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Emma Janzen
Emma is a freelance writer who lives in Chicago with her husband and color-coordinated cats. Drinks of all kinds are her area of expertise, but she also dabbles in design and architecture writing as well.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Favorite foods: Sushi, tacos, cheese, Negronis.
- Last bite on earth: Fresh, warm bread with soft fluffy insides and a substantial crunchy crust.
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10 Essential Books For Cocktail Lovers: Vintage and Modern Classics
@franko, I love the Drunken Botanist! There were so many excellent books that didn't make the final list just by virtue of keeping things concise. I wanted to really drill down the dozens that are out there to a digestible list, you know?
The Best Spirits and Liqueurs of 2014
@el_duderino: Great question. It's actually a mix of all three. Since this was the best things I've tried all year, some of them were discovered in bars and industry tastings, others were sent to me by companies for consideration (although I never promise placements up front--the product has to be really delicious to make the final cut), and others I requested specifically based on thorough research and recommendations from trusted bartenders and industry folk. So in this case, I stand behind the claim that these are the best spirits overall that I consumed this year, and not just the best of samples that I have been sent. There were MANY bottles that didn't make the final cut for one reason or another. Does that help?
6 Great Syrups to Buy For Cocktail-Making
@BostonAdam: I used to do that very thing! I have to say though, I really do prefer the Liber grenadine because of its thick consistency. The added gum syrup instead of just sugar really enhances the texture in cocktails. I feel like POM can be a bit watery body-wise, and without the same highly concentrated flavor. I also prefer it to house made because they also use just the slightest amount of orange blossom, which gives the whole flavor a lot more complexity than just pomegranate. So it really depends on what you're looking for in your drink.
The Best Spirits and Liqueurs of 2014
@BostonAdam: the PR folks said the first national release will come out this Spring. Definitely worth trying. :)
The Best Spirits and Liqueurs of 2014
@RYNJMSRGSDL, I haven't tried either of those gins, but they sound great. I'll mark them down on my "to check out" list. And the design work is lovely! Well done. ;)
Solbeso: Chocolate's Boozy Cousin From South America
@illone, the Solbeso folks say the average retail price is $40, FYI.
The Best American Vermouths
I know DrinkUpNY.com sells at least the Petal & Thorn online, but I don't see the Bittersweet there. They also sell the Vya and Matthiason.
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@edipisreks, this is only for books published before 2014. Stay tuned for part two.