Blog - Payless Liquors

August 11, 2023

Creative Ways to Repurpose Your Wine Cork Collection

As wine enthusiasts, many of us have accumulated a collection of wine corks over the years. Instead of letting them gather dust in a drawer, why not get creative and find new ways to repurpose them? In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun and innovative ideas for giving your wine corks a second life. From DIY crafts to practical household items, you’ll discover that there’s so much more you can do with those humble wine corks.

1. Create a Cork Memo Board: Turn your wine corks into a stylish and functional memo board. All you need is a picture frame, some glue, and your collection of corks. Arrange the corks within the frame, securing them with glue, and voila! You now have an eye-catching memo board to display notes, photos, or reminders.

2. Craft Unique Coasters: Protect your surfaces in style by crafting custom wine cork coasters. Simply slice the corks into thin rounds and arrange them in a desired pattern on a flat surface. Glue them together, let dry, and you’ll have a set of unique coasters that will spark conversation during your next gathering.

3. Personalize Wine Glass Charms: Add a touch of charm to your wine glasses with personalized wine glass charms made from corks. Slice the corks horizontally, add decorative beads or initials, and attach a small loop of twine or ribbon. These charms not only keep track of your glass but also provide a rustic and personalized touch to any wine tasting event or party.

4. Design a DIY Bulletin Board: Transform an ordinary bulletin board into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece by covering it with wine corks. Cut the corks in half lengthwise, then glue them onto the surface of the bulletin board until it’s completely covered. This unique and visually appealing bulletin board will add a touch of wine-inspired elegance to your home or office space.

5. Crafty Kitchen Accessories: Get creative in the kitchen by repurposing wine corks into useful accessories. Slice a cork lengthwise and attach it to the end of a kitchen knife as a makeshift blade cover. Alternatively, glue corks together to create a trivet for hot pots and pans or use them as handles for homemade cheese knives.

Don’t let your wine corks go to waste! With a little imagination and creativity, you can transform them into beautiful and functional items for your home. These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg – there are countless ways to repurpose wine corks and unleash your inner DIY enthusiast. So, the next time you uncork a bottle of wine, remember that the cork itself holds endless possibilities beyond its original purpose. Give your wine corks a new lease on life and enjoy the satisfaction of turning something ordinary into something extraordinary.

August 4, 2023

Bottoms Up! Celebrate International Beer Day with a Cold One

Are you a beer lover? Then get ready to raise a glass and toast to International Beer Day! Celebrated every first Friday of August, International Beer Day is a day to honor and appreciate the world’s most popular alcoholic beverage. From crisp lagers to rich stouts, there’s a beer out there for everyone to enjoy. So let’s dive into the history of International Beer Day and explore some fun ways to celebrate.

The first International Beer Day was celebrated in Santa Cruz, California, in 2007. Since then, it has spread globally and is now celebrated in over 200 cities across 80 countries. Although the day aims to promote the enjoyment and responsible consumption of beer, it also acts as a platform to support local breweries and the craft beer industry.

To help celebrate this momentous day, why not plan a beer-tasting with friends? Gather a variety of beers from around the world and encourage everyone to share their favorites. You never know, you may discover a new top pick.

Another way to mark International Beer Day is to take a trip to your local brewery. Many breweries offer tasting tours, where you can learn about the brewing process and sample some of their signature brews.

If you’re looking for ways to give back while enjoying your beer, consider supporting a charitable organization that helps the brewing industry. Many breweries team up with local charities to raise funds and support the community, so you can feel good while enjoying your drink.

No International Beer Day celebration would be complete without indulging in beer-inspired food. From beer-battered fish and chips to chicken cooked in beer, there are countless recipes out there that incorporate beer into their ingredients. Why not try cooking with beer and add some extra flavor to your dishes?

International Beer Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a cold one and celebrate the long history of this beloved drink. Whether you prefer a beer tasting with friends, a brewery tour, or a good old-fashioned pub crawl, there are plenty of fun ways to mark the occasion. So cheers to International Beer Day, bottoms up, and enjoy your favorite brew!

July 28, 2023

Cheers to Summer with These Refreshing Margarita Recipes

Summer calls for beach days, pool parties, and of course, delicious cocktails that perfectly quench your thirst on hot days. Margaritas are a top choice for many cocktail lovers because of their refreshing taste and versatility. With endless variations, you can never get enough of this classic drink. In this post, we present different margarita recipes that you can try this summer and spice up your cocktail game.

1. Classic Margarita: This one is a staple in any cocktail lineup. It’s easy to make and the perfect drink for a lazy summer afternoon. Mix 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and ½ oz triple sec in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with a lime wheel, and you’ve got yourself a classic margarita.

2. Watermelon Margarita: This one screams summer with its refreshing twist. Blend 2 cups of watermelon chunks with 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz triple sec. Pour the mixture into a salt-rimmed glass and garnish with a watermelon wedge. This is the perfect drink for a poolside party.

3. Spicy Margarita: If you like a little heat in your drinks, this one’s for you. Muddle 3 slices of jalapeno in a shaker, then add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and ½ oz agave syrup. Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with a jalapeno slice, and you’re ready to experience a fiery fusion.

4. Mango Margarita: This tropical drink is perfect for those who prefer a sweeter taste. Blend 2 cups of mango chunks with 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz triple sec. Pour the mixture into a salt-rimmed glass and garnish with a mango slice. This fruity drink will transport you to a beach paradise.

