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The Top 10 Most Expensive and Exquisite Spirits in 2024

The Top 10 Most Expensive and Exquisite Spirits in 2024

The allure of a fine spirit is as old as time itself and is one that transcends mere intoxication into the realms of history, culture, and the ultimate levels of luxury. With 2024 granting no respite to those seeking the finest experiences, we unveil the top 10 most expensive and exquisite spirits that a connoisseur with an unlimited budget might have on their radar.

1. The Macallan Fine & Rare Collection

Whisky enthusiasts everywhere dream of owning a bottle from The Macallan’s Fine & Rare Collection. Resurrecting bottles from as far back as 1926, each whisky is a piece of history, carefully crafted and preserved. With only one bottle of the 1926 Macallan Fine & Rare in existence, a previous auction fetched over $1.2 million, making it one of the most expensive whiskies in the world.

2. Louis XIII Cognac Magnum

Striving for perfection, Louis XIII crafts its Cognac through a process that involves four generations of cellar masters. The Louis XIII Cognac Magnum represents not just the blend inside but the crystal decanter itself, designed by artisans from the House of Baccarat. It has been known to retail for upwards of $18,000 for a single bottle.

3. Ember Collectible Whisky

The Ember range of whiskies presents itself as a symbol of Scottish heritage and craftsmanship, with a single bottle priced at an eye-watering $59,800. The spirit itself is as exclusive as the price tag, with Ember only producing a few bottles a year, each adorned with 24-carat gold and natural obsidian, making it a true collector’s item.

4. Dalmore 62 Single Highland Malt Scotch

Another whisky that takes a page from history with its youngest component aged for 62 years, Dalmore 62 Single Highland Malt Scotch is not just about aging; it’s about the stories these years can tell. Only 12 bottles were released, and they often grace auctions with estimated prices surpassing $200,000 per bottle.

5. Armand de Brignac Dynastie Collection

Indulge in the opulence of the Armand de Brignac Dynastie Collection, a trio of stunning champagne bottles encapsulated in their own gift cases. This collection is a true symbol of luxury and rarity, with only one set released per year worldwide, with a price tag exceeding $300,000.

6. Billionaire Vodka

For those who like their spirits to make a bold statement, there is Billionaire Vodka. Encased in diamond-studded crystal, this high-end Russian vodka is filtered through ice and Nordic Birch charcoal, and as the name suggests, is a favorite among those with a billionaire’s palate, with bottles retailing at an estimated $3.7 million.

7. The Balvenie Peated Cask 30-Year-Old

The Balvenie’s Peated Cask range, and especially the 30-Year-Old, has drawn the attention of single malt aficionados. Known for its complex sweetness and rich peat-smoke flavors, a bottle of this exclusive whisky might cost around $7,500 or more, but its quality justifies the price for those who appreciate the dram and the craft behind it.

8. Quintessence YO Puerto Rican Rum

Quintessence YO Puerto Rican Rum has made waves as an exceptionally high-priced and high-quality rum, fetching prices of over $1,400 per bottle. Aged for an impressive 20 years, it comes with a blend of rums that produce a deep, flavorful profile that wouldn’t be out of place among the other elite spirits on this list.

9. Glenfiddich Janet Sheed Roberts Reserve 1955

Glenfiddich’s Janet Sheed Roberts Reserve 1955 is a truly unique single malt, crafted in honor of the distillery’s longest-serving ambassador in Scotland. Aged 55 years, each of the only 11 bottles produced were sold via auction, commanding prices upwards of $94,000, making it a rare and prestigious spirit.

10. The Patrón en Lalique: Serie 1

Combining the artistry of fine tequila and the sophistication of crystal, The Patrón en Lalique: Serie 1 was a collector’s dream when it was released. The decanter, created by Lalique’s master artisans, encases a diamond-studded stopper, and only 500 bottles were made, each selling for more than $7,500.

The world of spirits is a place where craftsmanship, heritage, and taste converge to offer not just a drink, but an experience. For those looking to open their wallets to the thrilling (and often intoxicating) adventure of luxury spirits, these top 10 selections are as good as it gets. Each bottle tells a story, and for a hefty price, it could be a story you take home with you. Contact Payless Liquor Stores to see if we have one of these expensive and exquisite spirits in stock!

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!

Demystifying the World of Tequila: From Blanco to Anejo

Tequila is a beloved spirit, known for its distinct flavor and ability to bring people together. However, with so many different types and variations available, it can be challenging to navigate the world of tequila. This blog post aims to demystify the world of tequila by breaking down the different types of tequila and what they mean, allowing you to make an informed decision next time you’re shopping for this delicious liquor.

