summer punches

Summer Punches

August 15, 2022
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Summer is the time when we soak up the sun outdoors and enjoy extra time with loved ones—especially with fun summer celebrations. Whether you’re planning a menu for a birthday party, a retirement celebration, or a housewarming, cocktails always liven up the party. Best of all? You can use different flavors to highlight your theme inspirations. Think tiki drinks for a Hawaiian theme, or bubbly for a slightly more refined affair.

Rather than assigning bartender duties to someone who will miss out on some of the fun, mix up these punches for your festive fete. Keep the sipping fun and responsible!

Breezy “Rum” Punch

Originally consumed by sailors as an alternative to beer, the classic rum punch has been around since the 17th century. In time, it gained popularity in mainland Britain and has been enjoyed by party-goers ever since. While our recipe doesn’t include rum, it still packs a punch. This “Rum” Punch is an easy cocktail to mix up in a batch and enjoy all afternoon.

Ingredients:

  • 2 c vodka 1 750 mL bottle La Marca Prosecco
  • 2 L bottle of lemon lime soda
  • 2 c pineapple juice
  • 2 c orange juice
  • 2 c raspberries
  • 2 c sliced strawberries
  • Fresh mint

Combine all liquid ingredients and stir carefully to fully incorporate. Add fruit to the concoction, and carefully stir again. Gently ladle into cups, then top with mint garnish. Be sure to use a container with a lid, and store on ice. Sip, sip, enjoy!

Tiki Afternoon Punch

Tiki drinks gained popularity in the early 1930s, when the man best known as Donn Beach started mixing up these delightful libations. Many of these cocktails were quite elaborate, created with 10 or more ingredients. Our Tiki Afternoon Punch is a simplified version of those classic drinks.

Ingredients:

  • 1 750 mL bottle Seagrams Vodka
  • 2 c fresh lime juice
  • 3 c pineapple juice
  • Lime wheels
  • Pineapple wheels
  • Mint
  • Maraschino cherries

In a glass beverage dispenser, combine all liquid ingredients. Stir gently to fully incorporate flavors. Add in lime wheels and pineapple wheels, and gently stir. Add ice to the concoction and cover. After dispensing into cups, garnish with mint and a Maraschino cherry.

Bubbly Punch

We love a good fizzy cocktail, especially ones that take advantage of the bright, bold flavors of a classic Prosecco. Prosecco is the Italian counterpart of your classic champagne, but it features flavors that are a bit sweeter and lighter, like honeydew and pear. The bubbles are also less aggressive—instead of being in the nose, they are light and soft. We think Prosecco is the perfect complement to a fun summer punch.

Ingredients:

  • 1 750 mL bottle Ruffino Prosecco
  • 1 c Svedka Vanilla vodka
  • 3 c pineapple juice
  • 3 c seltzer water
  • 2 c pineapple wedges
  • 2 peaches, sliced thinly
  • Ice
  • Extra pineapple wedges
  • Mint

Combine all the liquid ingredients in a large, screw top jar. Stir gently to fully incorporate. Add 2 c pineapple wedges, sliced peaches and ice, and gently stir these ingredients into the liquid mixture. Close the lid. After dispensing, top the beverage with a pineapple wedge and mint. Enjoy.

Payless Liquors has everything you need to make these fantastic summer punches. Stop in and concoct your favorite!

barrel aged rum

High-End Bourbon Barrel Aged Rums — A Summer Challenge for Whiskey Purists

August 1, 2022
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Whiskey, or whisky, comes with a lot of opinions. Spirit lovers know that whiskey is a mighty beast, frequently enjoyed in the late evenings sitting around a fireplace in the dead of winter. While this may not be true for all whiskey purists, what is true is that whiskey doesn’t usually conjure up images of summer. Whiskey enthusiasts can rejoice because Bourbon Barrel Aged Rums are perfect for summer sipping.

Hear us out, everything associated with summer extravaganzas — pools, peaceful beachside homes, heaping barbecues of flavorful meat and seafood, freshly shucked corn — works better with rum. There is also no room for error. Any method you choose is acceptable, including rum on the rocks, rum punch, a fun cocktail, or even a large pour consumed neat.

Let’s look at some of the best rum out there for whiskey drinkers:

Zacapa XO

Because Zacapa rum is matured in two distinct bourbon barrels, first in bourbon barrels that had previously been uncharred, then in barrels that had been charred, it is often suggested to bourbon lovers. The whiskey tastes it formerly carried come back to life when the char level is set to #4. The flavors and fragrances of vanilla, cherry, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon all come through and increase the rum’s richness. It continues into sherry casks, which are used to mature a lot of scotch.

Diplomatico Mantuano

The Diplomatico Mantuano Extra Anejo features lots of oak and vanilla notes, as well as lovely dried fruit characteristics. Serve it straight up to convert any bourbon drinker to a rum enthusiast.

