For a long time I held the narrow opinion of where good wine should come from; namely the liquor store. I've spent years turning my nose up at "homemade" versions and mostly because I had my share of lousy wines stolen from a friend's basement in my late teens. I can't be the only one who's been exposed to wine that brings tears to your eyes and burns a little on the way down. Years later when my Dad started making his own wine at a local winemaking store I gave it another …
Cranberry Mojito (aka The Sneaky Lady)
This recipe for a Cranberry Mojito has been a summer favourite around here ever since a friendly server at our local watering hole succumbed to my pleas and divulged the recipe. I share it often because I'm generous that way, plus it lets me use the word "muddle," which, and I don't care who you are - is just plain fun to say. You may want to start Googling "How do I grow mint in my garden?" because you're going to be using acres of it once you taste how refreshing this summer cocktail is. …
Pineapple Margarita
Tequila and I have a long and sordid history together. From the salt, lemon and shooter days to the present, if Tequila could talk, it would probably ruin me and a number of my friends. We broke up for awhile after the college years when the thought of even letting Tequila pass my lips would send shivers down my spine. Obviously, I was doing it wrong. Oh, keep your stink eye to yourselves responsible drinkers. I learned, via hard knocks and cold bathroom floors, that Tequila is meant to …
Bacon Vodka Caesar: A Complete Meal
Not really sure what I can say here besides, BACON! BOOZE! How about, “You’re welcome?” Yes, that sums things up nicely. Now go enjoy responsibly. Are you still here? If you’re new to the drinks world — or not Canadian — a standard Caesar is made with vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass with a piece of celery as a garnish. It’s a serving of booze and vegetables all in one. Caesars have been a favourite cocktail since the 1970s …
Thursday Night Cocktail : Cranberry Sparkler
This week’s Thursday night cocktail is light and fresh and is inspired by the idea that the key to surviving the holiday season marathon without feeling like we need a two-week stay at a detox spa, is moderation. Moderation: from the Old French word meaning thou shalt not eat all the shortbread and chocolate and Brie and get away scot-free. It’s a loose translation. We speak of moderation and secretly roll our eyes just the tiniest bit because now we're sounding …