First on the list is Blanco Tequila, which is a clear, un-aged form of tequila. Blanco, also known as silver or white, is the purest tequila and retains the strong, potent flavor of agave. This type of tequila is commonly used in mixed drinks, margaritas, and other cocktails because of its strong taste and flexibility. The Blanco Tequila is bottled and shipped almost immediately upon distillation. When you purchase a bottle of Blanco Tequila, you can expect a sharp, citrusy flavor and a smooth finish.

Next up is Reposado Tequila. Reposado, meaning “rested,” is tequila that has been aged for as long as 364 days in oak barrels or casks, allowing it to take on a more subtle flavor. This creates a lovely balance between the robustness of Blanco Tequila and the richness of Añejo Tequila. The Reposado Tequila boasts a slightly darker color than Blanco, with a mellowed-out flavor that still highlights the agave.

Third is Anejo Tequila, which is an aged kind of tequila, often aged for up to 3 years in small oak barrels. Since the Añejo undergoes this long maturation process, it has a darker color, spicy notes, and a smoother finish than the other two types of Tequilas. An exquisite sipping tequila, Añejo Tequila is best poured neat or on the rocks, due to its complement of matured flavors.

In fourth place, we have Extra Anejo Tequila, which is a newly added type of tequila within the last two decades. Aged for approximately 3 to 5 years (or more) in small oak barrels, this tequila has the most subtle agave notes on the palate due to being in the barrel for so long that it takes on an almost bourbon-like flavor. Extra Añejo Tequila is the most expensive kind of tequila due to the length of time it takes to produce and the high demand for this premium spirit.

Finally, we come to a recent addition to the tequila family, Mezcal. Although it looks and tastes similar to tequila, the difference is significant, with mezcal being made from different varieties of agave and using more traditional production methods, compared to tequila. The smokiness of Mezcal sets it apart from other tequilas in terms of flavor, which comes from cooking the agave in underground ovens, unlike tequila’s steaming process. This culinary profile makes Mezcal perfect for adding depth of flavor to cocktails or to enjoying on its own.

In conclusion, demystifying the world of tequila can be a challenging, yet fulfilling, task. With various of types of tequila available on the market, it’s essential to understand the subtleties of each. From Blanco to Extra Anejo Tequila and the recent addition of Mezcal, each type of tequila provides unique features that can match any palate’s flavor preferences. Next time you’re buying tequila at Payless Liquors, consider trying something new and broadening your horizons when it comes to this beloved spirit! Cheers!

Payless Liquors Talks Tequila: Part 2

Cincoro Tequila

Blanco

Cincoro Blanco is the crystal-clear tequila that’s taking the spirit world by storm. Made from pure agave in the heart of Mexico’s tequila capital, this innovative blend spotlights delicious flavors of honey, citrus and subtle coconut. With its ultra-smooth finish and distinguished heritage, Cincoro Blanco has earned its place among connoisseurs as the new gold standard for sipping tequilas. This special Blanco has earned the Double Gold Medal at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Remarkable when sipped with or without ice. Mix with fresh lime and orange liqueur for a truly mouthwatering Margarita.

Añejo

With award-winning Cincoro Blanco as its base, Cincoro Añejo is barrel-aged for over two years, taking it beyond the fresh agave flavors through toasted oak to a deeper level of woody richness. This enticing copper-colored spirit is an evolving masterpiece of fresh-cut wood, maple, dark chocolate, and black pepper. Beautifully complex, it deserves to be sipped simply – on its own without ice. Or if cocktails are your thing, keep it classic with an elevated Old Fashioned. Tequila of the Year winner at the 2019 New York International Spirits Competition. For a truly unique offering, Cincoro Añejo 1.75L arrives in a scaled-up edition of Cincoro’s one-of-a-kind bottle, suitably presented in a tailor-made gold box.

Reposado

With its deep golden color and delicious wood-based flavors, Cincoro Reposado is an evolution of Cincoro’s award-winning Blanco. Distilled in small batches, this rare spirit is characterized by the flavors of toasted oak, caramel, and baking spices. Smooth and refined, this is a tequila made for sipping – on or off the rocks. Double Gold winner at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Payless Liquors Talks Tequila: Part 1

Don Julio Primavera

The Product Story

Introducing Tequila Don Julio Primavera – A limited Edition. In his true innovative spirit, Don Julio González was a pioneer in creating ultra-premium tequila and believed reposado tequila was tequila at its finest. Embracing the legacy of its founders’ innovative spirit, Tequila Don Julio Primavera features a deliciously smooth expression that takes the brand’s traditional Reposado and finishes it in orange wine casks, which previously held wine infused with macerated orange peels, striking the balance of citrus and honey. This unique reposado tequila is made for moments spent outdoors, in the daytime, with friends.

