Cocktail ingredients Utah update – August 2015

Corpse Reviver No. 2

Utah Rye Whiskey lovers should be grateful to the UDABC this month.  As you may remember from these posts, usually there are no Rye Whiskeys marked down in Utah.  This month there are two, and good ones, too!  Pendleton 1910 Canadian Rye and Bulleit Rye Whiskeys are all on sale this month (over 10% off).  Whether you like them for sipping, or in a Manhattan or a Sazerac, this is a great month to stock up on Rye!  Except for the Scotches, there is a passable selection of Whiskeys on SPA this month.  In other news, a new offering from High West: Rocky Mountain Rye 16 Year is now available for a price!  Crown Royal Rye is another new product.

Two years ago, the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores seem to have begun a new pattern.  Rather than enter the doldrums in August, they have maintained an average level of items on SPA, this month there is a respectable 315 items marked down, slightly more than in July.  August usually marks the beginning of a cooling trend as the days begin to grow noticeably shorter, but it’s still warm enough that Utah’s amateur mixologists will have plenty of takers for their cocktails when cocktail hour rolls around.  Here are some cocktail ideas that will save you money by taking advantage of the marked down items.

Brandy cocktail lovers will be pleased to find that E&J XO Brandy is on SPA for $13.5 (a 21% reduction); try it in a Sidecar (or any other cocktail calling for Brandy), where it will hurt your wallet far less than using your favorite Cognac.  Deals on Vodka this month include Grey Goose (CS# 034433 down 12% to $30) and Absolut (CS# 034006 down 16% to $17).  Try these in a White Russian or a Vodka Martini.

A classic Gin cocktail from The Savoy Cocktail Book is the Corpse Reviver No. 2.  This month you might want to try one using Bombay Sapphire Gin (CS# 028236 down 15% to $23).  If you’re looking for something to go into a summer cooler like a Tom Collins, try some New Amsterdam Gin (CS# 031475 down 19% to $13), an excellent economy Gin. 

Purists may be offended by the Rum deals this month, all of the Rums on sale are spiced or flavored except for Captain Morgan White.  If you are so inclined, you can check out the selection and try one in one or two of my favorite Rum coolers: the Mojito and the classic Rum and Coke (with lime, of course).  You can check all of the prices for yourself by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month; then search on “gin” or the product of your choice. 

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – July 2015

Frozen Margarita for hot summer evenings.

July is usually the hottest month of summer, this year it may lose out to June, but there’s still an adequate supply of hot weather in store for Utah.  Hot weather means that when cocktail hour rolls around, Utah’s amateur mixologists should have plenty of takers for their cocktails. The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) this month dropped from just over 400 in June to just over 300 in July, so if you want to make some great cocktails, there are some good cocktail ingredients on sale this month at the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores. 

When it’s this hot (i.e. high 90’s to 100 for several days in a row), my thoughts turn to frozen drinks, and for some reason that makes me think of Rum.  My wife and I will enjoy a nice Piña Colada or two every so many hot evenings.  If you limit your Piña Coladas to light Rum, Bacardi’s is on sale this month, but if you don’t mind an off-color drink, go with the Mount Gay Eclipse Rum (CS# 042666 down 14% to $19).  It also goes well in two of my favorite Rum coolers: the Mojito and the classic Rum and Coke (with lime, of course). 

As hot as it is, you are probably looking for some great summer cooler cocktail recipes in time for your barbecue or pool party, or just to enjoy after mowing the lawn.  Here are some suggestions that will save you money by taking advantage of items that are marked down this month.

The classic Gin cooler for hot weather is the Gin and Tonic.  This month you might want to try one using New Amsterdam Gin (1750ml CS# 031473 down 11% to $24), an excellent economy Gin.  It goes well in a Tom Collins, too.  If you’re more interested in a Classic Martini, pick up some Hendricks Gin (CS# 028625 down 8% to $34) or some Bombay Gin (CS# 028206 down 17% to $19).  No, it’s not a cooler, but it sure does taste good!

Deals on Vodka this month include liter bottles of Ketel One (CS# 034457 down 10% to $28) and liters of Absolut (CS# 034007 down 7% to $25).  If you like cranberry juice, try these in a Cosmo Cooler, a descendant of the classic cocktail.  If you like your Whiskey drinks (Bourbon anyone?) I can recommend a Mint Julep, so pick up a liter of Evan Williams Single Barrel (down 7% to $27) and find some mint.

Some of my favorite mixing Tequilas are marked down this month: try El Jimador Reposado (CS# 089278 down 15% to $17), or the Blanco (down 15% to $17).  Both of these go well in a classic Margarita (or enjoy one frozen), or in two great Tequila coolers: the Margarita Cooler and the Tequila Mojito.

So find a shady spot when you get home from work, kick back, and enjoy a nice summer cooler or a delicious cocktail.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – June 2015

Put some Scotch to good use in a
Bobby Burns Cocktail.

June brings the beginning of summer, and with summer comes hot weather (upper 90s this weekend).  Hot weather and yard work make for thirsty people, so when cocktail hour rolls around Utah amateur mixologists should have plenty of takers for their cocktails. Just in time, the number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) in Utah this month rose from around 260 for May to over 400 in June.  That means there are some quality cocktail ingredients on sale this month at the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores, so you can get what you need to make some tall coolers or stir up some great cocktails.  Here are some ideas on how to use this month’s sale items to improve your cocktail offerings.

