Blog - Payless Liquors

October 20, 2023

Unleashing the Best Halloween Cocktails

Halloween is just around the corner and it’s never too early to start planning the perfect costume, decorations, and of course, Halloween cocktails! Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just looking for a festive cocktail to sip on, Payless Liquors has got you covered. We’re excited to share some of our favorite Halloween cocktails that are sure to give you and your guests a spooky good time.

1) Witches Brew – This eerie cocktail is perfect for a Halloween party. To make it, mix 2 oz of Orange juice in one glass with 1 oz Vodka, 1 oz Triple Sec, 1 oz Blue Curacao, and 1 oz Sour Mix. You can add crushed ice and a dash of grenadine for that creepy and blood-like effect.

2) Zombie Plague – A classic Halloween cocktail that you can make in just minutes. Fill a glass with ice and add 1 oz light rum, 1 oz white rum, 1 oz lime juice, 1 oz pineapple juice, and 1 oz grapefruit juice. Add a dash of grenadine for that bloody touch. Stir well and garnish with a slice of pineapple for an undead tropical vibe.

3) Black Widow – This spooky cocktail is a perfect combination of sweet and sour. Mix 2 oz black vodka, 1 oz lime juice, 1 oz blackberry liqueur, and ½ oz simple syrup in a shaker. Add ice and shake well before straining into a chilled glass. Garnish with blackberries for that extra spooky touch.

4) Ghostly Galactic – This unique cocktail will spark up the Halloween party with its glowing effect. Mix 2 oz gin with 1 oz Midori, 1 oz Triple Sec, and fresh lemon juice in a glass filled with ice. Add tonic water and watch as the cocktail glows in the dark. Add a ghostly touch by garnishing with a cotton candy cloud.

5) Bloody Eyeball – Elevate your Halloween cocktail game with this spooky cocktail. Start by mixing 2 oz gin, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz triple sec in a shaker. Once shaken, pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice and garnish with a squeeze of strawberry puree for that bloody eyeball effect, leaving a ‘vein’ of strawberry puree.

Here are just a few of our favorite Halloween cocktails that Payless Liquors has to offer. With these drinks, you will have all the guests freaking out this Halloween. Don’t forget, practice safe drinking habits, and always drink responsibly, especially when you’re wearing a spooky costume. Check out Payless Liquors for all your upcoming Halloween cocktail needs and let us know which spooky spirit you preferred the most. Happy Haunting!

October 13, 2023

Wine Pairings for a Spooktacular Halloween Dinner

With Halloween quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to start planning your spooktacular dinner party. Don’t forget the most important element of any dinner party – the wine! Choosing the right wine can enhance the flavors of your dinner and turn your spooky evening into a sophisticated soirée. At Payless Liquors, we have a wide selection of wines that will complement any Halloween-themed dish. Here are some of our favorite wine pairings for your Halloween dinner.

1. Cabernet Sauvignon for Steak or Ribs
Nothing says Halloween like a hearty meal, and there’s no better wine pairing for your steak or ribs than a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins in the wine complement the fat in the meat and bring out the flavors of your meal. We recommend trying a bottle of The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon – it has a rich, smoky taste that will perfectly complement your Halloween feast.

2. Pinot Noir for Pizza
Pizza is a classic dinner option for Halloween night, but don’t let its casualness fool you – this dish can be elevated by the right wine pairing. The acidic and fruity notes of a Pinot Noir work well with tomato sauce and melted cheese. Try a bottle of La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir – it’s smooth and easy to drink, making it a great option for a night of entertaining.

3. Chardonnay for Creamy Soups or Seafood
If you’re in the mood for a warm bowl of soup or some fresh seafood, a glass of Chardonnay is the perfect complement. The buttery and oaky notes in the Chardonnay bring out the creaminess of the soup or the sweetness of the seafood. We recommend trying a bottle of Butter Chardonnay – its smooth and creamy texture makes it the perfect wine pairing for these cozy Halloween dishes.

4. Malbec for Spicy Foods
Halloween night is all about the spice! Whether you’re making spicy chili or hot wings, a bottle of Malbec will help cool down the heat. The fruity notes in the Malbec help balance out the spice and can make your meal taste even better. We suggest trying a bottle of Alamos Malbec – its fruity and smoky notes complement the heat of your spicy Halloween dishes perfectly.

