Okay, the jig is up, I think most of you have figured out by now that I have a soft spot for collecting barware from the MCM era, better known as mid-century modern.

Side note: I’ll admit, it sometimes takes me a minute to catch on to all these acronyms and shorthand terms floating around. It’s not often that I feel out of the loop, but when I do, a quick trip to Google usually sorts me out. And hey, if that makes me “old school’ because I prefer writing things out in full, so be it. I’ll own that.

Back to Mid-Century Modern……

I spend more time than I’d care to admit scouring the internet, hunting for new and exciting finds in the world of drinkware, glassware, and barware. Beautiful, well-crafted pieces that are worth adding to a home bar-essentials for anyone who appreciates cocktail culture. Of course, I love sharing these gems with you all, that is, if I haven’t already snapped them up for my own collection first.

But it’s not just about the aesthetics for me it’s the history that draws me in. Turns out, a huge amount of beautifully printed glassware was produced in West Virginia, sold across various shops and markets, and now lives on through collectors. Whether it’s eBay, Etsy, Chairish, Attic Treasures, or the now-closed Hours Shop, there’s no shortage of places to track down these vintage finds. And let’s not forget the endless auction houses, chat rooms, and collector groups out there.

So, where can you get your hands on some of these treasures? I’ve got some favourite spots to share, starting with my Canadian counterparts; 

Attic Treasures, the local Vancouver hotspot I find myself at quite a bit, great prices, knowledgeable owner.

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A Simpler Time, an Etsy store out of Toronto, just as passionate a collector and seller.

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Chairish, Don’t let the pricing scare you off, as there are many hidden gems, why not make your self a favourites folder?

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Peetsy Tootsy, an Etsy site that is clearly about the love from this collector and reseller.

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Southern Vintage Wares, and down south Etsy site that knows how to source their items.

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The Hour Online Shop, now closed but selling out their remaining stock at seriously discounted prices. Visit while they’re hot and selling out fast.

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Just a few, but I’d love to know where you find your hidden treasures, don’t forget to share.

But be careful the rabbit hole is deep and winding…

Tucked away on the border of East Vancouver sits Terminal City Brewing, Vancouver’s first, and one of the finest, ferment-on-premises establishments. More than just a U-brew spot, it’s a treasure trove for at-home brewers, offering everything you need to craft beer, cider, and an impressive variety of wines.

Why not sign up to their newsletter and stay informed?

Located in a nondescript warehouse, with the front entrance right off a busy the street TCB gives you the chance to roll up your sleeves and create something truly your own. Parking is offered in back, so you’ll have no problems loading in.

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No upping your noses!

Now, before the purists out there roll their eyes at the idea of a U-brew, hear me out. I consider myself a bit of a connoisseur, and still shop the local eclectic stores for the differing varieties offered outside the BCLiquor stores, but, I love a good U-brew for a few reasons.

Reasons I’m sure many of you can get behind:

• It’s seriously fun.
• You get a ton of product.
• The variety is wild.
• And, let’s be real, saving money is always a win. You’ll find the ever important price breakdown is listed for each, worth looking at.

That’s just scratching the surface. Home crafting is something more folks should dive into.

And here’s the kicker, it doesn’t take as long as you might think. Pick your brew, pay the bill, and they’ll handle the heavy lifting. All you’ve got to do is come back and bottle it. Even that can be a great time, there’s a solid chance you’ll end up chatting with fellow brewers across the bottling table.

So, how long are we talking?

Wine starts at a quick-turnaround 4-week batch, then steps up to 5, 6, and top-shelf 8-week ferments.

Ales? Ready in just 2-3 weeks.

Lagers & Pilsners take a little longer, around 4-5 weeks.

Ciders? Packed with real-juice for better flavour are good to go in 3 weeks. (Heads up, depending on the season when the apples are harvested, they might look cloudy. Totally normal, and easily cleared with a shot of pectic enzyme if you want that crisp, clear finish.)