Irish Whiskey lovers will be happy to discover that Jameson Black Barrel is now on SPA for the first time since it became available in Utah last year for $30 (from $35); I had a chance to taste this one in Portland three years ago and can tell you that you will enjoy it.  Rye aficionados are in luck this month, too: Bulleit 95 Rye is marked down 11% to $25, along with George Dickel for those seeking a lower price point.  As for Bourbons, there are about a dozen on sale this month, including single barrel offerings from Basil Hayden and Elijah Craig.  If you like Mint Julep (I know I do), you might want to try one with Gentleman Jack (down 9% to $29.5). 

Lovers of Scotch Whiskies should be happy this month: there are ten single malts and six blends marked down just in the 750ml size.  The single malts range from ten to 16 years old, so enjoy.  The blended Scotch Whiskies include Johnnie Walker 12 year old ($35) and Chivas 12 year for $32.  If you’re searching for a Scotch cocktail to try this month, consider trying the classic Bobby Burns.

There are not a lot of Rums on SPA this month, but you might want to try some Appleton Estates VX (14% to $19) in a Mojito or the classic Rum and Coke.  June 14 was World Gin Day (we missed it), but there are only a few Gins marked down this month.  If you love Gin and Tonics to cool down in the hot weather, you might want to stock up on New Amsterdam Gin (CS# 031475 down 19% to $13), an excellent Gin for the price. Try some Tanqueray ($23) in a Classic Martini. 

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see a great deal on anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines, etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open an online price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – May 2015

Good Gin makes an Aviation
as fresh as the sky itself!

The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) at the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month dropped off again this month into the middle two-hundreds; that’s normal for May.  There are, still, some quality cocktail ingredients available this month, so you might be able to get what you need to shake up some great cocktails.  Here are some ideas on how to use this month’s sale items to improve your cocktail repertoire.

Once again, there weren’t a lot of Bourbons on sale for the derby last week; if you’re into Evan Williams, you’re set.  Otherwise if you want a Mint Julep or a BLT, I hope you still have some in your bar.  There’s not much in the way of blended Scotch Whiskies marked down this month either: liter bottles of Chivas Regal 12 YO are marked down around $5 to $40 and the 1750 ml bottles of Dewars White Label are marked down to $47.  If you’re searching for a Scotch cocktail to try this month, consider going outlaw with a Rob Roy.

Martini lovers will be pleased to know that they don’t have to go thirsty this month.  Hendricks Gin (8% to $34 makes an excellent Classic Martinis).  The other pick of the Gins this month is the large bottle of Tanqueray (marked down 4% to $45) goes well in a Campden Cocktail; this little known cocktail is one you should try. If you love Tanqueray Gin and Tonics while sitting in the yard in the summertime, this might be a good time to stock up.

The selection of Tequilas this month is not bad!  This month Milagro Silver is marked down 13% range to $26 and the Reposado is marked down 9% to $30. Combine them with Gran Gala Orange Liqueur (an excellent, low cost Triple Sec marked down 14% to $19) to make a dynamite Margarita.  You will also find 1800 Silver (9% to $30) on sale.

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see a great deal on anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines, etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open an online price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – April 2015

Tanqueray Taj Cocktail
A concoction with Gin and Midori

When Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month they will find that the number of marked down items has increased; the number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) increased from around 350 last month to almost 400 for April.  Cocktailians who need to stock their bars can find some nice bargains.  There are some quality cocktail ingredients available this month, so dust off your wallet and your wallet and your shaker and get ready to mix some great cocktails.

There are a handful of Bourbons on SPA this month; let’s hope they are holding them in reserve for the Derby next month, always a big day for Bourbon.  In the 750ml size there is only one Single Barrel offering marked down: Basil Hayden 8 Year (7% to $40).  Sip it, or you can make a very good Manhattan, or perhaps even a Boulevardier.  One Scotch Whisky marked down this month that you might want to pour into a cocktail like a Blood and Sand, is the Johnnie Walker Red that has an 11% mark-down to $25.  Johnnie Walker 12 Year 750 ml. is marked down 7% to $40.

The Rum deals are few and far between this month if you don’t count the “Spiced and Flavored” category.  Appleton Estates VX is marked down 14% to $19, you might want to experiment with a Rum Old Fashioned.  Fortunately, the UDABC didn’t forget about you Tequila lovers.  There are 16 Tequilas (Platas, Añejos and Reposados) on SPA.  My favorites include Herradura Añejo at $51.  This month Familia Camarena Silver and Reposado are both marked down 15% to $17.  It’s Margarita time! 

If you need some Dry Gin, Tanqueray Ten is marked down 9% to $29.  Try it in a Classic Martini.  Always reliable Tanqueray is marked down $3 to $22 (try it in a Tom Collins).  If you like Vesper Martinis, Ketel One (it’s great with a lemon twist) is also on SPA for $21.  There are also deals on Belevedere and Effen, as well as the usual multitude of flavored Vodkas that are better not mentioned.

