But not every margarita lives up to the hype. While some lean too sugary or rely on pre-made mixes, others strike that perfect balance of fresh lime, quality tequila, and just the right touch of sweetness. To find the best ones, Eat This, Not That! turned to Sanwar Mal Khokhar, Mixologist & Beverage Program Leader, Sanjh Restaurant & Bar, Irving, Texas, who shared the top four chains that serve worthy margaritas.

What Makes a Great Margarita

Drinks these days are pricey, and if you’re going to spend your hard-earned money on a cocktail, it should be worth it. Here are the key things that take a margarita from mediocre to excellent.

According to Khokhar, “A great margarita lives or dies on three basic things: a good, clean tequila, fresh lime juice and balance.” He explains, “When someone puts a sour mix in the margarita, the drink is dead. Margarita requires a good blanco and reposado tequila, fresh lime juice and a sweetener that does not overpower the rest of the ingredients.” Khokhar adds, “Another important thing is the salt rim. It is not just to make the drink presentable; it also serves to cut the harshness of tequila and the sharpness of fresh lime. When all these things are lined up, the margarita will be the best.”

Chili’s Grill & Bar

Chili’s Grill & Bar has been around for years and is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. There are tons of social media videos circulating showing off a great meal for a good value–with fast food prices soaring, you can spend the same amount, but for a quality sit-down meal. In addition to a solid meal, Chili’s also serves good drinks, like the Presidente Margarita, which is Khokhar’s favorite.

“It has Patron silver, grand mariner and fresh lime juice,” he explains. “It is consistent and served always at the right temperature and for the high volume they do across thousands of locations around the country, that kind of quality control is genuinely hard to pull off,” he points out.  “The Presidente Margarita is the drink that made a generation of casual diners realize a margarita could actually taste like something.”

On The Border

One of the many appeals about On The Border is that the chain offers familiar, crowd-pleasing dishes—fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, and queso—served in hearty portions. The premium margaritas compliment any item on the menu and Khokhar says they’re a must-try.

“What makes their margarita is the freedom that they give to the guest to choose their tequila,” he explains. “This is the one thing that most of the restaurant chains completely ignore. Their margaritas are citrus-forward, not overly sweet and they pair beautifully with their food instead of competing with it.”

Texas Roadhouse

Go to Texas Roadhouse any day of the week, and you’ll find a line waiting for a table–it’s always packed. Known for affordable, high-quality steak meals, Texas Roadhouse delivers in many ways, including its legendary margaritas.

“Frozen margaritas can have a bad reputation for being too sugary or not strong enough, but Texas Roadhouse proves that theory wrong,” says Khokhar. He shares, “Few chain restaurants have the best frozen margaritas without fake lime, powder or premix, and that is the key behind a good frozen margarita.” He adds, “For a steakhouse chain, the bar program always plays a very important role, and Texas Roadhouse does justice with their drinks, especially margaritas.”

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar

Applebee’s is beloved for a few simple reasons: it’s easy, familiar and reliably satisfying. The chain is also a great value–you can usually find limited-time offers and free or discounted appetizers. It’s a go-to spot for Khokhar when he’s craving a good margarita.

“Applebee’s does one of the best seasonal margaritas I’ve had over the past couple of years,” he says. Their main focus is also on using fresh lime juice. The classic margarita on a specific price point has gained attention.” He adds, “The margaritas are fulfilling and at a great price point.  Sometimes that is exactly what the guest needs: a quality margarita within a price limit. Their Dollarita margarita is also getting some real attention.”

The post 4 Chain Restaurants with the Best Margaritas, According to a Mixologist appeared first on Eat This Not That.

This major mistake came about due to an error at the packaging factory where High Noon’s Vodka Seltzer Beach Packs were released with adulterated Celsius Astro Vibe energy drink cans. Unsuspecting consumers who drank the Celsius cans at the gym or chugged one before getting in the car could be forgiven for being very confused. “Consumption of the liquid in these cans will result in unintentional alcohol ingestion. No illnesses or adverse events have been reported for this recall to date,” the FDA says.

High Noon sounded the alarm when it realized a shared packaging supplier mistakenly shipped empty Celsius cans to High Noon. The recall only impacts High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs shipped to distributors in FL, MI, NY, OH, OK, SC, VA & WI. Distributors then shipped the High Noon packs to retailers in FL, NY, OH, SC, VA & WI between July 21, 2025 – July 23, 2025.

Here are the High Noon lot codes:

L CCC 17JL25 14:00 to

L CCC 17JL25 23:59

L CCC 18JL25 00:00 to

L CCC 18JL25 03:00

Here are the Celsius Astro Vibe Energy Drink Sparkling Blue Razz Edition codes:

L CCB 02JL25 2:55 to

L CCB 02JL25 3:11

Customers who bought High Noon packs with those codes should contact High Noon Consumer Relations at consumerrelations@highnoonvodka.com for refunds.

Even if you bought your Celsius from the grocery store or online, it’s still worth checking to make sure it’s not a silver lid can, with booze. “Even if not purchased in a High Noon Beach Variety pack, consumers should be advised to ensure their CELSIUS ASTRO VIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition does not contain the lot codes (L CCB 02JL25 2:55 to L CCB 02JL25 3:11), prior to consuming,” the FDA says.

The internet has been having a field day with this event since the recall was announced, with endless memes and warnings about the potentially disastrous situation. “It isn’t a huge deal, but the recall is still warranted. If someone opened a case of high noon, found a ‘non alcoholic’ energy drink can in it, they may think it was just a mix up with packaging and give it to someone who should not be drinking alcohol either because of age, medications they are on, etc,” one Redditor pointed out. “No wonder I was so productive at work yesterday,” another joked.

The post High Noon Just Got Recalled Over Bizarre Celsius Mix-Up appeared first on Eat This Not That.

NEW Green Tea: Crisp and smooth with the light, refreshing taste of green tea, and a touch of natural sweetness.

NEW Half & Half: The perfect balance of bold black tea and fresh lemonade for a refreshing, slightly tart finish.

Original: Classic black tea with a hint of lemon and light sweetness.

Peach: Sweet and juicy peach with a layer of black tea and light sweetness.

Each can is just 90 calories and gluten-free with 4.5% ABV.

“High Noon Vodka Iced Tea made a big splash last year, and we want to continue to build on that momentum with the launch of two new flavors, Green Tea and Half & Half,” Brandon Lieb, Vice President at Spirit of Gallo, tells Eat This, Not That!. “Brewed with real vodka and real tea, these new additions are non-carbonated, crisp, flavorful, and made for warm-weather sipping. Whether you’re poolside, on the golf course, or just soaking up the sun, they’re the perfect way to keep the good times going.”

Sam’s Club offers a High Noon variety pack in certain locations, and customers love it. “Absolutely succulent flavor variety, great price,” one said. “This has become a staple adult beverage in our house,” another commented. “A light, refreshing drink. Delicious flavors. Love this beverage!” another said. “Best low calorie drink, took it to a get together and everyone loved them,” a third Sam’s Club shopper said.

Target also has the High Noon Sun Sips Tropical Hard Seltzer Variety Pack on sale for $17.99. “These drinks are delicious!! Would recommend to anyone wanting to try something new and light! Great with many awesome different flavors!!” one Target shopper said. “I am not a seltzer fan at all, but these drinks are so neutral tasting! The mix and variety hit it spot on. At least 3 of them start to make the feel goods come out,” another agreed.

Many of the reviews mention how the High Noon drinks aren’t overly sweet. “I really like this tropical flavor pack of seltzers — the flavors are fresh and delicious! I love the fact that they are made with real juice and have no added sugar. Compared to similar products on the market, these seltzers are definitely superior. They have great flavor and quality ingredients – a win win!”

