Author name: Michael Messimer

Sometimes the most valuable inspiration comes from the places closest to our hearts. One could certainly say that Lesley Gracie does this for a living as both the Master Distiller for Hendrick’s Gin and an avid gardener. As someone who began her career in chemistry working “on the development of pain relief drugs… to help treat people with severe arthritis,” Gracie shifted gears in 1988 towards spirits (Gin Cooperative, 2019). Eventually, that path led her to working alongside David Stewart, a master blender for William Grant & Sons who wanted to create a gin that both included a British identity and conjured imagery of a day in the garden.

Article by Allie, Liquor Department Associate An immensely popular cocktail that’s iconically served in a hammered copper mug, the Moscow Mule combines vodka and ginger beer with a squeeze of lime, often with a lime wedge on the rim. Between the citrusy bite, spicy ginger and a buzz of carbonation, it’s a go-to for a

Article by Allie, Liquor Department Associate Alex Thomas believes that whiskey makers and blenders are caretakers, protectors of something sacred; like the one who carefully “prepares the grave,” she wished to design a blend which was “something different, something approachable” because “The Sexton is about living life well” (O’Connell, 2019).  After a start with Old

Article by Allie, Liquor Department Associate To tell the story of this distillery would mean diving back into the mid-nineteenth century, where a slave named Nathan “Nearest” Green acted as distiller for a local country preacher’s small side business in Lincoln County, Tennessee. Green’s incredible skill, combined with the use of a unique maple sugar

With the 14th of February fast approaching, guys and gals alike might be scratching their heads in consternation at how to create a wonderful evening for friends (or that special someone) in the wake of a global pandemic.  Yep, it’s still a thing, unfortunately…  But there’s good news, folks — pre-made cocktails not only exist,

Written by Marina, Liquor Department Associate   Established in 1703, Mount Gay Barbados Rum is handcrafted in St. Lucy, Barbados. One of the oldest rum distilleries in the world, Mount Gay offers a range of different rums, all created with the finest local ingredients that Barbados has to offer. They distill their rums using artisanal,