There are a couple of Liqueurs marked down this month.  Amaretto Di Amore ($12) goes great in Mai Tais and is marked down around 14%.  Disaronno Amaretto is marked down to $23.  Midori Melon Liqueur is marked down 10% to $19; try it in a Tanqueray Taj.

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – March 2015

The French 75 has a reliable kick...

When Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores in March, they will be pleased to see that sale tags are a little more in evidence than they have been during the last couple of months, but not overwhelmingly so.  The number of marked down items has increased from January and February lows into the “average” range.  The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) rose from around 270 last month to almost 350 in March.  A few quality cocktail ingredients are available this month, so get ready for some great cocktails, but this is not a real bar-stocking opportunity.

With an incredible lack of timing (just like last year) there is only one(!) Irish Whiskey on SPA for St. Patrick’s Day this month: Tullamore Dew.  If you enjoy Bourbons, selections this month range include Knob Creek and Elijah Craig 12 Year, both marked down around 5%.  If you want to make a Manhattan, or perhaps a Boulevardier, try some.  This month you might want to stock up on your favorite Liqueurs.  Liqueurs like Underground Herbal Spirit ($26) and Frangelico ($23) are on sale, and also an excellent Triple Sec substitute that works well in Margaritas: Gran Gala Orange Liqueur (14% to $19).

The UDABC didn’t forget about you Tequila lovers this month.  There are 13 Tequilas on SPA with ten Platas and Reposados (there are four different 1800’s marked down).  With seven different Platas... it’s Margarita time.  Rum seems to have been overlooked this month.  If you like Dark Rums, Mount Gay Eclipse Barbados Rum is marked down over 15% to $17, try it in a Rum Old Fashioned, but that’s about it for Rums. 

If you need some Gin, you can get Beefeaters for $21 or a good “economy Gin”, New Amsterdam (CS# 031475), is marked down 13% from $16 to $14 (try them in a Tom Collins).  If you have an open bottle of sparkling wine, but you’re in the mood for something a little stronger than a Champagne cocktail, try a French 75 – a reliable Champagne (and Gin) cocktail that is sure to have just the kick you need.  If you’re more into Vodka Martinis, Tito’s Handmade is marked down 10% to $18 this month.

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – January 2015

BLT Cocktail... better than a sandwich!

When Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month, they will know that Santa Claus has left the building.  Special Price Adjustments (SPAs) originate with the distributors of the products, not the UDABC (only Clearance item price reduction come from the UDABC).  Last month they were generous with the holiday promotions.  This month those promotions are scarce.  The number of items on SPA drops from over 600 last month (when Santa was here) to barely over 200 this month.  Part of the reason this post is so late is that things are so very depressing…  Cocktailians in search of ingredients who didn’t stock up in December will wish they had.  If this post seems short, you now know why.  The forecast for next month is not much better (230 items?), so tighten up your belt and wait for March.

Tequila lovers may shed a tear at the lack of SPA tags on the Tequila shelves; unless there is something wrong with my program, they will find none!  For those who love Vodka Martinis, 1750ml bottles of Tito’s Handmade are marked down 13% to $35, plus there is a small selection of other Vodkas on sale.  There isn’t much excitement in the Rum shelves either this month: a trio of mid-price Darks marked down around 20%: Cruzan, Bacardi Añejo, and Bacardi 1873 Solera.

If you’re into Bourbons, liter bottles of Jack Daniels Black Label is marked down 10% to $27. These should make a great BLT; too bad that’s about it for Bourbons (unless you count the $2 off Knob Creek).  There are a couple of single malt Scotch Whiskies that reside in the $50 range marked down this month (a Macallan 10 Year and a Highland Park 12 Year) if you’re looking for something to put into a high end Bobby Burns, give one a try.  As usual, the number of Rye Whiskies on SPA this month is low: one. Knob Creek Rye Whiskey is marked down $2 to $33. Try it in a Rye cocktail like the Scofflaw Cocktail.  If you need some liqueurs, there’s not much action there, either. Tuaca is marked down a little over 10% this month; this vanilla and citrus-based liqueur mixes well with Tequila (too bad there’s none of them on sale!)

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Santa arrives early as Utah DABC rolls out sales for December 2014

A Negroni may be served in a cocktail glass,
or on the rocks.

Once again there are over 600 items on Special Price Adjustments (SPA) for the December holidays (up from 329 last month), so when Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month, they will expect to hear Santa chuckling.  These deals are great for gifts (given or received), or for stocking your bar.  Still need a Christmas gift for Dad (or Mom)? Don’t forget to look at the gift items that are often found on the top shelf of the Utah State Stores. These gift packages usually contain a bottle of liquor and items like glasses or a shaker for about the same price as the bottle without the gift. Some of them are pretty nice, others might be a little tacky.  Shop early in the month for a better selection and buy one for a lazy relative to give you for Christmas.

First for Gin lovers: as the Gin revival continues, stores have expanded their Gin sections to accommodate new brands.  If your local store has a small selection, visit a larger store when you have the chance to check out the new items.  This month there is a variety of Gins marked down, most of the good ones around 10%, more or less.  Gins with price adjustments include offerings from Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray, Beefeater, and even bargain Gin: New Amsterdam (1750ml for $24).  While you’re picking up a nice bottle of Gin, pick up a bottle of Campari (on SPA this month) and try one of my favorite Gin cocktails, a Negroni.  You can look up all of the prices for yourself by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month; then search on “Gin” or the product of your choice.  Oh, and there are 13 non-flavored Vodkas marked down this month too (including Ketel One and Chopin, if you’re a Vodka drinker.