The post High Noon Just Launched Two New Vodka Iced Teas for Summer appeared first on Eat This Not That.

The sandwich will be joined by two other limited-edition menu items: The Popeyes x Tequila Don Julio Reposado Flavored Louisiana Garlic 3-Piece Wings with a specialty sauce and a Spicy Strawberry Hibiscus Flavored Lemonade Mocktail. “The menu combines the rich heritage of Popeyes’ Louisiana-style cooking with the bold flavors of Tequila Don Julio Reposado – a tribute to craftsmanship and iconic celebrations,” the press release states.

Note that only those 21 and up can order from the spirited menu.

The trio will only be available on Jan. 31 for preview in six select locations in New York and Miami, New Orleans, where the Super Bowl is taking place, and Philadelphia and Kansas City, the teams playing in the big game. It will also be available at the flagship Popeyes restaurant on Canal Street in New Orleans from Jan. 31 through Feb. 9, while supplies last.

Redditors are divided about the tequila chicken sandwich. “Thats sounds awful,” writes one. “Sounds gross,” added another. Some people pointed out that alcohol is a common marinade in meat, and that the actual booze cooks out. “That would tenderize it and add some nice flavour. How is this stupid?” one writes.

If you don’t live near any of those locations you can take advantage of another deal via UberEats, a buy one get one free offer for a chicken sandwich when purchasing Popeyes on the mobile app. You will also get a $5 code to redeem on Tequila Don Julio from Jan. 29 through Feb. 9, which can also be redeemed for Popeyes chicken sandwiches or Popeyes wings.

RELATED: Every Popeyes Chicken Sandwich, Tasted & Ranked for 2024

Here are the following locations where you can try the sandwich:

New York:

Times Square –1530 Broadway, New York, NY 10036

Madison Square Park – 14 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010

Miami:

6800 Red Rd, South Miami, FL 33143

New Orleans:

621 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

Philadelphia:

1428 Old York Rd Abington, PA 19001

Kansas City:

9460 Quivira Rd Lenexa, Kansas 66215

The post Popeyes’ New Chicken Sandwich Has the Internet Divided: ‘Sounds Awful’ appeared first on Eat This Not That.

But what happens to your body when you stop drinking? To find out, we explored scientific research and spoke with registered dietitians who shared insights on the immediate and long-term benefits. From better sleep and mental clarity to healthier skin and improved liver function, giving up alcohol triggers a cascade of positive changes in your body.

Read on to discover how eliminating alcohol can transform your health.

Your heart health improves.

Abstaining from alcohol can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and reduced cardiovascular disease risk. A 2016 study found that those who avoid alcohol or significantly reduce their consumption can experience improved heart function.

Brittany Lubeck, RD, a registered dietitian and nutrition writer, tells us, “Research shows that regular alcohol use may lead to high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, and other heart issues. It stands to reason, then, that quitting drinking reduces the risk of heart conditions. However, it’s worth pointing out that these heart effects are mostly seen in people who drink excessively. Moderate drinking isn’t associated with an increased risk of heart conditions.”

RELATED: What Happens To Your Body If You Drink Alcohol Every Day

Your liver will thank you.

According to the NIH, alcohol can contribute to liver inflammation and fatty liver disease. However, giving up alcohol gives your liver the chance to repair and regenerate. “Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, including fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis,” says Trista Best, RD, a registered dietitian with Balance One Supplements. “Quitting alcohol allows the liver to regenerate and repair, promoting overall liver health.”

You’ll lose weight.

Alcohol is calorically dense, providing 7 calories per gram. Moreover, these are “empty calories” that provide no nutritional value. “Depending on how much alcohol you drink regularly, giving it up for good may lead to weight loss,” says Lubeck, noting that your overall calorie intake will naturally decrease, “leading to the possibility of weight loss.”

Additionally, giving up alcohol often results in better food choices as “Many people experience strong food cravings while drinking,” explains Lubeck.

According to a study published in the journal Appetite, people who drank half a shot of alcohol (20 grams worth) ate 11 percent more than those who abstained. The drinkers also experienced more cravings for high-fat (high-calorie) foods.

RELATED: 10 Essential Grocery Store Buys for Weight Loss

Your sleep quality will improve.

While alcohol might initially induce drowsiness, studies suggest it can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to poor-quality rest. When you give up alcohol, your sleep patterns often normalize, leading to a more restful and rejuvenating night’s sleep that has cascading benefits for your overall health.

“Alcohol can disrupt the sleep cycle, leading to difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep. By giving up alcohol, you may experience improved sleep quality and duration. Better sleep has numerous health benefits, including enhanced cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall well-being,” explains Best.

You’ll boost your immune system.

The NIH points out that alcohol can suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness and infections. Removing alcohol from your diet can strengthen your immune system, contributing to illness resistance, faster recovery times, and a more robust immune response.

Lubeck says, “Long-term, excessive alcohol use has been associated with poor immunity. In fact, such alcohol use may increase your risk of pneumonia, sepsis, and even cancer. Therefore, giving up booze may be one way to support and possibly improve your immune system. A better immune system means a lower risk of infections and certain health conditions.”

Your mental health will improve.

Alcohol and mental health are intricately connected. That’s why abstaining from alcoholic beverages can lead to significant improvements in your psychological well-being. According to a 2022 review, giving up alcohol can help reduce anxiety and depression, enhance mood, and improve cognitive function.

“Alcohol is a depressant that can negatively impact mental health. Quitting alcohol can lead to improvements in mood, reduced anxiety, and better overall mental well-being. It may also contribute to better stress management and coping mechanisms,” says Best.

RELATED: 6 Best ‘Anxiety Superfoods’ To Eat When You’re Feeling Stressed

You’ll have more energy.

Drinking negatively affects sleep, and naturally, this affects your mood and energy levels the following day. According to a study published in the journal Sleep and Vigilance, heavy alcohol consumption significantly increases daytime sleepiness the following day. Nearly 35% of participants reported feeling slowed down or lost interest in remaining awake after drinking the night before whereas less than 5% of participants reported the same feelings on a regular day.

Your digestion may improve.

If you ever feel bloated or have abdominal discomfort after pairing a meal with a glass of wine or beer, you might be able to put at least some of the blame on alcohol. Even in relatively small doses, alcohol can negatively affect digestion by altering the stomach’s secretion of gastric acid and hamper the digestive enzymes’ ability to function and break down food. When these functions are impaired, your digestion suffers. Studies have shown that pairing alcohol with a meal can slow down digestion while the overproduction of gastric acid can irritate the stomach.

RELATED: 9 Foods That Cause Digestive Problems

You may notice better skin.

Alcohol is a diuretic, which increases the excretion of fluids from your body, and this can affect your skin health over time. Researchers have identified a close correlation between alcohol use and skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, spider veins, and post-adolescent acne. One study even found that heavy drinking—defined as eight or more drinks per week—was associated with increased upper facial lines, under-eye puffiness, and midface volume loss.

The post What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Drinking Alcohol appeared first on Eat This Not That.

And, when it comes to cocktails, thankfully, the options are endless. Iconic drinks like old fashioneds, Manhattans, mint juleps, whiskey sours, and hot toddys all use bourbon as the base to bring out each cocktail’s unique qualities.

While these classics are solid go-tos for any occasion, you can also kick it up a notch during the winter months with a more festive, seasonal approach.

Read on to discover some delicious winter-themed bourbon cocktails that can keep you feeling toasty for the next few months. And for more drinks, check out 9 Best Cheap Wines That Taste Expensive, According to Sommeliers.

