Gin has always been a favorite among spirit enthusiasts, owing to its distinct flavor and versatility. Over the years, gin cocktails have undergone several transformations, with mixologists experimenting with various ingredients and flavors. However, true gin enthusiasts know that the classics never go out of style. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the best vintage gin cocktails and their history.

1. The Gin Martini

The Martini has become synonymous with sophistication and class and is perhaps the most iconic gin cocktail of all time. The drink originated in the late 19th century and was first made with gin and dry vermouth. Over time, the Martini has evolved to include various garnishes and twists, such as the lemon twist or olives. The drink is typically stirred with ice and strained into a chilled glass. A classic Martini is served straight up, but it can also be served on the rocks.

2. The Tom Collins

The Tom Collins is a refreshing cocktail that can be traced back to the 19th century. The drink is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water. The cocktail was so popular that it eventually led to the creation of another cocktail, the John Collins, which is essentially a Tom Collins made with whiskey instead of gin. The Tom Collins is usually served in a tall glass filled with ice and garnished with a slice of lemon.

3. The Negroni

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that has become increasingly popular over the years. The drink is made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari and is typically served on the rocks with an orange peel garnish. The cocktail was created in Florence, Italy, in the early 20th century, and has since become a staple among gin enthusiasts.

4. The French 75

The French 75 is a champagne cocktail that was first introduced in the early 20th century. The drink is made with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, and is served in a champagne flute topped with champagne. The cocktail was named after the French 75mm field gun used in World War I, owing to its powerful kick.

5. The Aviation

The Aviation is a classic gin cocktail that is believed to have been first created in New York in the early 20th century. The drink is made with gin, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette, giving it a distinct pale blue color. The cocktail was a favorite among pilots, owing to its name and the fact that it represented the shift towards modernity in the aviation industry.

Vintage gin cocktails have stood the test of time and continue to be popular among contemporary cocktail enthusiasts. These classic cocktails offer a glimpse into the history of gin and the art of mixology. If you’re looking to mix up your cocktail game, try one of these vintage gin cocktails. Whether you’re sipping a Martini, enjoying a Tom Collins, or savoring a Negroni, these cocktails are sure to transport you back in time and offer a taste of nostalgia. Stock up on all your gin needs and more at Payless Liquors!

Gift-giving is an art that takes a lot of thought and consideration. It may seem easy, but finding the perfect gift that your loved one will appreciate and use can be very challenging. It often requires knowing their likes, dislikes and preferences. Gifting spirits is a great idea, especially if your loved one is a connoisseur of good alcohol. In this blog post, we will share with you the art of gifting spirits and tips from Payless Liquors. Whether it is for a birthday, anniversary, or any other occasion, we hope these tips will help you choose the perfect gift for your loved one.

1. Know your audience

The first step in gifting spirits is to know your audience. This means considering their taste preferences, their favorite brands, and their drinking habits. For instance, if your loved one is a tequila lover, you should know whether they prefer silver, gold, or aged tequila. Knowing their taste preferences will help you choose the perfect bottle that they will appreciate.

2. Consider the occasion

The occasion is also an important consideration when gifting spirits. Different occasions call for different types of drinks. For instance, a bottle of champagne would be perfect for a celebration such as a graduation or a wedding anniversary. A bottle of whiskey or scotch, on the other hand, would be more suitable for a retirement or promotion.

3. Presentation matters

Presentation is everything when it comes to gifting spirits. It is not just about the bottle; it is also about the presentation. A beautifully wrapped bottle adds a touch of elegance and class to your gift. Consider using a beautiful bow or add it to a wine basket.

4. Personalize your gift

Personalization adds a touch of thoughtfulness to your gift. You can personalize your gift by adding a customized message or by including a set of glasses that go with the bottle. You can also consider adding a book on spirits or a cocktail recipe book to give your loved one some ideas on how to use the gift.

5. Choose a reputable store

Finally, you need to choose a reputable store when gifting spirits. A good store such as Payless Liquors will offer you advice on the best spirits to gift and guide you on presentation and personalization. They will also offer you a wide variety of brands to choose from, ensuring you find the perfect gift.

Gifting spirits can be an elegant, thoughtful, and memorable way to show your loved one how much you care. By knowing your audience, considering the occasion, focusing on the presentation, personalizing your gift, and choosing a reputable store, you will choose the perfect gift that they will appreciate and cherish. At Payless Liquors, we have a wide range of high-quality spirits to choose from and offer personalized wrapping services to ensure your gift looks as elegant as possible. Use these tips, and you are sure to make a lasting impression on your loved one.

