Blog - Payless Liquors

October 24, 2025

Spooky Sips: The Best Halloween Cocktails to Serve This Season

Looking for some Halloween cocktails inspiration? This holiday is the perfect reason to get creative with your drinks. Whether you’re hosting a costume party or relaxing at home with friends, themed cocktails make the night memorable. At Payless Liquors, we know a good Halloween cocktail is more than a drink. It’s part of the show.

This guide shares easy recipes, serving tips, and ideas that help you impress your guests. All ingredients are available at your nearest Payless Liquors in Indiana.

Why Halloween Cocktails Matter

Halloween cocktails are fun and functional. They bring color and atmosphere to your party while giving guests something unique to talk about.

They fit the spooky theme with dramatic colors and garnishes.
They make any event more photogenic.
They help you feature seasonal flavors like apple, pumpkin, and cinnamon.
They create a reason to stock up on premium spirits and mixers from local stores.

Top 5 Halloween Cocktails to Try

These cocktails balance creativity with simplicity. You can serve them at parties, bars, or small get-togethers.

1. Witch’s Brew Punch

A punch bowl always works for large crowds. Mix vodka or gin, lime juice, melon liqueur, and lemon-lime soda. Add a few drops of green food coloring or use Midori for that eerie glow. Float gummy worms or a bit of dry ice for fog.

Inspo:Mix That Drink

2. Vampire’s Kiss Martini

Use vodka, raspberry liqueur, and cranberry juice for a blood-red look. Rim the glass with red sugar or drizzle grenadine along the edge so it “bleeds.” This simple drink delivers bold flavor and presentation.

3. Black Magic Margarita

Give your margarita a Halloween twist with black salt and dark color. Combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a small amount of activated charcoal or black food dye. The result is striking under dim lights.

4. Candy Corn Shot

Layer equal parts white crème de cacao, orange curaçao, and cream to mimic the classic Halloween candy. The color gradient creates instant party appeal. It’s sweet, nostalgic, and great for photos.

5. Nightmare on Bourbon Street

This batch cocktail keeps your bar moving. Mix bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, cinnamon syrup, and a splash of soda water. Serve in a glass punch bowl with orange slices and cinnamon sticks floating on top.

Inspo: The Spruce Eats

Presentation Tips

A good Halloween cocktail looks as good as it tastes. Focus on visuals that match your party theme.

Add smoke or fog using dry ice (handle safely).
Use dark or colored glassware for effect.
Rim glasses with colored sugar or black salt.
Garnish with candy eyeballs, fake spiders, or gummy worms.
Use LED ice cubes to make drinks glow.

You don’t need to overcomplicate it. A few simple touches can make your drinks stand out in every photo.

Non-Alcoholic Options

Not everyone drinks alcohol. Keep the fun going with mocktails that match your theme.

Try a Pumpkin Punch with apple cider, orange juice, ginger ale, and pumpkin puree. Or serve a Bloody Shirley with grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and cherries. Serve both in the same Halloween glassware as your cocktails so everyone feels included.

Make Payless Liquors Your Halloween Headquarters

At Payless Liquors, you’ll find everything you need to stock your bar.

Check our Weekly Ad for discounts on vodka, whiskey, tequila, and mixers.
Find your nearest store on our Locations page.

We carry both everyday staples and specialty spirits perfect for Halloween cocktails. If you’re looking for a specific brand or size, ask our staff for help. We’re happy to make recommendations! Whatever you may need, you can find right here at Payless Liquors. Stop by today to stock up for your Halloween party.

October 10, 2025

How to Read a Wine Label Like a Pro

If you’ve ever stood in front of a shelf full of wine bottles, staring at labels full of unfamiliar words, you’re not alone. Learning how to read a wine label gives you confidence. It helps you make better choices. It helps you pick wine that matches your taste and budget.

In this guide, you’ll learn to decode the most important elements on a wine label. You’ll see how wineries communicate region, grape, vintage, quality, and more. At the end, you’ll feel more confident when you browse your local store (like Payless Liquors) or recommend a bottle to a friend.