Spicy Bourbon Pumpkin Smash

Homemade pumpkin spice syrup, orange juice, bitters, ginger beer, and your bourbon of choice all come together to make this Spicy Pumpkin Smash. People most often associate pumpkin with fall, but these flavors can keep you warm and cozy all winter long, too.

Get the recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.

RELATED: 12 Cheap White Wines That Taste Expensive

Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned

You can’t go wrong with a cocktail made of toasty vanilla, spicy chai, and warming bourbon. All you need to do ahead of time is make a chai simple syrup from chai tea bags, sugar, and water, which you can keep in the fridge for future drinks!

Get the recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.

Brown Sugar Bourbon Smash

This Brown Sugar Bourbon Smash feels like the cocktail version of your favorite holiday desserts, with flavors like ginger, brown sugar, apple, and cinnamon. It may be served over ice, but this winter bourbon cocktail will warm you right up.

Get the recipe from How Sweet Eats.

RELATED: I’m a Dietitian & I Never Eat These 5 Unhealthy Holiday Foods

A Long Winter’s Nap

This bourbon cocktail, appropriately called A Long Winter’s Nap, can be served chilled or hot and features a satisfying combination of maple, ginger, anise, lemon, cinnamon, and bourbon.

Get the recipe from Feasting at Home.

RELATED: 10 Affordable Vodkas That Taste Expensive

Winter Bourbon Smash

A typical bourbon smash would be made with freshly muddled fruit, but this Winter Bourbon Smash uses fruit preserves, as well as orange juice and triple sec, to save you time and still provide a burst of comforting flavors for the chilly months ahead.

Get the recipe from Minimalist Baker.

Boulevardier

You can sip on a Boulevardier year-round, but this simple bourbon-based recipe featuring orange, Campari, and sweet vermouth can warm your insides right up during the coldest months.

Get the recipe from Gimme Some Oven.

RELATED: Do You Know How Much Sugar Is In Your Cocktail?

Holiday Cheermeister Bourbon Punch

This holiday-inspired punch features some of your favorite winter flavors of pomegranate and orange combined with bourbon and Prosecco. This bourbon cocktail is great for impressing a party, and you can even add a sprig of rosemary for a fancy touch.

Get the recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.

Chili Cinnamon Bourbon Hot Toddy

A hot toddy is a classic winter beverage for when you need to warm up, and it’s also a popular cold remedy for those who want a little kick of bourbon to clear those sinuses. This recipe resembles the traditional hot toddy but features cinnamon and red chili pepper for extra spice.

Get the recipe from Minimalist Baker.

RELATED: 15 Healthy, Low-Calorie Mixers for Every Kind of Cocktail

Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned

This recipe is similar to a classic old fashioned, but with a seasonal twist. You’ll enjoy cozy flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, rosemary, and honey, along with your favorite bourbon.

Get the recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.

Bourbon Lemon Rosemary Sour

This bourbon cocktail is one of the lighter, more refreshing options on our list for those who don’t want something super heavy and boozy. It’s like your typical sour, but with some rosemary-infused simple syrup to balance out the tart citrus flavors. This one is sure to impress those who love lemon and bourbon together.

Get the recipe from Foxes Love Lemons.

RELATED: 10 Most Underrated Cocktails, According to Bartenders

Cranberry Bourbon Sour

Another take on a whisky sour, but this time with the seasonal flavor of cranberry and orange. This one also goes great with a sprig of candied rosemary on top, which is a move that will make you look like a professional bartender with very little effort at all.

Get the recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.

Hot Buttered Bourbon

Hot buttered bourbon is a delicious cozy drink that will warm you right up. It combines apple cider, butter, a variety of spices, honey, and bourbon, and this drink can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated again whenever you’d like.

Get the recipe from Well Plated By Erin.

RELATED: 5 Holiday Eating Mistakes That Lead to Belly Fat

Cinnamon Bourbon Old Fashioned with Brûléed Oranges

This is another rendition of an old fashioned, but this time with homemade cinnamon simple syrup, orange juice, and brûléed oranges. Making brûléed oranges is simple and requires very little effort, but it’s a detail that makes this drink unique.

Get the recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.

Cinnamon Maple Whisky Sour

This recipe is simple and requires only four ingredients, so it’s a great choice for beginner at-home bartenders. Just grab your bourbon of choice, maple syrup, lemon, and ground cinnamon, and you’ve got yourself a cozy winter cocktail.

Get the recipe from Cookie + Kate.

RELATED: 11 Easy Christmas Breakfast Recipes Your Whole Family Will Love

Autumn Apple Bourbon Fizz

Yes, this is technically an autumn-themed cocktail, but the recipe is too cozy and delicious not to include on your list of winter drinks. The use of flavors like apple, cinnamon, orange, fig, and ginger makes for a great cold-weather bourbon cocktail to try on your own or share with friends.

Get the recipe from How Sweet Eats.

The post 15 Delicious Bourbon Cocktails You’ll Want to Sip All Winter appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality, delicious wines that won’t break the bank. With the holiday season in full swing, we turned to experts Kathleen Standridge—beverage director at the award-winning Shipwright’s Daughter restaurant in Connecticut—and Carl McCoy, former sommelier and national wine director at Lyons Group, for their picks.

“Value doesn’t have to mean cheap,” Standridge states right away. “You want a bottle that punches above its weight.”

McCoy says to look beyond traditional wine regions like France and California’s Napa Valley. He looks to Portugal, Greece, and lesser-known areas of Italy. “I like to go to Vinho Verde in Portugal. Pretty much any white from there in the summer with seafood or any kind of fair is something I generally gravitate towards,” says McCoy. “ I also love Italian whites for their value, specifically Verdicchio in the summer. That’s on the side of Le Marche, on the direct side of Italy.”

Both McCoy and Standridge included reds from Greece and Italy as good bottles to look at for the price. “A lot of red wines from Greece, I think, will hold up weight to most big American cabernets or some Bordeaux and things like that that are the same ilk, and they’re generally fabulous, or as good if not better in some cases,” McCoy explained. “Italy’s always probably my favorite country to go to for a good value for the money.”

One pro tip from Standridge for finding well-priced wines? Hit your local Costco. Yes, Costco! “They do a lot of research, a lot of market research into value,” she says. “I just saw the other day they had a Vinho Verde from Broadbent for $7! They’re a winemaker who is well-regarded in the wine world, and you can get this bottle at Costco!”

A quick note that the prices included below are online list prices, and actual prices may vary slightly by state or retailer. (You will likely find the best deals if you shop in person at your local wine shop or, as mentioned, a store like Costco.)

Read on for a list of reliable cheap wines that offer amazing quality for their price point, handpicked by our experts. Happy imbibing!

Best Affordable White Wines

Broadbent Vinho Verde

“From the makers of some of the finest Madeira in the world, the producers at Broadbent also make a super affordable Vinho Verde that’s available at Costco,” says Standridge.

Broadbent Vinho Verde retails for under $10. Standridge notes to purchase at Costco in person, not online, for the best price.

RELATED: I Tried 15 Kirkland-Brand Costco Wines & the Best Was Cheap and Smooth

Produttori di Manduria Alice Verdeca

Standridge says this Italian white is “my new fave go-to bottle,” adding that the summer wine has “zippy acidity and a unique tangerine quality and pairs well with seafood.” Alice (pronounced al-ee-chay) is “native slang for Puglian Italian.” She adds, “I am completely charmed by this wine.”

Alice Verdeca retails for around $17.