Featuring a flawless balance of notes including honeyed agave, a hint of spice, and a light, citrus finish, Tequila Don Julia Primavera is best enjoyed on the rocks with an orange wheel or in our signature drink of the summer: The Primavera Sunset. Simply top Tequila Don Julia Primavera with club soda and garnish with a cara cara orange wedge – it’s the perfect cocktail for any outdoor daytime get-together.

Komo’s Anejo Cristalino

The Tasting Panel Magazine

Rated 98 Points

A stunning nose of sugared pineapple is surrounded by bright agave freshness and lime zest. The satin-coated warms the perfect peel converge for a tart starkness. Mineral-driven and dry, the spirit’s gravitas is also palpable in its seamless finish.

Tasting Notes

Komos is a completely unique expression of the very best Tequila can be. Komos is made with a unique five-step process. First, they make great tequila in the namesake town from agave of perfect ripeness from both the highlands and the lowlands for complexity. Then, the tequila is aged in only the finest wine barrels for twelve months. Next, the tequila is refined again removing any impurities. From here, the tequila is rested in the ancient Greek amphorae which makes it even more smooth. Komos is packaged in handmade ceramic bottles recalling Greek ceramic traditions in a modern expression.

80 Proof

Casa Dragones

Blanco

Mexico – The crystal-clear tequila is full of fresh fruit on the nose, most prominently grapefruit and green apple. Take a sip, and the agave shines through immediately, followed by hints of black pepper, cloves, and mint, plus a juicy tropical fruit note.

Añejo

What does Añejo tequila taste like?

It has a smooth flavor and notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel. Tequila añejo is aged 1 to 4 years in oak barrels (añejo means “old” or “vintage” in Spanish). It tastes richer, with notes of vanilla and cinnamon. Añejo shines when drunk straight and on the rocks, so you can taste the nuances of its character.

El Mayor Añejo Sherry Cask

El Mayor has unveiled a new limited-edition tequila, Extra Añejo Sherry Cask Aged. Distilled and produced at Destiladora González Lux, the limited-edition tequila will be available nationwide in September.

El Mayor Extra Añejo Sherry Cask Aged is aged 38 months in sherry casks, resulting in a liquid with a golden amber color and an exceptionally smooth and balanced finish of oak, vanilla, and caramel. As with every bottle of El Mayor, this limited-edition tequila is made with 100% estate-grown, blue agave from the valley area of Jalisco, Mexico. For this ultra-premium variant, only hand-selected agaves were cut, using the Jica Jima process for a smooth taste.

“The sherry cask enhances the full-body extra añejo, producing a liquid that is beautifully complex and elegant,” said Graciela González, fourth-generation distiller, and daughter of Rodolfo González, master distiller at Destiladora González Lux. “From the dried-fruit-and-spice nose to the smooth finish of vanilla and cooked agave, this is an outstanding tequila that is sure to please even the most discriminating of tastes.

Casino Azul Limited Edition

This collectible tequila features three separate sections, each divided into 250mL sections: añejo, reposado, and silver. Each section has a separate pour spout. 100 % Agave.

Anejo

A Definite golden color with a sweet aroma reminiscent of the smell of fine leather with vanilla highlights and a hint of fruit.

Reposado

This tequila with a light beige straw color has a pleasant aroma with good complexity, smooth floral overtones, a musty earth-like bottom, and a hint of leathery wood smells.

Silver

This product is a very pleasant Tequila manufactured in the Artisanal tradition of the smaller tequila companies.

Casino Azul Añejo Jaguar

Casino Azul Añejo Jaguar Edition is a beautiful bottle of Añejo Tequila. A one-of-a-kind choice bottle shape, and complex tequila. A wonderful blend of crisp vanilla with hints of fruit, and extremely smooth.

Casino Azul Añejo Ship

Casino Azul Extra Ship Edition is a beautiful bottle of Añejo Tequila. A one-of-a-kind choice. A golden color with sweet aromas of fine leather and vanilla with a touch of fruitiness.

Dulce Vida Extra Añejo Tequila

Dulce Vida Tequilas sources its 100% organic agave from the Los Altos highlands in the Tequila region of Mexico. Because of the unique climatic characteristics and the air & soil, this area is well known for producing larger, fruitier agave, ideal for tequila. This organic agave ensures Dulce Vida makes tequila the way tequila has always tasted best: pure and powerful, free of any additives.

 

 

Keep the Football Spirit Alive With These Fresh Takes on Tailgating Cocktails

Tailgating Cocktails

As we inch closer to another football season, it’s time to learn how to make tailgating cocktails. Sadly, we must deal with the bleak prospect that some local football may not happen as planned this year. Still, it’s important to keep the football spirit alive no matter what league you’re watching.

