In the library at my childhood synagogue in suburban Chicago, there was a book that I dearly loved. I don’t remember the title. Truthfully, I don’t even remember what it was about. What I do vividly remember is that the book had a passage describing the Russian custom of drinking black tea with cherry jam….
Making vodka is a family affair for Gary Shokin and his daughters Kary Laskin (left) and Samantha Shokin (right). One day in 2009 Gary Shokin and his daughter Kary Laskin were driving down the Belt Parkway in Brooklyn when Gary blurted out, “We should make vodka.” “Oh,” thought Kary. “My dad’s having another idea.” But…
If you would like to try making the country wine you’ll first have to locate a supply of rhubarb, an old-fashioned fruit, really a vegetable, once common in the countryside in old gardens and farms. Through the month of June, you’ll find it in farmer’s markets. In the city, it’s available through July from green…
At a discussion on the history and heritage of Heaven Hill — owned by the Shapira family for 80 years — guests sampled four rare bourbons, including a vibrant whiskey produced by the company in 1936 and bottled in 1942. The whiskey business is booming down in Kentucky, with the largest brands selling millions of…
Evan Williams Single Barrel from Heaven Hill (second from left) had gravitas and a lovely breadth of palate. This is a story of change. Of winter transforming into summer and of Scotch whisky giving way to American spirits. I’m a believer in winter whisky. I trust in Scottish crofters harvesting barley while the weather lifts…
JTA — The oldest continually active Jewish congregation in the Americas? Hint: Check your margarita glass. Congregation Mikve Israel Emmanuel in Curacao, home of the liqueur of the same name, holds the honor, having served the island’s Jewish community since roughly 1654. The wheels of the community were put in motion by Jaoa d’Yllan, a…
Fill the Four Cups With Any Of These Crisp Whites and Rich Reds, All Under $30. Image: Thinkstock I have a soft spot in my heart for Manischewitz, the Kosher wine served at so many Sabbath dinners and Seders, because it was the first wine I ever tasted. Being allowed this wine at Passover when…
A recent addition to the American market, Monkey Shoulder is a blend of three single malts. Column 1: January 2015 Lagavulin 16 vs. Monkey Shoulder I had whisky plans with a highly agreeable chap I hadn’t seen since the autumn. “My good fellow, you seem in fine fettle,” I greeted him. “Likewise, I’m sure.” He…
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