Robert Nist

When Spec’s talks about whiskey, we’re not only talking about a rich tradition of distillation, we’re talking about a true cross-cultural romance –  as if whiskey were as vital to survival as water. While whiskey distillation often includes post-barrel dilution, Spec’s carries a subset of brands that can expand your exploration in the world of whiskey. Let’s examine the process of barrel-proof whiskey. Most whiskies are around 60-65% alcohol by volume (ABV) when they come out of... Read More

Here are four wines that are must-haves for this week; all are perfect for a range of different types of foods.  From aperitifs to dessert, slightly-spicy Asian food to a slice of that perfect pepperoni pizza, any of these wines will do the trick!  And, at all under-$15, you won’t hurt your wallet.  1.  Albola Pinot Grigio, 750ml, $12.99 cash This Italian Pinot Grigio is soft, slightly dry and extremely fresh.  It’s well-structured, fragrant and goes down super easy.  Great with gril... Read More

Scotch whisky evolved from a drink whose name translates to “water of life.” If Scotch whisky is the water of life, Spec’s suggests that independent Scotch bottlings may add the spice. Independent bottlings are low-yield, rare creations that produce one-of-a-kind tasting experiences. Since Spec’s strives to include independent bottlings in its Scotch selection, let’s look at how these beautiful bottlings come to be. Independent bottlers (IBs) buy casks of whisky from many distilleries.... Read More

Holiday party season is coming to Spec’s! October’s festive costume parties lead into to the food-coma-inducing Thanksgiving dinner marathon, finally finishing with the season’s-end Christmas and New Year’s free-for-alls. You’ve been invited to all the best parties, so stay on the “nice” list with a plan of action for these holiday get-togethers. The following suggestions will help you survive the holiday hubbub. October brings thoughts of Halloween, so why not have some fun wi... Read More

Spec’s wine accessory wall has something for every sort of opening occasion. While the classic corkscrew is a must-have, the twisting tool can cause complications. For those times when a corkscrew just won’t do, Spec’s suggests adding ah-so opener to your wine accessory drawer. This rabbit-eared wonder is a great tool to use on hard-to-open bottles – and good on the go. This two-pronged wine opener is the best type of cork puller for old wines with corks that have dried out. (In wine-spe... Read More

Call a rosé by any other name and it’s still a rose. But don’t pass on the “pink wine” – these rosés aren’t nearly as sweet as they look. In fact, many regions produce amazing dry rosé. Let Spec’s peel back the petals and get past the labels with our rosés from around the world. 1. Argentina is a great way to break into the world of Rosé Malbec, a bright ruby red rosé. This well-structured wine boasts lavish cherries, ripe raspberries and strawberries on the nose and on t... Read More

Spec’s large selection of wines keeps our staff on top of industry trends. Recently, traditional cork usage has caused controversy as the supply of cork may not be able to keep up with the demand for wine. Although cork is a renewable resource, preparing cork for wine closures takes several months. Even after sealing a bottle, a moldy or dry cork will ruin any wine. The possibility of a tainted cork is the reason that your server at a restaurant will smell the cork or pour a taste for you bef... Read More

The Texas Hill Country Wine Trail is the second most visited wine production region in the U.S.  – right behind the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Start at Spec’s to sample the best of the region and pick your stops on this stay-cation destination. For local enthusiasts, a trip to the Hill Country offers a more accessible experience of wine growing and production. Savvy Texas wineries throughout the state have been building tasting rooms on the 290 Wine Trail. They are growing quality variet... Read More

Forget heating or modern convenience. As far as Texans are concerned, man discovered fire for one important reason: to grill. And when it comes to catering to our most primitive needs, there’s nothing like cooking over a flame. For grilling purists, there’s nothing more natural than cooking over 100% pure charred hardwood – and for the best in flame-licked flavor, there’s no better charcoal on the market than Hasty Bake. While gas grills may be easier to use, Hasty Bake will make you... Read More