Traditionally, of course, the tailgating drink of choice is none other than inexpensive beer. However, this being the season of change, we’ve decided to roll with the punches and provide you with a list of alternative cocktails that truly honor area teams. Try these cocktails for your next tailgate experience:

Boilermaker

Built to honor none other than the Purdue Boilermakers up in West Lafayette, this relatively simple drink is perfect for a tailgate party. All you’ll need are two ingredients any self-respecting tailgater should have readily on hand:

  • 1 lager beer, poured into a mug
  • 1 ½ oz bourbon (preferably Wild Turkey) poured into a shot glass

Then, simply drop your shot of bourbon into your beer and race to the finish!

Hoosier Heritage

While this drink was designed to incorporate Indiana heritage and regional ingredients, IU fans can appreciate the name as well as the unique autumn flavor. You’ll need:

  • 1 ½ oz Knob Creek bourbon
  • ½ oz maple syrup
  • ½ oz lemon juice
  • 1 oz apple cider
  • 1 sprig of rosemary

Pour syrup into a cocktail shaker and muddle with rosemary. Add ice and remaining ingredients, shake well, and strain over ice in an old-fashioned glass. Garnish with a slice of apple.

Return to Glory

Developed to depict the heritage of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and their return to a storied football program, the Return to Glory is as tasty as it is descriptive. Gather these ingredients:

  • 2 oz Irish whiskey
  • 2 oz ginger ale
  • ½ oz Peach Schnapps
  • Splash of orange juice

Pour ingredients over ice in a tall glass. If desired, garnish with an orange slice and toast to the Fighting Irish’s return to glory.

Blue Stampede

Aside from smaller, more regional programs, the NFL may be the area’s one remaining hope of a full-scale football schedule this year. As a result, we’ve included this recipe crafted specifically for Indianapolis Colts fans – signature blue color and appropriately named tequila (Herradura means “horseshoe in Spanish) aside. We adore this play on a margarita. You’ll need:

  • 1 ½ oz Herradura Blanco (or other white tequila)
  • 2 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz agave nectar
  • ½ oz blue curaçao

Pour all ingredients over ice into a cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into a martini or cocktail glass.

Tailgate Tea

If your team isn’t well-represented in Indy (or if football is delayed once again), there’s no reason to fret. This Tailgate Tea is a crowd-pleaser we’d be happy to sip anytime, football or no. Gather these ingredients:

  • 1½ parts Svedka Strawberry Lemonade
  • 1 part tea
  • ½ part simple syrup
  • ½ part fresh lemon juice
  • Splash of Corona Extra

Pour the first four ingredients into a tall glass filled with ice. Top off with a splash of Corona Extra, stir, and enjoy.

No matter what happens with this year’s football season, Payless Liquors is here for you. Stop in to see how our wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits can help you stock any social distancing tailgate party. Alternatively, call ahead or place an online order for pickup any night of the week.

tequila

Don Julio Tequila Drink Recipes For Any Occasion

Tequila is most famous for being the prime ingredient in a margarita. However, this Mexican liquor made from agave plant is extremely versatile and can be used to make other delicious tequila cocktails. On National Tequila Day, ditch the salt and lime and try these drink recipes with a premium tequila like Don Julio.

Don Julio Blanco Margaritatequila

  • 2 oz Don Julio Blanco Tequila
  • 1½ oz Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1 oz Agave Nectar
  • 1 oz Soda
  • Lime Wedge for Garnish

Combine Don Julio Blanco, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar into a cocktail shaker with ice.

Shake well, strain into a rocks glass over ice, top with soda, and garnish with a lime wedge.

Don Julio Blood Orange Palomatequila

  • 1½ oz Don Julio Blanco Tequila
  • 1 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
  • ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice
  • Seltzer
  • Chili Powder for Garnish

Combine Don Julio Blanco, fresh lime juice and fresh grapefruit juice into a cocktail shaker with ice.

Shake well. Then strain contents into a glass over fresh ice. Top with seltzer. Garnish with chili powder.

Don Julio Lemonadatequila

  • 1½ oz Don Julio Blanco Tequila
  • 3 oz Cold Water
  • ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 8-10 Fresh Mint Leaves
  • 1-2 tsp Sugar
  • 10-15 Ice Cubes

Add lemon juice, mint leaves, and sugar to blender. Pulse a few times until mint leaves are chopped.

Add tequila and cold water and pulse again to mix.

Add ice cubes and blend into slushie. Pour and garnish with mint leaves.

Don Julio Rosa Primaveratequila

  • 1½ oz Don Julio Reposado
  • 1 oz Coconut Cream
  • ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 Muddled Strawberry

Add all ingredients in a shaker. Strain into rocks glass over ice. Garnish with half a strawberry.