It’s no secret that football season is a big deal, and the 2023 season kickoff promises to be one of the biggest yet. As the excitement builds, there’s no better way to get ready than by stocking up on your favorite drinks from Payless Liquors. Whether you’re planning a tailgate party or just watching the game at home, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to ensure you score big on game day. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with the ultimate guide to enjoying the 2023 football season kickoff with Payless Liquors.

1. Be Prepared with Beer

What better way to celebrate a football game than with a cold beer? At Payless Liquors, we offer a wide selection of craft beers, imported beers, domestic beers, and everything in between. From light beers to dark beers, we’ve got something for every beer lover. If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend trying a mix of different beers to find your new favorite.

2. Get the Party Started with Wine

If you’re not a beer fan, don’t worry – we’ve got plenty of other drink options for you. Wine is a great alternative for those who prefer a more sophisticated drink. At Payless Liquors, we offer a wide range of wines from all around the world, including red wine, white wine, and sparkling wine. Whether you prefer a crisp white wine or a full-bodied red, our experts can help you find the perfect wine for game day.

3. Don’t Forget the Liquor

If you want to take your game day drinks to the next level, look no further than our extensive selection of liquors. From whiskey to rum to tequila, we have everything you need to mix up the perfect cocktail. Whether you want to make classic game day drinks like Margaritas and Bloody Marys or branch out and try something new, we have the selection and expertise to help you succeed.

4. Stock Up on Snacks

No football game is complete without snacks, and at Payless Liquors, we have you covered. From chips and dip to pretzels and nuts, we offer a wide range of delicious snacks to keep you fueled throughout the game. We even have a selection of gourmet snacks, such as charcuterie boards and cheese platters, to take your game day experience to the next level.

5. Create an Experience with Payless Liquors

At Payless Liquors, we don’t just sell drinks, we create experiences. Whether you’re planning a tailgate party or just having a few friends over to watch the game, our experts can help you create the perfect drinks menu to impress your guests. We also offer curbside pickup to make your game day experience as seamless as possible.

And there you have it, the ultimate guide to enjoying the 2023 football season kickoff with Payless Liquors. Whether you’re a beer lover, a wine enthusiast, or a liquor connoisseur, we have everything you need to make your game day experience unforgettable. So stock up on your favorite drinks, grab some snacks, and get ready to score big with Payless Liquors. Cheers to a great football season!

Pumpkins have been grown in North America for roughly 5,000 years — hence, the short-lived, but annual, obsession with this fall fruit (yes, pumpkins are, in fact, fruits). Furthermore, pumpkins are one of the largest fruits on earth, the largest pumpkin on record weighing in at 2,702 pounds.

Though the excitement for pumpkin spice tends to lessen each year as winter’s end looms, in early fall, practically anything goes that is flavored with pumpkin spice — even wine. Below is an easy recipe for making your own pumpkin spice wine.

What you’ll need:

8 cups pumpkin 1 4-inch cinnamon stick 1 whole nutmeg

1 inch fresh ginger root 1 gallon (boiling) water 1 tsp yeast nutrient

5 cups sugar 3 tsp acid blend 1 package wine yeast

1 pound golden raisins

For the first ferment:

Wash, trim, peel, and chop/grind the pumpkin and mix it with raisins. Add spices. Add boiling water and ferment in a large crock (primary fermenter) overnight. Then add all remaining ingredients (except yeast). Don’t skip the acid blend because pumpkins are low in acid, and they need this for proper fermentation.

Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Using a hydrometer, ensure the specific gravity ranges between 1.090 and 1.095. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture. Stir daily for three to five days until the specific gravity is 1.040. The mixture should get bubbly and have a pleasant aroma that is mildly yeasty. At the end of the first ferment, the pumpkin should have a mushy consistency, and the raisins should be nice and plump.

At this point, you’ll want to strain the “mush” and raisins using cheesecloth or an unbleached coffee filter. Squeeze as much juice out as possible. This is an important step because when not strained properly, leftover sediment in your wine can produce an undesirable texture.

For the second ferment:

Siphon the pumpkin wine into your secondary fermenter. Fill with water to volume and lock it in airtight with an airlock attachment. Your wine will look very cloudy at this point.