The Real McCoy 12

The Real McCoy 12-Year Aged Rum is one of the best rums you’ll ever have. The finest of both the rum and whiskey worlds are combined in this rum from Barbados without any additional sugar or coloring. The fact that it was matured for 10 years in charred American oak bourbon barrels gives it the wood and spice aromas that some of the greatest bourbons are known for. It has just enough sweetness to remind you that you’re drinking rum.

It’s perfect for bourbon drinkers who prefer a little sweetness without the syrupy mouthfeel of a mass-produced beverage.

Rhum Barbancourt 8

For fans of bourbon, Rhum Barbancourt 8 Year is a fantastic rum. It has a lot of depth and funk since it is a Rhum Agricole, and the French oak barrel aging brings out the vanilla and baking

spices that bourbon lovers like from the rickhouse. Barbancourt also finishes with a pleasant, grassy taste and has enough fire to flare up the back of your palate like good rye.

Rhum Clément 10

Rhum Clément 10 Year is the ideal rum for bourbon lovers since it tastes similar to a 10-year bourbon. To replicate bourbon, it also contains a little vanilla flavor and a rich barrel aroma.

Santa Teresa 1796

This rum has flavors of bitter chocolate, almonds, and buttery biscuits in addition to being dry, smooth, and well-balanced. Santa Teresa 1796 is rich with wood and cherry aromas, making it a good choice for whiskey drinkers.

Flor de Cana Centenario 12

This top-shelf aged rum was aged in American oak barrels for 12 years. The result is a very sophisticated, oaky rum with flavors of caramel, vanilla, and honey. It’s a rum fit for a whiskey enthusiast who enjoys patient drinking.

Find Your Favorite at Payless Liquors

Whiskey drinkers needn’t throw out their brew, but rum gives them the option of a complex flavor that’s more suited for summer, especially with the higher-end Bourbon Barrel Aged Rums. Check out our full catalog of rum, and find your new favorite today

summer music festivals

Best Drinks for Enjoying Your Favorite Summer Music Festival

July 25, 2022
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Summer is synonymous with music festivals. Whether you’re attending something more bluegrass-focused or a genre with more kick, sprucing up your festival experience with libations is an important decision that you want to get right. From beer to liquor and wine, here are some pairings for your festival experience to suit the vibe.

Lightning Bug Music Festival

The Lightning Bug Music Festival brings beauty, nature, and music together in a weekend-long bluegrass extravaganza. If you’re interested in suiting the ambiance of the venue, there are a few different options you can explore:

● Whiskey. With some of bluegrass’s origins in the Appalachian Mountains, moonshine can be a great addition to your festival journey. While authentic moonshine can’t be found legally, whiskey can certainly do the trick. Maker’s Mark is an excellent option for Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. For an earthier and more complex flavor, look for our Rittenhouse Whiskey or Bulleit Rye.

● Beer. Beer is a versatile option that can be enjoyed at any time, and the right variety can complement the atmosphere of a bluegrass festival. Abita’s Andygator features a light and crisp mouthfeel and grassy tasting notes. Saison’s are great seasonal choices for your festival needs. Snag a Saison Dupont to really capture those end-of-summer vibes.

● Cider. If you’re looking for something a little sweeter, give the cider a try. Ace Apple Cider features a clean finish and dark honey notes, while Crispin’s The Saint shows off a sweeter finish with just a touch of tartness.

Riot Fest

Riot Fest is another area favorite with a nostalgic lineup as well as up-and-comers. This year’s lineup promises to be a riot, so you want the drinks to go with the fun. Try these options for your Riot Fest experience:

● Vodka. Vodka is a great choice due to its versatility and fairly neutral flavor. You can mix it with just about anything to your taste, whether that’s juice or something with carbonation, and you can enjoy it responsibly all day long. Try our Indiana Vodka Honey Lemon for an interesting twist or stick with your favorite brand.

● Tequila. Nothing amps up a shindig like tequila. From a traditional Margarita to the bright flavors of a Paloma, nothing screams fun quite like tequila. Whether you’re a reposado lover or prefer the more aged Anejo tequilas, Payless Liquors has something for everyone. Try the Cazadores reposado or stick to Patron in a variety of ages and flavors.

● Ready-to-drink cocktails. Cocktails are excellent, but a cocktail that’s already prepared is even better. With perfect serving sizes, and perfect pours every time, ready-made cocktails are the perfect endnote to any music festival. Bols Ready to Enjoy Cocktail Tubes are not only tasty but also conveniently shaped for transport. They maximize flavor while minimizing space. On the Rocks Premium Cocktails are another great option. Carefully curated cocktails made by mixologists, On the Rocks are ready for your glass.

