Too Bad to Buy: McClelland’s Budget Scotch
William Faulkner once said, “There is no such thing as bad whiskey.” This proves two things: 1. Faulkner really liked whiskey and 2. He had never tried McClelland’s Islay Single Malt Scotch. Listen, I understand being on a tight budget. Really, I do. And I…
The Bubbly Brilliance of Prosecco
Undoubtedly, when sparkling wine comes to mind, it is Champagne that gets the majority of attention and acclaim. In fact, the name ‘Champagne’ has become synonymous with effervescent wine (much to the chagrin of both producers and many informed consumers). While you’ll be hard pressed…
Satisfying Summer Beers
It’s high time to stow away the stouts and pack up the porters. The heat of summer demands a quality of refreshment that only certain beers can attain. While many people are content to shove a lime in their Coronas and call it an afternoon,…
Sipping With Smoth: The Alcoholic Din of Tactical Nuclear Penguin
I enjoy strong liquor. I enjoy beer. Yet, rarely do I get to combine these two indulgences in one beverage. One of these few occasions was when my room mate and I indulged in the outrageous, bombastic, extremely expensive and highly alcoholic Scottish concoction Tactical…
Forty Creek Copper Pot Reserve: A Rye That Deserves Gold
I was first introduced to Forty Creek when I was at the liquor store looking for a half decent rye and was short on cash. I absolutely refused to buy Canadian Club, so that didn’t leave too much else in my price range:…
Domaine des Malandes Chablis: A Crisp, Wonderful White
Wine from the northernmost region of Burgandy, called Chablis, has effectively altered my opinion of Chardonnays forever, and Domaine des Malandes is leading the charge. What comes to mind when you picture your standard California Chard? If I was to attribute human characteristics to it, I’d probably…
A Legitimate Lager: Creemore Springs
Let’s be frank: lagers have a terrible reputation. Brewery giants like Budweiser, Heineken, and MolsonCoors have driven the name of the worlds best selling type of beer into the dirt. Lagers are most often considered little more than classless session beers, meant to be purchased…
Crisp Summer Cocktails
The sun has finally reared its effulgent head, and with it comes the long awaited warmth. It’s finally time to soak in some rays and enjoy the naturally slower pace the summer brings. And what better accompanies a good tan and lounging in a lawn…
Sipping With Smoth: Conversations Over Comped Cognac
Years ago, when I was merely an untutored student in the subtleties of drinking, I went to pick up my buddy from work at a local restaurant in my hometown. Despite being only a dishwasher, my friend always raved about the food, the management and the owner…
When to Water Your Whisky: Lagavulin 16 Scotch
I am a simple man when it comes to my beverages. I take my coffee black, my cocktails cold and, above all, my spirits neat. I was taught from a young age by my Scotch-sipping mother that this fluid was to be enjoyed straight up,…