Why it matters to learn how to read a wine label

Wine labels are not just decoration. They carry essential clues about what’s inside the bottle:

You’ll learn about the grape varieties used, the region of origin, and the vintage year
You’ll see production claims (estate, reserve, organic)
You’ll know the alcohol content, volume, sulfite statements, and legal warnings
Understanding labels reduces guesswork and helps you avoid surprises

As noted by Wine Enthusiast, decoding label practices (especially Old World vs. New World) helps you interpret what the label implies about quality and style.

Front Label vs. Back Label: What each tells you

When you hold a bottle, the front label is your first view. It usually shows:

Producer or winery name
Grape (or varietal) or brand name
Region or appellation
Vintage (year)
Eye-catching design elements

The back label (or a side label) tends to carry supplemental but useful info:

Tasting notes or flavor hints
Food pairing suggestions
Bottler / importer / distributor information
Technical data (e.g. residual sugar, acidity)
Production claims (organic, biodynamic)
Legal / health warnings
Sulfite statement

Don’t skip reading the back label — sometimes it holds what matters most.

Key elements you’ll find on a wine label

Below are the main label components and what each reveals about the wine.

1. Producer / Winery Name

This is the name of the company or estate that made the wine. It’s usually in bold or prominent text. A respected producer often signals consistency and care.

Sometimes the producer is not obvious; the “brand name” might obscure who actually made or bottled the wine. In that case, look for small text that says “Produced by …” or “Bottled by …”

2. Wine Name / Brand / “Fanciful Name”

Many wines have a fanciful name (a name not tied to grape variety or region). This serves marketing. If you see a name like “Silver Crest” or “Sunset Ridge,” it might not tell you the grape. You’ll want to look elsewhere on the label for grape and origin clues.

3. Grape Variety (Varietal Labeling) or Appellation

In New World wines (U.S., Australia, etc.), labels often list the grape variety, e.g. “Cabernet Sauvignon,” “Chardonnay,” “Pinot Noir.” This tells you the dominant grape and gives you a sense of flavor.

In Old World wines (Europe), labels tend to emphasize appellation (region) over grape. The region’s rules (appellation laws) govern which grapes may be used, and so the region can imply grape. For example, a Bordeaux label might not list “Merlot” or “Cabernet Sauvignon,” but you expect those grapes.

If no grape is listed, use region + appellation knowledge to infer likely varieties.

4. Vintage (Year)

The vintage is the year the grapes were harvested. That year matters:

Good growing seasons produce better fruit, which often leads to better wine.
Some wines are meant to be consumed young; others improve with age.
Non-vintage (NV) means grapes from different years were blended. Sparkling wines often use NV to maintain style.

Be cautious: some labels might put the vintage on the back or in small type if their design is artistic.

5. Region / Appellation / Sub-region

This tells you where grapes were grown. It can be broad (e.g. “California”) or very specific (e.g. “Napa Valley, Rutherford”). The more specific the region (sub-AVAs, vineyard names), often the more the wine is expressing terroir (soil, climate, altitude).

For wines from Europe, appellation names often carry regulations about permitted grapes, yield, and aging. Labels like “AOC,” “DOCG,” or “IGT” carry legal implications about quality.

6. Alcohol by Volume (ABV)

The ABV must appear on U.S. wine labels. It shows strength. A higher ABV often suggests riper grapes, fuller body, sometimes bolder flavors. According to Food & Wine, if a wine says 12% vs 15%, expect noticeable difference.

7. Bottler / Importer / Distributor Information

This tells you who bottled or imported the wine. Especially for imported wines, this clarifies how it reached your market.

Often the label will read something like “Bottled by X Winery in …” or “Imported by …, City, State.”

8. Sulfite Statement & Legal Warnings

In the U.S., wines must include a “Contains sulfites” statement if sulfur dioxide is used. The label also includes a government health warning about alcohol consumption.

