Mexican Ghost with Lunazul Tequila

While re-watching Better Call Saul on Netflix, I started craving for Tequila. Since the Zafiro Añejo in the series is a fictional brand, I had to search for something else. In my stash of new bottles to test for this blog, I found a nice Lunazul Tequila Blanco. 

I really wanted to mix up something tasty with this unaged spirit, but keep it as lucent as possible. I didn't have any more clear ice, that would have been even better!

Mexican Ghost

Ingredients

50ml Lunazul Blanco Tequila

20ml Burning Devil Tequila Liqueur

7ml Simple Syrup

1 dash of grapefruit bitters

Method

Add all ingredients to a tumbler with ice cubes and give it a good stir.
Garnish is overrated. Just enjoy, preferably while watching Better Call Saul. 

Disclaimer: All pictures and texts are copyrighted by Geert Conard and Esito Consulting unless stated otherwise in the article. While some items might have been gifted by the producer or distributor, these are in no way paid promotions or recommendations.

The Dubliner. About barrels filled with whiskey, then beer, then again with whiskey.

Over the past two decades, distilleries have embarked on a captivating journey of experimentation with various barrel aging and finishing techniques. It's now widely understood that the intricate flavours of a spirit develop through the profound interaction with the barrels it matures in. A captivating evolution has seen spirits aging in multiple types of casks or the harmonious marriage of differently aged spirits. These possibilities seem limitless, and at the helm are the master distillers, the modern alchemists of our era.

In recent years, amidst the realm of extensive spirit and wine cask aging, a new trend has risen – the beer phenomenon. The practice involves loaning whisky-soaked barrels to craft beer breweries. After a period of housing beer, these barrels are returned to the distilleries and once again filled with whisky, creating a captivating exchange of flavours. The outcomes vary: sometimes the added flavour necessitates a careful search, while other times it's a marked enhancement. This dynamic holds true for both beer with a whisky twist and whisky with delightful beer undertones.

A noteworthy player in this innovative landscape is The Dublin Liberties Distillery, the birthplace of exceptional whiskies such as The Liberties, The Dubliner, and The Dead Rabbit. Their ingenious approach involves crafting a diverse range of beer-matured whiskies. These distinctive whisky releases acquire their final flourish from casks that previously cradled everything from a light blond ale to a rich dark stout.

My fortunate encounter led to a bottle of The Dubliner Irish Whiskey, meticulously finished in barrels previously housing O’Hara’s brewery’s Irish Stout. The first sip was a delightful revelation: vivid notes of green fruits intertwined with hints of cake and marshmallow, dusted with a touch of nutmeg. On the palate, an intricate dance of chocolate, confectionery delights, and vanilla unfolded. Eager to celebrate these flavours, I chose a path of simplicity. A swift mix within a mixing glass, and a classic Old Fashioned emerged, elegantly presented in a Liiton tumbler. Simplicity to the max.

In essence, the last two decades have witnessed an enchanting evolution where spirits and beer intersect within the sanctum of barrels, fostering a symphony of flavours. From the master distillers' artistry to the interplay between casks and brews, it's a tale of innovation that continues to unfold, captivating the palates of those who seek unique and exquisite tastes.

Disclaimer: All pictures and texts are copyrighted by Geert Conard and Esito Consulting unless stated otherwise in the article. While some items might have been gifted by the producer or distributor, these are in no way paid promotions or recommendations.

Grob Vays Hunt (Dirty White Dog, Israeli edition)

Indulging in my hobby for a span of over 8 enriching years, I find myself in a realm of contentment. Throughout this journey, I've embarked on a delightful array of experiences that once seemed beyond the realm of possibility. Venturing across borders, I've wandered through the picturesque landscapes of France, Spain, and Italy, all in the name of my passion.

My hobby has unveiled an assortment of captivating moments, including immersing myself in workshops that unravelled the art of whisky blending. A captivating memory involves being immersed in the world of wine menus, cocktail menus, and even try out restaurant menus, an honour that never ceases to amaze me. Reflecting on this journey, it's hard to pinpoint any notable sources of frustration, though a flicker of curiosity remains.

I've been granted the privilege of sampling an eclectic array of spirits from various corners of the world. Yet, often, these encounters have centred around commercial offerings or carefully curated cask samples. What truly stirs my intrigue is the unadulterated essence of these spirits – the 'new make' spirit, freshly born from the distillation process. This delicate elixir, the true soul of distillation, remains safeguarded by many distilleries, a treasure rarely shared even in the context of workshops or distillery visits.

Gone are the days of clandestine moonshine; however, a refreshing exception can be found in distilleries like Milk & Honey, nestled in the heart of Tel Aviv, Israel. Here, a spirit of innovation and openness thrives. A spark of interest from enthusiasts, and they readily bottle their New Make spirit.

In the ever-evolving landscape of media, Belgian television screens are currently graced by the presence of series spotlighting Jewish families. This trend presented an opportune moment to craft a libation that pays homage to the distinctive Israeli spirit. Enter the scene, with the "Grob Vays Hunt” (Dirty White Dog), a tantalizing concoction that offers a Moonshine-inspired twist on the classic Dirty Martini.

Grob Vays Hunt 

Ingredients

60ml M&H New Make

20ml Dry Vermouth

5ml Simple Syrup

A dash of olive brine (Feeling adventurous? Explore with different pickle brines)

Method

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing glass generously filled with ice.

Stir the mixture gracefully for 15 seconds, allowing the flavours to harmonize. Strain the elixir into a chilled Martini glass, a vessel of elegance. Garnish this masterpiece with a solitary green olive, a symbol of both tradition and innovation.