Santorini Assyrtiko

Standridge is a big fan of Greek wines, and she describes this assyrtiko as “a wine I go back to again and again. So delicious and unique.” What makes this wine unique? “It’s grown in volcanic soil on Santorini, and it’s surprisingly full-bodied, making it excellent with food but solid on its own as well,” she says.

Santo Assyrtiko retails for around $29.

RELATED: 12 Cheap White Wines That Taste Expensive

Laurenz V Singing Grüner Veltliner

Austrian Grüners are ideal summer wines, often with a very light body, and this example is available at Costco, according to Standridge. “I find Grüner is overlooked a lot, and quite frequently is one of those wines where you get a lot of bang for your buck. Total summer BBQ wine and a great choice to bring to a party. Grüner typically has this kind of white pepper zip that makes it unique, but the light body makes it a crowd pleaser.”

The Laurenz V variety retails for around $18.

Garofoli Supera Verdicchio di Matelica

From a young and vibrant wine-grower from the Esino River valley in the Appenines, Supèra is a “mountain wine” with fresh complexity and an opportunity to experience a new personality of verdicchio. McCoy says it’s “fantastic.”

A bottle of the 2022 vintage retails for around $19.

RELATED: 10 Best Low-Sugar Wines That Won’t Derail Your Diet 

Best Affordable Red Wines

Salcheto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

For fans of Sangiovese, this is an easy-drinking, more wallet-friendly alternative. “It is from a sustainably focused Italian winemaker, with ripe and tart cherry notes and very authentically Italian,” Standridge says. “It is a wine I have loved for years!”

Salcheto retails for around $25.

RELATED: 10 Best Cheap Red Wines That Taste Expensive, According to Sommeliers

Kir-Yianni – Xinomavro Naoussa Ramnista

This beautifully textured wine is priced slightly higher than the rest on this list, but you’ll get a fantastic wine for the price, says Standridge. “Let’s call a spade a spade here; it tastes just like a Barolo but at a quarter of the price. If you’re looking for value, you can’t beat it,” she says.

This wine retails for around $28.

Vincent Paris Vin de Pays Collines Rhodaniennes Syrah

While it’s tough to find a value bottle of red from France, McCoy strongly recommends anything from this winemaker. “Vincent Paris is somebody I usually go to for sort of a lower priced, really expressive, decent red. He’s got a single vineyard Syrah that I really like, and then he has a different Syrah, which is sort of a conglomeration of different sites.”

This Syrah retails for around $21.

RELATED: Is Red Wine Good for You?

Best Affordable Rosé Wine

Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rosé

“An exceptionally well-respected producer from the Rhone,” Standridge says of this deep salmon-colored rosé, available at Costco and other retailers. “A medium colored rosé, but I would say to novice consumers, don’t let that dissuade you from buying what is an awesome, crushable wine. Juicy and fun, with raspberry and red currant.”

This “elegant and balanced wine” retails for around $19.

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The post 9 Best Cheap Wines That Taste Expensive, According to Sommeliers appeared first on Eat This Not That.

If you’re comfortable with making drinks for people, you may go for cocktail recipes that are a bit more complex and nuanced, or if you’re just dipping your toes into at-home bartending, you may benefit from a classic recipe that uses only a few ingredients. Or, if you simply want cocktails at your dinner by don’t have the time or energy to make them yourself, you can benefit from the rising popularity of pre-made bottled cocktails.

Whether you’re looking for simple recipes, more complex ones, or brands of bottled cocktails that we love, you’ll find something you enjoy from our list of best Thanksgiving cocktails. Read on, and for more holiday hosting tips, check out 12 Stunning Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board Ideas for Your Holiday Gathering.

Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

This dessert cocktail—crafted by Mixologist Pamela Wiznitzer for Ketel One—uses a homemade pumpkin allspice syrup that will have your guests talking and coming back for a second (or third) drink.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz of Ketel One Vodka
• 0.5 oz of coffee liqueur
• 0.75 oz of Pumpkin Allspice Syrup*
• 1 oz of coffee concentrate**
• Garnish: Pumpkin Spice and Espresso Powder

Method:

Combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin spice syrup, and coffee concentrate in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a martini glass. For a fancy touch, garnish half of the cocktail with some pumpkin spice and espresso powder.

*For the Pumpkin Allspice Syrup:

Boil two cups of water with one tablespoon of pumpkin spice and stir for 5-7 minutes. Then, let simmer for 5 minutes, measure out the reduced liquid, and mix with equal parts sugar.

**For the Coffee Concentrate:

Mix one cup of cold brew and one tablespoon of espresso powder.

RELATED: 20 Restaurant Chains Open on Thanksgiving Day

Autumn Appletini

Another fall cocktail by Ketel One Mixologist Pamela Wiznitzer, this Autumn Appletini should be added to your Thanksgiving menu. With only a few ingredients that can all be combined into one shaker, Thanksgiving cocktails don’t get much easier than this.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz of Ketel One Vodka
• 0.25 oz of fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz of Cinnamon Syrup
• 0.75 oz of apple cider
• Apples for garnish

Method:

Combine all of your ingredients into a shaker with ice and then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a green apple fan.

Hard Apple Toddy

The Hard Apple Toddy is a south-of-the-border twist on a classic hot toddy, featuring Dulce Vida Organic Reposado Tequila, warm apple cider, a touch of lime, and agave for a perfectly balanced sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Dulce Vida Organic Reposado Tequila
• 2-6 oz Hot Apple Cider
• 0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Agave Syrup
• Garnishes: Apple Slice and Cinnamon Stick

Method:

In a hot toddy mug, combine all ingredients and stir. Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.

French Fall 75

This Fall French 75 puts an autumnal twist on the classic cocktail by blending Gray Whale Gin with apple cider and honey syrup for a warm, seasonal flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 parts Gray Whale Gin
• 0.5 part Fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 part Apple cider
• 0.5 part Honey syrup
• 4 parts Prosecco
• Garnish: Apple

Method:

Combine all ingredients except Prosecco in shaking tin and shake with ice. Add Prosecco to shaking tin and strain contents into coupe or flute. Garnish with apple slices.

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Sparkling Holiday Punch

Created by Sarah Gualtieri, @the.boozy.ginger

If you’re serving a crowd, skip the hassle of mixing individual drinks and make entertaining easier with this batch cocktail that serves eight. Featuring Empress 1908 Gin, cranberry juice, and a bubbly Prosecco finish, it’s a stress-free and delicious way to keep the Thanksgiving cheer flowing.

Ingredients (Serves 8):

• 12 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• 4 oz Orange Liqueur
• 12 oz Cranberry Juice
• 6 oz Lime Juice
• Prosecco (1 oz per serving)
• Garnishes: Orange Slices and Cranberries

Method:

Add all ingredients except Prosecco to a pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice and stir until chilled. Serve over ice and top each serving with Prosecco. Garnish with orange slices and cranberries.

Mezcal Amarás Bitter Love

The Bitter Love, a recipe courtesy of Mezcal Amarás, makes for a captivating addition to your Thanksgiving dinner, especially since passion fruit is at its peak during the winter months. Layers of smokiness from the mezcal, sweetness from the passion fruit, herbaceousness from the basil honey, bitterness from the orange bitters, and acidity from the lemon juice all come together to create a well-balanced cocktail that adds a touch of passion to your Thanksgiving festivities.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Mezcal Amarás Reposado
• 0.75 oz basil honey
• 2 oz Passion fruit
• 0.5 oz Lemon juice
• 2 Dashes of orange bitters
• Top with tonic
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig

Method:

1. In a small glass add the passion fruit juice, the basil honey, and the lemon juice, let the ingredients mix and, without shaking, serve them on the low side of your shaker.
2. Add the Amarás Reposado Mezcal, place a large ice cube on the other side of your shaker, add your mixture, and shake for a few seconds.
3. Take an old-fashioned glass, add a couple of ice cubes, and serve your mixture.
4. With the help of the strainer of your shaker and a fine strainer, add the tonic water, and the drops of orange bitters and decorate with a sprig of rosemary.

