Announcements

No matter how many you consume, you'll never forget your first Harvey Wallbanger. November 8th is "National Harvey Wallbanger Day" and I am here to illustrate it's strange and intriguing history. This classic drink has made a splash in the annals of cocktail history thanks to it's unique and memorable name. According to drink mythology, it was named after a surfer in the 1950's. After losing in a surfing competition in Cali, the downtrodden surfer dude, Tom Harvey, went to his regular bar and ordered his favorite concoction - orange juice and vodka with a float of Galliano.

National Mojito Day is celebrated on July 11th, but in reality, mojitos can be and should be enjoyed all summer-long. Below you will find many different variations on this classic Cuban-born elixir along with its history. Since I will be away the week of the 11^th, I am sharing this post today.

So you're having a party or event and you're interested in hiring a Professional Bartender/Mixologist to take care of you and your guests? Great idea! But how do you evaluate professional bartenders and which service is the best for you? After all, it is a profession that many people are truly unfamiliar with. There is a lot that the common man or woman does not know. Here are the questions you should ask before you consider hiring a Professional Bartender/Mixologist. Make sure they meet all or most of these requirements.

Thank you to my friend and writing colleague, Katelyn Green, for contributing and sharing this excellent piece on "Homemade Wine Ice Cream". Don't forget about the author, Kristen Nunez, as well. We all know how difficult the writing profession is and the importance of being recognized for good work. I assured Katelyn that my readers, audience, and both foodies and wine connoisseurs alike would love it. Please share the direct link to this piece and the awesome lifestyle blog at the end of the story for more great info. Social media links below.

After a considerable hiatus from blogging, we have returned with this special post. To all of my lovely followers and fans, thank you for sticking around. I hope you enjoy this edition filled with lovely cocktails and info even for the home bartender, whiskey connoisseur, or cocktail aficionado.

Thank you Tom, Morgan, Food & Drink team, and FIX.com for contributing to our blog as guest bloggers! Please share with your colleagues and audience and 'like' our page at "Raise Your Spirits, Inc." and follow! !Visit FIX.com for more great info and stories... Cheers, Michael

Brown Derby Remixed

(photo courtesy of imbibemagazine.com)

• 1 ½ oz Apple Brandy
• ¾ oz Yellow Grapefruit Juice
• ½ oz Fresh Honey Syrup (1:1)

Prep – Add all ingredients to a rocks glass over ice. Stir well.

In August of 2007 the United States Senate declared that September be recognized as National Bourbon Heritage Month. While this may not have much impact with the average consumer, it is an honor for the craftsmen in the bourbon industry. The designation is designed to celebrate "America's Native Spirit" and the significant historical, economical and industrial role the bourbon industry has played in the country's history.

It's been a while since I last posted so enjoy this new blog post on the 2016 Top 10 most popular #summer #cocktails being served at #RaiseYourSpirits. If you would like the 'actual' recipes as far as brands, ratios, and proportions, please let me know. I can't give away my trade secrets! Some of these are classics, some twists on classics, and some RYS originals. Sure, you can check online and google the recipes, but why not contact RYS so you can get the best version of the #cocktails and experience what so many people are talking about.