Get Ready for Summer Festivals

While many festivals don’t allow outside food or beverages, nothing stops you from a little pregame happy hour. If you’re camping out, you’ll want to keep your cooler ice cold and ready for your cocktails, and your body well hydrated. That means don’t forget the water and other N/A options too.

Keep your music festival experience as fun as it can be and shop Payless Liquors for all your beverage needs. We have over 20 locations around and outside of Indianapolis, and we’re ready to help you pick the perfect treats for your festival. Don’t forget our weekly ad if you need help picking out your perfect libation. Visit us today!

cocktail

What’s in Your Cooler for Summer 2022?

July 18, 2022
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To pack for a picnic, put some club sandwiches, a seasonal fruit salad, and a delectable beverage in a cooler. There are a variety of delicious picnic drink recipes to suit every taste. Whether you’re a devoted Pimm’s Cup drinker or prefer a Kaliber NA beer, a good beverage might quickly transform your picnic from average to ideal. Try an excellent bottled cocktail or pack the basic ingredients and top them off with soda water once you’re seated and ready for a drink.

Cucumber G and T

You’ll never drink another traditional gin and tonic after trying our light spin on it. Four simple ingredients are all you need to make our beautiful elderflower and cucumber G&T. First, combine Thatcher’s Elderflower Liqueur, your favorite gin, and cucumber slices in a sealable container. When you’re ready to enjoy, top off the mixture with tonic water and enjoy this summery concoction.

Whether you prefer the heavy juniper flavors of a classic gin like Beefeaters or opt for something more citrusy like Whitley Neill, gin and summer go hand in hand.

Pimm’s Cup

Pimm’s Cup is an old standard from the 1840s. With the ageless combination of citrus flavors and a bite of ginger, a Pimm’s Cup is sure to please and will complement whatever goodies are packed in your picnic basket. The classic recipe requires just 2 ounces of Pimm’s and half an ounce of fresh lemon juice and is topped off with ginger ale. We recommend packing your glass with strawberries, mint, and a slice of orange and lemon to really amp up the essence of the cocktail.

Looking to mix up a twist on a classic? Add a splash of bourbon along with the rest of the recommended ingredients for a Southern twist on this bright recipe.

Simple Sangria

The best place to enjoy a bottle of pre-mixed sangria is on a tablecloth with a hotdog. This classic summer drink is easy to prepare and wonderful to share. Enjoy a cup of red wine, Spanish brandy, and diced fruit, topped with sparkling water, to celebrate the warm evenings.

Make sure to pick the correct wine, know which mixers to use, and choose some delectable optional additions for your sangria recipe. You could consider a lighter choice for a base like the Umberto Moscato, or even opt for a bubbly such as Chandon Brut for an effervescent spin. From there, pick out a variety of fruits like peaches and apples for a more exciting mix.

Aperol Spritz

For a picnic, there is no better drink than the Aperol Spritz. The Aperol Spritz is a traditional summer beverage that is bubbly, lemony, herbaceous, mildly bitter, and gently sweet. This beverage is well-known around the world and attained its peak popularity in the 2000s. This drink has its origins in the 1950s. For years, people have been captivated by this Italian drink,

and the buzz is justified. For a less bitter taste, opt for a little less Aperol and a little more prosecco. If you’re looking for the drink to be lighter and less boozy, up the amount of club soda, and cut back a little on the prosecco and Aperol. The best thing about the Aperol Spritz is it can be customized to your taste.

Shop for Your Picnic Cocktails Today

With summertime in full swing, your picnic basket is begging for you to bring along any of these beverages. From bright citrus notes to rich and mineral tastes, each concoction will highlight different palettes. We have a wide variety of liquors for you to choose from to make your favorite picnic cocktails. Shop Payless Liquors today!

summer of rum

Summer of Rum

July 13, 2022
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It’s summertime, so everyone’s indulging a bit, even those who don’t usually drink much booze. For us, it’s the summer of rum! The warm months are the ideal time to experiment with lighter cocktails that give something sweet and colorful to sip, even if you typically have a more spirit-forward drink in hand or something just on the rocks. Rum, easier to consume than other liquor, is a staple of mixed drinks and punch-like cocktails in tiki-style glasses. Here are some suggestions for varying your summer drinks:

Blue Hawaii

Many famous drinks’ beginnings have been lost to time, yet certain libations’ legends have persisted. A few originated at hotel bars — the Singapore Sling, for instance, was created at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. A tiny bit closer to home, bartender Harry Yee made the first pour of rum, Blue Curaçao liqueur (to produce the characteristic hue), and pineapple juice (as a reference to the Hawaiian form of pineapple — sweet and golden, with minimal acidity) in 1957 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. The ideal celebratory beverage for a trip.

