Robert Nist

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean red wine should stay off the table! The wine world produces some great reds for when the heat goes up, so here are some recommendations from the New and Old World from the experts at Spec’s! Brutocao Pinot Noir Pinot Noir is one of the lighter reds, and this example from from Mendocino, California is described by the Spec’s aficionados as “really lovely and subtle.” It is medium-bodied and extremely soft, with flavors of cola and red fruit, and ... Read More

Home kegerator customers are a much-appreciated and growing segment of Spec’s customers. With the recent craft beer explosion, the trend towards home kegs is expected to continue. Been considering your own keg cooler? Here’s Spec’s comprehensive guide to home keg service! Choosing a kegerator When choosing a keg cooler there are two primary options: purpose-built kegerators and conversion kits for household refrigerators. Pre-made keg boxes are generally more expensive, but have the aesth... Read More

Swimming season is underway, and what better cocktail than a classic crushed ice libation? Spec’s has all the ingredients for blended beverages that’ll taste great and keep you cool by the pool. Here are a few crunchy cocktail recipes that’ll level up your swimsuit soiree. To crush ice, Spec’s recommends a blender or food processor. Each method results in slightly different amounts, so while guidelines are provided; experimentation is encouraged to find the best amount of ice for your pe... Read More

Summer is just starting, and it’s time to revise the roster of go-to beers for the season! Summer calls for refreshing, light brews that stand up to the heat. This list from the beer aficionados at Spec’s covers the full range of hoppiness from least to most hoppy, and from unusual twists on classic brews to the tops in traditional beers, but only goes from light to medium body beers – no heaviness in these brews! Shiner Ruby Redbird – Brewed with Ruby Red grapefruit and ginger, the ... Read More

Summer has arrived in Texas, and Spec’s has some great wine picks to kick off your seasonal wine list! The wine aficionados at Spec’s have a few recommendations for white and rose wines to start summer off right – all at prices that’ll keep you sipping all summer! Agriverde Solàrea Cerasuolo is a unique Italian rosé that comes highly recommended by the Spec’s experts. This wine spends twice the amount of time in the skins than most rosés, making for rich color and a fuller-bodied ro... Read More

Memorial Day is May 27th, and Spec’s has everything but the grill for a perfect picnic! It’s a great occasion to test out some unique cocktails and impress your guests. Here are some refreshing recipes that’ll celebrate Memorial Day in a major way! Mint Tart 1 grapefruit, segmented, juice reserved 20 mint leaves 4 teaspoons agave nectar juice of 1 lime ¼ cup + 2 tbsp reserved grapefruit juice 3 oz rum sparkling water Muddle 4 grapefruit segments, mint, agave nectar, and lime juice in a c... Read More

When it comes to food pairings, the beer department has some of the most economical and delicious options at Spec’s. Nowhere is this more apparent than at dessert. Beer can be a great dessert pairing choice when you’re shopping on a budget, so here are a few suggestions for indulgences that complement the end of the meal and your appetite for savings. Lindemans Lambic beers are a great choice for an unusual libation. These dense, fruit-based beers are best paired with heavier desserts, s... Read More