For the final aging:

After three weeks, rack your wine — transfer it into another fermenter or out of the fermenter long enough to clean out the sediment in the original). This removes the good wine from the bad sediment. Sediment can alter flavors in the fermenting process, so it’s a good practice to purify your wine often during the aging process.

Once your wine is removed from the fermenter, add ½ cup sugar and dissolve it in one cup of your wine mixture. Do this each time you rack your wine. Stir the wine gently and place it back into the secondary fermenter in the same manner as above. Do this process every six weeks until adding sugar does not restart fermentation. Then rack every three months until the wine is one year old before bottling. The wine should look clear now with the particles settled at the bottom.

Refrain from drinking your wine for one year from the first fermentation. The longer it ferments, the better, and this will ensure a sweeter-tasting pumpkin wine. If you start now, your wine should be just right by this time next year, just in time for fall! While you wait for your wine to ferment entirely, you can stop by the store to pick up a bottle that’s ready to go or place an order online.

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 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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There is no denying that hard seltzers are highly popular, and their popularity shows no sign of slowing down. Hard seltzers are light, refreshing, low in calories, and often contain little to no sugar. Hard seltzers are available in a wide variety of flavors, infusing flavor profiles of fruits, herbs, flowers, soda, and more. White Claw was one of the first seltzer options to really gain momentum, but today, you can find seltzers options from a wide range of companies such as Bud Light, Corona, Truly, and Vizzy. While these seltzers are perfect to be enjoyed alone, they can also be used to create light, refreshing cocktails that are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Must-Try Hard Seltzer Cocktails

When it comes to selecting the perfect seltzer, it depends on your brand of choice. Our list is designed to provide you with base suggestions, but when it comes to your seltzer, don’t be afraid to experiment!

Hard Seltzer Margaritas

Margaritas are one of the best summer beverages to enjoy. They are light, refreshing, and can be enjoyed over ice or blended. You’ll need tequila, limes, triple sec, and your favorite hard seltzer. You can stick to lime flavors to keep it traditional, or you can experiment with other flavors such as mango, watermelon, or raspberry. To make this recipe you’ll use:

· 1.25 oz of tequila

· ¾ oz of triple sec

· ½ oz lime juice

· Top with your favorite hard seltzer

If you want to get the full experience, you can rim your drinking glass with salt. You’ll want a dry glass to avoid water ruining your salt. Simply line the top of the glass with lime juice and delicately dip it into a saucer of salt.

Summer Sangria

Sangrias are a perfect summer drink. To craft this cocktail, you’ll need a bottle of red or white wine, triple sec, apple cider, and your favorite seltzer. Fresh fruit makes a perfect garnish. Sangrias are highly versatile, making them the perfect drink for experimenting. If you are making a large batch, you can use:

· 1 bottle of wine

· 1 cup apple cider

· 1 can of your favorite seltzer

· ½ cup triple sec

· Fresh fruit

Hard Soda Floats

Bud Light has been a leader in experimenting with how far a seltzer can go. Their newest line of hard sodas has experienced immediate popularity. They offer flavors such as orange soda, cherry soda, lime soda, and cola. For a fun, unique beverage, fill a glass with a few scoops of your favorite vanilla ice cream. Pour your hard soda over the top and enjoy!

Have Fun With It

There is no wrong way to enjoy a hard seltzer. Hard seltzers can be used to replace the mixer in several different popular cocktails. With the wide range of flavors available, you’ll be able to experiment with something new all summer. When you’re looking for the perfect ingredients, Payless Liquors can help. We offer a wide range of hard seltzers, wines, liquors, and all the mixes you need to embrace your creative side. Use our convenient pickup order form to have your supplies ready.

Charcuterie boards provide an array of tantalizing meats, cheeses, and other snack items to create an amazing treat that pairs perfectly with a wide range of wines. When designing a charcuterie board of your own, there are a few key elements to consider. You’ll want to provide a variety of meats and cheeses that are perfectly complemented by great-tasting wine.

What Is a Charcuterie Board?

Charcuterie is the term used for the meat that is a highlight of these popular boards. Most charcuterie boards come with at least three different meat options, ranging in different spice levels and textures. Cheese is the next most popular item for this platter. It is recommended to include at least three different types of cheeses. With cheese, you also want to provide a variety of textures, fat content, acidity, and saltiness.