Sex on the Beach

This fruity cocktail may be the first alcoholic beverage many Gen Xers had in college (along with their introduction to the delights of schnapps). It was so well received that it has become a classic and is recognized as an IBA Cocktail. Sex on the Beach is traditionally made with peach schnapps, vodka, cranberry juice, and orange juice. If you are short of orange juice, the now three-component drink is known as Woo Woo. Fitness enthusiasts could compare Sex on the Beach to their favorite smoothie sans the blender.

Piña Colada

In addition to white rum and coconut cream, which give the drink its dessert-like flavor, pineapple juice also makes a cameo in this sweet classic poolside cocktail. The Piña Colada is the national cocktail of Puerto Rico, whether blended or served on the rocks, even if its beginnings on the island are still up for debate. Most people credit the Caribe Hilton Hotel — the company’s first establishment outside the continental U.S. The classic Piña Colada is perfect for poolside, summer barbeques, or even an after-dinner sip.

Mai Tai

The Mai Tai, Tahitian for “good,” was created during World War II at Trader Vic’s in Oakland, California, when soldiers returned to the United States with fascinating tales from the South Pacific. The initial inspiration for this timeless cocktail may even have started in the 1930s by Donn Beach. It has since become the signature cocktail of every tiki bar worldwide. The Mai Tai, which is still served at hotels and pool parties and is made with light and

dark rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur, symbolizes the mid-century obsession with exoticism. Adding a little pineapple juice can sweeten the deal if you’re looking to cut down on the boozy taste.

Create Your Own Summery Rum Cocktails

Summer is a great time to break out of your comfort zone and try these classic rum drinks. With more access to exciting flavors, and a desire to experiment, you could create your spin on any of these traditional rum drinks and end up with a delightful signature cocktail all your own. Payless Liquors is here to facilitate your tasting journey, whether you’re looking to try something new or stick with an old favorite. With a wide selection of rums, you can’t go wrong with your choice of light or dark rum. Check out our impressive summer inventory of rum in-store. Happy sipping!

Gardening and Cocktails: A Perfect Match

July 4, 2022
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Creating your own cocktails at home is a great way to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. This goes beyond using different liquors and mixers. If you are someone who enjoys gardening, odds are you’ve planted fresh herbs. These herbs can make a great addition to a variety of sauces, soups, and other food recipes. Herbs can also be an excellent addition to a number of different cocktails. Your home garden can have the fresh ingredients you need to kick any cocktail up a notch.

Mint

Mint is a refreshing herb that goes great in a number of different cocktails. Mint is most commonly recognized in a mojito. All you need to make a perfect mojito at home is fresh mint, simple syrup, clear rum, soda water, and lime. Just follow these steps to make a crisp and refreshing mojito:

  • Place 2 limes, 4-5 mint leaves, and ½ ounce of simple syrup into the bottom of a glass. Simple syrup is sugar and hot water combined and cooled in equal parts. You’ll muddle these ingredients together
  • Leave muddled ingredients at the bottom of the glass and fill with ice to the rim
  • Add 2.5 ounces of rum to your glass
  • Shake rum and ingredients together before adding soda water
  • Add soda water and enjoy

Mint can also be used to create the classic Kentucky Derby cocktail, a Mint Julep. You’ll need bourbon, sugar (you can use your simple syrup), mint, and crushed ice. A Pimm’s Cup is another popular summer cocktail. Pimm’s is a gin-based liqueur that is commonly topped with ginger ale and garnished with mint, cucumber, and other veggies and fruit.

Basil

Basil offers a savory-sweet flavor with a peppery edge. Basil can be added to almost any type of cocktail for an added flavor, especially for cocktails that are on the sweeter side. A popular cocktail option is the Pineapple Basil cocktail. To make this cocktail you’ll need:

  • Place 4-5 basic leaves into a glass with freshly squeezed lime.
  • Add ice to the top of the glass
  • Add 1.5 ounces of your favorite gin
  • Top with pineapple juice and club soda

You can also use basil to create a refreshing Strawberry Basil Lemonade. All you need for this cocktail is strawberry vodka, sliced strawberries, basil, and lemonade.

Rosemary

Rosemary provides piney notes that are great as an additive to the cocktail as well as a simple garnish. Rosemary does a great job of balancing out flavors. A Rosemary Greyhound is a light and refreshing drink that is perfect for summer. To create a rosemary greyhound, you’ll need:

  • Place rosemary in your cocktail glass and top with ice.
  • Add 1.5 ounces of your favorite vodka
  • Top with grapefruit juice
  • Shake and enjoy

Stop Into Payless Liquors

If you have the herbs, we have the liquor and mixes you need to create a summer cocktail that is fresh and satisfying. Herbs are a great way to experiment with your cocktails to awaken flavors you’d never suspect. You can stop into our store or use our pickup order form for on-the-go convenience.