Fall-Time Tea

You’ve just finished off your last plate of Thanksgiving feast, and now it’s time to cozy up with drinks and dessert. For those who love a hot and cozy cocktail, this Fall-Time Tea by Ketel One is a no-brainer.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz of Ketel One Vodka
• 3 oz of Earl Grey tea
• 0.5 oz of freshly squeezed orange juice
• 0.25 oz of lemon juice
• 1 oz of Dark Brown Sugar Syrup
• 1 pinch of nutmeg
• Garnish: lemon wheels and orange peels

Method:

Start by heating your tea. For every 12 ounces of water, use two tea bags. Then, combine all of your ingredients into a pot and let it sit on low heat for 5-10 minutes until hot. Serve in a mug and garnish with lemon and orange.

For the Dark Brown Sugar Syrup:

Combine one cup of brown sugar and one cup of hot water. Stir until all of the sugar is dissolved.

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Dos Maderes Hot Buttered Rum

Warm cocktails are the perfect drink for your Thanksgiving festivities because they will quickly put anyone in the holiday spirit. For an easy and delicious warm cocktail, try the Hot Buttered Rum recipe using Dos Maderes Triple-Aged Rum.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Dos Maderas 5+5 Rum
• 1 tbsp of butter
• 1 tsp of Demerara sugar
• 1 pinch of cinnamon
• 1 pinch of nutmeg

Method:

You’ll want to use a heated mug or toddy glass, which you’ll fill with butter, sugar, and spices. Then fill your glass halfway with boiling water, and add the rum on top. Finish it off with a bit more hot water, and garnish with an orange peel and freshly grated nutmeg.

RELATED: 9 Delicious Bourbon Cocktails You’ll Want to Sip All Winter

The Hive Fashioned

For a classic, boozy drink that will warm everyone up, try a simple old fashioned. This “Hive Fashioned” recipe is made with Hive Blended Malt Scotch Whisky and is perfect for serving a room of guests because it only requires a few ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml of The Hive Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
• 10 ml of sugar syrup
• 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters
• Orange zest to garnish

Method:

Grab a mixing glass and stir in your scotch, sugar syrup, and bitters over ice. Then pour it into an ice-filled rocks glass. Garnish with fresh mint and a twist of orange zest.

Aviation Gin Espresso Martini

Espresso martinis are yummy year-round, but the creamy coffee flavors feel extra cozy around the holidays. Aviation Gin has a recipe for a super simple Gin Espresso Martini, which will work well as a pre-dinner drink or one to enjoy with dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz of Aviation American Gin
• 0.75 oz of coffee liqueur
• 0.75 oz of espresso
• 0.5 oz of simple syrup (optional)
• Coffee beans or nutmeg

Method:

Grab a cocktail shaker and add all of your ingredients over ice. Shake and then strain into a chilled Martini glass. You can garnish with a couple of coffee beans or a pinch of nutmeg.

Aviation Gin Negroni Upgrade

Serving your guests a beautiful red cocktail can be fun for holiday festivities, and a Negroni is an easy way to do so. This cocktail is another one on our list that uses only a few ingredients, making it an easy and affordable addition to your Thanksgiving menu.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Aviation American Gin
• 0.75 oz Bitter Aperitivo Liqueur
• 0.75 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange Twist

Method:

Simply combine the ingredients in a mixing glass over ice. Stir everything together, and then strain into a rocks glass (or your glass of choice) with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist.

RELATED: 12 Cheap White Wines That Taste Expensive, According to Sommeliers

California Cornucopia

This cocktail, courtesy of Gray Whale Gin, blends the crisp, botanical notes gin with tart cranberry juice and warm honey syrup, creating a perfectly balanced drink for the season. Topped with cinnamon and star anise garnish, it’s a festive choice to impress guests during dessert or as an evening drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Gray Whale Gin
• 1 part Fresh lemon juice
• 1 part Cranberry juice
• 0.75 part Honey syrup
• 1 Egg white
• Garnish: Cinnamon powder and star anise

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and dry shake. Then add ice to the shaker and wet shake. Double strain into rocks glass with no ice. Garnish with cinnamon powder and star anise.

Amante 1530 Moonracker

Amaro is an Italian Apertivo that is becoming more popular in bars across the U.S., and this bold, slightly bitter liqueur goes well in a variety of different holiday cocktails. For an Amar0-based Thanksgiving drink that is on the lighter and more refreshing side, try something like the Amante 1530 Moonracker.

Ingredients:

• 1 1⁄2 oz of Gin
• 3⁄4 oz of Amante 1530
• 3⁄4 oz of fresh lemon juice
• 1⁄2 oz of green tea simple syrup*
• (3) 1⁄4″ cucumber rounds

Method:

Take the cucumber rounds and muddle them with lemon juice inside a shaker. You can then add the other ingredients and shake everything together with ice. Strain into a chilled coupe glass (or any glass of your choosing). Garnish with the remaining cucumber.

For the Green Tea Syrup

This syrup is equal parts green tea and white sugar. Shake well, let sit, and then shake again until fully dissolved.

Amante 1530 Campi Cooler

For an amaro-based drink that is light, rich, and floral, try this recipe from Amante 1530. The Campi Cooler uses a refreshing combination of ingredients like amaro, dry vermouth, lemon juice, bitters, and balsamic vinegar to make a crowd-pleasing cocktail.

• 1 1⁄2 oz of Amante 1530
• 1 oz of Italian Dry Vermouth (Martini & Rossi)
• 1⁄2 oz of fresh lemon juice
• 1⁄4 oz of simple syrup
• 2 bar spoons of organic Italian balsamic vinegar (Kirkland)
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• 3 oz of soda water

Method:

Take a Collins glass, add ice, and add all of the ingredients except for the soda water. Then add the soda water last. Garnish with lemon and a Luxardo cherry.

RELATED: 9 Best Low-Calorie Hard Seltzers for a Healthier Happy Hour

Proper Apple Pie Martini

For a rich and creamy dessert cocktail that will impress your Thanksgiving guests with very little effort, this Apple Pie Martini from Proper Irish Apple is the perfect way to go.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz of Proper Irish Apple Whiskey
• 2 oz of Irish Cream Liqueur
• 2 Dashes of cinnamon
• Graham cracker rim

Method:

Pour the Irish Cream Liqueur, the Proper Irish Apple Whiskey, and cinnamon into a shaker. Add ice and shake until well mixed. Then strain into a martini glass or glass of choice. Garnish with a graham cracker rim.

Ketel One Mule

For a classicly refreshing cocktail that will pair well with appetizers for your pre-dinner mingling, try whipping up a simple mule like the Ketel One Mule.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz of Ketel One Vodka
• 5 oz of Ginger Beer
• 0.5 oz of lime juice
• ⅛ oz of local honey
• Garnish: Lemon or mint

Method:

Add all of your ingredients to a cup of your choosing filled with ice—but if you have a copper mug, that is best for this drink! Then stir and garnish with lemon or mint.

