Spec’sology Blog

What Are Natural Wines Last year, we wrote a blog about organic wines. While it’s easy for one to think that organic wines and natural wines are the same, there are differences and this blog is for you. This blog is also for those of you who think all wines are natural wines because they come from grapes and grapes are found in nature. So what are natural wines? While the term "natural wine" is not regulated by a specific set of rules or guidelines, it's a commonly accepted definition that natural wine is wine made with minimal intervention both

What is Sake? There’s many reasons to love Japan. The people. The delicious food. The astounding efficiency. The anime and manga. The kaijus who destroy giant buildings. But what we at Spec’s love the most about Japan is the sake. For those who haven’t experienced this unique drink, sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermenting rice. It's characterized by its pale yellow or green color, mildly sweet flavor, high alcohol content (most have about 19% ABV), and rich history that has made it the national beverage of Japan. How Is Sake Made? Like we’ve stated earlier, sake is

Is Texas Known for Alcohol? When you think of alcohol. Texas isn’t usually the first state that pops in your mind. Kentucky has its whiskey and bourbons. California has all its vineyards and wines. New York has its cider. But Texas? We’re more known for the beef that pairs with the beverage, not the drink itself. Well not anymore. Over the years, Texas has been gaining ground and slowly establishing itself as a state known for not just alcohol, but great alcohol. So Why Texas? So why has Texas decided to be a part of the world of alcohol? Well,

What is Fat Washed Bourbon? No, you read that right. Fat Washed Bourbon. The process of flavoring bourbon using fat. While fat washing does involve some science, anyone can do it with the right equipment. No need for a mixology or bartending degree. It's about extracting fat from one source and infusing its flavors into another, without introducing the fat solids. Though this may sound unusual, it actually is quite delicious and worth the investment. Since its inception in the early 2000s, a fat washed bourbon has gained popularity in the bourbon community. It enhances the flavors and texture found

What is A Bahama Mama? Summer is in full swing. The sun is out, the good vibes are in, and you’re dreaming of a tropical island getaway. Enter The Bahama Mama This delicious, tropical-flavored cocktail is perfect for this time of year. It combines bright, fruity flavors with ultra-smooth rum. Best of all, it’s an easy-to-make drink that quenches your thirst and whisks you away to a tropical island paradise. How to Make a Bahama Mama? Ingredients 1 Cup of Crushed Ice 1 oz. of Orange Juice 1 oz. of Pineapple Juice ½ oz. of Rum ½ oz. of Coconut-Flavored

Does Alcohol Expire? We all have that one. That one bottle or can that’s been with us for quite some time. Perhaps it’s a bottle of Champagne you bought for a bridal shower that no one got to. Or the last can from a limited-edition beer that’s been chilling in the fridge. Or maybe it’s that the bourbon you’re waiting for just the right reason to open. Whichever one is your one, you can’t help but to wonder about its shelf life. So it leads us to the big question. Does alcohol expire? And the answer is yes. Yes it

What is Rum? Summer Lovin’, Having Some Rummmmm. Ok, those may not be the exact lyrics used in the 1978 movie, Grease, but the facts remain the same. Summer is the perfect time to sip on the rum you love. And while we know that rum is made from the fermentation of molasses and sugarcane juice, it is also important to know that different areas create different rums. The Black River, integral to Jamaica's rum history, provides the limestone-filtered water used to craft their rum. And recently, there has been a battle brewing between two Caribbean islands to see which

Are There Any 4th of July Cocktails? The Fourth of July. America’s birthday. A date where 56 of our forefathers signed their John Hancocks on The Declaration of Independence to give us the unalienable right to the pursuit of happiness. Now, there are plenty of ways you can pursue happiness. A long road trip to see all of what this country has to offer. Chilling and grilling by the pool. You could even do what the Founding Fathers did and toast with a glass of Madeira wine. But we’ve found this pursuit is much easier, and much more enjoyable with

When you think of summer, you think of refreshing drinks, and what could be more revitalizing than a watermelon cocktail? This juicy fruit not only quenches your thirst but also pairs perfectly with a variety of spirits, creating vibrant and absolutely delicious concoctions. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, lounging by the pool, or just looking to cool off, these watermelon cocktails are sure to delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the best watermelon cocktails that will make your summer unforgettable. What Are The Best Watermelon Cocktails with Tequila? Watermelon Margarita with Lime Juice This cocktail is a refreshing

Tequila is cherished around the world and has a rich history that sets it apart from other alcoholic beverages. Originating from Mexico, tequila has grown from a local favorite to a worldwide sensation, celebrated for its unique flavor profiles and versatility. But what exactly is tequila made from, and what differentiates its various types such as Añejo, Reposado, and others? In today’s blog, join us as we dive into the fascinating world of tequila. What is Tequila? Tequila is a distilled beverage made from the blue agave plant, or Agave tequilana. Specifically, tequila is made from blue weber agave. This

Rosé wine, with its captivating hues ranging from pale pink to vibrant magenta, is a beloved choice for seasoned wine drinkers and newbies, alike. Whether you're new to the world of rosé or have a few delicious vintages at home, this guide will help you understand the nuances of this delightful wine, its production, and provide some top-notch recommendations to elevate your next gathering or quiet evening. SHOP THE PRODUCTS What is Rosé Wine? Rosé wine is made from red wine grapes but has a shorter maceration period than red wine, which results in a distinct pink color. The maceration

You’ve purchased a fine bottle of whiskey – what a treat! The only thing that could make it better is buying two, one to enjoy presently and another to save for a special occasion or perhaps start a collection. As whiskey continues to gain popularity among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike, understanding the nuances of proper storage and care for whisky bottles becomes essential. Whether you plan to uncork your bottle in the future or consider selling it as a collector's item, maintaining its condition is of the utmost concern. In this blog post, we’ll address a few of the