Nicola Nice has a doctorate in sociology and has applied it to the spirits world, consulting with liquor companies about who their customers are and on product development and marketing.

Sure, I am an advocate for a cold beer on a hot day, but after a few rounds of suds, that extreme heat can elicit the uninvited bubble guts. Wine can be an option, but if you’re outside, you’ll need ...

The Aperol spritz is the classic aperitivo hour beverage, featuring plenty of ice, Prosecco, Aperol, soda water, and an ...

Celebrate the margarita cocktail with these refreshing recipes featuring tequila, mezcal or no alcohol at all.

Recommended wine: Segura Viudas Brut Cava ($9.99 at Table & Vine in West Springfield). You can never go wrong with this dry, ...

The Baller cocktail is a reflection of the bar’s decadence. The Balvenie French Oak 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, ...

Bitters are a must-have in cocktail making; they add complexity and depth to drinks. They balance sweetness and offer many ...

Here are some ideas for the food enthusiasts on your gift list, including a cocktail bitters kit, water tumblers and palm-frond serving spoon.

Bitters' ability to balance sweetness, cut through rich foods and add an extra oomph to dishes overall means that their uses in the kitchen are endless.

Some bitters may add a refreshing, lighter note, while others may add a deeper, darker nuance to the drink. Want more great food writing and recipes? Subscribe to Salon Food's newsletter, The Bite.

Here are our picks for clever (and addictively delicious) takes on the classic spritz worth seeking out, from New York to Buenos Aires.