Mulled Cupreata (Mulled Wine & Mezcal)

The Mulled Cupreata is a festive cocktail that pairs perfectly with the signature warming spices of Thanksgiving dinner. Crafted with mulled Mexican red wine that’s simmered with spices like nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and star anise, this cocktail’s complex flavors are enhanced by the addition of smoky mezcal. The unique blend of ingredients creates a cocktail that makes for an exciting choice to shake up your Thanksgiving celebration with a touch of Mexican flair.

While any mezcal can work in this recipe, Mezcal Amaras Cupreata (cupreata is a type of agave from which mezcal is made) features aromas of leather, cocoa, and toasted pumpkin seeds with peppery, spicy flavors that work beautifully in this mulled wine.

Ingredients:

Cocktail

• 1.5 oz Mezcal Amarás Cupreata
• 2 oz mulled Mexican red wine

Mulled wine

• 0.5 Cups of water
• 1 Orange
• Piloncillo (raw cane sugar)
• 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 Teaspoon cardamom
• 5 cloves
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 2 pieces of star anise

Method:

1. Bring the wine, water, orange, piloncillo, ground nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and star anise to a boil over medium heat. Stir slowly with a spoon for about 20-25 minutes, then remove from heat and let stand.
2. In a snifter-type glass, add large ice and pour the previous mixture, add the Mezcal Amarás Cupreata, and stir carefully with a muddling spoon.
3. Add a cinnamon stick as a garnish on the rim of the glass and carefully burn it a little, so that it releases its aroma and enhances the notes of the wine and Cupreata.

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Mezcal Amarás Índigo

Blending Mezcal Amarás Espadín with blue curaçao (a type of orange liqueur), the Índigo cocktail not only captivates the eye with its deep blue hue but also tantalizes the taste buds with a smoky and citrusy profile from the mezcal, cranberry juice, and lemon juice. This mezcal-infused creation promises to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration and wow your guests.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Mezcal Amarás Espadín
• 1oz Blue Curaçao
• 0.75 oz Cranberry juice
• 0.75 oz Lemon juice
• Sugar rim
• Garnish: Yellow lemon

Method:

1. Pour the cranberry juice and the lemon juice into the shaker, then add the Mezcal Amarás Espadín and the Curaçao.
2. Add two ice cubes, close tightly, and shake for a few seconds.
3. Frost a low glass with sugar and add a couple more ice cubes before pouring the cocktail.

Pre-Made Cocktails to Try for Thanksgiving

Not everyone has the time or energy to throw a cocktail recipe into their already elaborate holiday menu, and if this is the case for you but you still want to provide delicious cocktails for your guests, buying premade bottles may be the way to go.

Cutwater Spirits Fireside Variety Pack

If you need a last-minute crowd-pleaser, Cutwater’s holiday flavors are a perfect choice. With options to suit every cocktail lover, you can pour them into a glass with a garnish or keep it casual and sip straight from the can!

The Fireside Variety pack comes with three seasonal flavors:

• Espresso Martini (13% ABV) is crafted with vodka, coffee cream liqueur, and cold brew coffee flavor.
• Peppermint White Russian (13% ABV) is a blend of vodka, coffee cream liqueur, and peppermint flavor.
• Spiced Apple Mule (7% ABV) features vodka, ginger beer, and spiced apple flavor. This cocktail is available exclusively within the Fireside Variety Pack.

The Cocktail Collection

Another option for bottled cocktails, The Cocktail Collection specializes in “Premium, pre-mixed cocktails made with the world’s most iconic spirits brands.”

You can enjoy pre-made cocktails like an Espresso Martini or Cosmopolitan from Ketel One, a Negroni from Tanqueray’s, or an Old Fashioned from Bulleit.

RELATED: I Tried 30 Canned Cocktails—These Are The Ones I Loved

Betty Booze

Founded by Blake Lively, Betty Booze makes cocktails by pairing “the freshest fruits, spices, herbs and more with real spirits and just the right amount of bubbles.”

These are the only sparkling pre-made cocktail options on the list, so for those looking for lighter, more refreshing options to serve before dinner begins, these are for you.

On The Rocks Cocktails

On The Rocks is a company that is “Delivering all the complexity and craftsmanship you would find at your local bar, in a convenient bottle.” You can choose from classic offerings like an Old Fashioned, Manhattan, White Negroni, or a Cosmopolitan.

For a pre-dinner cocktail, serve up the Manhattan, or for a dessert cocktail after your feast, shake up their Espresso Martini with ice.

Via Carota Craft Cocktails

If you’re lucky enough to live near Via Carota, you can treat yourself to one of their cocktails whenever you’d like. But if you’re preparing Thanksgiving dinner this year and need a perfect cocktail to go along with the evening’s festivities, you can enjoy one of Via Carota’s Bottled Craft Cocktails.

Their Craft Cocktails are divided into three categories:

• Martini Family: Signature Martini (18% ABV) and Espresso Martini (19.2% ABV)
• Negroni Family: Classic Negroni (21% ABV) and White Negroni (20.7% ABV)
• Bourbon Family: Signature Manhattan (27.5 % ABV) and Old Fashioned (33.5% ABV)

Not only are these a tasty addition to your holiday feast, but they also make great Christmas gifts as well.

The post 23 Best Thanksgiving Cocktails To Serve at Your Holiday Gathering appeared first on Eat This Not That.

This week, a shopper shared on Reddit that Costco is selling a Kirkland Signature Helles-Style Lager, which is brewed by Oregon’s Deschutes Brewery, the tenth-largest craft brewery in the country.

Kirkland Lager brewed by Deschutes Brewery, Oregon
byu/pullinahi inCostco

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The Reddit user spotted the new lager in packs of 12 cans for $13.99. The beer contains a 4.5% ABV. Helles-lager is a traditional German beer that is light in color, with “helles” translating to “pale” in German. These types of beers are known for being more malt-forward and less hoppy than Pilsners.

“It is smooth, crisp with just a little bit of bite to it. Very easy drinking,” the Costco member who started the Reddit thread about the beer noted in a follow-up comment.

Another shopper who tried and enjoyed the beer noted, “It’s a good pairing for spicy food.”

While several commenters criticized the now-discontinued Kirkland Signature Light Beer of years past, multiple Reddit users expressed optimism about this new option because it’s produced by Deschutes Brewery, a veteran in the craft beer industry.

“I would def give this a try if I see it next time I’m there, Deschutes is a solid brewery,” one Reddit user wrote.

“The fact that Deschutes put their name on it gives me confidence that it’s good. They would have white-labeled it if they didn’t stand behind it,” another one said.

Meanwhile, others were pleased with the $14 price tag, highlighting it as a value deal.

RELATED: Costco’s New Pasta Soup Is Perfect For Chilly Weather

If you’d prefer an imperial stout, the Kirkland Signature Vintage Ale released in September “delivers a bold, complex experience,” and features flavors of chocolate, coffee, and vanilla, as noted by Deschutes Brewery. This beer is brewed with dark chocolate malt, milled oats, and Dutch cocoa before it’s aged for nine months in oak barrels that were used to make Kentucky bourbon. The 22-ounce bottle has a 12% ABV and retails for $9.99.

The Kirkland Signature Helles-Style Lager is just one of many items that have recently sparked chatter on Reddit. Last week, Costco shoppers raved about the return of the British Sticky Toffee Pudding. This popular microwaveable dessert consists of individually portioned sticky date cakes in a buttery toffee sauce.

The post Costco Just Launched a New Craft Beer In Time for the Holidays appeared first on Eat This Not That.

While some of the novelty and spark may have worn off, hard seltzer now has a permanent spot next to beer and canned wine as quick, easy booze options. Thanks to their relatively low alcohol by volume (ABV), you can generally buy them anywhere beer is sold, so you don’t need to make a separate trip to the liquor store. With the continued influx of convenience and product diversity, it looks like spiked seltzers are less of a fad and more of a long-term reality.

