Anisette Vs. Sambuca Difference (Plus Pastis & More)

July 2nd is National Anisette Day, celebrating a clear, anise-flavored liqueur that became popular in Italy in the 1800s. It is usually made from aniseed, although it can also be made from fennel, licorice, star anise, or a blend. Before commercial production, people made their own liqueurs (and made their own wine, brewed their own…
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JULY 4th: Pousse-Café, A Layered Drink

[1] A pousse cafe for July 4th. The recipe is below (photo © Molecular Recipes). [2] Use Campari for the red layer (photo © Campari Group). [3] Coconut rum provides the white layer (photo © Pernod Ricard). [3] Get great blue color from blue Curaçao (photo © De Kuyper).   For July 4th food fun,…
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FATHER’S DAY GIFTS: Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin & Jumbo Ice Cubes

[1] Don’t let the summery flowers and lavender label give the wrong impression: This floral gin is a delight for anyone who loves gin botanicals (photo courtesy Hendrick’s Gin). [2] These ice cube trays make jumbo ice cubes, twice the size of standard cubes (photo courtesy Eparé).   Two Father’s Day gifts we’re giving this…
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FOOD FUN: Rainbow Sangria With Colored Ice Cubes

What’s new in sangria? This clever idea from I|O Godfrey, a rooftop lounge at The Godfrey Hotel in Chicago. (In fact, it’s Chicago’s largest indoor/outdoor rooftop.) An array of colored ice cubes is made from fresh fruit juices. After they’re piled high in a tall glass, a blend of Moscato and vodka is poured from…
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PRODUCT: Rum’s The Word At Appleton Estates

How about a great bottle of rum for Father’s Day? Take a look at Appleton Estate rums, a line so fine that the brand doesn’t even make an unaged white/silver rum*. Most Americans have only known about rum since Prohibition, but in the Caribbean it’s been around since the 17th century. It’s light and cheerful,…
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