise it starts to lose its wonderful zest.
However you choose to drink your tequila, make sure to choose the one that you like and enjoy it thoroughly. There is really no right or wrong way to drink, sip or a right way to drink, sip, or guzzle tequila. After all, it is a matter of taste.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
Spirit Wines Guidelines
The alcoholic drinks are generally said to be very bad for one's health. The truth of the matter is that there are some types of booze, which may even improve it. Let us look at wine for instance. It may very well make the blood less likely to clot, due to its anticoagulation effect.
On the other hand, the spirits do not have the same benefits. The first thing that must make you question yourself about the effects of spirits is the thought that are in fact purified or extracted alcohol. The process of distilling alcohol is based on the heating a fermented liquid. The liquid will then disperse in the air, practically changing from a liquid state to a gas or vapor. Eventually, it is squeezed back into its liquefied form. The outcome of this whole process can only be the spirit! You can even make spirits by increasing the alcohol content of a wine and decreasing its liquid substance.
Depending on the fermenting material that is used in the process of fermentation and distillation, the spirits include several distinct types of alcoholic drinks: brandy, gin, vodka and fortified wines. You probably know that brandy is made from fermented grape sap. The booze contents of brandy are generated from a meticulous distillation process of grape juices. No wonder it has such an interesting taste. On the other hand, vodka is a mixed alcoholic drink made out of distilled beers, that are actually made from grains. Last, but not least, the fortified wines are in fact mixed alcoholic drinks made of fermented wine and extracted spirits.
This is just a basic classification of spirits. There are numerous types of such mixed alcoholic drinks, most of them being different from country to country. It is a commonly known fact that each region of the world has a personal favorite alcoholic drink and that they will most surely produce it in many distinct ways and combinations.
Every person knows that the chemical and food experts have proved for years that wine contains rich deposits of vitamins, minerals and natural sugars that are often very good for the health of the consumers. Not to speak about the fact that the wine is a type of booze which is also rich in potassium and low in sodium. Because of the juices' longer contact with the grape skins, the red wines have even more of these elements. And should you want a Vitamin B refill, you can settle the matter by choosing red wine too!
About the Author
Find out more about any mixed alcoholic drink and booze, alcohol and drinks right now.
On the other hand, the spirits do not have the same benefits. The first thing that must make you question yourself about the effects of spirits is the thought that are in fact purified or extracted alcohol. The process of distilling alcohol is based on the heating a fermented liquid. The liquid will then disperse in the air, practically changing from a liquid state to a gas or vapor. Eventually, it is squeezed back into its liquefied form. The outcome of this whole process can only be the spirit! You can even make spirits by increasing the alcohol content of a wine and decreasing its liquid substance.
Depending on the fermenting material that is used in the process of fermentation and distillation, the spirits include several distinct types of alcoholic drinks: brandy, gin, vodka and fortified wines. You probably know that brandy is made from fermented grape sap. The booze contents of brandy are generated from a meticulous distillation process of grape juices. No wonder it has such an interesting taste. On the other hand, vodka is a mixed alcoholic drink made out of distilled beers, that are actually made from grains. Last, but not least, the fortified wines are in fact mixed alcoholic drinks made of fermented wine and extracted spirits.
This is just a basic classification of spirits. There are numerous types of such mixed alcoholic drinks, most of them being different from country to country. It is a commonly known fact that each region of the world has a personal favorite alcoholic drink and that they will most surely produce it in many distinct ways and combinations.
Every person knows that the chemical and food experts have proved for years that wine contains rich deposits of vitamins, minerals and natural sugars that are often very good for the health of the consumers. Not to speak about the fact that the wine is a type of booze which is also rich in potassium and low in sodium. Because of the juices' longer contact with the grape skins, the red wines have even more of these elements. And should you want a Vitamin B refill, you can settle the matter by choosing red wine too!
About the Author
Find out more about any mixed alcoholic drink and booze, alcohol and drinks right now.
Tequila Cocktails
Tequila
A fine, complex liquor that is best when sipped slowly. Traditionally it is served warm in order to appreciate its wonderful flavor. Most tequilas are served in a "caballito", a 2oz glass made exclusively for this purpose. Blanco and Reposado can be served with "sangrita", a tomato and orange juice mix with salt and chile. Añejo is served in a snifter so that its aroma is fully appreciated. The tequila shot with lime and salt is made from Hollywood and few people drink it that way. Some people do put lime juice in the tequila or bite the lime before sipping it. It is a matter of taste. You should choose the right tequila for your cocktail and enjoy it.