9. Technical or Supplemental Claims

These are optional but useful:

“Estate Bottled”: The winery owns the vineyard and controls the winemaking from vine to bottle
“Reserve,” “Select,” “Private Label”: These words are marketing terms in many places (not always legally defined)
Vineyard designation: Indicates fruit from a specific vineyard
Organic / biodynamic certification, sustainable practices
Residual sugar, acidity, or residual listings
Awards, scores, ratings

Be wary: some of these claims are significant, others are mostly branding.

How to read a wine label like a pro — step by step

Here’s how to parse a label in practice.

Start with the producer name
Look for a grape variety or appellation
Check the vintage year
Read region/appellation / sub-region
Note ABV (alcohol level)
Flip to the back label for tasting notes, importer, bottling, claims
Watch for marketing terms and certifications
Use your knowledge (or a wine app) to compare labels you understand to new ones

Over time, you will build a mental library of producers, regions, and styles you like. Then reading labels becomes fast and intuitive.

Examples & tips to sharpen your label reading

If a U.S. wine label says “California Chardonnay” (broad region), it’s likely entry-level. If it says “Napa Valley Chardonnay,” it’s more specific.
If a French wine label lists only the region (e.g. “Bordeaux”), with no grape variety, the grapes are implied by Bordeaux rules (e.g. Cabernet, Merlot blends).
Wines labeled “Reserve” in the U.S. or elsewhere may or may not mean extra aging or quality — treat it as a hint, not a guarantee.
Watch ABV: If you prefer lighter wines, look for labels around 12–13%.
If you see an organic or biodynamic logo, that may reflect the winery’s philosophy (but taste matters more).
Don’t get distracted by fancy designs. The information (not the artwork) is what counts.

Common pitfalls & label red flags

Labels that lack essential info (producer, region, ABV) might indicate lower transparency.
Overuse of marketing words (Reserve, Grand, Select) without other clues should be taken with skepticism.
Extremely high ABV (over, say, 15%) might mean jammy, overripe, or heavy wine.
Fancy names with no region or grape clues can make it risky unless you know the brand.
For imported bottles, check for the importer name or local bottling — it gives a clue about supply chain quality.

Understanding how to read a wine label helps you make smarter buying decisions. Each part of the label tells a story — where the grapes were grown, how the wine was made, and what you can expect in your glass. Once you know what to look for, shopping for wine becomes easier and more enjoyable.

At Payless Liquors, you’ll find a wide range of wines from trusted producers around the world. Visit one of our Indiana locations and put your new label knowledge to use. Ask our team for recommendations or explore something new with confidence.

October 3, 2025

Indiana Trivia: Strange Laws and Surprising History of Alcohol in the Hoosier State

Indiana’s relationship with alcohol is as rich and varied as its history. From early temperance movements to modern-day regulations, the Hoosier State’s liquor laws have evolved in unique ways. Join Payless Liquors as we delve into some fascinating Indiana trivia that showcases the state’s distinctive approach to alcohol.

1. The 1855 Prohibition Law: Ahead of Its Time

Long before the nationwide Prohibition era, Indiana took a bold step by enacting its own statewide prohibition in 1855. Modeled after Maine’s “Maine Law,” Indiana’s legislation banned the manufacture and sale of spirits, including beer, wine, cider, and all other fermented beverages. The law permitted alcohol sales only for medicinal, chemical, mechanical, and religious purposes and allowed the sale of “cider, wines, etc. in quantities of more than three gallons.” Indiana Historical Society

However, this progressive move was short-lived. In 1858, just three years after its enactment, the Indiana Supreme Court declared the law unconstitutional. Despite this setback, the state’s commitment to temperance continued, leading to stricter licensing requirements and penalties for alcohol-related offenses.