The Selection? Vast.

• Ales: 16 varieties, both local and international.
• Lagers & Pilsners: 11 options, also ranging near and far.
• Ciders: 5 choices+, including a hopped cider for the adventurous.
• Wines: Honestly? Almost too many to count, reds, whites, and even a 4-week rosé.

ABV ranges across the board:

• Ales, Lagers, Pilsners: 5-6%, with IBU ratings noted for hop-heads.
• Ciders: 4-6%, depending on the style.
• Wines: 8.5-13.5%, with detailed tasting notes to help you pick your perfect match.

Skip the tax

And here’s a fun fact: U-brewing skips the alcohol tax. Yep, I didn’t know that either.

I had a chance to chat with Bryn Hughes, the owner, and let me tell you, this guy lives for this craft. He walked me through everything, from the subtle differences between a 4-week wine and an 8-week “top-shelf” batch to how ingredients and aging impacts flavour.

For those wondering how long to wait before popping that first bottle:

• 4-week wines are drinkable fast, white or red, but reds tend to mellow out nicely after a few months.
• 5-week wines get better with a little patience, white after a month, red after 2-3 months.
• 6-week wines (especially reds) love a longer rest, think 3+ months.
• 8-week wines? These are the crown jewels. Let them cellar for at least 6 months, and you’ll be rewarded.

I chose to go with a 5 week batch of an Italian Pinot Grigio, that’s dry, no oak, and a light body. I also opted for a Californian Syrah that’s dry, medium oak and full body. I’m looking forward to letting some of these bottles stand a little longer, and let the red Syrah mature even more.

Next up, I’ll be trying an Italian 8 week-red, that’s a heavy oak, full body and dry. I love a great, old world type wine that has a strong flavour profile. This one I’m looking forward to cellaring for some time.

Bottom line?

If you’re looking for a hands-on brewing experience with massive variety, solid pricing, and the chance to craft something truly your own, Terminal City Brewing is calling your name.

Now you’ve got the inside scoop, go grab your bottles, pick your brew, and get crafting.

A Must-Have for the Modern Home

Let’s talk about it, that great piece of furniture on wheels, complete with a handle, that proudly holds all your cocktail paraphernalia and prized libations. The apartment-friendly accessory that makes up for not having the space for a full bar, wet or dry, in your home’s designated party room.

Party room, now there’s something!

Not that I’m bitter. I love where I’m at. But I did go down the rabbit hole, gazing out over the city from my 19th-floor condo, imagining what a dedicated party room might look like. Nope, still happy. Especially with my bar cart, which sits coolly in a central spot in my open-concept living room, ready for action at a moment’s notice.

Call them what you want, but for us apartment dwellers, these mini bars on wheels just make sense. They’re stylish, sexy, and undeniably in vogue. And as urban living trends toward smaller spaces worldwide, the bar cart is only going to gain in popularity.

They’re old and new, bold and understated, classic and contemporary. There’s a bar cart for every design aesthetic, you just have to find the one that speaks to you.

Up for a brief history of the Bar Cart?

Sure you are, well, the bar cart’s origins trace back to the Victorian era of the late 1800s, where it began as a tea trolley. These wheeled carts were used to serve tea and snacks to guests in upper-class homes. With the end of Prohibition in 1933, these trolleys found a new purpose, transforming into cocktail carts as home entertaining became fashionable. The mid-20th century, particularly the 1950s and 1960s, marked the golden age of bar carts, symbolizing sophistication and the art of hospitality.

My Own Vintage Revival

I recently refurbished one I bought off an online marketplace, a brass, collapsible cart with two shelves. To elevate the look, I replaced the basic plastic wheels with brass globe wheels that spin in any direction. (Full disclosure: I didn’t replace them by choice, I lost the originals when they fell out of a torn garbage bag I was carrying it all in on the bus *insert upward eye roll*).

