Category: History notes
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Irish whiskey: origins, craftsmanship, flavour, and classic cocktails
Irish whiskey is one of the oldest distilled spirits in the world, renowned for its smooth character, approachable flavour profile, and deep cultural heritage. Produced on the island of Ireland for centuries, it has evolved from a monastic craft into a globally respected spirit category enjoyed neat, on the rocks, and in cocktails. The origin…
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Pistachio: The flavor that went from ancient luxury to global obsession
There was a time when pistachio was a niche flavor — associated mostly with old-fashioned ice cream parlors, baklava, or the occasional green macaron. Today, it is everywhere: lattes, croissants, gelato, protein bars, luxury chocolates, nut butters, perfumes, and even cosmetics. In 2025, pistachio has evolved from a regional ingredient into one of the world’s…
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Banana liqueur: history, origins, and cocktail recipes
Banana liqueur is one of the more versatile fruit liqueurs behind the bar. Known for its rich tropical aroma and sweet banana profile, it has been used for decades in tiki cocktails, dessert drinks, and modern craft mixology. Depending on the brand and style, banana liqueur can range from bright and candy-like to deep, caramelized,…
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Margarita cocktail: history, origins, recipes, and famous variations
The Margarita is one of the most recognizable cocktails in the world. Bright, citrusy, and balanced between sweet, sour, and earthy notes, it has become synonymous with summer evenings, Mexican cuisine, beach resorts, and modern cocktail culture. Yet despite its global fame, the Margarita remains a relatively simple drink at its core: tequila, orange liqueur,…
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Tiki drinks: The tropical cocktails that shaped cocktail culture
Tiki drinks are among the most recognizable cocktails in the world. Known for their vibrant flavors, elaborate garnishes, exotic mugs, and generous use of rum, Tiki cocktails represent far more than simple tropical drinks. They are part of a cocktail tradition built on escapism, creativity, and complex mixology.Although many people associate Tiki drinks with beach…
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The Negroni: Inclusion, origin, history, and variations
Among classic cocktails, few drinks have achieved the cultural permanence of the Negroni. Bitter, aromatic, and structurally simple, the Negroni has evolved from an Italian aperitivo into one of the defining cocktails of modern bartending. Its endurance comes from balance: equal parts spirit, bitterness, sweetness, and botanical complexity. Yet the Negroni’s story is also one…
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Chocolate & spirits pairing : A celebration of flavor, craft, and indulgence
Chocolate & spirits pairing celebrates one of gastronomy’s most luxurious combinations: fine chocolate matched with carefully selected distilled spirits. Much like wine and cheese, the relationship between chocolate and spirits relies on balance, contrast, texture, aroma, and intensity. When paired correctly, both elements enhance one another, revealing layers of flavor that may otherwise remain unnoticed.…
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Amaro appreciation day: A toast to Italy’s bitterest tradition
In the world of cocktails and after-dinner rituals, few categories have experienced a revival quite like amaro. Once considered an old-world digestif reserved for Italian grandfathers and dusty back bars, amaro has become one of the defining spirits of modern cocktail culture. Every year, Amaro Appreciation Day offers bartenders, restaurateurs, and spirits enthusiasts a moment…
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The art of free pouring: tips for accuracy, flair, and looking like you totally meant to do that
Let’s be real: every bartender worth their salt (rimmed margarita, obviously) has tried free pouring at some point and felt either like Tom Cruise in Cocktail or like they just accidentally funded the owner’s next liquor order with one Long Island iced tea.So buckle up, grab your jiggers (then dramatically place them aside like you’re…
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