Cheers! – A Party in My Pantry

Brandy Old Fashioned

Did you know that the state of Wisconsin consumes more than half the world’s brandy? As such, it’s only natural that their most famous drink is a twist on a classic cocktail – the Old Fashioned in Wisconsin does not have whiskey, but brandy. While the reasons are disputed (perhaps more available during prohibition?), Wisconsinites…

J Bar Margarita

I have always been a fan of margaritas but am always hesitant when ordering them out at a restaurant as so many places use bottled mixes that consists mainly of corn syrup. The best margaritas are made from scratch when you squeeze fresh limes and make your own mix. My brother, Jay, has mastered many…

Hot Apple Bourbon Cider

When the snow is falling, there is nothing better than sitting by the blazing fire (including socially distanced bonfires) while sipping on hot cider in the presence of family & friends. That is unless it’s spiked with bourbon! Even here in south Florida, it was 47 this morning. I think that justifies this hot cocktail….

The Michigan Hummer

Some drinks just take you back in time to a special place. For me, a blend of ice cream, rum & Kahlúa transports me to our family cottage in northern Michigan. ‘The Hummer’, as dubbed by it’s original creator in downstate MI, is the signature cocktail at our favorite restaurant, The Grey Gables. I recall…

The Art of Sabering a Champagne Bottle

Some celebrations just require that extra pop… Saber that Champagne Bottle! When a champagne bottle is struck at the right point with a sharp edge, the collar of the bottle will break-off with a clean cut and the cork still be completely surrounded by the glass. How does this work? A champagne bottle has roughly…

Watermelon Basil Vodka Slushies

Sometimes a vodka soda is just not going to cut it. Step up your cocktail game with this frozen concoction that reflects the flavors of a sunny, summer afternoon. Ingredients 1/2 Cup Vodka 1 Cup Simple Syrup Half a Watermelon, puréed 1 Lime, juice only 10 Basil leaves, chopped 4 Cups Ice Cut the watermelon into chunks, and place…

The Princess Glass

Because Every DIVA Should Have a Princess Glass This is Granny. As her first grandchild, and first girl… she had all brothers and all sons, we have developed a special bond over the years. She is a very special lady, and our relationship means the world to me. This particular story takes place a couple…

Saketini

When splurging on a flavorful meal, it’s important not to neglect your beverage. While wine is always a good go-to, some dishes just require a different twist….like a twisted cucumber garnish in a sake cocktail. And well, why not add vodka? This Saketini is a fantastic match with Asian meals, such as the Asian Sobo Noodles or…

The Classic Mimosa

So there is this restaurant that serves brunch every Sunday. The food is good. But why do people really go?? Perhaps it’s the $5 Bloody Mary’s. But really, it’s the Bottomless Mimosas. Literally. You’ll never know how many you actually had, because you will never see the bottom of your glass. While this particular mimosa…

Individual Patron Margaritas

So I recently had my big 30th Birthday. It truly was an incredible celebration as I was surrounded by so many of my amazing friends and family. Six of the DIVAs even flew down from Michigan & New York to Florida, in the middle of May mind you, to be with me. Pretty neat, huh?…

2007 Optima Zinfandel

I served my Not So Scary Paella for dinner the other night, and wanted to find a good bottle of red to serve that would compliment the spiciness of the dish. After discussing my options with my Dad, we landed on the Optima Zinfandel. I decanted it so it could open up properly before my…

St. Francis Cabernet Sauvignon

If you’re looking for a delicious cabernet sauvignon that is full in flavor, I highly recommend the St. Francis cab. It is one of my go-to wines for weekend dinners, and I’ve always had compliments on it from my guests. While the winery has it listed for $20/bottle, I have been able to find it…