This is the section of Travel Distilled where I explain the basics of spirits, covering topics such as:
What’s the difference between brandy and cognac?
Is mezcal stronger than tequila?
What are the different types of tequila?
Well, you get the picture so scroll through the posts below or use the search box at the top right of the page to find what you want. And if you don’t find what you want, email me and I’ll consider adding a page on the subject.
Travel Distilled asks – and answers – the question of what is Aguardiente, its history, production process and regional variations.
Travel Distilled takes a look at how vodka is made, from the raw ingredients through fermentation, distillation, filtration, bottling and blending.
Travel Distilled tells the story of the history of Jim Beam, the world-famous Kentucky bourbon distillery, whose story begins in the 18th century.
Travel Distilled brings you a history of Johnnie Walker, the world-famous Scottish whisky brand with its striding man.
Travel Distilled explains what anis is, where it comes from, how it’s produced, and how to use this licorice-flavored spirit.
Travel Distilled explains what a mint julep is, the history of this bourbon cocktail, its link to the Kentucky Derby and a recipe for this Southern favorite.
Travel Distilled answers the question ‘What is sotol?’ the answer being a predominantly Mexican spirit, though also made in the USA from the Desert Spoon plant.
Travel Distilled answers the question of how long sherry lasts, whether it’s opened or unopened and whether it’s fino, amontillado or other type of sherry.
Travel Distilled answers the question ‘what is ouzo’, the anise-flavored Greek spirit, with its history, how to drink it and use it in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Arak is, the history of this Middle Eastern spirit, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and use it in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Rhum Agricole is, the history of this Caribbean spirit, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails.
Travel Distilled explains what Armagnac is, the history of this French brandy, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Jägermeister is, the history of the German liqueur, how it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Tia Maria is, the history of this coffee liqueur, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Kahlua is, the history of this Mexican liqueur, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what limoncello is, the history of this Italian spirit, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what grappa is, the history of this Italian spirit, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Cachaca is, the history of this Brazilian spirit, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Chartreuse is, the history of this French liqueur, how and where it’s made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what Cointreau is, the history or this French spirit, how and where it is made, how to drink it and its use in cocktails and cooking.
Travel Distilled explains what slivovitz is, the plum brandy from Eastern Europe, what its history is, its varieties, production process, and flavor profile.
Travel Distilled explains what the Korean spirit soju is, what is its history, how is it made, what are the varieties of soju, and how is it served.
Travel Distilled explains what the Chinese spirit Baijiu is, its history, how it’s made, its cultural significance, its styles, and its rituals and traditions.
Travel Distilled explains what the Japanese drink sake is, its history, how it’s made, its serving rituals, cultural significance, and more.
Travel Distilled explains what the French drink pastis is, where it comes from, how it’s made, and its cultural significance.
Travel Distilled explains what Calvados is, with notes on its history, production process and use in cooking.
Travel Distilled presents a beginner’s guide to Madeiran rum by Madeiran rum expert Harold Vieira, co-founder of Harold and Hansa, specialists in Madeiran Rum.
Travel Distilled explains what the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) is, and how understanding what this body does can help you understand tequila labels.
Travel Distilled samples Tepache Sazon, a brand of the Mexican drink made from fermented pineapples or other fruit and occasionally with a dash of mezcal added.
The tools that are needed for a home bar are mostly inexpensive and include a cocktail shaker, measuring jiggers, bar spoons, a citrus press, and a notebook.