Now for the Whiskeys: There are 44 Whiskeys on SPA this month (60 if you count 1750 ml bottles), so it’s a great opportunity to stock up. Twelve different Bourbons:  most of the major brands are represented, try Bulleit ($25), and there are single barrel offerings from Basil Hayden, Elijah Craig, and Evan Williams.  Kick back on Christmas Eve and enjoy a nice Bourbon Manhattan.  Three Irish that normally retail around $25 to $35 are marked down around 10%.  There are 20 Single Malt and Blended Scotches marked down, including 9 twelve year olds and Glenlivet French Oak 15 year.  This is your big chance to cheer up and impress your old man with a gift he’ll enjoy.

This is your chance to stock up on your favorite Liqueurs or buy them as gifts; 30 are on SPA this month.  Try Di Saronno Amaretto ($23) over ice, or a favorite for cocktails: Amaretto Di Amore ($11); both are marked down.  Godiva Chocolate Liqueur ($27) and Kahlua Coffee Liqueur ($16) are on SPA, along with a variety of Irish Cream Liqueurs (great gifts for light drinkers) and Liqueurs like Alize and Midori.  A favorite Triple Sec substitute: Gran Gala Orange Liqueur ($20) is on SPA, or feel free to go upscale with Cointreau ($34).  There are only 11 (non-spiced) Rums on sale this month.  Appleton Estates VX Jamaica Rum is the best of the bunch, or you can try Mount Gay Eclipse for $17.  Sadly there are no high-end premium Rums to put under your tree.

If you’re looking for Champagne for New Year’s Eve, there’s not a lot of the good stuff on sale this month.  Mumm Napa Brut is the pick at $19, but the Barefoot Bubblies in the $9 range are decent and have won some awards for their price range.  I haven’t quite forgotten you Tequila lovers, either.  There are 31 choices this month in the Blanco or better categories, including some top brands!

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – November 2014

Salt Lake City cocktailians will be disappointed to see that the Special Price Adjustment (SPA) list this month is a lot leaner than it was last month (down from 419 to 329).  This is the normal pre-December slump that we experience every November; Santa Claus comes in December, and his SPA list is usually very generous.  We will soon be presented with a cornucopia of liquor oriented gift items and sparkling wines for New Year’s celebrations.

Remember: November is the time to start looking up… to the top shelf, that is.  Boxed gift items that are usually found on the top shelves of the Utah State Stores. These promotional packages usually contain a bottle of liquor and items like logoed glasses or a shaker for about the same price as the bottle without the gift (quality of these “extras” varies).  These deals are great for gifts (given or received), or for stocking your bar.

For those who love Vodka Martinis, this month it’s liters of Skyy Vodka that are marked down from $22 to $19.  There are also a bunch of other Vodkas and the usual large number of flavored Vodkas on SPA.  The standout Tequila deals this month are a pair of El Jimadors: the Reposado and the Blanco are both marked down from $20 to $17.  Regular readers will know that a good Silver (or Plata or Blanco) is an essential ingredient in the ever popular Margarita, but this Reposado also makes outstanding cocktails.

If you were hoping for some Gin this month, you’re almost out of luck.  One good bet is Tanqueray Rangpur Gin, marked down from $25 to $22. Try it in a Tom Collins.  New Amsterdam Gin, an excellent economy Gin, is marked down this month (CS# 031475 down 20% to $12).  If you have an open bottle of sparkling wine and you’re in the mood for something a little stronger that a Champagne cocktail, try it in a French 75 – a reliable Champagne (and Gin) cocktail that is sure to have just the kick you need. 

November is not totally devoid of deals in the cocktail area, however.  If you’re into Bourbons, and if you like something a little pricier, Jack Daniels® Single Barrel (CS# 026906) is available for $47 (that’s a generous $3 off) should make a great Bourbon Manhattan.  All (both!) of the Scotch Whiskies marked down this month are blends, so if you’re looking for something to put into your top-shelf Rob Roy you can get a bottle of Chivas Regal 12 Year marked down 9% to $32.

Regarding any other sale or clearance items, if you see a great deal on anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines, etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open an online price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – October 2014

Tequila Mole Manhattan is both dry and sweet.

Utah cocktailians can rejoice that it’s October, and the colder weather means it’s time for cocktails that are brown, bitter, and stirred. The count of items marked down by the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores  has revived! The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) this month (419) is quite an increase compared to the 335 in September, so now is a good time to get ready for cold weather cocktails by stocking your bar with October bargains. As the nights grow cooler and the early autumn days grow noticeably shorter, here are some cocktail ideas that, combined with these sale items, can reduce your monthly cocktail spend.