Reserve Your Bottle Today

For a limited time only, Payless Liquors is pleased to offer bottles of Don Julio 1942 and Don Julio Real to our customers who truly enjoy fine sippable tequilas. Reserve your bottle at our East Street location and arrange for in-store or curbside pickup today.

 

 

How Don Julio Created Two of the World’s Finest Tequilas

Don JulioMost of the world knows tequila best as a party spirit, with Don Julio being the center of attention. It’s the essential ingredient in a margarita and makes an excellent one-shot-wonder, to be consumed with a pinch of salt and a wedge of lime. So pervasive was this reputation that when some spirits drinkers were presented with the idea of a “luxury tequila,” they had trouble imagining a tequila drinker would want to sip instead of shoot.

Of course, Don Julio wasn’t the first truly fine tequila in the world—but it was the world’s first luxury tequila. Here, we’ll explore tequila production, which makes Don Julio so special, and present two genuinely outstanding examples of fine tequila.

What Is Tequila, Anyway?

Tequila is a type of mezcal—a spirit produced by distilling nectar from the agave plant. For a mezcal to earn legal classification as a tequila, it must be produced strictly from Weber’s blue agave plant and undergo production in Jalisco, Nayarit, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, or Michoacán.

Harvesters remove the hearts, or pinas, from the center of the agave plants and roast them in special ovens to convert the starches into sugars. From there, the pinas ferment for about four days, and the liquid is distilled so that it reaches the required alcohol content. Then, the tequila is either aged in a cask of choice or bottled for sale.

How Don Julio Crafted Some of the World’s Finest Tequila

In 1942, Don Julio developed a procedure to produce higher-quality tequilas. Instead of packing as many blue agave plants into his fields as possible, Julio proposed giving each plant room to grow and mature fully. His passion for the spirit—as well as his unique dedication to quality over quantity—inspired a local businessman to grant him a loan, and Don Julio Tequila was born.

Julio selected only the best pinas for eventual fermenting. He developed a process that steamed each pina for a total of 72 hours for peak quality. When his luxury tequilas were finished, Julio chose to bottle them in a short tequila bottle. Tequila enthusiasts everywhere could share a bottle around the table instead of leaving them hidden beneath the table.

Don Julio’s Best—Don Julio 1942 and Don Julio Real

While each of Don Julio’s tequilas is something special, experts agree that two stand out above the others in this fine collection:

Don Julio

  • Don Julio 1942. Crafted as an homage to Don Julio himself, this añejo is aged 2 ½ years in bourbon oak barrels. Then, it’s distilled a second time in a stainless-steel pot still, producing a rich, sweet tequila. Tasters note that 1942 has a full, creamy palate with hints of caramel and spice and a long, spicy finish.

Don Julio

  • Don Julio Real. The crown jewel of the Don Julio selection. This tequila is worth the purchase based on the crystal and silver leaf decanter alone. However, the real treasure is found inside, with one of the world’s first extra-añejo tequilas, aged 3 to 5 years in American oak barrels. With tasting notes of coffee, vanilla, and wood, this supremely smooth tequila is one of the best in the world to sip neat.

Reserve Your Bottle Today

For a limited time only, Payless Liquors is pleased to offer bottles of Don Julio 1942 and Don Julio Real to our customers who truly enjoy fine sippable tequilas. Reserve your bottle at our East Street location and arrange for in-store or curbside pickup today.

The Long, Strange History of the Moscow Mule

Moscow MuleOnce long forgotten, the Moscow Mule rose from the ashes of its status as a cocktail has-been to become a modern cocktail of choice. Now, it seems like practically every establishment has a slew of Mules on the menu – great news for those of us that enjoy this zippy all-season cocktail.

However, with the sheer amount of Mules available today, seemingly covering every fruit, liquor, and carbonated alternative known to mankind, we have a few questions. Where did this drink come from in the first place? What makes a mule a Mule? And – perhaps most importantly – how can we drink more of them?

The Original Mule

Liquor lore is full of coincidences, and the series of events that led up to the original Moscow Mule is no different. In 1939, the Smirnoff brand was a tiny, struggling vodka company that had just been bought out by John G. Martin for $14,000. To promote sales, Martin approached a number of business owners, including the owner of the Cock N’ Bull bar in Hollywood. Unfortunately, neither the vodka or the bar’s house-brewed ginger beer sold according to expectations and by 1941, both were desperate.