To complete the transformation, I had the vintage particle board shelves repainted in a bold teal blue, accented with the atomic star motif, giving it that extra mid-century modern charm. The result? A bar cart that looks like it cost a small fortune, when in reality, even with the refurb and new parts, it was a steal. And I love it.

Falling Down the Rabbit Hole, Again

So much so that I’ve gone down yet another rabbit hole, stumbling upon a site called Chairish, The Art of Vintage Living, a treasure trove of cocktail culture. They have everything: New Arrivals, Furniture, Art, Lighting, Decor, and even a dedicated Tabletop + Bar section. There’s more, but I’ll let you explore that for yourself. Be warned, though, this site knows the value of good pricing. I’ve already curated a list of my favourites, just in case, one day.

For more budget-friendly finds, my local haunt, Attic Treasures, always has a great selection at prices that won’t make your wallet cry.

Styling Tips for Your Bar Cart

1. Essentials First: Start with the basics, stock your cart with a selection of your favourite spirits, mixers, and glassware. An ice bucket and a cocktail shaker are also must-haves.

2. Add Personal Touches: Incorporate items that reflect your personality and interests. This could be vintage bar tools, a cherished decanter, or even a small piece of art.

3. Seasonal Decor: Update your bar cart to reflect the seasons or upcoming holidays. For instance, during the holidays, you might add festive elements like ornaments or a small wreath.

4. Greenery and Florals: A beautiful vase with fresh flowers or a small potted plant can bring life to your bar cart and make it more inviting.

5. Lighting: If your cart is placed in a dimly lit area, consider adding a small lamp, maybe vintage desk lamp? Or string lights to highlight your collection and create ambiance.

6. Functional Accessories: Items like coasters, cocktail napkins, and straws not only serve a purpose but can also add color and style to your setup.

Remember, your bar cart is an extension of your personal style. Have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to rearrange or update it as your tastes evolve.

Why You Need One

If you take your cocktails seriously (or just appreciate good design), a bar cart is a must. It’s the perfect way to display your vintage barware, specialty liquors, and all-time favourites. It keeps your mixing gear within reach, ready to wow guests as you shake, stir, and serve in the comfort of your home.

Keeping all that drinkware hidden away in a cupboard? That’s wasted space, space that could be used for more supplies (or at least, that’s my justification).

Cocktail culture isn’t just about the drinks; it’s about unwinding, enjoying the moment, and creating an experience, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a well-earned end-of-day ritual.

So, if you’ve been thinking about getting a bar cart, consider this your sign. Add one to your world, you won’t regret it.

Now that January has wrapped up, I’m taking a moment to reflect on what it means—not just for myself, but for many others I know and listen to.

For whatever reason you choose to take part in “Dry January,” most of us see it as a reset—a chance to start fresh, shake off the indulgences of the past year, and set the tone for the one ahead.

Looking forward, this year promises to be a busy one, and I, for one, plan to embrace it head-on. That means having a solid plan—not just for work and life but for the experiences, flavors, and discoveries that make it all the more enjoyable.

Now, I’d be lying if I said my holiday season wasn’t filled with plenty of festive, boozy moments. But drying out wasn’t really my reason for doing Dry January.

Let’s be honest—January is a slow month. The big celebrations are behind us, and most major events don’t kick off until February. But as we step into the heart of event season, here’s a look at what’s coming up:

Whisky Global – January 24-25

Vancouver’s premier whisky festival, held at the Paradox Hotel, showcased over 72 different whiskies from around the world. If you didn’t snag a ticket, you weren’t alone—it was a sold-out event. But for those keen to attend next year, getting on the waitlist is always a smart move. thewhiskyglobal.com/vancouver

Vancouver International Wine Festival – February 22-March 2

One of Canada’s top food and wine events, this festival takes over the Vancouver Convention Centre and various venues throughout the city. With over 800+ wines to explore, plus a strong focus on food pairings, it’s a must for wine lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike. Best of all, proceeds support Bard on the Beach, adding a philanthropic touch to all that sipping and swirling. vanwinefest.ca

Vancouver Cocktail Week – March 2-9

A week-long celebration of cocktail culture, this event brings together industry pros and enthusiasts alike across a variety of locations. Expect seminars, brunches, cinq à sept gatherings, exclusive dinners, and a grand closing gala that’s always a highlight. If you haven’t grabbed tickets yet, now’s the time—they’re going fast. vancocktailweek.com

Looking Ahead: What’s in the Works?

