Michelada

Beer, Entertain, Finer Foods, Pairings
“Now that we’ve got a solid base recipe to play with, why stop? There are a number of things you can add on your favorite michelada to put it over the top!” If you’re still reading after the first Michelada post (https://specsonline.com/blog/beer/beer-snacks-belgian-strong-golden-2/), it’s safe to say you’re open to adding a little more than extra to your beer. Well, in the spirit of not “leaving well enough alone”, we’re not stopping at a good “basic” michelada. Why sho... Read More

An insider guide to your next cider for June!

Beer, Beer Reviews, Entertain, Pairings
By Zach Dehghanpoor Bishop Cider Company The Dark Cide Black Currant Cider Bishop Cider Company,The Dark Cide Black Currant Cider After years of enjoying the hops-mania that’s been surging in the beer community, cider is coming in as a real game changer and palette cleanser. Gluten free, dry and sweet, and so, so easy to drink – the cider side of craft and local beer is what Apples to Apples is here to explore! Bishop Cider Company, the Dark Cide Black Currant Cider Bursting w... Read More

Macarons and Wine: Sweet Pairing Tips

Entertain, Finer Foods, Pairings, Spec’sology Blog, Wine
As far as meringue-based sweets go, the macaron stands out as a triumph of culinary achievement. Not to be confused with the similarly spelled macaroon, a coconut-based cookie, the macaron is made with egg white, icing sugar, granulated sugar, almond powder, and food coloring. It’s typically presented as a sandwich cookie with a buttercream, jam, or ganache filling. Macarons are available in a variety of flavors. These light in weight, but heavy in sugar, cookies pair wonderfully with wine... Read More

5 Mother’s Day Brunch Wine Pairings

Spec’sology Blog, Pairings, Wine
While you don’t need an excuse to celebrate mom, Mother’s Day is a great reason to host brunch and lavish well-deserved praise upon your mom. As we all know, brunch is the perfect reason to raise a glass before noon. Sure, you could serve up a regular old mimosa, but is that really worthy of the woman who spent hours in labor and then years raising you? We didn’t think so either, and that’s why we’ve put together a list of fabulous wines that pair wonderfully with mom’s love. ... Read More

Cinco de Mayo Cocktails and Food Pairings

Spec’sology Blog, Drink Recipes, Pairings, Spirits
Everybody has margaritas on the mind this week as Cinco de Mayo is finally here! If you’re throwing a party you’ve probably got more than margaritas on your mind like food and drinks, besides margaritas, that pair with that food. Well, no need to worry your pretty little cabeza about it because we’re here to help! We’ve put together a list of common Mexican dishes and the beverages you should pair them with. This way you can stop stressing about hosting the perfect party and go b... Read More

An insider guide to your next cider!

Beer, Beer Reviews, Entertain, Pairings
By Zach Dehghanpoor Austin Eastciders Rosé Cider Austin Eastciders Rose Dry Cider When I first tasted Austin Eastciders’ Rosé Cider, I was immediately brought back to being a 5-year-old with my Persian family, eating Faloodeh, a traditional dessert made with thin vermicelli noodles, and a syrup made from sugar and rose water. If you’ve ever eaten baklava and absolutely loved it, then I recommend this cider. Typically, when you think of rosé, your first instinct might be t... Read More

5 Wine Pairings For National Shrimp Scampi Day

Entertain, Pairings, Spec’sology Blog, Wine
While we’re not entirely sure where all these National fill in the blank Day ideas come from, we certainly can’t hold it against the creators as it gives us a reason to get back on the kitchen and wow some palates! In case you lost your “National Day of” calendar, April 29th is National Shrimp Scampi Day! We can’t think of a better way to spend a day than by indulging in shrimp and garlic. When you’ve got shrimp and garlic on the mind, your next thought should be wine. But which o... Read More

Belgian Strong Golden

Beer, Entertain, Pairings
“The Belgian family of strong golden styles is an absolute favorite of mine to share with friends, especially at dinner. Most are light and crisp with a champagne-like effervescence that plays beautifully alongside just about any dish with lighter flavors. This time of year, with our proximity to the Gulf, I especially enjoy this style with fish” – Joey Williams Pairing beer and food is still something very novel to many people, but if you take the approach of pairing flavors, drink... Read More

6 Easter Spring Wines with Pairing Options

Entertain, Pairings, Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Easter dinner brings about the questions of what wine to pair with ham, or which one goes with lamb, or what pairs with both? Instead of trying to pair with the meal, what about pairing with the season? Thankfully it’s Spring, and that means Rosé is arriving fresh from the fields with its juicy zing that pairs perfectly well with ham and lamb, as well as lighter opening dishes. But it’s not just Rosé that can enliven your Easter dinner, as you’ll see we’ve provided several options t... Read More
Pinot Noir Food Pairings

Pinot Noir Food Pairings

Spec’sology Blog, Pairings

Everyone has a favorite party guest; somebody with a friendly, and approachable attitude, who can get along with anybody—no matter the circumstance or setting. In the wine world—Pinot Noir is that gregarious buddy.

Pinot Noir is one of the most versatile and food-friendly red wines. The rich flavor profile of strawberry, cherry and raspberry with warm and spicy undertones create a mouthwatering mix that complements a wide variety of dishes. In honor of #PinotNoirDay, explore the best pinot ... Read More

Cheesecake Wine Pairing

Celebrate National Cheesecake Day With Cheesecake Wine Pairings

Spec’sology Blog, Pairings
Looking for the perfect cheesecake wine pairing? We bring you a selection of the best wines to drink with cheesecake, no matter the topping. Plain Cheesecake Wine Pairing You’ll want something more subdued. Go with a sweet Riesling, or a late harvest Sauvignon Blanc. Honey Cheesecake Wine Pairing For a honey cheesecake, try a wine that has a touch of sweetness and plenty of acidity; Try a Moscato, or a dry Rosé. Our pick to pair with this Cheesecake is the Harvest Acres Sweet Gold... Read More
Unexpected Wine Pairings

Unexpected Wine Pairings that Work Deliciously

Spec’sology Blog, Pairings

Don’t you just love surprises? Seeing all your friends and family gathered in your den to pop out and all yell ‘Happy Birthday’ is a great feeling. But what’s even greater is discovering that your favorite wine pairs exceptionally well with a food that you never would have expected. Don’t be a slave to the ordinary; expand your palate with these unusual and surprising wine pairings.
French Fries and Champagne
July 13th marks National French Fry Day, so naturally we had to find a pair... Read More