Margarita
The Margarita is a great cocktail when it is made correctly. Avoid using bottled lime-juice since it adds an overly sweet taste. The use of fresh limes hand picked at the supermarket is best. The best ones should be a bit soft when you squeeze them since these might have the most juice. Mexican limes are small in size but they do have an incomparable taste.
2 ounces tequila
1 ounce Triple Sec
1/2 ounce Mexican lime juice
If you want a lighter Margarita:
1.5 ounces tequila
3/4 ounce Triple Sec
1/2 to 1 ounce Mexican lime juice
Combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
You might strain the mixture or pour it into a salt-rimmed margarita glass.
To get the salt to stick to the glass pour fine salt on a plate, then run a lime wedge around the lip of a Margarita glass and lightly press it against the salt.
You may use Cointreau, Grand Marnier, Mandarin Napoleon, or Midori instead of Triple Sec.
If you want a strong agave flavor use a Blanco tequila.
For a milder taste use Reposado.
If you are giving a party use Gold as it costs less.
Bloody Mary
1-1/2 ounces tequila
One glass of tomato juice Add salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste Garnish with a celery stalk and lemon slice.
Blanco 100% agave is great for a Bloody Mary.
It is the drink of choice the morning after a hangover.
You may try Clamato instead of tomato juice, or half-and-half.
Some people squeeze half a lemon into the mix to add flavor.
Dynamite
1 ounce Reposado tequila
1 ounce Blanco tequila
1 ounce Clamato juice
Pour contents into glass.
Add one-half teaspoon of Tabasco sauce and the juice of one half lime.
Mix contents and add crushed ice, and salt to taste.
Petroleo
1-1/2 ounces tequila
1 ounce Mexican lime juice
1 serrano chile halved from top to bottom
Pour the tequila and lime juice into a small glass.
Add salt, pepper, Maggi sauce and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
Mix ingredients. Add one half of the serrano chile and one or two ice cubes.
Use Blanco or Reposado tequila.
Tequila Sour
1-1/2 onces tequila
2 ounces lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar
Blend ingredients with crushed ice and strain into sour glass.
Garnish with a red cherry.
Use Añejo for a better taste.
Tequila Sunrise
2 measures of ice-cold tequila
4 measures of orange juice
1 measure of grenadine (or less if you prefer)
Pour orange juice in a highball glass and then pour the ice-cold tequila slowly tilting the glass to get a layered effect.
Trickle grenadine on top.
You should get a perfect sunrise.
Garnish stirrer, straw and cherry-orange.
Sangrita Chaser
Sangrita is a typical spicy and refreshing non-alcoholic chaser made of fresh orange juice, grenadine and chile piquín or a mix of different chiles. Sangrita is the Spanish diminutive for "blood" and is served in a "caballito". It is used as a chaser after a shot of tequila.
4 cups of freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 to 1/2 cup of fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon of grenadine syrup tablespoon salt
Chile piquín to taste: try first 1/4 tablespoon
As with any recipe you may vary the quantities for each ingredient to suit your taste.
Some people add fresh tomato juice to increase the red coloration of the Sangrita.
You may try chile de arbol or Tabasco sauce.
You may also add a bit of black ground pepper.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
A fine, complex liquor that is best when sipped slowly. Traditionally it is served warm in order to appreciate its wonderful flavor. Most tequilas are served in a "caballito", a 2oz glass made exclusively for this purpose. Blanco and Reposado can be served with "sangrita", a tomato and orange juice mix with salt and chile. Añejo is served in a snifter so that its aroma is fully appreciated. The tequila shot with lime and salt is made from Hollywood and few people drink it that way. Some people do put lime juice in the tequila or bite the lime before sipping it. It is a matter of taste. You should choose the right tequila for your cocktail and enjoy it.
Margarita
The Margarita is a great cocktail when it is made correctly. Avoid using bottled lime-juice since it adds an overly sweet taste. The use of fresh limes hand picked at the supermarket is best. The best ones should be a bit soft when you squeeze them since these might have the most juice. Mexican limes are small in size but they do have an incomparable taste.
2 ounces tequila
1 ounce Triple Sec
1/2 ounce Mexican lime juice
If you want a lighter Margarita:
1.5 ounces tequila
3/4 ounce Triple Sec
1/2 to 1 ounce Mexican lime juice
Combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
You might strain the mixture or pour it into a salt-rimmed margarita glass.
To get the salt to stick to the glass pour fine salt on a plate, then run a lime wedge around the lip of a Margarita glass and lightly press it against the salt.