Beyond event season, I’ve been busy plotting out the months ahead—scheduling product reviews, planning trips, and crafting new cocktail creations inspired by moods, moments, and a dash of wanderlust.

There’s also barware, drinkware, and furniture to explore—not to mention the latest gadgets and gizmos fueling cocktail culture. And, of course, I’ll be diving into some local haunts to see what’s shaking in the city’s lounge scene.

That’s my plan. What’s yours?

Beer – a timeless beverage, beloved across continents and cultures, with a history as rich and varied as its flavours. For a deeper dive, the folks at Wikipedia have a great historical read ready for you.

It’s a drink born from the fermentation of grains like barley, wheat, oats, and even rice, resulting in a kaleidoscope of styles, colours, and strengths. From humble lagers to robust ales, beer has found its way into every corner of the globe and every type of gathering, from royal feasts to casual pub nights.

But how well do we really know the beer we drink? Beyond the familiar lagers and ales most of us gravitate toward, there’s a world of fascinating brews, each with its own story to tell.

Let’s dive in for a rather quick and simple brief! Below is your ultimate beer primer – a curated selection of styles to deepen your appreciation of this ancient, ever-evolving drink.

Ale: The Backbone of Beer

One of the oldest styles, ale is brewed with top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, resulting in a wide spectrum of flavours. From light and citrusy pale ales to rich, chocolatey stouts, ales are beloved for their complexity.

Ales often have fruity, spicy notes from the yeast, and brewers frequently add hops, fruits, or spices to enhance their character.

Belgian Ale: Complex and Unique

Known for their distinct yeast strains, Belgian ales deliver a sensory experience like no other. These beers range from light and spicy to dark and malty, with fruity, funky, or even sour notes that surprise and delight.

Belgium’s beer culture is a UNESCO-recognized treasure, and Belgian ales are a must-try for any serious beer enthusiast.

Cream Ale: American Ingenuity

Despite the name, there’s no cream in cream ale a name believed to have originated from the smooth and creamy “mouthfeel”. Originating in the United States, this hybrid style blends the crispness of a lager with the complexity of an ale.

Smooth, light, and slightly fruity, cream ales are easy-drinking and perfect for summer days.

Christmas Ales: A Festive Tradition

Nothing warms the soul like a Christmas ale. Brewed for the holiday season, these beers often feature spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, along with honey, fruit, and rich malts. A reminder of holiday treats that is perfect for an afternoon, or evening dinner. 

While some Christmas ales are sweet and dessert-like, others are spiced and dry – colours and styles ranging from light and refreshing to dark and rich, with the perceived sweetness of the beer from the spices not the cruel sugars added, if at all any.

A true festive treat in every sip.

Danish Elephant Beer: A Strong Brew with a Story

From Denmark’s Carlsberg Brewery comes Elephant Beer, a strong lager with a distinctive kick. With a malty sweetness and a bold alcohol content, it’s not for the faint of heart.

Named after the elephants on Carlsberg’s gates, this beer has become a symbol of Danish brewing ingenuity. Included here as an example of the varied brews out there, and we love it!

Hefeweizen: Bavaria’s Cloudy Delight

Hefeweizen, meaning “yeast wheat,” is a Bavarian wheat beer known for its cloudy appearance and signature banana and clove flavours.

This beer is light, low on the bitterness scale, effervescent, and often served with a slice of lemon or orange to accentuate its fruity notes.

