Rum, vodka, and tequila are all popular for cocktail parties, especially casual ones. You can upscale an event by focusing on the ever-popular martini, whether in classic style or updated for the 21^st century with flavored vodkas and other additions. It used to be that a martini was gin (or maybe vodka), vermouth, and an olive. Now, it’s anything you can fit into a martini glass! With the continuing popularity of flavored rums and vodkas in general, you can turn even an ordinary drink spectacular with no trouble, making your drink choices immediately more interesting. Choose a flavor that complements your mixer, or one that offers an interesting contrast. 

 

It’s mid-January, we’re back on track after the holidays, and with one major New Year’s resolution to share with you – get out of the wine rut.

 

Ever find that happening to you? You’re drinking the same wine because either you don’t know what to try next, or you can’t imagine that there’s anything you’d like as much, so it’s easier to keep drinking what you’ve been drinking – maybe trying a new label, but not a new varietal. After all, if you like Super Tuscans, why bother trying a structured Cabernet or anything that isn’t a red.

 

The thing is, when you do try somethin ...