 

It’s a Very Sangria Summer

June 27, 2022
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There is just something about unwinding with a refreshing cocktail in the hot summer months. Whether you are soaking up the sun while enjoying a good book or making a splash in the pool, the best way to cool off is with sangria. Sangria is a light and refreshing cocktail that typically includes a wine base, fresh fruit, and a mix of juices to create a drink so tasty you’ll forget it has alcohol. Sangria can be made with red or white wine. This creative cocktail is great for those who don’t consider themselves wine drinkers. When you’re looking for your next favorite summer cocktail, consider the classic yet versatile sangria.

Sangria History

It is believed that the concept of sangria originated more than 2,000 years ago when the Romans were expanding their reach and planting vineyards along the way. Water wasn’t safe to drink at the time, so it was often fortified with wine, spices, and herbs. The earliest version we are most familiar with was made in England and France in the 1800s. In the United States, sangria was popularized after its formal arrival at the 1965 World’s Fair in New York. Sangria is often associated with Spain but tends to be a more popular drink for tourists than natives.

Selecting Your Wine

The best part about making sangria is that the possibilities are truly endless. You’ll want to start by selecting your wine. A bold, fruity, dry wine is ideal, as is a crisp white wine. Since you can add numerous ingredients to a sangria, you can choose any affordable bottle of wine. Your wine selection should make up the bulk of your sangria.

Add Liquor

Many sangria recipes call for adding a bit of liquor to enhance the flavor. If you are working with red wine, brandy or rum will pair well with the flavor profiles of the wine. If you are working with white wine, a silver rum can work well, as can vodka. You should have one-part liquor to 2-3 parts of wine, depending on how strong you want your sangria to be.

Sweetener

Sangria cocktails tend to be on the sweeter side. This is achieved through the addition of fruit, as well as a sweetener. This could be brown sugar, cane sugar, or simple syrup. All you need to make simple syrup is equal parts sugar and hot water. This simple solution is a great additive to sangria, mojitos, and flavored margaritas. If you want to keep the sugar amount low, you can substitute agave nectar. You can also add citrus soda and other mixers to balance out the liquor and wine.

Fruit

You can’t go wrong when it comes to your fruit selection. Berries such as blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries make a perfect addition to a red wine sangria. Citrus fruit such as oranges and limes, as well as peaches, and grapes work well with white wine. You can even add mint when you want to add another layer of refreshment.

Experiment and Enjoy

There is no wrong way to create a sangria. If you add too much of one ingredient, you can compensate with another. Payless Liquor is a one-stop shop for all your ingredient needs. We can help you create the perfect sangria for your tastes. Stop into our store or use our convenient pickup-order form and we’ll have all you need ready to go.

New Twists on Summer’s Best Drink: Margaritas

June 20, 2022
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Margaritas are a great summer drink that is approachable to all kinds of drinkers. Margaritas are one of the most commonly ordered summer beverages. They are light, refreshing, and never go out of style. Whether you are looking for the perfect cocktail to serve at your next get-together, or you want to treat yourself after a long day working in the backyard, a margarita is always a great answer. Whether you want to keep it classic or experiment with something new, a margarita is always the perfect option for the long days of summer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making a margarita is quite simple. Margaritas are so famous that it is common to find premixed options at your local liquor store. These are great options for quick, on-the-go cocktails, but you have little control over the measurements of alcohol to mixer. If you want to make your own margaritas, ingredients you’ll typically require include:

  • Tequila
  • Triple Sec
  • Limes
  • Margarita salt
  • Ice
  • Margarita mix or your favorite type of sour
  • Optional: fruit purees, jalapenos, flavored salts, and a blender

Classic Margarita

There is nothing wrong with sticking to a great classic. If you want to make your classic margarita at home, follow these few simple steps:

  • First rim your glass with a thin layer of lime juice. Turn your glass upside down and delicately tip in your salt until you get the desired coating. There must be no other water or moisture in the glass. This can ruin your salt, or make it difficult for the salt to stick.
  • Fill with ice
  • Add 1.5 ounces of tequila
  • Add ¾ ounces of triple sec
  • Top with margarita mix
  • You can use a shaker to mix well or build the cocktail in a different glass than the one you have salted.
  • Squeeze in lime and enjoy!

If you prefer your margarita blended instead of on the rocks, you’ll want to top it off with more ice after adding your ingredients before putting it into the mixer. Mix until it blends smoothly. Be sure to remove any limes before blending.