Kölsch: Cologne’s Crown Jewel

A specialty of Cologne, Germany, Kölsch is a crisp, clean ale that drinks like a lager. It’s light-bodied, golden, and has a delicate balance of malt and hops, with a moderate set of fruity notes and mild hop bitterness.

Traditionally served in a tall, narrow glass called a Stange, Kölsch is synonymous with refreshing simplicity and easy drinking beer.

IPA (India Pale Ale): The Hop Lover’s Choice

Known for their bold bitterness and aromatic hop profiles, IPAs have become a craft beer staple.

Originally brewed to survive long sea voyages to India, today’s IPAs range from bitter and piney West Coast IPAs to fruity, juicy New England IPAs.

Lager: The Crowd-Pleaser

Lagers are the most widely consumed beers in the world. Brewed at cooler temperatures with bottom-fermenting yeast, they’re known for their refreshing, smooth, clean taste.

From pale pilsners to dark lagers, there’s a lager for every palate.

Pilsner: The Gold Standard

Originating in the Czech city of Pilsen, pilsners are pale, crisp, refreshing lagers with a light malt sweetness and delicate hop bitterness.

Known for their golden hue and floral, herbal aroma, pilsners are the go-to for those seeking a balanced, easy-drinking beer.

Porter: A Dark Classic

Porters are dark ales with rich, roasted malt flavours. First popularized in 18th-century England, porters offer chocolate, coffee, and caramel notes, with a mild bitterness. Making them perfect for chilly evenings, that

 are much loved during the holiday season.

From lighter porters to full-bodied robust versions, this style has a timeless charm.

Scottish Ale: A Taste of the Highlands

Known for their malty sweetness caramel richness, and a mildly hoppy bitterness Scottish ales are perfect for cooler climates. Typically a deep amber to dark brown colour with alcohol ranges from 3.5% to 7%. 

Ranging from light-bodied 60 Shilling ales to full-bodied Wee Heavies coming in at 10% ABV, these beers bring a sense of hearth and home with every sip.

Pair them with hearty dishes like stews, roasts, and cheeses for a serious gastronomic experience.

Stout: Dark and Decadent

Stouts are the big, bold cousin of porters, known for their creamy texture and intense deep flavours of roasted malt. These beers are dark, rich and creamy, brewed with a high proportion of barley or malt that gives them their unique dark colour and complex flavour. 

Varieties range from Dry Irish Stouts (like Guinness) to Sweet Milk Stouts and strong Russian Imperial Stouts.

Sour Ale: Wild and Adventurous

Love a bit of pucker? Sour ales are the wild child of the beer world. Brewed with wild yeast strains or bacteria, they’re prized for their tart, funky flavours.

From mildly tart fruity lambics, think cherries or raspberries, to barrel-aged gueuzes, sour beers are a favourite among those who enjoy bold, complex profiles.

Wheat Beer: Light and Fluffy

Brewed with a significant proportion of wheat malt alongside barley malt, these beers are hazy, with a fluffy “mouthfeel”, and are truly refreshing.

Whether it’s a German hefeweizen with banana and clove notes, a Belgian witbier flavoured with citrus and spices, or an American wheat beer, these brews are perfect for warm weather, best known for their clean, crisp profiles.

Bottoms Up?

Beer is more than just a drink – it’s a journey through cultures, histories, and traditions. From ancient monasteries in Belgium to modern craft breweries in the U.S., beer continues to evolve and inspire.

I may have missed some of your favourites or regions, but like all connoisseurs, I endevour to please and try – so let me know about those overlooked brews, I’d love to learn about them and possibly include in another post.

So next time you crack open a cold one, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship, stories, and countries behind every sip.

Now armed with this basic knowledge, its time to hit the taps, and go forth, spout and sip wisely.

Cheers to beers of the world!

Here’s to a bright and brilliant 2025—we wish you all the best for the year ahead.

Now that the holiday madness has finally begun to settle, we hope you’ve had a chance to catch your breath. We certainly have and are happily enjoying a little downtime after a whirlwind season.