5. Prosecco for Dessert
A sweet dessert is the perfect way to end your spooktacular night, and a glass of bubbly Prosecco will make it even better. The fizziness of the Prosecco complements the sweetness of your dessert and its low alcohol content makes it a great option for after-dinner drinking. Try a bottle of Ruffino Prosecco – its citrus and floral notes make it the perfect dessert wine.

There you have it – our top wine recommendations for your Halloween dinner party. At Payless Liquors, we have a wide selection of wines for every occasion and every budget. Come visit us and our knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect wine pairing for your spooky evening. Cheers to a spooktacular Halloween!

October 6, 2023

Wine Adventures: Exploring Unconventional Styles and Regions

Wine is a beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries, with its production dating back to ancient times. Despite its long existence, wine still holds many mysteries, especially when it comes to unconventional styles and regions. If you’re someone who has always stuck to familiar wine varieties, it may be time to explore some new and unconventional options. And what better way to do so than by visiting Payless Liquor Stores? So, grab your glasses and let’s embark on an exciting journey of Wine Adventures.

1. Why explore unconventional wine styles and regions?

The world of wine is diverse and fascinating, with countless styles and regions to discover. However, many people tend to stick to what they know, fearing that they will not like the taste of other unfamiliar varieties. But exploring new and unconventional wine styles and regions can be a rewarding experience that broadens your palate and exposes you to new flavors and aromas. It also helps you to appreciate the complexities and diverse cultural traditions of the wine world.

2. What are some unconventional wine styles and regions to try?

There are many unconventional wine styles and regions to explore, but we’ve highlighted a few to give you some inspiration. For example, Orange wine is a relatively new style in the wine world that uses white wine grapes and allows the skin contact to give it a unique flavor, texture, and color. It originates from regions such as Italy, Georgia, and Slovenia.

Another unconventional style to try is Pet Nat, a younger, bubblier, and less expensive alternative to Champagne, known for its fruity and floral aromas. You can find Pet Nat varieties from around the world, including France, Italy, and Australia.

When it comes to unconventional wine regions, you can’t go wrong with exploring the wines of the Balkans. This region has been producing wine for over 2000 years and is known for its unique flavors and aromas, many of which are not commonly found in Western wines. Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia are excellent places to start.

3. Why choose Payless Liquor Stores?

Payless Liquor Stores is a great place to explore unconventional wine styles and regions. They offer an extensive selection of wines, including many unconventional options that you won’t find at your local supermarket. Their knowledgeable staff can also guide you in your wine adventures, providing recommendations based on your taste preferences and budget.

4. Helpful Tips

When exploring unconventional wine styles and regions, it’s essential to keep an open mind and trust your taste buds. Start with small samples of various styles and regions to explore what you like and what you don’t. Wine tastings are a great way to discover new wines, as they allow you to try many varieties in one sitting and get a sense of the flavor profile. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the wine’s origin, production process, and cultural context.

If you’ve never ventured beyond your tried-and-true wine styles and regions, exploring unconventional options is a great way to broaden your wine knowledge and experience new flavors and aromas. Payless Liquor Stores is an excellent place to start, with its wide selection of wine varieties and knowledgeable staff. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a new favorite variety or region that you never knew existed. So, let’s raise a glass to Wine Adventures!

September 29, 2023

Vintage Cocktails To Make You Feel Nostalgic

Cocktails are the perfect way to unwind after a long day or to celebrate a special occasion. But sometimes, the newest cocktails on the menu just don’t do it for us. If you’re looking for something classic, then vintage cocktails are the way to go. These drinks have been around for decades, and while they may not be trending right now, they are still as delicious as ever. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best vintage cocktails to make you feel nostalgic.

1. The Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that dates back to the early 1900s. It’s a perfect balance of sweetness, bitterness, and herbaceousness. The cocktail contains only three ingredients: gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. To make the drink, simply combine one part gin, one part Campari, and one part sweet vermouth in a glass. Add ice and stir until chilled. Garnish with a slice of orange. This cocktail is perfect for those who like a balanced and bitter taste.