You may use Cointreau, Grand Marnier, Mandarin Napoleon, or Midori instead of Triple Sec.
If you want a strong agave flavor use a Blanco tequila.
For a milder taste use Reposado.
If you are giving a party use Gold as it costs less.
Bloody Mary
1-1/2 ounces tequila
One glass of tomato juice Add salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste Garnish with a celery stalk and lemon slice.
Blanco 100% agave is great for a Bloody Mary.
It is the drink of choice the morning after a hangover.
You may try Clamato instead of tomato juice, or half-and-half.
Some people squeeze half a lemon into the mix to add flavor.
Dynamite
1 ounce Reposado tequila
1 ounce Blanco tequila
1 ounce Clamato juice
Pour contents into glass.
Add one-half teaspoon of Tabasco sauce and the juice of one half lime.
Mix contents and add crushed ice, and salt to taste.
Petroleo
1-1/2 ounces tequila
1 ounce Mexican lime juice
1 serrano chile halved from top to bottom
Pour the tequila and lime juice into a small glass.
Add salt, pepper, Maggi sauce and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
Mix ingredients. Add one half of the serrano chile and one or two ice cubes.
Use Blanco or Reposado tequila.
Tequila Sour
1-1/2 onces tequila
2 ounces lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar
Blend ingredients with crushed ice and strain into sour glass.
Garnish with a red cherry.
Use Añejo for a better taste.
Tequila Sunrise
2 measures of ice-cold tequila
4 measures of orange juice
1 measure of grenadine (or less if you prefer)
Pour orange juice in a highball glass and then pour the ice-cold tequila slowly tilting the glass to get a layered effect.
Trickle grenadine on top.
You should get a perfect sunrise.
Garnish stirrer, straw and cherry-orange.
Sangrita Chaser
Sangrita is a typical spicy and refreshing non-alcoholic chaser made of fresh orange juice, grenadine and chile piquín or a mix of different chiles. Sangrita is the Spanish diminutive for "blood" and is served in a "caballito". It is used as a chaser after a shot of tequila.
4 cups of freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 to 1/2 cup of fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon of grenadine syrup tablespoon salt
Chile piquín to taste: try first 1/4 tablespoon
As with any recipe you may vary the quantities for each ingredient to suit your taste.
Some people add fresh tomato juice to increase the red coloration of the Sangrita.
You may try chile de arbol or Tabasco sauce.
You may also add a bit of black ground pepper.
About the Author
Don Tekela has been in the search of the perfect Tequila for the past 20 years. He currently resides in Mexico, the tequila capital of the world.
Local Bartenders Could Be a Valuable Resource for Mixed Drink Recipes
There are many different people who have varied drinking tastes. Some of these people like to have their drinks neat - without anything added to the original drink. There are others who like drinking cocktails or shots. There are still others who love to drink mixed drinks. For all of these people - other than the neat drinkers - many of these drinks require some types of steps to be followed for the drink to look like it should and taste like it should. Therefore for all of these including the mixed drink recipes need to be followed.
Now some of these mixed drink recipes are very simple. Others tend to be a little bit more complicated. Regardless of the level of complexity you do need to follow the steps otherwise you can end up with another type of mixed drink. There is also a chance that your mixed drink may not taste as delicious as you want it.
There are many ways that you can see the various mixed drink recipes. They can be taken from drink recipe books, the internet and even from your local bartender. Now if you know what the various mixed drinks are it makes it much easier for you to select the mixed drink recipes that you would like to read and try making.
For the many people who just love how a certain type of drink tastes like but they really can't remember the whole name it is sometimes possible to find those mixed drink recipes if you can identify at least one or two of the ingredients that are in the mixed drink. Now don't worry if this is out of your reach also. Your local bartender should be able to help you with this problem if you can supply them with a small description of the drink or even part of the name.
Since some people like to make their mixed drinks at home, you can use various mixed drink recipe books to help you with this task. The internet with its vast store of information and knowledge is another place where you can quickly find thousands of mixed drink recipes. All that you need to do is to select the ones that you want, save the recipe and you're on your way.
In the world of alcoholic drinks you can find many great mixed drink recipes. These are all ready for you to take and create your favorite drink. You can even use these mixed drink recipes to invent completely new alcoholic drinks and enjoy the satisfaction of having your own personal mixed drink. Don't forget to write this fantastic mixed drink recipe down so that you will be able to have future drinks like this at a later date.