Experiment With Flavor

Flavored margaritas allow for endless possibilities when it comes to new ways to enjoy a classic margarita. Some of the best flavors to try include:

  • Mango
  • Passion fruit
  • Blueberry
  • Watermelon
  • Strawberry

There are a variety of different purees available on the market, including all-natural or artificial. All you need to do is follow the classic margarita recipe but add in your puree. How much you add is entirely up to you. It is suggested to start at a ½ ounce and build from there. Just remember to give it a good shake before enjoying it!

Experiment With Heat

Nothing beats a spicy margarita. It creates a next-level cocktail that is sure to impress. You can use jalapeno, or habaneros if you want a kick. You can purchase extracts or use fresh peppers. You’ll follow the same classic recipe, adding your desired level of spice. You can even add your fruit purees as well. A mango-habanero margarita is a burst of flavor your taste buds are sure to love.

Get Your Ingredients Today!

Summer is the perfect time to sip on a margarita. It is sure to be a party favorite and makes for a nice, refreshing beverage to unwind with. Stop into Payless Liquors to pick up your supplies or use our pickup form and we’ll have your order ready for you.

 

 

 

 

 

A Guide to Cachaca

June 13, 2022
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Summer is the perfect time to experiment with different liquors to create the perfect drink for sipping in the hot sun. When people think of summer refreshments, cocktails made with tequila or rum tend to come to mind. This summer, however, you’ll want to add another refreshing liquor to your stock. This liquor is cachaca. Cachaca is known as the spirit of Brazil and will make a great addition to your home selection.

What Is Cachaca?

Just as tequila is unique to Mexico, cachaca can only be produced in Brazil by law. It is a spicy, sweet, and fruity clear liquor that is distilled from fermented sugarcane juice. There are over 3,000 legal distillers that produce cachaca, but it is also produced across the country by smaller, family-owned distillers. Many historians credit cachaca as Latin America’s first distilled beverage.

When cachaca first started making waves in the U.S., it was easier for marketers to sell it as a Brazilian rum. This ultimately ended up creating more confusion because cachaca’s flavor profile and distilling process are significantly different. It wasn’t until 2013 that the Brazilian and U.S. governments agreed that cachaca would be clearly labeled for what it is, dropping the word rum.

Cachaca vs. Rum

Rum is typically created using sugar by-products such as molasses. Rum is also aged in sherry or bourbon barrels. Rum is known to have a sweeter taste on the tongue, which is why it makes for a great summer cocktail base. Cachaca, on the other hand, is made with freshly-pressed sugar cane juice. Cachaca is either rested in a steel vat and bottled immediately or stored in barrels made with wood native to Brazil such as Brazil nut, zebrawood, Brazilian amburana, balsam, teak, and more. Flavor can vary, depending on the distilling process and if the cachaca was stored in wooden barrels.

Types of Cachaca

Cachaca is classified by color. There are two main types of classification:

  • Also referred to as white, silver, classic, or traditional, this type of cachaca is unaged and rested in a steel vat before bottling. If it is stored in a wooden barrel, the storing process doesn’t affect the color, and it doesn’t exceed one year.
  • This cachaca is yellow in appearance due to the aging process. To fall under this category, the cachaca has to be aged for at least one year.

How to Enjoy Cachaca

There are several different ways to enjoy cachaca. If you are purchasing a top-shelf option, these are best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. It also makes for an excellent shot when you want something simple that can go down smooth. You can also try the caipirinha, which is the country’s national drink. All you need is cachaca, lime, and sugar. If the flavor is too intense, you can add a light layer of soda water or sprite.

Give It a Try

Cachaca is a refreshing, unique liquor that is sure to impress. At Payless Liquors, we are proud to carry this brand. Ask for it by name next time you stop in or use our convenient pickup form.

 

 

 

poolside cocktail

Top Poolside Summer Cocktails

June 6, 2022
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As the temperatures begin to rise, it is about time to hit the store for new floaties, pool snacks – and yes, cocktail ingredients. There are so many different cocktail recipes to try that it can be a bit overwhelming, but in order to have the most relaxing summer possible, skip the hassle and stick with easy-to-make, few ingredient cocktail recipes that will get you spending your summer how you deserve. Check out these fun and easy recipes!

1. Blender-less Frozen Margarita

There is nothing better than sipping your favorite cocktail with your feet dangling in the water, but it is not always easy to keep your drink cold once you are relaxing in the summer rays. This is why some pre-drink prepping can be your best friend on extra sweaty days. If you are looking to enjoy an icy cold drink without the hassle of making a mess in your kitchen and dirtying up a bunch of dishware, try a blender-less frozen margarita.

Ingredients: In order to make this cocktail a reality, all you will need is 2 oz of your favorite tequila, 2 oz of a juice of your juice (strawberry and mango juice work nicely), 1oz lime juice, 1 oz agave syrup, .5 oz of water, and salt.