Our first-ever Advent 2024 series turned out to be an absolute blast! It was a challenging but rewarding experience—from keeping up the daily pace to witnessing the incredible exposure each post received. To say we were thrilled is an understatement! We’ve learned a lot and are excited to carry that momentum into the new year.

Looking ahead, we have some exciting plans for 2025 that we can’t wait to share with you. Of course, we don’t want to spoil all the surprises just yet, so stay tuned for those announcements!

One thing we can share is our fresh posting schedule. We’re focusing on a weekly rhythm—likely on a Wednesday or within the Tuesday-through-Thursday window. Each week will bring a new topic, with the occasional bonus post when inspiration strikes or when we stumble across something too good to keep to ourselves, like a must-try cocktail, a trendy new lounge, or an unexpected food and drink pairing.

Since the world of cocktail culture is vast, we’ve loosely organized our content into four main categories to start:

1. Monthly Lounge Exploration

We’ll venture into local lounges and share our impressions. From refined to rustic, mild to wild, high-end to hidden gems, this series promises to surprise. The best and exciting finds are often just around the corner! Get ready to hit the pavement. 

2. Bar & Drinkware Study

Here we’ll dive into the world of bar tools and drinkware, from vintage treasures to quirky gadgets. Whether your style is elegant, kitschy, colourful, or bizarre, we’ll showcase items that bring personality to your home bar. Be inspired.

3. Liquor Lifestyle

Think of this as the cocktail culture umbrella. From travel and food pairings to fashion and eclectic finds, this category explores everything that makes the liquor lifestyle so fascinating and enjoyable. A must read.

4. Cocktail & Liquor Commentaries

This is where we’ll share our thoughts on spirits, cocktails, and all things related. Expect write-ups on distilleries, breweries, and wineries, along with their stories, locations, and signature offerings. The possibilities here are endless!

Meanwhile, we’re continuing to refine our ever-growing beverage menu—making tweaks, adding new creations, and polishing up the classics.

So grab a glass, mix up something delicious, and join us for another fantastic year of cocktail culture. We’ll be back soon with more to share. 

Cheers!

Happy Holidays, everyone! Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or something entirely your own, we’re wrapping up Advent with a two-for-one special. And what better way to toast the season than with a steamy, chocolatey cup of comfort: hot chocolate!

Did you know chocolate has been around for over 5,300 years? Its roots trace back to Central and South America, with Ecuador as one of the earliest chocolate hubs. The Mayans revered it as a sacred treasure, but when Europeans first encountered it—thanks to Columbus—they deemed it “loathsome.” Can you imagine?

It wasn’t until the 1500s that Europeans truly embraced chocolate, sweetening it into the delightful treat we know today. Early iterations were bitter, but even then, people couldn’t deny its comforting qualities. In fact, chocolate was used medicinally all the way into the 18th century.

Hot chocolate, in particular, has become a universal drink of joy, perfect for soothing even the most frazzled nerves. Whether you prefer a thick Italian Cioccolata Calda, a rich Spanish Chocolate a la Taza, or even a quick mix from a packet, the magic of hot chocolate lies in its ability to bring warmth and connection.

For the purists, there’s nothing like making it from scratch. Real milk (or your favourite alternative), finely powdered cocoa, melted chocolate chunks, or shaved chocolate, whisked together with care and topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream—it’s an experience, not just a drink.

Hot chocolate has a way of bringing people together. Whether you’re sipping it solo in quiet reflection or sharing it with loved ones, it’s the drink of togetherness.

Looking ahead to the new year? Consider treating yourself to Vancouver’s month-long Hot Chocolate Festival, running from January 18 to February 14, just in time for Valentine’s Day. With creative takes on this classic drink at locations across the city, it’s an event for everyone to enjoy. Keep an eye on the festival’s website as vendors and activities are announced—there’s sure to be something unforgettable.