If you are into Bourbons, some good ones to try this month are Bulleit Frontier (down 11% to $25), Elijah Craig 12 Year (down 8% to $23), and Woodford Reserve (down 8% to $33). If you want to make a very mellow Manhattan, try one with some Woodford Reserve.  If you are tempted more by imported, brown liquors, there are a couple of good, blended Scotch Whiskies marked down, too; so if you’re looking for something to put into a really top-shelf Blood and Sand, you can get some Dewars Special Reserve 12 Year (17% to $30).  You might want to try a Glenlivet French Oak 15 Year (9% to $52). Feeling like some Barbados Rum? Mount Gay Eclipse is marked down 10% to $18 this month, try it in your next Rapture.  There is also a large selection of spiced Rums.

If your taste runs to liquors of a lighter color even this late in the year, there are still some deals for you. There are about 14 Tequilas marked down in October, not counting the flavored ones.  Familia Camarena Tequilas, one of my favorite brands for mixing, have the Silver and Reposado both marked down 10% to $18. If you’ve never tried one, give the El Diablo a try. Deals on Vodka this month include liter bottles of Tito’s Handmade (CS# 038176 down 15% to $17). (Great in a White Russian.) You might also like to try Ketel One (12% to $22) in a Vodka Martini.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – September 2014

For a smooth ride, try a Sidecar!

Utah cocktailians can thank heaven that August is officially over and the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores have once again loosened the SPA purse strings for September.  The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) this month increased from only 288 in August to 335 in September. That means it’s time to get ready for cold weather cocktails by stocking your bar with September bargains.  So as the nights grow cooler and the late summer days grow noticeably shorter, here are some cocktail ideas that, combined with some sale items, can stretch your cocktail dollar.

In case you’re looking for liquors to accompany the key ingredient of your cocktail, or even be the main ingredient, you might want to try one of the following.  A favorite Triple-Sec substitute (if you’re still using that $10 Triple Sec, why not treat yourself? If you do, you may never go back...) is Gran Gala Orange Liqueur, marked down 14% to $19.  It’s cheaper than Grand Marnier, but almost as good.  E&J VSOP is a decent Brandy for mixing; it’s marked down 21% to $11.5, can do good duty in a Sidecar (or any other cocktail), and will hurt your wallet far less than mixing with your favorite Cognac. 

There are some nice Plata Tequilas on sale this month.  A couple you might like to try are Milagro Silver (13% to $26) or 1800 Silver (6% to $29).  Either of these will make a dynamite Margarita.  Why not mix them with Gran Gala Orange Liqueur (see above)?  There is also a nice selection of Reposados marked down this month, check them out at your local store.

There are only a couple of Bourbons on price adjustment this month; Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon can make a great BLT and is available for $25 (7% off).  Another Bourbon on sale is Jack Daniels Black Label for $22.5 (12% off).

If you enjoy Rum, the state has limited markdowns this month.  You might want to try Cruzan Dark at $11.  If you’re a fan of Appleton Estates, VX is marked down 14% to $18.  Vodka lovers will be pleased that there is a good selection of Vodkas in bottles large and small on sale this month, including Skyy and Stoli.  All Vodka brands have their fans and detractors, but there is something for almost everyone.  Finally, Martini lovers will be pleased to know that they don’t have to go thirsty this month.  Hendricks Gin (6% to $34 makes an excellent Classic Martinis. There are a handful of other Gins on sale, mostly in 1.75 liter bottles, so this might be the time to stock up on your favorite.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – August 2014 – It’s raining Rye!

Corpse Reviver No. 2 cocktail will rattle your bones

Utah Rye Whiskey lovers should be grateful to the UDABC this month.  As you may remember from these posts, most months there are no Rye Whiskeys marked down in Utah.  This month there are three, and good ones, too!  Knob Creek Rye, Pendleton 1910 Canadian Rye, and High West Double Rye Whiskeys are all on sale this month (all about 10%).  Whether you like them for sipping, or in a Manhattan or a Sazerac, this is a great month to stock up on Rye!  In other news, there are two new Scotch Whiskies available this month in the $50-60 range for you Scotch lovers: Talisker Storm (single malt) and Johnnie Walker Double Black (blended).

Last August, the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores seem to have begun a new pattern.  Rather than enter the doldrums in August, they have maintained an average level of items on SPA, this month there is a respectable 288 item marked down, slightly more than in July.  August usually marks the beginning of a cooling trend as the days begin to grow noticeably shorter, but it’s still warm enough that Utah’s amateur mixologists will have plenty of takers for their cocktails when cocktail hour rolls around.  Here are some cocktail ideas that will save you money by taking advantage of the marked down items.

In case you haven’t noticed, the UDABC has been slowly expanding their selection of Gins, and there is now a made-in-Utah Gin available: Beehive Jack Rabbit Gin ($28, Google it for more info).  A classic Gin cocktail from The Savoy Cocktail Book is the Corpse Reviver No. 2.  This month you might want to try one using Bombay Sapphire Gin (CS# 028236 down 11% to $24).  If you’re looking for something to go into a summer cooler like a Tom Collins, try some New Amsterdam Gin (CS# 031475 down 20% to $12), an excellent economy Gin. 

Lovers of Brandy cocktails will be pleased to find that E&J XO Brandy is on SPA for $13.5 (an 18% reduction); try it in a Sidecar (or any other cocktail calling for Brandy), where it will hurt your wallet far less than using your favorite Cognac.  Deals on Vodka this month include Grey Goose (CS# 034433 down 9% to $31) and Absolut (CS# 034006 down 15% to $17).  Try these in a White Russian or a Vodka Martini.

