Spec’sology Blog

Here’s to the best Bourbons - America’s native spirit! A golden elixir that dances with history and heritage in every sip. From the traditional distilleries of Kentucky to the innovative craft producers across the country, the best Bourbons represent an exciting journey of taste and tradition. We’re about to embark on a thrilling exploration of this landscape, dissecting the elements that make the best bourbons so unique and cherished. From straight bourbons to wheated concoctions, and from single barrel selections to small batch craftsmanship, let’s raise a toast to the unforgettable essence of the best bourbons. What Makes a “Good

In a world that often associates cocktails with indulgence, finding ways to enjoy a refreshing drink without compromising your health goals can be a challenge. However, the good news is that you don't have to sacrifice flavor for a lower calorie count. In today’s blog post, we'll explore the art of crafting delicious low-calorie cocktails that allow you to savor the moment without the guilt. From mindful ingredient choices to creative recipes, we'll guide you through a journey of mixology that caters to both your taste buds and your well-being. How Do You Make a Low-Calorie Cocktail? Before diving into

#10. Long Shadows 'Feather' Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 Columbia Valley, Washington State Cash Price $69.99 SPEC’S SCORE: 95 POINTS I spent a couple of weeks tasting through hundreds of wines in Washington State this year, really diving into the diverse brilliance of the wines coming from the country's 2nd largest growing wine region. Long Shadows was created by Allen Shoup, who was at the helm of Chateau Ste. Michelle helped form the Washington State wine scene. His unwavering commitment to Washington State wines drove his personal vision of creating a winery that brought together some of the most talented winemakers in

As the clock ticks down to the eagerly awaited New Year's Eve celebration, the quest for the perfect champagne to ring in the festivities is in full swing. Contrary to popular belief, indulging in a bottle of bubbly that doesn't break the bank doesn't mean compromising on taste and quality. In today’s blog, we'll uncork the secrets to finding the best cheap champagnes that deliver on flavor and effervescence, ensuring your midnight toast is nothing short of spectacular. Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut Methode Traditionelle Cava Blend Kicking off our list is the iconic Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut. Hailing from Spain,

Bourbon enthusiasts, with their discerning palates and appreciation for the finer things in life, deserve gifts that match their refined taste. In today’s blog, we’ve compiled a curated selection of the best gifts for bourbon enthusiasts, from exceptional bottles to stylish accessories that enhance the sipping experience. Rare and Limited-Edition Bourbon: The Crown Jewel of Gifts For the bourbon connoisseur, nothing quite compares to the joy of receiving a rare and limited-edition bottle. Securing one of these bottles is like acquiring a piece of bourbon history, making it a truly unforgettable gift. These bourbons can often elevate simple cocktails and

Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes Who's Ready For Holiday Cocktails? Where has the time gone? Feels like just yesterday we were chilling and grilling by the pool while enjoying canned cocktails, now the holiday season is here?!? Guess it’s time to get all the decorations out of the garage, find that ugly sweater you can only wear this time of year, and start planning some festive get-togethers. But before you start inviting all your friends and family over, check out these recipes for holiday cocktails. They are sure to be a hit with everyone. How About Starting The Season Off

Wondering what are the best bourbons for an old fashioned? You’re in the right place. Our concise guide lists the best Bourbons for Old Fashioned, selected for their flavor impact and mixability. From the get-go, you’ll know which bottles to reach for, whether you crave depth, spice, or subtle sweetness in your cocktail. Key Takeaways Variety is the spice of life, and your Old Fashioned: There’s a whole spectrum of bourbons like Rittenhouse Rye and Woodford Reserve to add different kicks - from bold and spicy to smooth and sweet. Big ice is nice: Use large cubes or spheres for

We, at Spec’s, understand that the art of gift-giving is not just about the present itself, but the experience it brings the recipient. For the holidays this year, consider a personalized gift like a thoughtfully curated boozy gift basket. Spec’s offers custom gift baskets for all of the recipients on your holiday list and we’re here with a helpful guide to curating the perfect gift basket. Step One: Know Your Recipient The foundation of any extraordinary gift lies in understanding the recipient's preferences. Before embarking on the journey of assembling the perfect booze gift basket, take a moment to consider

As the holiday season approaches, finding the perfect gift can often be a challenge. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, what better way to celebrate than with the gift of exceptional spirits? In this gift guide, we'll explore some of the best alcohol gifts and gift sets, each carefully curated to bring joy to the connoisseur in your life. Upstate Vodka with Martini Glass Let's begin the gift guide with the pristine and smooth Upstate Vodka. Crafted with care and precision, this vodka hails from New York's picturesque Finger Lakes region, known for its crystal-clear waters and

Thanksgiving, a time for gratitude, family, and feasting. As you prepare to gather around the table and indulge in a delicious Thanksgiving meal, don’t forget the wine pairings! Finding the right wines for each course can make a significant difference in the overall experience, so we’re here to guide you through the best wines to complement your Thanksgiving feast, from appetizers to dessert. What Wines Pair Best with Thanksgiving Appetizers? 1. Let's Celebrate Moscato Kickstart your Thanksgiving celebration with a touch of effervescence. Let's Celebrate Moscato is a sparkling wine that brings a delightful balance of sweetness and lightness to

Whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a curious newcomer, finding the perfect whiskey gift can be an exciting, yet daunting task. Because whiskey lovers vary - from avid collectors to occasional drinkers - the gifts they most gravitate toward will differ in type, as well. What are the Different Types of Whiskey? Whiskey is a complex spirit, with a variety of types to suit every palate. Here are the various types of whiskey - it’s important to know what type your recipient is most drawn to before selecting a gift for them: Scotch Whisky: Hailing from Scotland, Scotch is

Tequila has been captivating the world with its unique flavors and rich history for centuries. While some might enjoy sipping it straight, others prefer it in cocktails. Regardless of how you prefer to enjoy your tequila, it's essential to understand the role of additives in tequila production. In today’s blog, we'll explore the world of additive-free tequila, diving deep into the key components and practices that can impact the flavor and quality of this beloved Mexican spirit. Where Did Tequila Originate From? To appreciate tequila, it's important to understand its origin. Tequila is distilled from the blue agave plant, which