With so many options to choose from, how do all these hard seltzers stack up, and which tastes the best? I was curious about the brands plying their carbonated craft, so I decided to take the plunge into this modern corner of the alcohol market to find out which ones rise to the top and which ones fizzle out to mediocrity. Here are my takeaways, ranking the 10 options I tried in descending order from my least favorite to the absolute best one.

Mamitas Tequila Seltzer

One of the few tequila-based seltzers on our list comes from the brand Mamitas–not “Mamacitas,” as I kept mistakenly calling it (though I think that’s more fun). Debuted in 2020, the beverages are said to offer “a light and refreshing taste while staying authentic to iconic tequila cocktails that have inspired bartenders for decades.” Mamitas also has some famous ties—and I’m not just talking about the Mexican beach it’s named after. None other than Brody Jenner acts as the face of the line and strategic partner, helping to build the brand up to new heights.

To see what all the fuss is about with this newfound brand, I bought the variety eight-pack of Pineapple, Paloma, Mango, and Lime flavors for a cost of $19.99–the highest price in this taste test, even ahead of other 12-packs. Five percent alcohol per volume is standard for all flavors.

The look: Crystal clear liquid with frequent bubbles, just like a tequila soda. The cans, however, are much more eye-catching in bright neon colors and swirling stripes that are bound to make you dizzy after downing a few.

The taste: Don’t let the pleasing packaging and allure of celebrity-association fool you. Each of the four flavors tastes of dull tonic water with an almost unbearable sourness. This is especially notable in the lime variety, which induced a grimace on my face after every swig. No flavor was palatable. The mango smelled of perfume with a taste that wasn’t much better, and the pineapple all but knocked me over with a ripple of unnatural tang. So, my apologies, Brody, but I don’t think I will be tangoing with these tequila seltzers any time soon.

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Lone River Ranch Water Hard Seltzer

Have you heard of ranch water? The cocktail is said to have originated in Austin, Texas, as a tried-and-true combination of tequila, lime juice, and sparkling mineral water—more often than not, the Topo Chico variety. Bars in the Lone Star state have been mixing it up for quite some time, but it wasn’t until more recently that the drink became commercialized, sold most notably by the brand Lone River.

I picked up the brand’s original 12-count variety pack in Ohio for $17.99. The box includes Original, Spicy, Rio Red Grapefruit, and Prickly Pear, all at 4% ABV. If you’re in the mood for more of a fiesta, you can grab a box of the company’s Ranch Rita margarita-style beverages.

The look: These cans hit you over the head with their Texas origin, decorated with longhorns, horseshoes, state of Texas outlines, and more. Despite their various colored exteriors, ranging from burnt orange to forest green, the seltzer is always clear with an average level of carbonation.

The taste: “Water” is right. No matter which flavor you reach for, each one tastes like the most subtle of seltzers—certainly missing a big Texas taste. This makes them easy to drink, I suppose, especially with their light bubble load, but also renders them a little lifeless–ironic for something named after our life-giving liquid. The spicy rendition does leave you with a unique back-of-the-throat burn—its only defining feature. And the prickly pear is the only one that delivers a touch of sweetness. Otherwise, the tiniest hint of lime and mostly bitterness overtakes each sip. I reckon people down south may have a different take on the matter. But, for me, these didn’t tickle my fancy.

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White Claw Hard Seltzer

Consumers began riding the White Claw wave in 2016. The brand’s 5% ABV, 100-calorie cans were at the forefront of the recent hard seltzer movement and remain one of the most popular and well-rounded options. Asking someone to pick up a case of White Claws isn’t a simple request. You must specify whether you want the Nos 1, 2, or 3 variety pack. Or, maybe you would rather taste sunshine with the Surf pack or a higher dose of alcohol with the Surge collection. Conversely, you may have your eye on the sweet Iced Tea or Lemonade boxes.

I, for one, grabbed myself a classic variety pack No. 1 for $18.99, but it’s not exactly as you might remember. It contains Lime, Black Cherry, and Raspberry cans, but the Ruby Grapefruit has been replaced by Pineapple.

The look: Although White Claw’s cans are debatably the most well-recognized in the hard seltzer market, they also come with one of the dullest designs. Only the brand’s enlarged logo appears on the front and one brushstroke of color underneath the flavor name. The libation within is just as boring, akin to plain sparkling water.

The taste: Most prominent doesn’t always equate to most palatable. I’ll admit I have fallen into the trap of reaching for White Claw, as it’s often what’s available. But, when pitted against other top choices, the brand loses some of its sparkle. The first sip of any Claw starts ultra-fizzy to the point where it’s overpowering, only to fall nearly flat towards the bottom. What’s worse, though, is that no flavor is strong enough to mask the malt liquor essence at the core of each can. Even something as sweet as pineapple can’t cover up the artificial notes and lingering aftertaste. For those reasons, I have officially jumped off the White Claw bandwagon.

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Truly Hard Seltzer

In the battle of the seltzers, Truly is up there with White Claw. The brand also debuted in 2016 and has nearly the same ingredient list as its competitor. It’s also followed a similar trajectory, adding new product after new product. Truly now takes the shape of Fruit Punch, Lemonade, Vodka Soda, Tequila Soda, and more. I decided to get back to the brand’s roots with one of its most celebrated releases: the Berry Pack. It includes Wild Berry, Blueberry, Strawberry Lime, and Cherry cans—the latter of which isn’t a “berry,” but I’ll let it slide. Each one contains 5% alcohol, just like White Claw.

The look: Once again, the cans here are lackluster. But they deserve extra points for showcasing fruits at their crest. Since they’re made with real fruit juice, each flavor has a unique color tint.

The taste: Plagued with many of the same issues as White Claw, just in a different font. They come with fewer bubbles, making them better for sipping or chugging smoothly. And, most of the cans come with a bold berry-like essence–though I couldn’t tell the difference between a few. But, even with the real fruit juice squirted in, I still couldn’t get past their somewhat phony flavor and almost sour ending. All in all, the drinks aren’t bad. But, they’re not necessarily crave-able either.

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SunnyD Vodka Seltzer

I couldn’t resist nabbing the adult version of this iconic orange drink. The brand explains, “SUNNYD Vodka Seltzer was developed specifically for adults 21+ who love the bold one-of-a-kind orange flavor of SUNNYD and enjoy cocktails.” I would say I fall into that category. So, I picked up a 4-pack for $9.99. Each can contains 4.5% alcohol, as well as vodka with real fruit juice, sparkling water, natural orange flavor, and other natural flavors. In addition to the original tangy orange flavor, you can find them in Orange Strawberry and Orange Pineapple for a tropical fusion.

The look: The packaging is exactly what you would expect from SunnyD. It’s bright, bold, and fun, with what appears to be orange bubbles surfacing from the bottom of the can. Inside, the seltzer is not as golden orange as one may hope. Instead, it’s a cloudy shade of off-white.

The taste: Somewhere between a straight-up screwdriver and a creamsicle. Since it swaps malt liquor for real vodka and fruit juice, it drinks more like a cocktail than a canned seltzer. At the same time, though, it reminded me of a diluted orange soda. My other complaint is the absence of that iconic Florida sun flavor. Played down, it fails to transport me back to summer pool days or bustling school cafeterias—probably a good thing considering the 4.5% vodka in my can.

All this aside, recognition is in order for SunnyD daring to be different with a drink that’s still perfectly sippable. I could think of no better use for it than a throwback to the ’90s party. We can only hope Kool-Aid Jammers are next in line for a boozy transformation to round out the bar further.