5. Margarita Slush: This frozen margarita variation is perfect for those hot summer days. In a blender, mix 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz triple sec with ice until you reach a slush consistency. Pour into a salt-rimmed glass and garnish with a lime wedge. This one will take you on a cool and refreshing ride.

There’s something about margaritas that just screams summer. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or a fruity twist, there’s a margarita out there for everyone. With these recipes, you can make your own margarita bar and impress your guests at your next summer party. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to switch things up. Remember, the best part about cocktails is the endless possibilities. So, grab your blender, step out into the sun, and cheers to a great summer season.

July 21, 2023

The Sweetest Pairing of the Summer: Alcohol and Ice Cream

Summer calls for sipping on a refreshing drink while indulging in a mouthwatering dessert. And nothing beats the perfect combination of alcohol and ice cream. The hot weather might make you long for the refreshing sweetness of ice cream, but why settle for just that? Pairing ice cream with alcohol adds a new dimension of flavor to your taste buds. Whether you’re alone at home or hosting a party, every scoop and sip of this duo will make your summer more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll give you the ultimate guide to alcohol and ice cream pairing this summer.

Firstly, let’s talk about the classic match – vanilla ice cream and whiskey. The subtle vanilla flavor of the ice cream complements the smoky flavor of whiskey. Add some caramel or chocolate syrup to this combo, and you’ve hit the jackpot. If you’re adventurous, try pairing your whiskey with butter pecan ice cream. The smooth whiskey flavor works harmoniously with the nutty and buttery notes of the ice cream.

For those who prefer a sweeter pairing, how about Moscato and strawberry ice cream? The light and fruity bubbles of Moscato effortlessly blend with the creamy texture of the ice cream, while the tangy sweetness of strawberries creates the perfect balance. Take this combo to the next level by topping your dessert with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of basil leaves.

If you’re in the mood for something exotic, try pairing your rum with mango sorbet. The bold, tropical notes of rum elevate the tangy mango flavor of the sorbet, making it a refreshing and satisfying treat. If you’re not a big fan of sorbet, swap it with coconut ice cream. The creamy, tropical taste of the ice cream fuses with the Caribbean flavors of rum for a perfect beachy vibe.

Feeling nostalgic? Root beer float is a classic combination that never gets old. The sweet creamy vanilla ice cream floats together with the fizzy root beer, making it a match made in heaven. For an adult take on this childhood favorite, add a shot of Kahlua to your float. The coffee liqueur brings a new depth of flavor and richness, making this pairing a sophisticated and playful indulgence.

Last but not least, we have champagne and sorbet. This combination is perfect for those summer evenings when you want to celebrate the good life. The bubbles of champagne refresh your palate while the sorbet adds a fruity and zesty twist. Choose your favorite flavor of sorbet and pour a dash of champagne over it. You’ll be feeling fancy and indulgent in no time.

There you have it – the ultimate guide to alcohol and ice cream pairing this summer. Whether you’re a whiskey lover, a wine connoisseur, or a rum enthusiast, there’s a perfect dessert pairing waiting for you. Experiment with different flavor combinations and create your own summer menu of boozy desserts. What’s not to love? Ice cream and alcohol – a sweet combination that’s always a win. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your favorite scoop and a glass, and let the summer fun begin!

July 14, 2023

Shake it Up with Fruit-Themed Cocktails!

It’s summertime, and what better way to relax than with a fruity cocktail in hand! The world of mixology is constantly evolving, and one of the latest trends is using fresh fruit to create colorful and refreshing drinks. From classic recipes with a twist to totally new concoctions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive in and shake up our summer routine with some delicious fruit-themed cocktails!

1. Classic Margarita with a Tropical Twist

Start with a traditional margarita recipe, which calls for tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. Then, add a splash of pineapple or mango juice and blend it together over ice. The result is a fruity, tangy twist on a beloved classic, perfect for sipping in the sun.

2. Bellini with Fresh Berries

The Bellini is a simple and elegant cocktail made with prosecco and peach puree. For a healthier option, skip the sugary puree and use fresh berries instead! Muddle raspberries or strawberries in the bottom of your glass and pour prosecco on top. This drink is light, bubbly, and full of flavor.

3. Watermelon Margarita

Looking for a refreshing and fruity cocktail? Whip up a watermelon margarita! Blend fresh watermelon chunks with tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and ice. Add a little sugar or honey if you like it sweeter. The watermelon provides a hydrating and refreshing aspect to this drink that is perfect for a hot summer day.

4. Grapefruit Gimlet

A classic gimlet is made with gin and lime juice. For a little extra zing, try adding fresh grapefruit juice and a sprig of rosemary. The grapefruit’s bitterness balances the sweetness of lime and the sharpness of gin.

5. Acai Berry Sangria

Sangria is a fruity cocktail staple and can be made in many different variations. For a unique and healthy twist, use acai berry juice instead of red wine or liquor. Pour it into a pitcher with chopped fresh fruit, such as berries, apples, and citrus slices. Let it sit overnight in the fridge so the fruit can infuse into the juice. This refreshing and flavorful sangria is perfect for serving at a party or enjoying on a warm summer day.

Adding fresh fruit to your cocktails is a fun and delicious way to shake things up. Whether you prefer sweet and fruity or tangy and refreshing, there’s a fruit-inspired cocktail out there for you to enjoy. Impress your friends at your next gathering with one of these fruity concoctions or treat yourself to a solo happy hour. Cheers to summer and cheers to fruity cocktails!