Recipe:

  • Step One: Use a glass to combine all of the ingredients except the salt. Stir thoroughly.
  • Step Two: Pour the drink into a sealable freezer bag, and ensure that as much air is out of the bag as possible.
  • Step Three: Place the bag in the freezer. Try to make it as flat as possible.
  • Step Four: Leave in the freezer for about 2-3 hours or until slushie. Be careful that the ingredients do not fully freeze otherwise you will not be able to pour the drink out.
  • Step Five: Rim a glass with salt and pour in the ingredients to enjoy a nice slushie beverage.

2. Vodka Spritzer

Not everyone is a fan of wine, but just because wine isn’t your go-to doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a delicious beverage with all the perks of sparkling sangria. A vodka spritzer is an easy and delicious drink perfect for the poolside.

Ingredients: All you will need is your favorite vodka, soda water, cranberry juice, simple syrup, fresh strawberries, and fresh lemons. Try experimenting with different ingredient combinations in order to find the perfect ratio for you. This also allows you to decide how much fun you would like to have.

Recipe:

  • Step One: Pre-wash and chop your strawberries and lemons. You can use however many you desire.
  • Step Two: Pour your fruit into a pitcher.
  • Step Three: Add the vodka, cranberry juice, and simple syrup into the pitcher, and let marinate with the fruit for at least 30 seconds. Don’t let marinate for longer than four hours.
  • Step Four: Add ice to a glass and pour in the mixture. Top with soda water and enjoy.

Pick Up Your Liquor Today

At Payless Liquors, we have a wide variety of liquor to satisfy all of your cocktail fancies. To get your perfect pool day started, use our online order form, or visit our store today.

Best Gifts for Father’s Day

May 31, 2022
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It’s almost time to celebrate dad, and you may be wondering just how you can let him know how special he is to you. Aside from watching football, grilling some hamburgers, and reminiscing around the bonfire, nothing says I love you like a few packs of beer or a bottle of his favorite liquor, and you’re in luck, we have just the wide range of selection to make his holiday one he will never forget.

Unsure of what he will like? Check out this list of some of our Father’s Day recommendations:

1. Founders Dirty Bastard

Looking to try something a little different with dad? Why not give Founders Dirty Bastard a go. This Michigan-crafted, scotch-style ale has scents of single malt scotch, oaky bourbon barrel, smoky sweet caramel, and roasted malts. Containing an ABV of 8.5%, you will be amazed at just how smooth this beer really is. This is no beer for the weak, making it perfect for a tough and proud guy like your dad.

2. BrewDog Hardcore IPA

For all the IPA loving dads in the world, BrewDog Hardcore IPA is a perfect Father’s Day beverage to share with dad. This Scottish beer has an ABV of 9.2% and relies heavily on the flavor of the hops and not malts. With a rusty red hue, it looks just as appealing as it tastes. With each sip, prepare to enliven your tastebuds with strong flavors of grapefruit, pine, and caramel. Neither you nor dad will have tasted anything like it, creating an experience to remember and a new shared favorite beverage.

3. Crown Royal Noble Collection

Treat dad like royalty with a spin on your favorite Canadian whiskey. Combined with a Canadian rye, a coffee still whiskey, and a bourbon style whiskey, which creates a deep gold whiskey fit for a king. With each sip, you and dad will be delighted by tastes of tart fruits, sweet caramel, and toasted grains. The flavor will linger, creating an unforgettable experience until the last sip. Dad will feel like a king when you sip this beverage with him on his special day.

4. Tanqueray London Dry Gin

If you have a more traditional dad, then don’t worry. There is nothing wrong with enjoying a refreshing gin and tonic on a hot summer day. Tanqueray London Dry Gin has been a beloved gin for decades and will really let dad know you care about his tastes. When you pick up a bottle of Tanqueray Gin, you are promising dad a day he will remember with one of his favorite people: you.

Celebrate Dad the Right Way

Our dads are some of the most important people in our lives, and they deserve to be treated right this Father’s Day. Don’t let the holiday creep up on you without thinking about what you could do to really make him smile on his special day. Before the holiday passes you by, let Payless Liquors assist you by filling out our online order form or take a trip to our store where you will find a wide variety of all your favorite liquors and beers.

Essentials for Memorial Day Weekend

May 23, 2022
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Memorial weekend is an eventful and special day for many people around the country. Typically, when we think about our ideal Memorial Day, we think about the first day out on the boat, heading out to the pools, barbeques with friends and family – and of course, lots of cold drinks.