2. The “Drunk-o-Meter”: A Pioneering Innovation

In 1939, Indiana became the first state to enact a drunk driving law based on blood-alcohol levels. This groundbreaking legislation laid the foundation for modern DUI laws across the nation. Over the years, Indiana has continued to lead in promoting road safety, including implementing ignition interlock devices for repeat offenders and establishing a “zero tolerance” policy for drivers under 21. Indiana Legal Archive

3. The Legacy of Prohibition: Archaic Liquor Laws

Even after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, Indiana retained some unique and restrictive liquor laws. For decades, the state had “blue laws” that prohibited alcohol sales on Sundays, a tradition rooted in religious observance. It wasn’t until 2018 that Indiana lifted the Sunday alcohol sales ban, allowing carryout sales from noon to 8 p.m. Wikipedia

Additionally, Indiana is one of the few states that still prohibits the sale of cold beer in grocery and convenience stores. Only liquor stores are permitted to sell cold beer, a regulation that has puzzled many residents and visitors alike. The Saturday Evening Post

4. The Antelope Club: A Historic Venue

The Antelope Club in Indianapolis is a testament to the state’s rich social history. Founded in the 19th century, the club has been a gathering place for various social and political events. In 2017, the club made headlines when it was fined for illegally serving Yuengling beer, which had not yet been legalized for sale in Indiana. This incident highlighted the state’s evolving liquor laws and the challenges faced by establishments in navigating them. Wikipedia

5. Wonderland Amusement Park: A Cautionary Tale

In the early 20th century, Wonderland Amusement Park in Indianapolis sought to expand its offerings by adding a German beer garden. This proposal faced strong opposition from local temperance groups and residents, leading to the withdrawal of the liquor license application. Instead, the park introduced a German Village attraction. Despite these efforts, the park struggled with declining attendance and eventually ceased operations, serving as a reminder of the powerful influence of temperance movements on local businesses. Wikipedia

Fun Indiana Liquor Trivia

First Tavern License: In 1805, Indiana issued its first tavern license, charging a fee of $12. IndyStar
Sunday Alcohol Sales: Before 2018, it was illegal to purchase carryout alcohol on Sundays. Now, sales are permitted from noon to 8 p.m. Wikipedia
Cold Beer Sales: Only liquor stores can sell cold beer; grocery and convenience stores are restricted to room-temperature beer. The Saturday Evening Post
Election Day Sales: Alcohol sales were banned on Election Day until 2010 when the law was amended to allow purchases. Wikipedia

Conclusion

Indiana’s liquor laws and traditions offer a fascinating glimpse into the state’s cultural evolution. From early prohibition efforts to modern-day regulations, these laws reflect the changing attitudes and values of Hoosiers over time. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, understanding this history adds depth to the experience of enjoying Indiana’s vibrant beverage scene.

September 26, 2025

Apple vs. Pumpkin: The Fall Flavors Battle

When the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, one debate resurfaces year after year: what truly defines fall flavors — apple or pumpkin? At Payless Liquor Stores in Indiana, we’ve seen both sides of the argument pour through our shelves, and we’re here to settle the score (or at least enjoy the competition). Whether you’re sipping cider at a football game or warming up with a pumpkin-spiced cocktail, fall is the season of rich, comforting, and nostalgic tastes. Let’s dive into the battle of apple vs. pumpkin.

The Case for Apple: Crisp, Sweet, and Timeless

Apple has long been a symbol of the harvest season. From orchard-fresh cider to spiced apple cocktails, this fruit embodies everything people love about autumn. Hard ciders in particular have exploded in popularity, with both traditional dry ciders and sweeter, flavored versions winning fans across the Midwest. At Payless, local Indiana ciders fly off the shelves as soon as the first cold front hits.

Apple-flavored spirits are also on the rise. Apple whiskey and apple brandy bring a natural sweetness and warmth that’s perfect for sipping by the fire. Add to that the versatility of apple vodka in seasonal cocktails, and it’s easy to see why many customers call apple the king of fall flavors.

One reason apple stays relevant is its versatility. You can enjoy it hot (spiked cider), cold (crisp hard cider), or mixed into cocktails like an Apple Mule or an Apple Old Fashioned. The flavor pairs beautifully with cinnamon, clove, and caramel, making it a star ingredient in fall entertaining.

The Case for Pumpkin: Cozy, Creamy, and Spiced

Of course, no fall discussion is complete without pumpkin. Pumpkin spice has become a cultural phenomenon, dominating everything from lattes to candles. But when it comes to liquor, pumpkin brings a rich, spiced profile that feels tailor-made for autumn evenings.