About the Author
Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on mixed drink recipes, visit his site at http://www.merpetsales.com/bartending/
Now some of these mixed drink recipes are very simple. Others tend to be a little bit more complicated. Regardless of the level of complexity you do need to follow the steps otherwise you can end up with another type of mixed drink. There is also a chance that your mixed drink may not taste as delicious as you want it.
There are many ways that you can see the various mixed drink recipes. They can be taken from drink recipe books, the internet and even from your local bartender. Now if you know what the various mixed drinks are it makes it much easier for you to select the mixed drink recipes that you would like to read and try making.
For the many people who just love how a certain type of drink tastes like but they really can't remember the whole name it is sometimes possible to find those mixed drink recipes if you can identify at least one or two of the ingredients that are in the mixed drink. Now don't worry if this is out of your reach also. Your local bartender should be able to help you with this problem if you can supply them with a small description of the drink or even part of the name.
Since some people like to make their mixed drinks at home, you can use various mixed drink recipe books to help you with this task. The internet with its vast store of information and knowledge is another place where you can quickly find thousands of mixed drink recipes. All that you need to do is to select the ones that you want, save the recipe and you're on your way.
In the world of alcoholic drinks you can find many great mixed drink recipes. These are all ready for you to take and create your favorite drink. You can even use these mixed drink recipes to invent completely new alcoholic drinks and enjoy the satisfaction of having your own personal mixed drink. Don't forget to write this fantastic mixed drink recipe down so that you will be able to have future drinks like this at a later date.
About the Author
Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on mixed drink recipes, visit his site at http://www.merpetsales.com/bartending/
What are Alcohol Shots really Like?
For parties, having a selection of drinks ensures that the fun and laughter won't disappear into awkward silence. There are many types of drinks that can be used to make people relax and have fun. These can include fruit juices, soft drinks, and alcoholic drinks. Of the alcoholic drinks there are some people who prefer having alcohol shots.
Now at this point you are probably wondering what the difference is between these alcohol shots and the normal alcoholic beverages. The main difference lies in the fact that not every alcoholic drink can be taken as an alcohol shot. There are certain types of alcohol that have always been used as alcohol shots.
These alcohol shots include Absinthe, Whiskey, Rum, Vodka, Tequila, Gin and many others. Now these alcohol shots are usually taken by people who have the ability to hold their liquor. As these are very potent alcoholic drinks there is a strong possibility that normal drinkers may get very badly drunk on these extremely quickly.
As we have all heard of these various alcohol shots we should take a closer look and see what these drinks are really like. Whiskey as we know is produced and distilled from grains. They are aged in oak casks to give them their distinctive taste. You will find that there are different types of whiskey and that the alcohol strength and quality for each of these is somewhat different.
We will now look at Absinthe. This interesting drink originally comes from Switzerland. Absinthe is also called la Fée Verte and it has an unusual taste of anise. This is a very highly alcoholic drink and it is distilled and flavored, which is why you will be able to taste the anise flavoring that is present.
Our next stop in alcohol shots is that of Vodka. There are many different types of Vodka available in the world and I am sure that many of you have at some point tasted a little bit of Vodka. Generally Vodka is colorless and it is distilled from grains as well. The alcohol volume in the Vodka ranges in strength from the very mild 35 % to the 70%. In most cases Vodka is used in very popular cocktails but there are some brave souls out there who like their Vodka neat.
So the next time that you go to a bar and hear someone ask for alcohol shots you will know what they are ordering. This is also a warning to you unless you have the ability to hold your liquor not to ask for alcoholic shots.
About the Author
Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on alcohol shots, visit his site at http://www.merpetsales.com/bartending/
Now at this point you are probably wondering what the difference is between these alcohol shots and the normal alcoholic beverages. The main difference lies in the fact that not every alcoholic drink can be taken as an alcohol shot. There are certain types of alcohol that have always been used as alcohol shots.
These alcohol shots include Absinthe, Whiskey, Rum, Vodka, Tequila, Gin and many others. Now these alcohol shots are usually taken by people who have the ability to hold their liquor. As these are very potent alcoholic drinks there is a strong possibility that normal drinkers may get very badly drunk on these extremely quickly.
As we have all heard of these various alcohol shots we should take a closer look and see what these drinks are really like. Whiskey as we know is produced and distilled from grains. They are aged in oak casks to give them their distinctive taste. You will find that there are different types of whiskey and that the alcohol strength and quality for each of these is somewhat different.
We will now look at Absinthe. This interesting drink originally comes from Switzerland. Absinthe is also called la Fée Verte and it has an unusual taste of anise. This is a very highly alcoholic drink and it is distilled and flavored, which is why you will be able to taste the anise flavoring that is present.