Purists may be offended by the Rum deals this month, all of the Rums on sale are spiced or flavored...  If you are so inclined, you can check out the selection and try one in one or two of my favorite Rum coolers: the Mojito and the classic Rum and Coke (with lime, of course).  You can check all of the prices for yourself by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month; then search on “gin” or the product of your choice. 

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – June 2014

Enjoy an Aviation Cocktail in honor of World Gin Day!

June brings the beginning of summer, and with summer comes hot weather.  Hot weather and yard work make for thirsty people, so when cocktail hour rolls around Utah amateur mixologists should have plenty of takers for their cocktails. The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) in Utah this month rose from around 270 for May to a more generous 420 in June.  That means there are some quality cocktail ingredients on sale this month at the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores, so you can get what you need to make some tall coolers or shake up some great cocktails.  Here are some ideas on how to use this month’s sale items to improve your cocktail offerings.

Rye lovers are in luck this month, Knob Creek Rye is marked down 11% to $40.  As for Bourbons, there are about a dozen on sale this month, including single barrel offerings from Elijah Craig and Ridgemont Reserve.  If you like Mint Julep (I know I do), you might want to try one with Jack Daniels Black Label (down 8% to $24.5).  There are not a lot of Rums on SPA this month, but you might want to try some Appleton Estates VX (14% to $18) in a Mojito or the classic Rum and Coke.  

June 14 is World Gin Day, but there are only a few Gins marked down this month.  If you love Gin and Tonics to cool down in the hot weather, you might want to stock up on New Amsterdam Gin (CS# 031475 down 20% to $12), an excellent Gin for the price. Try some Tanqueray ($22) in a Classic Martini. 

Lovers of Scotch Whiskies should be happy this month: there are nine single malts and eight blends marked down in a variety of sizes.  The single malts range from ten to 16 years old, so enjoy.  The blended Scotch Whiskies include Johnnie Walker 12 year old ($38) and Chivas 12 year for $40.  If you’re searching for a Scotch cocktail to try this month, consider trying the classic Bobby Burns.  The usual mix of Tequilas is marked down in June, but you might want to try my favorite bargain Tequila: Familia Camarena Silver or Reposado, both of which are marked down this month 15% to $17.  If you want something a little more expensive, I also like El Jimador Reposado, marked down to $37.  If you’ve never tried one, give the Tequila Mojito a try. 

Irish Whiskey lovers will be happy to discover that Jameson Black Barrel is now available in Utah for $35 (not on SPA); I had a chance to taste this one in Portland two years ago and can tell you that you will enjoy it.  As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see a great deal on anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines, etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open an online price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – May 2014

The Campden Cocktail is quite a treat.

The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) at the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month dropped off again this month into the high two-hundreds.  There are, still, some quality cocktail ingredients available this month, so you might be able to get what you need to shake up some great cocktails.  Here are some ideas on how to use this month’s sale items to improve your cocktail repertoire.

Surprisingly, there weren’t a lot of Bourbons on sale for the derby this month; if you’re into Evan Williams, you’re set.  Otherwise if you want a Mint Julep or a BLT, a liter of Jim Beam is about it this month.  There’s not much in the way of blended Scotch Whiskies marked down this month either: 1750 ml bottles of Chivas Regal are marked down around $5 to $65 and the large bottles of Dewars White Label are marked down to $46.  If you’re searching for a Scotch cocktail to try this month, consider going outlaw with a Rob Roy.

Martini lovers will be pleased to know that they don’t have to go thirsty this month.  Hendricks Gin (8% to $33 makes an excellent Classic Martinis).  The other pick of the Gins this month is the large bottle of Tanqueray (marked down 6% to $45) goes well in a Campden Cocktail; this little known cocktail is one you should try. If you love Tanqueray Gin and Tonics while sitting in the yard in the summertime, this might be a good time to stock up.

The selection of Tequilas this month is not bad!  This month Milagro Silver is marked down 13% range to $26 and the Reposado is marked down 9% to $30. Combine them with Gran Gala Orange Liqueur (an excellent, low cost Triple Sec marked down 14% to $19) to make a dynamite Margarita.  You will also find 1800 Añejo (5% to $37) and Silver (9% to $30) on sale.

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see a great deal on anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines, etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open an online price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – April 2014

Tanqueray Taj will put your Gin & Midori to good use.

When Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month they will find that the number of marked down items has dropped back into the “high average” range.  The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) dropped from around 440 last month to around 356 for April.  Cocktailians who need to stock their bars can still find some nice bargains.  There are some quality cocktail ingredients available this month, so dust off your wallet and your wallet and your shaker and get ready to mix some great cocktails.

There are a few Bourbons on SPA this month; let’s hope they are holding them in reserve for the Derby next month, always a big day for Bourbon.  In the 750ml size there three Single Barrel offerings marked down: Elijah Craig 12 Year (8% to $23), Knob Creek (6% to $33), and Basil Hayden 8 Year (7% to $39).  Sip it, or you can make a very good Manhattan, or perhaps even a Boulevardier.  The only Scotch Whisky marked down this month that you might want to pour into a cocktail like a Blood and Sand, is the Bowmore Legend Single Malt that has a small mark-down to $26.  Johnnie Walker 12 Year 1750 ml. is marked down 6% to $73.