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Bud Light Seltzer Hard Soda

Refusing to be left out, Bud Light entered the hard seltzer arena in 2020. The beer brand debuted a standard lineup of fruity flavors from Strawberry to Lemon Lime. But, since then, the company’s R&D department has taken more creative swings, unveiling new products like the Retro Tie Dye, Fall Flannel, and Sour packs. Another spirited concoction that comes with its own level of intrigue is the Bud Light Seltzer Hard Soda. Although in the Midwest, we call it “pop,” I still picked up a case of 12 for $17.99. Each 12-ounce can weighs in at 5% alcohol per volume.

The look: From the outside, the cans have a retro ’80s-style look about them. However, as you dive into the contents, specifically of the Orange and Citrus sodas, you travel even further back in time to the ’70s when neon was all the rage. Both come in bright, vibrant shades that border on alarming. The Classic Cola and Cherry Cola bring us back to reality in conventional colors of dark brown to caramel.

The taste: I’ll be the first to say I’m not a fan of Bud Light’s first swing at seltzers. But, these colas are a product I can get behind. The Classic and the Cherry offer a taste almost identical to your standard Coke or other cola with hardly any signs of strong alcohol. Better still, it reminds me of the flavor you can get from prebiotic soda brands like Poppi or Olipop. The Orange and Citrus flavors, however, are where things get a little dicey since their taste, unfortunately, takes after their outlandish coloring. The Orange is so sickly sweet and syrupy that it left a sugar residue on my lips. Meanwhile, the Citrus can only be described as a less flavorful yet somehow more artificial Mountain Dew.

If Bud Light would listen to my pleas to release an all-Cola box, we would be golden. But, until then, I can’t justify moving the brand past the middle of the rankings with a 50% success rate.

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Vizzy Hard Seltzer

Hard seltzer’s schtick has always been that they’re a “healthier” drinking buddy compared to beer. However, Vizzy was the first brand to promise even more by including antioxidants in its beverages, specifically from acerola cherries. The company has been in hot water for these claims and has been forced to retract the statement from its marketing following a lawsuit. Despite this turbulence, the brand has remained steadfast on the shelf and still uses its original recipes. Out of the five different Vizzy boxes available, I reached for the OG orange box of Vibrantly Tropical flavors for $17.99. Twelve cans fill the cardboard container at 5% alcohol each.

The look: “Vibrant” describes this product well, from the box to each individual can. I hoped the exploding fruit images pictured would also translate into the flavor. In terms of the refreshment itself, it’s not overly fizzy for a brand called Vizzy.

The taste: I highly appreciate the individuality of each Vizzy flavor. They shy away from overdone basics like lime and cherry, instead offering dual flavors in every can. Compared to other seltzers, they taste more like real produce straight from the market rather than something cooked up in a lab. With sweet blueberries and a tart pomegranate finish, the purple and blue mashup has my heart. The fresh and tropical Pineapple Mango stood out, while the Papaya Passionfruit made me feel indifferent. Exuding an almost stale taste, the Strawberry Kiwi is the only one I didn’t jive with.

I give the brand two thumbs up. Antioxidants or not, Vizzy iz a vibe either way. And I have my eye on the Orange Cream Pop variety next.

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Topo Chico Hard Seltzer

Mexican-based water brand Topo Chico began its thirst-quenching journey nearly 130 years ago in 1895. Now, it has become a household name here in the States, popping up in grocery stores and cocktails, as well as in drinks like margaritas, mojitos, and the aforementioned ranch water. If you’re craving one of these hard drinks but aren’t in the mood for all that mixing, don’t worry. Topo Chico has a crafty solution for that, thanks to its recently introduced roundup of hard seltzers, which are said to “deliver a crisp taste that’s crafted with the soul.” I snagged a variety pack for $17.99, including Tangy Lemon Lime, Tropical Mango, Strawberry Guava, and Exotic Pineapple flavors, each containing 4.7% alcohol.

The look: Think normal Topo Chico, concealed in an aluminum can rather than inside an elongated and green-tinted glass bottle.

The taste: If you’re a fan of Topo Chico water, or really any sparkling water, then I bet you’ll like this. All four cans achieve the perfect level of carbonation, right between nose-wrinklingly fizzy and flat as a board, and keep you coming back for more with precise yet understated fruity notes. The seltzer has more character than a La Croix, but it still ranks low on the sweetness level—which is good in this case. There wasn’t a flavor I didn’t like, from crisp Strawberry Guava to a mild Mango. But I will warn you that the Lemon Lime delivers a surprising twist of vanilla that appears out of nowhere. Maybe that’s the tanginess at work? I’m not sure, but either way, it was still tasty, if unexpected.

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High Noon Vodka Seltzer

High Noon made a splash when it came onto the market in 2019, presenting a blend of real vodka and real fruit juices—a foreign concept to other competitors. It stands as the top-selling canned cocktail, and I was curious to see if this title is well-deserved. There are 16 flavors of High Noon seltzers and six versions of its new tequila seltzers. I picked up a variety 12-pack pack of vodka seltzers containing Watermelon, Black Cherry, Grapefruit, and Pineapple cans for $17.99. They stand at 4.5% alcohol apiece.

The look: The drinks come lightly colored and lightly carbonated. Their outer packaging, on the other hand, reminds me of a sunny day on the beach in a calming combination of blue and yellow. Small fruit insignias can be found on each can, signifying the flavor.

The taste: The smoothest of all seltzers. It must have something to do with swapping malt liquor for vodka—the brand’s not-so-secret sauce. Each new taste offers just enough sweetness to get you by while contributing an air of fruity authenticity. Additionally, nothing offensive lingers on your tongue after taking a sip. Getting down to specifics, the Watermelon can is reminiscent of sour candy, while the Black Cherry is rich without tasting like medicine. Grapefruit, which has never been my favorite, is a can I can drink without a second thought. And sweet, tropical Pineapple seems to be a crowd-pleaser—always the first one missing out of the variety box.

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Mighty Swell Spiked Seltzer

I hadn’t seen the Mighty Swell name before at the grocery store. So, naturally, I added a box to my cart. Come to find out, the brand hails from Austin, Texas. Like Lone Star State’s capital city, this brand keeps it weird. This is evident in its recent Techniflavor and Keep it Weird spiked seltzers. I chose to dial down the unconventionality a tad with the Original Variety Pack. It cost $16.99—the cheapest option I purchased, except the four-pack SunnyD seltzers. Flavors include Blackberry, Peach, Watermelon Mint, and Cherry Lime, all at 5% alcohol.

The look: The logo gives off a groovy vibe. The rest of the can’s design is sneakily similar to Truly’s, with pictures of fresh fruit decorating the tops. The seltzer itself is clear with frequent bubbles.

The taste: This brand is all about fun—and how fun it is to drink these seltzers. I started with the Watermelon Mint, which proved to be the best choice I made. It’s oh-so-refreshing, like a fruity mojito, and unlike anything I tried from other seltzer brands. I wanted to go back for another can before even trying the other flavors but resisted for the sake of the taste test. After sipping on every option, I realized that Mighty Swell steals the smoothness from High Noon, even as a cold-brewed sugar alcohol-based drink. Plus, each flavor impressed from the candy peach ring nature of the Peach to the cherry cola-like taste of the Cherry Lime.

The fact that these are the cheapest option, paired with the inevitability that I will be dreaming about that watermelon mint for a while, makes Mighty Swell an undisputed champion. I could see myself popping one open at any time of day. Hey, it’s five o’clock somewhere, right?

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