As I savour each sip of the Grob Vays Hunt, I'm reminded of the remarkable journey that has unfolded through my beloved hobby. A journey that has taken me across borders, into distilleries, and now, into the realm of mixology, where creativity intertwines with tradition. So, as I raise my glass, I celebrate not only the spirits that have quenched my thirst but the endless possibilities that lie ahead in my cherished journey. 

With this drink, I also salute my friend Glenn, who is leaving his position at Cinoco Spirits to explore new opportunities. Without the endless support of this dedicated spirits professional, my blog would not have attracted the audience it marks today. Thank you, Glenn, hope to see you again soon. 

Disclaimer: All pictures and texts are copyrighted by Geert Conard and Esito Consulting unless stated otherwise in the article. While some items might have been gifted by the producer or distributor, these are in no way paid promotions or recommendations.

Eisbär Mule

A few years back, I indulged in a refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat. I drove to a German ski resort typically bustling in winter but blissfully deserted in the summer months. This cherished memory resurfaced on my Facebook feed, igniting the spark for my latest creation: an Après-ski inspired Mule.

While Kombucha might not be your conventional cocktail ingredient, it often proves to be an excellent stand-in for ginger beer, particularly in select scenarios. Curious to experiment, I reached for a bottle of Mani Kombucha's invigorating Kaffir Lime infusion. The initial sip from the bottle was all it took to confirm its seamless compatibility with a Moscow Mule-style drink.

To infuse a touch of sweetness, I introduced a half-shot of Kleiner Feigling, a German Après-ski liqueur crafted from vodka and succulent figs. This addition lent a unique character to the mix, elevating the entire drinking experience.

Eisbär Mule

Ingredients
40ml Jenever
20ml Kleiner Feigling
100ml Mani Kombucha Kaffir Lime

Method
Add the jenever and liqueur to a Mule mug with lots of ice. Give it a good stir. Add the Kombucha and stir again. Top with even more ice and add some dehydrated citrus. 

Disclaimer: All pictures and texts are copyrighted by Geert Conard and Esito Consulting unless stated otherwise in the article. While some items might have been gifted by the producer or distributor, these are in no way paid promotions or recommendations.

Elevating Beer with Beertails: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Cocktails

Happy #InternationalBeerDay!!!

As a lover of wine and quality spirits, I rarely find myself reaching for a beer. However, once a year, I like to experiment with beertails - unique cocktails where beer plays the starring role as a mixer. If you're curious about trying this delightful concoction, I've got some fool-proof recipes for you. While the Margarita and Bloody Mary can easily transform into beertails, today, I'll be sharing my variation of the Aperol Mist, featuring a craft beer called "Ouwen Duiker" from Brewery Hedonis in Michelbeke-Brakel.

Before we dive into the recipe, let me introduce you to "Ouwen Duiker", a craft pale-ale beer with a delightful 7% alcohol content. Brewed by the talented artisans at Brewery Hedonis, located in the hometown of one of our esteemed "Minister-of-state" excellencies, Mr De Croo, this beer holds a special significance. Its Flemish name translates to "Old Diver," as depicted by the diver on the label. However, in the local dialect, it could also cheekily refer to a "dirty old man.” This beer boasts a distinct character, crafted with abundant rye and a blend of two American hops, Mosaic and Citra, creating a wonderfully fruity flavour.

Today, I'm venturing beyond the traditional Margarita and Bloody Mary to present my take on the Aperol Mist beertail. The choice of "Ouwen Duiker" will undoubtedly add a unique twist to this classic cocktail, enhancing its flavours and introducing beer enthusiasts to the world of beertails.

The Foggy Diver

Ingredients
50 ml Aperol
30 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
10 ml simple syrup (adjust to taste)
2 dashes of orange bitters
Chilled "Ouwen Duiker" craft beer

Method
In a shaker, combine Aperol, freshly squeezed orange juice, simple syrup, and orange bitters.
Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.

Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. Top up the glass with the chilled "Ouwen Duiker" craft beer, allowing the flavours to blend harmoniously.

Garnish your beertail with an orange slice and a sprig of rosemary for a touch of elegance and aroma. Give it a gentle stir, sit back, and savour the delightful fusion of flavours.

Conclusion
Embrace the art of beertails and experience the magic that happens when beer meets classic cocktails. While I might not be a regular beer drinker, "Ouwen Duiker" has captured my heart with its craft and charm, making it the perfect addition to my Aperol Mist variation. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or simply curious to explore new options, this beertail is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds. So, go ahead and raise your glass to this refreshing and unexpected twist on a timeless classic!

Disclaimer: All pictures and texts are copyrighted by Geert Conard and Esito Consulting unless stated otherwise in the article. While some items might have been gifted by the producer or distributor, these are in no way paid promotions or recommendations.

White Mezcal Negroni

One of the reasons why I have an unwavering fondness for the iconic Negroni is the sheer joy of experimenting and swapping its traditional ingredients. Each new attempt leads to the discovery of a delectable drink... well, most of the time, that is.

This time, I've decided to take it a step further by boldly swapping all three bottles, resulting in a delightful riff on the classic Negroni - and the white Negroni. 

As the foundation for my creation, I've chosen Ojo de Dios Mezcal, a spirit crafted from 100% natural Mexican Espadin agave. This exceptional mezcal imparts a delightful smoky essence to this southern-inspired aperitif. 

White Mezcal Negroni

Ingredients

30ml Ojo De Dios Mezcal

30ml Martini Riserva Speciale Ambrato

30ml Suze

Method

The most easy method you can imagine. Just throw everything together in a tumbler with ice and stir for 10 to 15 seconds. Add some dehydrated citrus and enjoy your drink.

Disclaimer: All pictures and texts are copyrighted by Geert Conard and Esito Consulting unless stated otherwise in the article. While some items might have been gifted by the producer or distributor, these are in no way paid promotions or recommendations.