For me, hot chocolate stirs up memories of childhood Christmases and indulging in Anthon Berg’s Milk Chocolate Orange Kringles—or, more recently, smashing open a Terry’s Chocolate Orange and savouring each slice. It’s nostalgia in every bite.

To celebrate the season, we’ve crafted our signature hot chocolate recipe. Our Orange Chocolate Kiss

Here’s to cozy cups and festive memories.

Wishing you a warm and chocolate-filled holiday season!

Specialty coffees always seem to be on the menu after a beautiful delicious dinner out on the town. Robust flavours and scents that tantalize the taste buds and give the nose an aura of delight, evoking, memories, and thoughts of days gone by, events in a life, or new thoughts to make a memory happen.

I think I love them just for the taste and the fact that I get to sit back let my meal settle and relax for the evening while thinking about the days ahead. Boozy creations that open a multitude of options to blend with your dark nectar that can heighten any liqueur and make it the ultimate beverage to finish off that meal.

Some would say a dessert.

Restaurants and lounges offer a multitude of options so much so they even create their own custom signature drink to go along with their surrounding and menu, their brand one could say.

Most of us know them as simple things like an Irish Coffee, an Affogato, Hot White Russian or Siciliano. The list goes on and the creativity abounds.

For the holidays, we created our Espresso Cherry Delight, a decadent espresso cocktail with cinnamon, dark chocolate liqueur, cinnamon liqueur, and maraschino cherry liqueur. It’s topped off with a generous heaping of whipped cream, a dusting of the cinnamon powder and finished with a maraschino cherry, perfect for a chilly Christmas evening.

All one needs to craft this festive cocktail is a little imagination and a well-stocked bar cart. The Espresso Cherry Delight isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience—a warm embrace in a glass. As the aromas of cinnamon and chocolate mingle with the robust espresso, the first sip transports you to a fireside moment, wrapped in the comfort of the season.

The beauty of specialty coffee cocktails lies in their ability to seamlessly blend indulgence with sophistication. They’re the culinary equivalent of a bow on a perfectly wrapped gift—an extra touch that elevates the entire experience. Whether it’s the bold kick of an Irish coffee or the creamy decadence of an Affogato, these drinks bring a sense of occasion to any gathering, and not just during the holidays.

For those looking to try their hand at creating their own coffee cocktails this holiday season, the possibilities are endless. Start with your favourite base coffee, then experiment with liqueurs, spices, and garnishes to craft a drink that reflects your personal style. Maybe a peppermint mocha martini for a frosty twist or a spiced rum latte for something rich and warming.

The magic of the season is about savoring small pleasures, and a well-crafted specialty coffee cocktail embodies just that. Whether you’re sipping one by the fire, sharing it with loved ones after a hearty meal, or simply indulging in a moment of solitude, these drinks are a reminder to slow down and savor the moment.

So, as you prepare for the festivities ahead, don’t forget to raise a glass to the little things that make the holidays special. With our Espresso Cherry Delight in hand, you’ll have one more reason to celebrate the season. Cheers to cozy nights, sweet memories, and the perfect sip!

Throughout this Advent journey, we’ve celebrated an array of exceptional beverages to elevate your holiday season. But there’s one key component we’ve yet to truly dive into: the perfect mixer to complement your chosen spirit. Enter Days 21 and 22, a seamless pairing of craft soda excellence and innovative soda-making design.

Let’s start with Bear and Beaver Premium Craft Soda, a standout creation from right here in British Columbia.

The Story Behind Bear and Beaver

Founded in 2016 by brothers Andrew and James Drayson, Bear and Beaver was born from their desire to bring their British roots to life through a premium craft soda line. Their mission was simple: create a product that’s not only sophisticated but also strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and flavour. And they succeeded.

Bear and Beaver’s craft sodas come in five distinctive flavours, each crafted with care to elevate your holiday cocktails or be savoured on their own.

The brightly coloured cans hold:

• Ginger Beer: A bold blend of sharp ginger and lime, ideal for a classic Moscow Mule.

