I was first introduced to absinthe accidentally, through an invitation from a friend to attend a gathering of the Wormwood Society. Lucid was already making its way onto shelves in America, but the real absinthe drinkers were already well-stocked with their own selections of the best from across Europe. I can’t remember exactly which absinthes we tasted that night, but I walked away mildly smitten with the Green Fairy. Continue reading “Absinthe Frappé”

This recipe is so simple that it almost feels like cheating. Two ingredients, no shaking—really, how much easier does it get? Not much, and yet this is one of our favorite winter warmers. It is even Doctor Cocktail-approved, given that the good doctor himself gave us the formula and the impetus to try this delightful beverage over a year ago. Continue reading “Snowshoe Drink Recipe”

A home social gathering hasn’t reached its potential until everyone has been served copious amounts of their favorite drinks from the resident amateur bartender. But if you struggle to recall the ingredients of those potent drinks you concocted in college and now possess substandard drink-making skills, you may need to consult a source or two (or 50) in order to transform yourself into a more capable host. The following blogs provide an abundance of information that will help you create your own Cocktails & Dreams. Continue reading “50 Best Blogs for the Home Bartender”

We got a lot of response to this post, asking for more specifics on what tools and spirits we recommend to stock a new home bar, so here goes…

What do you need for a home bar? Notice I used the word need here – there is a lot of stuff you might want, but fortunately, there are only a few things you really need in a home bar. With a few basic barware supplies, some liquor, mixers, and flavorings even the most budget-conscious imbiber can have an efficient and functional home bar. The basics: Continue reading “Home Bar Basics 101”

Hangovers are not limited to New Year’s but it is not unusual to party hard on New Year’s Eve and wake up starting the new year in an aching state. Hangover symptoms usually occur the next day, although some people get headaches and feel queasy after just a few drinks. Continue reading “Don’t Fret About Ringing in the New Year with a Hangover”

We all remember Austin parties that were lavishly thrown, including decorations and entertainment, but the food wasn’t up to par. Those events left guests with a bad taste in their mouths, literally (har har). Continue reading “Tips for Hiring an Austin Caterer”