Spec’sology Blog - Spirits

The martini is a timeless classic. It never falls out of fashion as it is fashion. And there’s never a shortage of Bond films to remind us of its cool factor as well as to pique the interest of younger generations. Numerous theories on the cocktail’s origins exist, as do numerous versions and recipes. From gin or vodka to fruity or savory, the martini is a jack of all trades. Although, attaching “tini” to the end of a cocktail usually just means it’s served in a v-shaped glass, often called a martini glass, and has almost nothing to do with

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and nowadays that goes for liquor too! The Lone Star state has become a hotspot for up-and-coming spirits as well as the base of operations for several established Texas liquor brands. We’ll be taking a look at some of these and introducing you to a few new ones you may not have heard of yet. Best Texas Liquors Tito’s Handmade Vodka If you haven’t heard of Tito’s, you must have just gotten here so, Welcome to Texas! Tito’s Handmade Vodka is produced in Austin at Texas’ oldest legal distillery. They make it in

If you’ve got a bourbon lover on your gift list, you’re already aware of their love for the spirit. So, now is your chance to show them you get it…and hope they’ll share some of their special stash with you. Check out some of our favorite gifts for bourbon lovers from glassware to highly rated bourbons. Stanly Matte Black Flask “Retro.” “Classic.” Iconic.” “Sexy.” It doesn’t matter what you call it, all we know is that this sturdy flask has your back and never lets you down -- unless of course, it’s empty. Perfect for camping, tailgating, or anything else

It’s the time of year that we’d like to take a moment and send our love and appreciation to some of our favorite brands and products of 2022! So, without further ado… Branson Cognac Owned by award-winning musician, entrepreneur, actor and producer Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Branson Cognac represents a bespoke, exclusive and unique Cognac that showcases the highest quality of Cognac being made from the best vineyards in every bottle. Maker's Mark Private Select Beginning as fully matured Maker's Mark at cask strength, Private Selection is created by adding 10 custom wood finishing staves to each barrel. It's then

It’s Scotch Month at Spec’s and we’re celebrating in style! But first, a quick summary of what scotch is and a couple of different types. What Is Scotch? So, what needs to be in a Scotch in order to be able to call it Scotch? It must be produced, bottled, and distilled in Scotland. Must be based on barley and water and must be aged in casks for at least three years. Whole grains and other cereal can be added to the malted barley mash in order to produce different flavor varieties. Probably the most popular scotch term is single

When you think about saké you probably think about Japan and rice, and you’d be correct on both counts. Saké, the oldest known spirit in the world, is often incorrectly referred to as rice wine. Rice wine, like Western wine with grapes, is made from the fermentation of rice. While saké is indeed made from rice, it goes through a brewing process where starch is converted to alcohol much like how beer is brewed, although the ABV is substantially higher than either beer or wine. Wine typically contains an ABV between 9% and 16%, while beer is usually around 3%

Horchata is a beloved beverage with a rich history, a drink whose origins are deeply rooted in ancient traditions, and over time, it has evolved into various regional variations enjoyed worldwide. In today’s blog, we’ll explore the fascinating history of horchata, from its early beginnings to its place in contemporary cuisine. What is Horchata? Horchata is a sweet, milky drink made from various plant-based ingredients. Here are a few common types: Mexican Horchata: The most well-known in the United States, Mexican horchata is made primarily from rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. The rice is typically soaked and blended, then mixed

It may be hard to hear, much less comprehend, but not everyone is a fan of sipping straight whiskey. Personal preference aside, there will come a time when even a diehard whiskey purist must admit a whiskey cocktail is what’s called for. It could be you end up hosting a gathering where not everyone drinks straight spirits. It could be one of those lovely 104 degrees days in Texas. Or you might have ended up with a bottle of something you don’t particularly care for on its own. This is when knowing a couple of essential whiskey cocktails is key.

First appearing in Jerry Thomas’ The Bartender’s Guide in 1862, the Whiskey Sour had been around decades earlier as a way to combat scurvy in sailors. Ships would stock up on citrus fruits on shore while the sailors brought liquors like rum or whiskey on board, so they had something safe to drink during months at sea. The citrus (typically lemon) was mixed with a liquor and water to create a drink that would not only quench thirst, but also effectively prevent the onset of scurvy. Sailors spread the cocktail through port cities and it quickly became popular enough to

When it’s this hot out the only thing sweating should be your ice-cold beverage. And that’ll definitely be the case when you’re celebrating National Tequila Day with one of our highly recommended slushes in hand! Whether you’re lounging by the pool, grilling at a cookout, or just unwinding after a long hot day, these delicious frozen tequila cocktails are surprisingly easy to make with just a blender, some ice and a handful of ingredients. If slushes aren't your thing, be sure to check out our take on the best sipping tequilas for those that like to keep it simple. For

The summer’s hottest sipper is a refreshingly delightful twist on the vintage Shirley Temple - introducing the Dirty Shirley! The Shirley Temple may have been invented in the 1930s by a bartender at Chasen's, a restaurant in Beverly Hills, California, to serve then-child actress Shirley Temple. Of course, there are other claims to its origin, but we like that one best. The Shirley Temple has been a favorite drink order for kids since the 1930s, but in the hands of crafty adults, it’s being made “dirty” and wildly popular. Made with grenadine and lemon-lime soda, it has the same fruity

July is blender season at Spec’s! Nothing makes hosting easier than simply dumping ingredients into a blender and then pouring out cups of delicious sunshine to eager guests. And there isn’t an easier go-to cocktail than the classic daiquiri. Made with only 3 ingredients: rum, sugar, and lime; the daiquiri is the perfect drink to hone your bartending skills. With a few simple additions, you’ll be slinging top-shelf tropical delight in no time! Check out some of our favorite daiquiri twists recipes and get ready to kick your feet up! Honeydew Daiquiri Ingredients 3 oz. Rum 1 oz. Melon Liqueur