Fortunately, the UDABC didn’t forget about you Tequila lovers.  There are 16 Tequilas (Platas, Añejos and Reposados) on SPA.  My favorites include Herradura Añejo.  This month Familia Camarena Silver and Reposado are both marked down 15% to $17.  It’s Margarita time!  The Rum deals are few and far between this month if you don’t count the “Spiced and Flavored” category.  Cruzan Dark is marked down 23% to $10, you might want to experiment with a Rum Old Fashioned. 

If you need some Dry Gin, Tanqueray Ten is marked down 9% to $29.  Try it in a Classic Martini.  Always reliable Beefeater is marked down $3 to $22 (try it in a Tom Collins).  If you like Vesper Martinis, Ketel One (it’s great with a lemon twist) is also on SPA for $22.  There are also deals on Belevedere and Skyy, as well as the usual multitude of flavored Vodkas that are better not mentioned.

There are a couple of Liqueurs marked down this month.  Amaretto Di Amore ($12) goes great in Mai Tais and is marked down around 14%.  Midori Melon Liqueur is marked down 10% to $19; try it in a Tanqueray Taj.

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – March 2014

Campari Ole will put that sale Tequila to
good use.

When Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores in March, they will be excited to see that sale tags are more in evidence than they have been during the last couple of months.  The number of marked down items has increased from January and February lows into the “above average” range.  The number of items on SPA (Special Price Adjustment) rose from around 230 last month to over 440 in March.  Cocktailians who have been waiting to stock their bars will see that this is an opportunity.  Quite a few quality cocktail ingredients are available this month, so get ready for some great cocktails.

The UDABC didn’t forget about you Tequila lovers this month.  There are 16 Tequilas on SPA with plenty of Platas and Reposados.  My favorites range from El Jimador to Herradura; and there are four different 1800’s marked down, too.  Leave your credit card at home... it’s Margarita time.  Rum seems to have been overlooked this month.  If you like Dark Rums, Mount Gay Eclipse Barbados Rum is marked down over 15% to $17, try it in a Rum Old Fashioned, but that’s about it for Rums. 

If you need some Gin, my favorite “economy Gin”, New Amsterdam (CS# 031475), is marked down 13% from $15 to $13 (try it in a Tom Collins).  If you have an open bottle of sparkling wine but you’re in the mood for something a little stronger than a Champagne cocktail, try a French 75 – a reliable champagne (and Gin) cocktail that is sure to have just the kick you need.  If you’re more into Vodka Martinis, Tito’s Handmade is marked down 15% to $17 this month.

If you enjoy Bourbons, selections this month range from Jack Daniels Black Label (down 8% to $23) to Blanton Single Barrel (down 5% to $53).  If you want to make a very good Manhattan, or perhaps a Boulevardier, try some Woodford Reserve ($30) or Ridgemont Reserve 1792 ($29).  This month you might want to stock up on your favorite Liqueurs.  Liqueurs like Underground Herbal Spirit ($25) and Frangelico ($23) are on sale, and also an excellent Triple Sec substitute that works well in Margaritas: Gran Gala Orange Liqueur (14% to $19).

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – February 2014

El Diablo is a cocktail the
Devil himself might enjoy.

As is usually the case in February, a monthly UABC post that appears this late means that there is not much to write about.  If the Utah Mixologist had not stocked up in December and didn’t expect to see around 400 items on markdown in March, he would be really depressed this month.  The number of marked down items at the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores in February has increased only slightly from January.  This month the number of items on SPA rose from under 180 to around 230, barely more than a third of the over 615 items marked down in December.  Obviously, this is not the time to stock your bar, but there are still a few quality cocktail ingredients available.

If you’re into Bourbons, you’re almost out of luck this month.  The pick of the lot is the Knob Creek, marked down $2 to $33, but Evan Williams Single Barrel is marked down, too.  The only Scotch Whisky marked down this month is Macallan Ten Year Old, marked down $2 to $40, so if you’re looking for a blended Scotch to put into a Rob Roy you’re out of luck.  If you need some liqueurs, Amaretto Di Amore is marked down almost 15% this month.

The number of Tequilas on SPA this month has been generously increased from one to four!  Discerning Tequila lovers may want to forgo the Tortilla Gold Blend at $7, but the Herradura Añejo (CS# 003656) marked down $5 to $50 might be worth the investment.  Regular readers will know that a good Silver (or Plata or Blanco) is an essential ingredient in the El Diablo, but this month the only Plata is El Charro, marked down from $17 to $15.  For those who love Cosmopolitans or Vodka Martinis, there are two Vodkas in 750 ml bottles on SPA.  Effen Vodka, down 7% to $25, may interest some of you.