Depending on who you ask, either Martin or the Cock N’ Bull’s bartender at the time – a man by the name of Wes Price – got the idea to clear out the bar’s storeroom and push a concoction of ginger beer and vodka. Around the same time, Sophie Berezinski – a Russian immigrant – came to Hollywood with a stash of 2,000 copper mugs crafted at her father’s copper shop. The cocktail received both a name and a preferred vehicle, and the traditional Moscow Mule was born.

What Makes This Cocktail a Mule?

While the name “Moscow Mule” is attributed to the spicy kick of the ginger beer and the origins of the associated vodka, what truly makes a mule a Mule? After all, it’s possible to find mules made with all sorts of ingredients and a wide variety of liquors. Purists will tell you that a drink isn’t truly a mule unless it’s made with Smirnoff, Cock N’ Bull ginger beer, and served in a copper mug – but we believe variety is the spice of life.

To us, it’s the overall combination of ginger notes, the citrusy zest, the bubbly finish, and the punch of liquor that makes a cocktail a true Mule. If you can find a copper mug to serve it in (the copper really does add a unique taste and serve to chill your drink in a way glass just can’t match), all the better. To celebrate your newfound freedom to try all the mules you can get your hands on, consider these aptly-named alternatives:

  • Mexican mule – try using a splash of tequila instead of Smirnoff

  • British mule – take a break from gin, tonic, and lime and use your gin in this similar flavor profile

  • Caribbean mule – swap out your vodka for some dark, spiced rum

  • Irish mule – forego the traditional Smirnoff for your favorite Irish whiskey

No matter which Mule you’ve decided to start with, Payless Liquors has a wide selection of liquors and ginger beers perfect for your next Mule experiment. Stop in today, call ahead, or order online to ensure your selections are ready for limited-contact pickup.

Five New Ways to Drink Tequila This Fall

Tequila is a staple for warm-weather cocktails, but that doesn’t mean you need to put this spirit away just because the weather is starting to cool down. Patrón is a very versatile liquor that is made from the finest 100% Weber Blue Agave and is distilled in small batches at Hacienda Patrón distillery in Jalisco, Mexico. Tequila isn’t just for shots; it can be mixed into classics like Mojitos, Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and Mules.

The Origin of Patrón

John Paul DeJoria and Martin Crowley founded Patrón in 1989. They started the production in Jalisco, Mexico, and later moved into a different distillery in 2002. The name, Patrón, means a charitable or financially supporting person, but the meaning John and Martin preferred for their brand name was “big boss”. The bee symbol on the bottles represents the strong attraction bees have to the blue agave plant.

How is it made?

By law, tequila must be made from Blue Weber agave in the Mexican states of Jalisco, Nayarit, Tamaulipas, Michoacan, and Guanajuato. Since the production process is strictly regulated, tequila can only be labeled and sold by that name if blue agave constitutes over half of the fermented sugars in the drink.

When the agave has ripened they are hand-chopped and the piña, the heart of the plant, is baked in brick ovens. This cooking process softens the piña, making the process of sugar extraction easier. The piñas are then transported to the milling area where they are crushed by a volcanic stone Tahona wheel and a roller mill. This mixture is then fermented for three days, distilled and sometimes aged in handmade barrels. The longer the tequila ages, the more color, and tannins the final product will have.

What are the different types?

There are different classes of tequila but there are only two varieties: 100 percent agave and mixto. Mixto is roughly 51 percent agave, and the rest is made up of water and different sugars during distillation. The general five classes of tequila are Blanco (slightly aged silver or white tequila), Oro (aged for a few months in oak barrels and is gold in color), Reposado (aged at least two months, but no more than a year in white oak barrels), Añejo (aged for a year, but no more than three) and Extra Añejo (aged for three years).

Patrón is great on its own, but with such a wide variety it’s the perfect tequila for almost any mixed cocktail. These flavorful drinks are guaranteed to expand your agave horizons.

  1. Vampiros Cocktail
    • 1 ½ oz. Patrón Reposado
    • 3 oz. Sangrita
    • 1 ½ oz. Citrus-flavored soda
    • ½ Lime, juiced
    • 1 pinch Mexican-style chili powder with lime (such as Tajin fruit seasoning)
      • Fill a highball glass with ice; pour tequila, sangrita, citrus soda, lime juice, and chili powder. Stir to mix well.
  1. Blackberry Sage Paloma
    • 2 oz. Patrón Silver
    • grapefruit juice
    • 4 blackberries
    • 6 sage leaves
    • 2 cane sugar cubes
      • In a large cocktail shaker, muddle blackberries, sage and sugar cubes. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, and crushed ice. Shake well pour into a cocktail glass garnish with sage.
  1. Smoky Harvest Margarita
    • 1 ½ – 2 oz. Patrón Añejo
    • 4 oz. Apple cider
    • 1 oz. Lime juice
    • 1-2 tsp. Agave nectar
    • Cinnamon powder, Sugar, and Kosher salt for the rim
    • Cinnamon sticks and Apple slices for garnish
      • In a bowl mix equal parts cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and coat in the sugar mix. Combine tequila, apple cider, lime juice and agave in a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake until combined and strain into glass. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
  1. Reposado Old Fashioned
    • 3 oz. Patrón Reposado
    • 1 tsp. Agave nectar
    • 2 slices Blood orange
    • 1-2 dashes Angostura bitters
      • Muddle agave and orange slices in a cocktail shaker then add tequila and ice. Stir and strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice. Add bitters and garnish with orange peel
  1. Añejo Manhattan
    • 2 oz. Patrón Añejo
    • 1 oz. Carpano Antica Formula sweet vermouth
    • 2 dashes Mole bitters
      • Combine everything in a mixing glass with ice and stir. Strain into an old-fashioned glass over a large whiskey cube. Garnish with an orange twist.
Corazon Blanco

