Our list of the best cocktail gifts was updated in November 2023 to include all of our favorite gift items for the holiday season. Yep, it’s already that time of year again! The holidays are almost upon us which means shopping season is about to shift into high gear and as usual, you’ll probably struggle […]
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Best Cocktail Books in 2023: 16 Must-Have Books
This post was updated in November 2023 to add Italy Cocktails. Amongst my friends, it’s safe to say I’ve developed a bit of a reputation as the “cocktail guy.” What can I say, I appreciate a good drink! But over the last few years, my cocktail tastes have evolved beyond the early 20s staples of […]
5 of the Best Home Ice Makers to Buy in 2023
If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, you know that the right ice can make all the difference in the flavor and overall enjoyment of your drink. But if you’re still using regular old ice trays to make your ice cubes, you’re missing out. Investing in a dedicated ice maker specifically designed for cocktails can take your […]
Best Cocktail Smoker: Smoke Boards is My New Favorite Drink Smoker
If you’ve spent any time perusing some of the recipes here at Slightly Pretentious, you’ve probably figured out that I like smoky things. Islay Scotch. Mezcal. You name it, if it’s smoky, I’m all about it (funny considering I don’t smoke). So a few years ago when it became en vogue to actually smoke your […]
Regarding Cocktails: A Cocktail Book Where Simplicity Shines
Since beginning this quest to visit the world’s best cocktail bars in late 2014, there’s one bar that stands above all else. It’s come up dozens of times, and I’m not sure there’s a bartender or cocktail bar owner that doesn’t owe their success in one way or another to this bar. Unfortunately, I’ve never […]