We were told that the exam would be a “closed book” test although I had no idea at the time how that would be accomplished with an online test. It turned out that setting up a laptop and phone with apps, video, audio, and scanning your room to show the proctor that you aren’t hiding crib notes or a wine expert under your desk was harder than the actual exam.
Author Archives: J Reilly
In Search Of… The Sazerac
We’ve been making the Sazerac with bourbon but history of the cocktail indicates that it began with cognac.
Revisiting Amaro with the Amaro Manhattan
Not being huge fans of vermouth, this Manhattan made with Amaro is the perfect way to for us enjoy bourbon.
What To Do With A Big Box Of Arugula
Impulse buys at the supermarket can be dangerous. Black and white cookies from the bakery, premium ice cream, or even over-priced filet mignon or lobster tails are guilt-inducing purchases. But impulse buys can be healthy choices, too. Baby arugula, fresh bright green leaves in a big 11-ounce box for only $5 had me at “hello”.Continue reading “What To Do With A Big Box Of Arugula”
In Search Of… The Basil Smash
I’ll have the bright green drink! The “Best New Cocktail” of 2008, the Gin Basil Smash.
In Search Of… The Mai Tai
In Search Of…The Mai Tai. Rum, orange curacao, orgeat, and lime = tiki heaven.
Informed Purchase or Impulse Buy
Discovering an unfamiliar grape varietal, reading about a wine region, or being intrigued by a winemaker’s philosophy is often a catalyst to trying a new wine. Uncovering a hidden gem, especially one that I can buy locally, gives me a thrill.
Going To Provence For My Birthday
Inspired by years of reading food and wine articles, to experience a many-course tasting menu like those offered at some of Manhattan’s famous restaurants such as Daniel or Jean-Georges has been an item on my must-do list for quite a while.
Tequila Tasting At Taco Caballito Tequileria
Working hard making several visits to Taco Caballito Tequileria to get through a significant portion of the tequila menu. Pour me.
Goldilocks and the Three Bourbons: Making Old Fashioned Cocktails
Making Old Fashioned cocktails with three different bourbons turned into a Goldilocks and the Three Bears kind of story. First Goldilocks muddled two orange wedges and 2 maraschino cherries way too hard. Too fruity! Next Goldilocks used an orange slice and cherries as garnish with no muddling. Not fruity at all! Finally, Goldilocks muddled gently and the Old Fashioned turned out just right, the perfect balance of fruit, bitters, and bourbon.