Corazon Blanco Artisanal Edition

Did you know that not all tequilas are genuine tequila? In order to be considered genuine, a tequila must be made with 51% blue agave juice. There are many tequilas out there that aren’t truly genuine. Take Jose Cuervo for example, only contains the bare minimum, 51% agave.

The best tequilas are 100% blue agave, and that’s Corazon Blanco Artisinal Edition. If you actually do get your hands on a bottle of this, you’ll be a lucky one! There were only 60 bottles produced!Corazon Blanco

Corazon has been releasing its Expression Del Corazon, and Blanco Artisinal Edition is the second expression released. Made with 100% blue Weber agave with its Brix (sugar content) measured before harvest, instead of traditional clear cut.

This expression rested for 60 days in stainless steel bins. It is usually unaged, and bottled straight after distillation at 80 proof. But, the technicalities aren’t the best part of this premium, limited-edition tequila, the flavor profile is.

Nose: Cooked Agave, Herbal citrus, Aniseed and unique notes of Green Apple.

Taste: Sweet, soft mint, eucalyptus, with a slight tang and an impressive agave bite.

Finish: Long, lingering, and smooth.

There really is nothing quite like the tastes of nature and that’s what is so special about this artisanal tequila. The smooth and fresh flavor profile that ranges all the way from sweet to dry and spicy. I mean really think about it. Have you ever had a tequila that you would describe as sweet?

To all tequila enthusiasts out there, this might as well be a collectible. A bottle you save for that perfect occasion and enjoy like no other tequila.

Interested in trying to find a bottle for yourself? You can fill out a request here. Cheers!

Patrón Reposado

The history of tequila is one with many hills and valleys. The spirit began its journey in the public eye as a bad tasting product used solely for the purpose of becoming intoxicated very quickly. However, Ed Brown took this image of tequila in his own hands and followed in the footsteps of Grey Goose to show that it can be enjoyed in more ways than just a shot. Through a switch in marketing tactics and making sure it had a clear presence with certain celebrities, tequila, and Patron in particular grew to be one of if not the most popular spirit in modern social culture. From Chamillionaire to Blondie, Patrón is known to be a favorite vice for the rich and famous.

The tequila itself actually began in the hands of Casa Siete Leguas, one of Mexico’s oldest distilleries. From there the recipe changed hands a few times until it landed at its current home in 1989, and is named for its most popular product, The Patrón Spirits Company.

The distillery uses the very same methods that have been utilized since the dawn of tequila. Because any “tequila” produced outside of the region of Tequila, Mexico can only downloadbe called an agave spirit, Patrón is obviously produced in the aforementioned area; the city is called Atontonilco. The process for producing the infamous Patrón tequila begins with the Jimadors (a Mexican farmer who harvest agave) with a tool called a coa. From there, they strip away the exterior to reveal the heart, the piña (if you like piña colaaadas,
and getting caaaught in the rain). After the piñas have been baked in small brick ovens, they are crushed by a two-ton volcanic stone Tahona wheel and a roller mill. (Siete Leguas actually uses a horse drawn stone that goes round and round to crush the cooked piñas, Patrón has moved past this practice to a more man made maneuver.) The resulting product is then fermented for three days, distilled, then aged for varying lengths, ranging from two months to seven years.

The tequila we will be discussing today is at the first end of the spectrum. Patrón Reposado is aged approximately nine months in a French oak (Allier) barrel. This particular choice of wood really comes out in the taste, but we will get to that later.

First, as always, is the nose. The smell is truly what one would expect and then some. We are first greeted in that beginning waft with the familiar smell of agave, and then a calming vanilla swirls through. The first impression of this product is very warm and inviting.

