What kind of wine glasses should I buy?
The ones that appeal to you, of course. But there's more to it than that. A general rule is a wider bowl for reds and a narrower bowl for whites, so it's practical to have a set of glasses for each. Reds have a stronger bouquet, which is enhanced by a broad bowl. Whites are more delicate and benefit from concentration around the rim. There are also sherry glasses, port glasses, and champagne glasses, all of which are specifically designed to enhance the overall effect of a particular wine.
What is a decanter?
A decanter is an ornamental or decorative vessel, usually made of glass, used for serving wine or liquor. Wine decanters expose the wine to the air and allow the wine to breathe in order to draw out the full flavor and aroma. Liquor decanters are generally used for visual appeal.
How much is "one drink"?
In its annual "Dietary Guidelines for Americans", the U.S. Government has defined one drink as 1.5 ounces of 80 proof spirits (40% alcohol by volume), 5 ounces of wine (about 12% alcohol by volume), or 12 ounces of regular beer (about 5% alcohol by volume).
How do I get rid of a hangover?
There are countless home remedies for curing hangovers, but the only truly effective remedy is time.
The discomfort of a hangover is the result of acute dehydration, which occurs as the body rids itself of the toxins and byproducts of breaking down alcohol. Caffeine will stimulate the body, and may alleviate headaches, but it will dehydrate the body as well, so drink plenty of water. For every cocktail you consume, drink a glass of water. Your body will thank you.
Aspirin may provide some pain relief, but it can also be hard on the stomach and digestive system.
The "hair of the dog" approach usually provides some temporary relief for headaches since alcohol dulls pain receptors, but this is hard on the liver and kidneys. This will also cause further dehydration, which can lead to serious health problems. Your organs have worked hard to rid your body of the toxins and byproducts of breaking down alcohol. Don't put them back to work.
Stick to water, fruit juices, and sports drinks, as these will rehydrate the body and replace essential nutrients.
Where does toasting come from?
The word "toast," comes from the ancient Roman tradition of dropping a piece of toasted bread into a vessel of wine, which was done as a wish for good health.
What are some low carbohydrate cocktails?
If low carb is what you're looking for, avoid cocktails with fruit juice and full calories soda. Bloody Marys and mixed drinks with liquors and diet soda are relatively low in carbohydrates. Wine and beer are both high in carbs. Low carb beers are an alternative, but they compromise flavor.
What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?
Bourbon is the whiskey originally distilled in Bourbon Country, Kentucky. It is made from a mash of not less than 51 percent corn plus malt and rye.
Whiskies constitute the other grain mash liquors that use a mash that is less than half corn. Whisky, without the 'e', refers to the grain mash liquor of Scotland.
How many beers are in a pitcher?
A standard pitcher holds sixty ounces. That is five 12 ounce beers (each of which constitute one drink), or enough beer to fill four pint glasses.
What is a "dirty martini"?
A dirty martini is typically a vodka martini with olive juice and an olive spear garnish.
What is the difference between a pilsner and a lager?
A Pilsner is a lager, but a lager is not necessarily a pilsner. Pilsners are golden, light colored lager beers with a crisp, clean finish that are modeled after the true Pilsners, which are brewed in the Czech city Pils. The original Pilsner got its clarity from the unique naturally filtered water of the region.
Lagers can be light or dark, and this is usually determined by the water used in brewing. Different waters have different minerals, which react with the grain during brewing and determine the color. Lagers are the result of bottom fermenting yeast, as opposed to ales, which are top fermenting. Lagers have a smooth, clean, refreshing finish, whereas ales are heartier and fruitier.
For drink recipes, what is "a twist"?
To add a twist to a cocktail, take a slice of the rind of the fruit and twist it over the drink before dropping it in. This adds zest and a touch of fruit juice.
What is the difference between a high ball glass and a low ball glass?
The high ball glass is a tall glass for mixed drinks, similar to a Collins glass. A lowball glass is shorter and wider, also called a rocks glass.
DID YOU KNOW?
By act of the U.S. Congress, bourbon is the official spirit of the United States.