• Root Beer: A nostalgic treat made with real yucca root for 100% authenticity.

• Cream Soda: Crisp vanilla with a dash of butterscotch and creamy smoothness, evoking memories of vintage soda bars.

• Orange Creamsicle: The perfect balance of bright orange and cream, reminiscent of childhood summers and that’s ice cream bar.

• Blue Creamsicle: A creamy twist on blue raspberry soda, perfect for ice cream floats.

With each 473ml (16oz) can, you get 100% cane sugar, no artificial flavours or colours, and a product that’s vegan and gluten-free. It’s soda as it should be—simple, pure, and perfect for mixing.

Bear and Beaver’s Ginger Beer is their favourite that shines in a Moscow Mule, but each flavour invites creativity. So, grab your mixing apron and explore!

The Aarke Home Soda Machine

Now, if you’re more of a gadget enthusiast—or simply love the idea of crafting soda at home—Day 22 brings us to Aarke, a Swedish pioneer in designing premium home essentials.

The Aarke Carbonator is a stylish, functional, and durable device that will elevate any home bar or beverage station. It blends modern design with practicality, offering an elegant solution for creating sparkling water and sodas in seconds.

How does it work? It’s refreshingly simple:

1. Fill the included reusable water bottle.

2. Screw it onto the carbonator.

3. Pull the lever to add carbonation.

4. Unscrew, and voilà—sparkling perfection.

You can take it one step further by adding your favourite syrup or mixer for a custom soda experience that rivals store-bought options. And with easy-to-replace CO₂ cartridges cleverly concealed in the sleek design, the Aarke keeps your countertop looking clean and sophisticated.

European soda makers have been around for ages, but Aarke’s minimalist aesthetic and exceptional functionality make it a must-have. It’s an effortless way to elevate your at-home beverage game.

A Perfect Pairing

Together, Bear and Beaver’s craft sodas and the Aarke Soda Machine are a match made in holiday heaven. Whether you’re crafting cocktails, mocktails, or sparkling refreshments, these tools will have you feeling like a pro in no time.

So, what are you waiting for? Get creative, and make this holiday season a fizzy, flavourful delight!

When we think of holiday bubbles, Champagne often comes to mind—the sparkling wine synonymous with elegance and celebration.

Champagne, as defined by tradition, hails exclusively from the Champagne region of France, adhering to strict appellation rules. From specific vineyard practices and grape sourcing to the precise methods of pressing and secondary fermentation, it’s a true demonstration of meticulous winemaking. If you’re curious, Wikipedia has an excellent historical overview worth exploring (preferably with a glass in hand).

But let’s be honest: Champagne isn’t everyone’s go-to. Whether it’s the cost, the taste, or just the desire for variety, there are plenty of other sparkling wines to discover. Prosecco from Italy and Cava from Spain are two delightful alternatives—accessible, affordable, and every bit as celebratory in their own right.

Sparkling wines have a unique way of symbolizing joy and glamour. Their golden-yellow or pink-hued bubbles come to life with a pop of the cork, spilling over with frothy exuberance. The race to capture that overflow in a delicate stemmed glass, the laughter, the toast—these moments are part of the magic.

The sensory experience is just as enticing:

• Aroma: Hints of citrus, apples, and florals evolve into more complex, savory notes in aged vintages.

• Taste: A sharp, vibrant effervescence dances on the tongue, blending flavors into a harmonious delight.

Sparkling wines are as versatile as they are festive. Enjoy them on their own, mix them into a dazzling cocktail, or use them as the base for a punch to share with loved ones. You don’t always need a special occasion—a sunny day after rain or a quiet evening at home can be reason enough to indulge.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Bubbly Bad Girl (or Boy)—a playful holiday cocktail that works beautifully as a single serving or a punch bowl centerpiece. Head over to our recipe page and get mixing!

Here’s to good cheer, sparkling glasses, and the joy of the season. Cheers!