The taste itself is where one can really taste that sweet and cooked agave with the woody undertones from the French oak barrel. It is so pleasant and smooth that it took some serious self-control to keep from just downing the glass instead of doing a real tasting. It is truly delicious and is meant to be tasted, not thrown back.

This all being said, we highly recommend that you reserve your own bottle of Patrón Reposado from your favorite local Payless!

GYSOT! Gas Monkey Tequila

Wooo!  Get you some of this!  Richard Rawlings of Gas Monkey Garage introduces Gas Monkey Cinnamon Tequila.  This tequila is 100% blue agave from Mexico, infused with natural cinnamon, 69 proof, and made in America.

Rawlings has held several jobs to feed his car habit including a firefighter, police officer and paramedic all before he was 21 years old. He then went on to build a printing and advertising company that he eventually sold to fund his greatest venture – Gas Monkey Garage.  Since 2012, it has been the focus of Discovery Channel’s Fast & Loud.

Here are few Monkey inspired cocktails for you to try:gasmonkeyoptimzed

MONKEY TONGUE

  • 1.5 oz. Gas Monkey Cinnamon Tequila
  • cinnamon sugar mix
  • lime slice

Rim shot glass with cinnamon sugar. Add chilled Gas Monkey Cinnamon Tequila. Shoot with lime.

MONKEYRITA

  • 1.5 oz. Gas Monkey Cinnamon Tequila
  • 2.5 oz. agave nectar
  • fresh lime juice
  • lime slice
  • salt

Add first three ingredients into an ice- filled shaker. Shake and strain into salt-rimmed rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with lime slice.

ORANGE PEEL OUT

  • 1.5 oz. Gas Monkey Cinnamon Tequila
  • 4 oz. orange soda
  • fresh jalapeño slice

Mix together over ice and garnish with jalapeño.

Pick up your bottle of Gas Monkey Tequila at your local Payless Liquor stores and keep Saturday, September 5 open. The one and only Richard Rawlings will be at our store located at 9310 N. Michigan Road for a tasting and bottle signing from Noon – 1:30pm.  GYSOT!

 

National Tequila Day

July 24th is National Tequila Day.

Tequila is a spirit made from the agave plant.  Mexico is the only country that can legally produce Tequila and it can only be made in the state of Jalisco and surrounding regions.

Tequila is usually bottled in one of five categories:

  • Blanco (white) or Plata (silver): A white spirit that is unaged and bottled or stored immediately after distillation.
  • Joven (young) or Oro (gold): This is an unaged silver tequila that may be flavored with caramel coloring or oak extract. It can also be a blend of silver tequila with aged and/or extra-aged tequila.
  • Reposado (rested): Tequila that is aged a minimum of two months, but less than a year in oak barrels of any size.
  • Añejo (aged or vintage): Has been aged a minimum of one year, but less than three years in small oak barrels.
  • Extra Añejo (extra aged or ultra-aged): Tequila that is aged a minimum of three years in oak barrels. This category was established in March 2006.

In the late 1990s, Sammy Hagar began selling patrons of his Cabo Wabo resort a house Cabo-Wabo-Tequila-Blancobrand, hand-made tequila that he commissioned from a family owned distillery in Jalisco.  It became a quick success and by 2006 it was the second-best-selling premium tequila in the US.  Cabo Wabo Tequila is bottled in unique, hand-blown artisan glass bottles.

Cabo Wabo Tequila Blanco offers an aroma with a fresh, floral bouquet, spicy lime and mint.  Flavors of agave and a slight spice character deliver a crisp clean finish.  This tequila has won multiple awards including Bronze and Silver at the San Francisco World Spirts Competition and Silver at the 2013 International Wine and Spirts Competition.

Cabo Wabo Tequila Blanco is easily enjoyed as a chilled shot or in your favorite cocktail.  Here are some recipes to help you celebrate National Tequila Day:

The CaboRita

  • 3 oz Cabo Blanco Tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz Contreau
  • Splash of Grand Marnier

Combine all of the ingredients in a shaker with ice.  Shake several times.  Strain, pour, and enjoy.

Beer-Rita

  • 24 oz. (2 bottles) Light Beer
  • 12 oz. Can Frozen Limeade
  • 8 oz. Cabo Wabo Blanco
  • Limes

Fill pitcher with ice. Add beer, limeade and Cabo. Stir. Throw in some lime wedges. Done.

The Siesta

  • 2 oz. Cabo Blanco
  • ½. Oz Campari
  • ½ oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
  • ½ oz. freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • ½ oz. simple syrup

Garnish with a grapefruit rind

Payless Liquors has Cabo Wabo Tequila Blanco for just $29.99.  You can stop in at any one of our stores or contact us to reserve your bottle online.  Please enjoy National Tequila Day responsibly.