Our next stop in alcohol shots is that of Vodka. There are many different types of Vodka available in the world and I am sure that many of you have at some point tasted a little bit of Vodka. Generally Vodka is colorless and it is distilled from grains as well. The alcohol volume in the Vodka ranges in strength from the very mild 35 % to the 70%. In most cases Vodka is used in very popular cocktails but there are some brave souls out there who like their Vodka neat.
So the next time that you go to a bar and hear someone ask for alcohol shots you will know what they are ordering. This is also a warning to you unless you have the ability to hold your liquor not to ask for alcoholic shots.
About the Author
Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on alcohol shots, visit his site at http://www.merpetsales.com/bartending/
Energy Cocktails Help You Move On
Tonic fruit cocktail:
Ingredients:
a tangerine, an orange, a red grapefruit. Preparation method: use the fruit-squeezer. The energy dose includes: vitamin A, B1, C, magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc, and copper.
Healthy carrot cocktail:
Ingredients:
four carrots, some lemon, and a few leaves of mint. Preparation method: clean and wash the carrots. Put them into the squeezer with two leaves of mint. If you wish, add lemon. The energy dose includes: vitamin B1, B6, and K.
Red fruits cocktail:
Ingredients:
3.50 oz of blackberries, bilberries, and gooseberries. Preparation method: mix them and add sugar to taste. The energy dose includes: vitamin A, B1, C, D, and potassium.
Healthy cocktail:
Ingredients:
two bananas, some honey. Preparation method: mix the bananas with some water. You may add some honey after you mix the bananas. The energy dose includes: vitamin A, B, C, and E.
The delicious cocktail:
Ingredients:
two pears, four apples, and some lemon.Preparation method: cut the apples and pears into slices then put them in the squeezer. Add some lemon juice. Drink it while it`s fresh! The energy dose includes: vitamin C, B3, calcium, iron, and magnesium.
The energizing cocktail:
Ingredients:
an orange, a lemon, and two carrots. Preparation method: squeeze the carrots. Add the lemon juice, then orange juice and mix them well. The energy dose contains: vitamin A, C, B1, B3, B6, magnesium, copper, and zinc.
The revitalizing cocktail:
Ingredients:
an orange, a quarter of pineapple, and two carrots. Preparation method: cut the carrots and pineapple into slices then put them in the squeezer. Mix the juice with orange juice. The energy dose contains: A, C, B1, B6, and K.
To read the rest of this article, go to www.projectweightloss.com , an online weight loss community featuring calorie counter, BMI calculator, diet planner, workout planner and other weight loss tools. Visit www.projectweightloss.com and start losing weight today!
About the Author
Ingredients:
a tangerine, an orange, a red grapefruit. Preparation method: use the fruit-squeezer. The energy dose includes: vitamin A, B1, C, magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc, and copper.
Healthy carrot cocktail:
Ingredients:
four carrots, some lemon, and a few leaves of mint. Preparation method: clean and wash the carrots. Put them into the squeezer with two leaves of mint. If you wish, add lemon. The energy dose includes: vitamin B1, B6, and K.
Red fruits cocktail:
Ingredients:
3.50 oz of blackberries, bilberries, and gooseberries. Preparation method: mix them and add sugar to taste. The energy dose includes: vitamin A, B1, C, D, and potassium.
Healthy cocktail:
Ingredients:
two bananas, some honey. Preparation method: mix the bananas with some water. You may add some honey after you mix the bananas. The energy dose includes: vitamin A, B, C, and E.
The delicious cocktail:
Ingredients:
two pears, four apples, and some lemon.Preparation method: cut the apples and pears into slices then put them in the squeezer. Add some lemon juice. Drink it while it`s fresh! The energy dose includes: vitamin C, B3, calcium, iron, and magnesium.
The energizing cocktail:
Ingredients:
an orange, a lemon, and two carrots. Preparation method: squeeze the carrots. Add the lemon juice, then orange juice and mix them well. The energy dose contains: vitamin A, C, B1, B3, B6, magnesium, copper, and zinc.
The revitalizing cocktail:
Ingredients:
an orange, a quarter of pineapple, and two carrots. Preparation method: cut the carrots and pineapple into slices then put them in the squeezer. Mix the juice with orange juice. The energy dose contains: A, C, B1, B6, and K.
To read the rest of this article, go to www.projectweightloss.com , an online weight loss community featuring calorie counter, BMI calculator, diet planner, workout planner and other weight loss tools. Visit www.projectweightloss.com and start losing weight today!
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