There’s no excitement in the Rum shelves this month.  Bottles of Bacardi 8 are marked down around 16% to $16, and that’s it!  Let’s hope for better pricing next month.  As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Cocktail ingredients Utah update – January 2014

BLT Cocktail: simple, but delicious

When Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month, they will know that Santa Claus has left the building.  Special Price Adjustments (SPAs) originate with the distributors of the products, not the UDABC (only Clearance item price reduction come from the UDABC).  Last month they were generous with the holiday promotions.  This month those promotions are scarce.  The number of items on SPA drops from over 600 last month when Santa was around to under 200 this month.  Cocktailians in search of ingredients who didn’t stock up in December will wish they had.  If this post seems short, you now know why.  The forecast for next month is not much better, so tighten up your belt and wait for March.

If you’re into Bourbons, liter bottles of Wild Turkey 101 and Jack Daniels Black Label are both marked down 10% to for $27. These should make a great BLT; too bad that’s about it for Bourbons.  There is only one Scotch Whisky (a blend) marked down this month: liter bottles of Chivas Regal 12 YO are marked down 7% to $40, so if you’re looking for something to put into your high end Bobby Burns, give it a try.  As usual, the number of Rye Whiskies on SPA this month is low: one: Bulleit 95 Rye Whiskey is marked down 11% to $24; my friends and I almost killed a whole bottle New Year’s Eve, so it’s time to stock up. Try it in a Rye cocktail like the Scofflaw Cocktail.  If you need some liqueurs, there’s not much action there, either. Tuaca is marked down a little over 10% this month; this vanilla and citrus-based liqueur mixes well with Tequila.

Tequila lovers may shed a tear at the lack of SPA tags on the Tequila shelves; unless there is something wrong with my program, they will find one!  Your option for Tequila deals this month is Epsolon Reposada (12% to $23).  For those who love Vodka Martinis, 1750ml bottles of Ketel One® are marked down 10% to $45, and there is a variety of under $20 Vodkas on sale.  There isn’t much excitement in the Rum shelves either this month: Cruzan Light Rum is marked down 8% to $22 for a 1750ml bottle.

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.

Santa arrives early as Utah DABC rolls out sales for December 2013

Try an Aviation cocktail made with Aviation Gin

There are over 600 items on Special Price Adjustments (SPA) for the December holidays, so when Utahans walk into the Utah DABC State Liquor Stores this month, they will expect to hear Santa chuckling.  These deals are great for gifts (given or received), or for stocking your bar.  (Note: later in the month there will be a separate post on pre-New Year’s price adjustments (actually available all December) on sparkling wines.)  Need a Christmas gift for Dad (or Mom)? Don’t forget to look at the gift items that are often found on the top shelf of the Utah State Stores. These gift packages usually contain a bottle of liquor and items like glasses or a shaker for about the same price as the bottle without the gift. Some of them are pretty nice, others might be a little tacky.  Shop early in the month for a better selection and buy one for a lazy relative to give you for Christmas.

First: great news for Gin lovers: the DABC is now stocking Aviation Gin (CS 400413, $30).  This highly rated American Gin makes a great Martini or Aviation cocktail.  Give it a try (call ahead to see if your local store carries it).  This month there is a variety of Gins marked down, most of the good ones around 10%, plus or minus.  Gins with price adjustments include offerings from Bombay Sapphire®, Tanqueray®, Beefeater®, and even the surprisingly good, bargain Gin: New Amsterdam (1750ml for $24).  While you’re picking up a nice bottle of Gin, pick up a bottle of Campari (on SPA this month) and try one of my favorite Gin cocktails, a Negroni.  You can look up all of the prices for yourself by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month; then search on “gin” or the product of your choice.  Oh, and there are 24 non-flavored Vodkas marked down this month too, if that’s your thing.

Now for the Whiskeys: There are 70 Whiskeys on SPA this month, so it’s a great opportunity to stock up. 18 different Bourbons:  Most of the major brands are represented; try Buffalo Trace ($22), and there are single barrel offerings from Blanton, Eagle Rare, and Evan Williams.  Four Irish that normally retail around $25 are marked down around 10%.  Kick back on Christmas Eve and enjoy a nice Bourbon Manhattan.  There are 23 Single Malt and Blended Scotches marked down, including 10 twelve year olds and Glenlivet French Oak 15 year.  This is your big chance to cheer up and impress your old man with a gift he’ll enjoy.

Now is your chance to stock up on your favorite Liqueurs or buy them as gifts; 30 are on SPA this month.  Try Di Saronno Amaretto ($23) over ice, or a favorite for cocktails: Amaretto Di Amore ($11); both are marked down.  Godiva Chocolate Liqueur ($27) and Kahlua Coffee Liqueur ($16) are on SPA, along with a variety of Irish Cream Liqueurs (great gifts for light drinkers) and Liqueurs like Alize and Midori.  A favorite Triple Sec substitute: Gran Gala Orange Liqueur ($20) is on SPA, or feel free to go upscale with Cointreau ($34.3).  There are only 10 (non-spiced) Rums on sale this month.  Appleton Estates VX Jamaica Rum is the best of the bunch, or you can try Bacardi 8 for $16.  Sadly there are no high-end premium Rums to put under your tree.

As to any other sale or clearance items, if you see anything at your local state store that other cocktailians might enjoy, post a response to this article.  See the following list “Suggested by the author” for information on how to use the Utah DABC website.  You can check out what else is on sale (e.g. the wines etc.) by clicking through to the “SPA Product List” to open a price book in PDF format that shows all of the markdowns for the current month.