Other items that can be found on a charcuterie board include pickled vegetables, bread, crackers, olives, fruit that is either fresh or dry, nuts, and some type of spread, such as honey or mustard. After you know what you want on your board, the next step is the wine selection. It is best to choose wines following your meat and cheese choices. Wines are meant to pair with your food flavors, not overpower them.

Pairing Wine With Your Board

Once you’ve decided on your meats and cheeses, you can consider the best wines to complement your selection. The main focuses when it comes to meat are the texture, fat content, salt, and spice. When selecting a wine, you want to focus on acidity, structure, and the undertones it features.

If your board consists of salty mild meats, which are great for beginner boards, you may choose prosciutto or mortadella. These savory meats pair best with a lighter-bodied white wine such as Pino Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you are more of a red drinker, light or medium reds, such as a Pinot Noir or a Merlot, pair perfectly. In general, it is best to go with a wine that has high acidity.

Mild spice meats such as peppered salami pair well with light whites such as a sweet Riesling or fruity reds like Malbec. If you are looking to include bold, spicy meats such as bresaola, you’ll want to pair it with a wine that is equally as bold. For red wine, Syrah is a great option, or you can go with Chardonnay for a white wine.

When it comes to cheese, you’ll want to consider a variety of soft cheeses, semi-soft, fresh cheese, and hard cheese. Each category comes with its unique flavors and textures. You’ll want to consider their acidity, fat content, and saltiness. Soft cheese such as brie or robiola pairs well with sparkling whites and light-bodied whites. Semi-soft cheese like asiago, gruyere, and Havarti pair well with a dry wine such as Chardonnay. Fresh cheeses like burrata, goat cheese, and feta pair with medium-bodied whites and reds such as Pinot Noir. Hard Cheeses like aged cheddar or parmesan pair perfectly with bold reds like Chianti.

Get Creating and Pairing

When it comes to creating your perfect charcuterie board, there is no wrong way to do it. You’ll want to provide variety, creating an array of flavors that your guests are sure to love. Having a few different bottles of wine on hand, ranging from light to bold provides the perfect options for your guests. At Payless Liquors, we have a huge wine selection to create your charcuterie pairings. Use our pickup order form, or stop into the store!

For more than three decades, Bell’s has been making a variety of one-of-a-kind, artisanal beers, and as a result, Bells’ breweries have become a preeminent Great Lakes Regional and further.

The Brewery was the first in Michigan to sell beer by the glass and open an onsite pub. Bell’s beer is distributed to 43 states, and their two breweries feature an unparalleled beer garden, a space for concerts, and a taproom and are operated with environmental sustainability in mind.

Bell’s takes pride in their beer and breweries and in an equitable, inclusionary workplace that encourages diversity, individualism, and a business environment that nurtures diverse ideas among their 500 plus employees. In short, Bell’s is craft beer on a mission.

Some Historical Perspective

After arriving in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to attend Kalamazoo College, Larry Bell started humbly home-brewing beer in his basement in the early 1980s. In 1983, in Downtown Kalamazoo, Larry opened a homebrew supply shop.

As word spread about his beer, people requested more samples. Larry responded by opening the Kalamazoo Brewing Co, started brewing beer commercially in a 15-gallon soup pot, and his brewing company sold its first beer on September 19, 1985.

A Bell’s Brewery timeline:

· 1985: Bell’s first brew beer was Amber Ale.

· 1900: By installing a 2-barrel brew system, Bell’s increases brewing capacity.

· 1995; Bell’s debuted their Beer Garden. An outdoor space near the Eccentric Café.

· 2000: Comstock Township, Michigan, becomes the home of Bell’s main Brewery.

· 2005: The Comstock Brewery expands.

· 2010: Oarsman Ale and The Oracle were first brewed; Larry Bell takes home the Brewers Association Recognition Award

· 2015: Improvements at the Comstock Brewery: A wastewater treatment facility called “the Cube” comes online. The Quality lab upgrades its technology game to measure water quality and analyze beer DNA.

· 2020: Bell’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthens through implementing multiple initiatives.

Celebrate Spring. Celebrate Oberon Day

On March 21, 2022. Bell’s Brewery released their renowned seasonal wheat beer Bell’s Oberon and celebrated the release of the beer and being one step closer to spring by celebrating Oberon day at their breweries in Michigan.

Next year, celebrate Oberon Day Like They Do at Bell’s Brewery!