Pumpkin ales and pumpkin-flavored beers continue to be a seasonal favorite, with craft breweries releasing limited editions that customers eagerly await each September. These drinks often feature a blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove, giving them that unmistakable fall vibe. At Payless Liquors, we stock a wide selection of pumpkin beers that customers return for year after year.

On the spirit side, pumpkin liqueurs and cream-based options shine in cocktails and desserts. A pumpkin martini made with pumpkin spice liqueur can transform your evening into a festive celebration. For those who love indulgence, pumpkin pairs well with cream, chocolate, and even coffee-based drinks.

Pumpkin represents the cozy, decadent side of fall — the flavor that turns any evening into a holiday.

Apple vs. Pumpkin: Which Wins the Fall Flavors Battle?

The truth is, there may never be a clear winner in the apple vs. pumpkin debate. Both flavors represent different aspects of autumn, and both deserve a spot in your glass this season.

Choose Apple If: You want crisp, refreshing drinks that pair with a wide range of foods. Apple shines at tailgates, bonfires, and casual gatherings.
Choose Pumpkin If: You prefer rich, spiced, and creamy indulgence. Pumpkin is perfect for holiday parties, dessert pairings, and cozy nights in.

The real secret? Don’t choose. Stock your bar with both apple and pumpkin beverages and let your guests decide which fall flavor speaks to them. At Payless Liquor Stores, we carry a wide range of both, so you never have to compromise.

Pairing Ideas to Try This Fall

Want to take your fall entertaining to the next level? Try these pairing ideas:

Apple Whiskey + Caramel Apples: A match made in fall heaven. The caramel enhances the apple’s sweetness while the whiskey adds depth.
Pumpkin Ale + Spiced Pecans: The nutty crunch complements the creamy, spiced flavor of the beer.
Hot Apple Cider + Rum: Add cinnamon sticks and serve in a mug for the perfect chilly evening drink.
Pumpkin Cream Liqueur + Coffee: A seasonal twist on your after-dinner coffee.

Why Fall Flavors Matter

Part of what makes fall so special is its flavors. They connect us to traditions, holidays, and the changing seasons. According to Food & Wine, the surge in seasonal products each autumn reflects how much consumers crave comforting and nostalgic tastes. Similarly, the team at Bon Appétit highlights how both apple and pumpkin have become staples in the American fall pantry, evolving beyond food into beverages, cocktails, and even holiday traditions.

At Payless Liquor Stores, we believe that seasonal flavors aren’t just about taste — they’re about creating memories. Whether you’re hosting friends for a football game or winding down by the fire, fall is the perfect excuse to experiment with bold, seasonal drinks.

Stop by Payless Liquor Stores This Season

Ready to stock up on fall flavors? Visit your nearest Payless Liquor Stores location in Indiana and explore our wide range of seasonal selections. From crisp apple ciders to spiced pumpkin brews, we’ve got everything you need to make this fall delicious.

So — who wins in the battle of apple vs. pumpkin? That’s up to you. But one thing is certain: with Payless Liquors, you’ll never lose when it comes to celebrating the season.

September 19, 2025

Tailgate Like a Pro: Top Drinks for Indiana Football Weekends

When autumn rolls into Indiana, two things are guaranteed: cooler weather and the return of Indiana football. Whether you’re cheering on the Indianapolis Colts, your favorite Big Ten college team, or Friday night lights at a local high school, football weekends here are more than just about the game — they’re about community, tradition, and of course, the tailgate.

At Payless Liquor Stores, we know that no tailgate is complete without the right lineup of drinks. From beer lovers to cocktail enthusiasts, everyone deserves a winning selection for their game day cooler. Here’s how to tailgate like a pro in Indiana and make your football weekends memorable.