2. Gimlet
If you’re a fan of gin, then you’ll love the Gimlet. This classic cocktail dates back to the British Navy in the 1800s. To make the Gimlet, mix 2 1/2 ounces of gin and 1/2 ounce of lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. This cocktail is tart and refreshing and perfect for a summer day or to unwind after a long day at work.

3. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is the quintessential whiskey cocktail. It’s been around since the late 1800s and is still popular today. To make the cocktail, muddle a sugar cube and a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a glass. Add ice and 2 ounces of whiskey to the glass and stir well. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. This cocktail is perfect for those who love whiskey and want a simple yet delicious cocktail.

4. French 75
The French 75 is a light and refreshing cocktail that dates back to World War I. It’s the perfect mix of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. To make the cocktail, mix 2 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist. This cocktail is perfect for a special occasion or to impress your guests at a party.

5. Martinez
The Martinez is a classic gin cocktail that dates back to the 1860s. It’s a perfect mix of gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters. To make the cocktail, mix 2 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, 1 teaspoon of maraschino liqueur, and a dash of orange bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a complex and flavorful drink.

Vintage cocktails may not be as trendy as the newest cocktails on the block, but they are classic and delicious. These five cocktails are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the world of vintage cocktails. So when you’re looking for something to drink, try one of these classics and transport yourself back in time. Cheers!

September 22, 2023

Spirits from Around the World: A Global Tasting Journey

If you are looking to expand your palate and embark on a journey that takes you through the various spirits around the world, then you are in the right place. Spirits are beyond just a drink; it’s a culture, tradition, and history that speaks volumes about a particular place. They are an integral part of social, religious, and medicinal ceremonies around the world. Every spirit has a unique flavor, aroma, and story to tell. From the tangy Caipirinha of Brazil to the smoky Islay Single Malt Scotch Whiskey of Scotland, every spirit has its signature taste. This blog post is here to introduce you to some of the famous spirits around the world and let you engage in a fantastic tasting journey.

Are you ready to explore some signature flavors & spirits from around the world? Let’s start with Gin, a clear spirit that originated in the Netherlands in the 17th century. Gin’s main flavor is juniper berries, and it’s been used for centuries as a medicinal drink. Today, Gin comes in an array of botanical flavors, including lavender, rosemary, citrus, and herbs. Drink it neat or as a cocktail, Gin is perfect for summer evenings.

Moving on to Japan, we have Sake, which is made from fermented rice. Sake is often served warm and has a dry, delicate flavor. Sake is the national beverage of Japan and is commonly used in religious ceremonies. It’s similar to wine and can be paired with sushi, seafood, or grilled meats.

From Japan, let’s jump to Mexico, the birthplace of Tequila. Tequila is made from the blue agave plant and must be produced in specific regions of Mexico to bear the name Tequila. Tequila comes in various categories, including blanco, reposado, and Añejo. The flavor is potent, with a hint of smokiness and is best enjoyed in a margarita or shot with salt and lemon.

Now we head to Scotland to explore their most popular spirit, Scotch. Scotch whiskey is made from malted barley and distilled in oak casks to give it a smoky, peaty flavor. The flavor profiles of Scotch whiskey vary depending on the region; the Islay single malt is the smokiest Scotch with a hint of seaweed, while the Highland single malt has a sweeter, fruity taste.

Finally, let’s talk about Rum, which is commonly associated with the Caribbean. Rum is made from sugarcane and comes in different styles, including white, dark, and spiced. The Caribbean produces some of the world’s best rums, with each island boasting signature blends, creating diverse flavor profiles. Rum is perfect for sipping on the rocks or in a fruity cocktail.

Spirits are the epitome of culture, tradition, and history. Each drink tells a unique story and offers a distinctive flavor. Exploring spirits around the world can be an exciting and informative journey. Gin from the Netherlands, Sake from Japan, Tequila from Mexico, Scotch from Scotland, and Rum from the Caribbean are just a few of the famous spirits that we’ve explored today. The best way to find your favorite spirit is to experience the flavors of the world, one glass at a time. So grab a bottle or create a tasting flight, invite your friends & family, and let’s raise a glass to the spirits from around the world. Cheers!