In order to be properly prepared for the upcoming holiday, don’t wait till the last minute to decide what you will be drinking. So grab those hotdogs, whip up some hamburgers, and check out our list of recommended beers, liquors, and seltzers in order to make it a Memorial Day you are sure to remember. Bells Oberon

If you are a beer lover looking for the perfect Memorial Day beverage, pick up a pack of Bell’s Oberon. This citrusy wheat ale is a smooth and refreshing beverage that is sure to impress your senses with its rich orange color and its hoppy character. Since this beer is only available seasonally, Memorial Day is the perfect occasion to give this Michigan-made beer a try and fall in love with the taste of summer. Truly Rose and Tropical Variety Pack

Not everyone loves beer, and if you are not a beer lover, you shouldn’t feel excluded from the holiday festivities. Instead, pick up a case of our Truly Rose and Tropical Variety Pack. This pack of Truly combines all the best tastes of summer including mango, pomegranate, pineapple, passion fruit, and of course, rose. Truly makes drinking easy, because there is no finagling with complicated recipes and ingredients or figuring out the correct portion sizes and hoping it tastes good. With Truly, you know that every sip will taste like the beach.

Mermaid Lemonade

Looking for a fun cocktail to get you into the holiday spirit? Look no further than this a Mermaid Lemonade. This tasty rum cocktail is perfect for those who like to avoid a strong taste of alcohol. Presentable and photo-worthy, this drink will be perfect for your Instagram story and is a sure way to impress all of your friends.

Ingredients (Serves four):

  • 1 Cup White Rum of choice
  • ¼ Cup Blue Curacao
  • 2 cups lemonade
  • 2 cups ice
  • Maraschino cherries (as many or as few as you prefer)
  • Lemon Slices

Recipe:

  • Step One: Add approximately ¼ cup of ice to four glasses.
  • Step Two: To each glass, add ½ cup of rum and a small amount of Blue Curacao.
  • Step Three: Add another ¼ cup of ice to each drink.
  • Step Four: If you are feeling extra fancy, use an umbrella skewer and add a lemon slice with cherries to each drink and enjoy.

Visit Us Before Your Holiday

At Payless Liquors, we have all the beer, seltzer, and, liquor variety for every type of drinker. We can help you to make your holiday perfect by ensuring that you get everything you need. Get started with your holiday preparation today by filling out our online order form, or stop by our store in person and allow us to assist you.

indy 500

Ultimate Indy 500 Drink Guide

May 17, 2022
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Since the pandemic, the brickyard has not been open for business, limiting or even canceling the traditional festivities that make the Indy 500 an event that we all know and love. This year, the Indy 500 will return to its former glory, with no crowd limits and all the typical festivities.

Whether you are attending the event in person or watching it from home, it is time to start thinking about what you will be holding as you cheer on your favorite racers. With this list of fun and simple cocktails, you can get into the spirit of the race wherever you may be.

White Lady

If you are a fan of tradition and gin, the white lady is a perfect Indy 500 drink for you. First crafted by Harry McElhone in 1919, the white lady is the perfect combination of sweet and sour. Made with only three simple ingredients: gin, triple sec, and lemon juice, this drink is made for easy sipping on a hot race day.

Recipe:

Step One: Combine two ounces of gin, one ounce of triple sec, and ¾ ounce of lemon juice into a shaker with ice.

Step Two: Shake until extra cold and frothy.

Step Three: Pour into a glass with a lemon twist.

Spiked Milk

Anyone familiar with the Indy 500 knows that it is a tradition that the winner of the race, along with posing for tons of pictures and getting decorated with an elaborate flower wreath, also celebrates by drinking milk. To get into the spirit of the race, try a spiked milk cocktail and prepare to be amazed by its sweet yet refreshing taste.

Recipe: To prepare this drink. You will need to pick up a bottle of Fuzzy’s Premium Vodka. Each drink contains 1.5 ounces of vodka, ¾ of an ounce of Drambuie, 1 ounce of vanilla simple syrup, 1 ounce of cream, and 3 muddled mint leaves.

Step one: Combine all of the ingredients in a shaker, minus the mint leaves, and shake.

Step Two: Pour into a small milk jug or any other glass.

Step Three: Add the muddled mint leaves and enjoy.

Sparkling Grapefruit

Not a huge liquor fan? No problem, one of the best-tasting drinks for a hot, summer race day is a sparkling grapefruit cocktail. This drink is light and will keep you refreshed. In addition, the grapefruit juice will give you that much-needed boost of vitamin C to make sure you remain healthy all weekend long.

Recipe:

To craft this race cocktail, you will need ½ grapefruit juice, ½ Aperol spritz, basil leaves, sparkling champagne, and a grapefruit peel.

Step One: Muddle the basil leaves and throw them into a shaker with ice.

Step Two: Add the Aperol and grapefruit juice to the shaker.

Step Three: Shake consistently and add the mixture to a champagne flute. Top off with sparkling champagne and a grapefruit peel.

Plan Your Race Day with Us

At payless liquors, we have a large variety of liquors to help get the festivities started. Visit us in person or fill out our online order form.

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