The Classic: Beer for Every Fan

Beer and football are inseparable. In Indiana, the craft beer scene is thriving, and incorporating local brews into your tailgate is a great way to show state pride. Some local favorites worth adding to your lineup include:

Sun King Brewing (Indianapolis) – Known for their Sunlight Cream Ale and Wee Mac Scottish Ale, these beers are smooth, approachable, and perfect for an all-day football fest.
Three Floyds Brewing (Munster) – Bold choices like Zombie Dust IPA add a hoppy punch for fans who love strong flavors.
Upland Brewing (Bloomington) – Their wheat beers and sours are crowd-pleasers that pair well with classic tailgate foods.

If craft isn’t your crowd’s go-to, stocking up on traditional light beers like Bud Light, Miller Lite, or Coors ensures everyone finds something familiar in the cooler.

Want to explore Indiana’s craft beer scene further? Check out Indiana On Tap for brewery guides and events.

Whiskey Wins the Day

When temperatures dip, few drinks beat the warmth of whiskey. Whether neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, whiskey brings a little sophistication to your football tailgate.

Bourbon – A natural favorite in the Midwest, bourbon pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a tailgate staple.
Rye Whiskey – Spicier than bourbon, rye adds character to mixed drinks like a classic Manhattan or a simple whiskey ginger.
Indiana-Made Spirits – Don’t overlook local distilleries. West Fork Whiskey Co. in Indianapolis offers small-batch bourbons that bring Hoosier craftsmanship to your glass.

For easy sipping at the tailgate, consider pre-batching cocktails. A bourbon lemonade or whiskey punch can be made in advance and transported in a cooler-friendly jug.

Crowd-Pleasing Cocktails

Not everyone is a beer or whiskey fan, and that’s where cocktails score big points. With a little prep, you can whip up tailgate-friendly drinks that please the entire squad.

Bloody Marys – Perfect for early games. Garnish with bacon, olives, or even mini sliders for a hearty drink-meets-snack experience.
Margaritas – Always a hit. Pre-mix tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, then add ice when you arrive at the lot.
Spiked Cider – A fall classic. Mix apple cider with spiced rum or cinnamon whiskey for a drink that tastes like Indiana autumn in a cup.

Cocktails not only diversify your spread but also make your tailgate stand out from the rest.

Don’t Forget the Non-Alcoholic Options

Tailgating is about inclusion, and not everyone wants to drink alcohol. Keep plenty of bottled water, soft drinks, and non-alcoholic beers or mocktails available. Brands like Heineken 0.0 or Athletic Brewing offer beer-like flavor without the alcohol.

This also helps pace your group throughout the day, especially if you’re starting early and planning for a long game night.

Pairing Drinks with Classic Football Foods

Of course, the best tailgates in Indiana don’t stop at drinks — they’re also about the food. Pairing beverages with snacks elevates the whole experience:

Burgers and Brats – Pair with lagers or light ales.
Buffalo Wings – IPAs and wheat beers cut through the spice.
Chili – Rich stouts or bourbon cocktails balance the bold flavors.
Tailgate Desserts (cookies, brownies, or sweet corn pudding) – Pair with spiked cider or a dessert wine.

The right combinations make both your drinks and food shine, creating the perfect football weekend vibe.

Pro Tips for Indiana Football Tailgating

Pack Smart – Bring plenty of ice, coolers, and reusable cups. Don’t forget bottle openers!
Stay Legal & Safe – Always check tailgate policies at stadiums or campuses. Many schools and pro venues have specific rules about open containers.
Local Loyalty – When possible, support Indiana brands. Whether it’s a local craft beer or regional whiskey, you’ll impress your guests while keeping it Hoosier-proud.

For detailed guidance on responsible drinking and tailgating safety, you can visit NCAA’s official alcohol guidelines.

Final Whistle

Indiana football weekends are more than just games; they’re rituals of food, fun, and fellowship. By stocking your tailgate with the right mix of beer, whiskey, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options, you’ll be the MVP of any parking lot or backyard gathering.

Next time you’re gearing up for a big game, stop by your local Payless Liquor Store. With an unmatched selection of beer, wine, and spirits — including plenty of Indiana-made favorites — we’ve got everything you need to tailgate like a pro.

See what we’re up to!