Rye Guy Says That Krome’s The Word [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

It’s not every day that you get to sit down at a tasting table with three individual spirits that are so different and unique, but still share one distinctive quality. You may be scratching your head asking yourself “what could whiskey, vodka and gin possibly have in common?” Well, honestly not much. In the case of Son of Bourye Whiskey, Krome Vodka, and Cardinal Gin, though, the fact remains that each of these spirits were distilled and bottled right here in the good ole’ USA. Check out our full reviews and intoxicating drink recipes below… cheers!

Krome Vodka

Produced by one of the most award-winning small batch distilleries in the US, Krome Vodka is an ultra premium, gluten free spirit which hails from Bend, Oregon. Krome Vodka starts with superior ingredients and is then filtered five times through charcoal and crushed volcanic rock. Corn provides the vodka with a heft that can’t be found in a rye or wheat vodka and a sweetness that can’t be found in potato vodka. The ultra-clean Cascade Mountain spring water and a thorough filtration process is said to give Krome an incredible smoothness.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: B+ ( Very Good)
Price: $27 – $35 USD (750 ml)

Overall: We give Krome Vodka a B+ (Highly Recommended) It’s exceptional for mixing and delivers a smooth drinkable profile that for many is even acceptable for sipping. During our testing of Krome we likened it to other luxury vodkas such as Ketel One and Grey Goose. This vodka looks premium, drinks premium, and sells for a premium. If you’ve got the dough, we suggest giving Krome a whirl for yourself.

MIX IT UP WITH: “Krome America”

Ingredients:  2 oz. Krome Vodka, 2 oz. pomegranate juice or liqueur, sparkling water, lime juice

Directions:  Combine ingredients in mixing glass. Shake. Serve on the rocks.

Cardinal Gin

As the first gin to be distilled in North Carolina since Prohibition, Cardinal Gin is a small batch American dry gin that mixes tradition and modern technology. No other distillery in the United States uses the same methods that Southern Artisan Spirits uses. The botanicals which are used to produce Cardinal Gin are all organic and are said to be the freshest to be found in all of the world.

Proof: 84 (42% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: spearmint, coriander, and juniper
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $29 – $32 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Cardinal Gin an A- (Highly Recommended). Fans of gin, Cardinal is a kiss in the mouth! It’s a vibrant dry gin that mixes very well, specifically with tonic, yet not limited in anyway. It’s rare when we all get together and agree that one spirit is simply fantastic, but unanimously Cardinal Gin got everyone’s vote this week!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Bird’s the Word”

Ingredients: 1 oz Cardinal Gin, 1 oz Cherry Marnier liqueur, 1 tsp Martini & Rossi dry vermouth.

Directions: Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice cubes. Shake well, strain into a highball glass, and serve.

Son of Bourye Whiskey

The Son of Bourye gets its name from High West Distillery’s original Bourye Whiskey, a blend of straight Bourbon and rye whiskies. As you might expect, Son of Bourye is made from younger whiskies than the original. It’s produced from two separate whiskeys that are proudly not chill filtered or carbon treated.

Whiskey #1 is a 5yr old bourbon, which consists of 75% corn, 20% rye, 5% barley malt. Whiskey #2 is a 3yr old rye, which contains 95% rye, 5% barley malt. The ratios of whiskies are top secret! However, we’re told that no bourbon today has more rye in the Son of Bourye.

Proof: 92 (46% ABV)
Age: Blended
Flavors: Vanilla, cinnamon, rye, oak
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $37 – $42 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Son of Bourye a B+ (Highly Recommended). You don’t have to be a connoisseur of whiskey to fully enjoy Son of Bourye. It’s a truly fun whiskey who’s complexities are, in our opinion best enjoyed neat. That being said, it is still acceptable to serve this whiskey on the rocks, with water, or even mixed. We mixed a number of concoctions before landed on the perfect mixture. Check it out below….

MIX IT UP WITH: “Rye Guy”

Ingredients: 1.5 oz Son of Bourye Whiskey, 3/4 oz grapefruit juice, 1 dash grenadine syrup

Directions: Pour the whiskey, grapefruit juice and grenadine into a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice cubes. Shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.

Next week:  Glenfiddich 18yr | Deaths Door Gin | Bimber Vodka

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports-related. When he’s not contributing for COED, his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED, shoot Josh a quick email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

Black Beard Drinks Coco Apples [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

In this week’s installment of “Drinks of the Week,” we’re sipping on three very distinctly-flavored liquor brands–two of which you may have already heard of, and one that is just breaking into the industry. We’re starting out with Malibu Red, a coconut rum and tequila hybrid. Then we have Captain Morgan Black, which is aged in double-charred oak barrels until it’s seriously…well, black. And finally, St. Claire Green Tea Flavored Vodka, which was first introduced in 2010. Make sure to check out our full reviews and some drink recipes that’ll make you say “nom nom” below… Cheers!

Malibu Red

Designed to be a blend of smooth Caribbean rum and fiery silver tequila, Malibu Red was produced with inspiration from pop and R&B singer-songwriter Ne-Yo. If you’re not either singing about booze or creating it these days, then you’re riding in the backseat. Malibu is best known for their large portfolio of coconut rums that come in a variety of flavors, so they’re used to pushing the envelope. But mixing tequila and rum and bottling it for sale… that’s breaking new ground in the spirits world!

Earlier this week, we were given the opportunity by our friends over at Malibu to review their new audacious creation for ourselves. The results were officially tasty!

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: N/A
Flavors: Coconut, vanilla, citrus, agave
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B (Good)
Buzz Factor: B (Good)
Price: $18.99 USD (750 ml)

Overall: We give Malibu Red a B (Recommended). Although we do enjoy the rum and tequila-flavor profile Malibu has created, this is one brand that is just begging to be served mixed rather than sipped. Its unique flavor of agave and rum (with a hint of citrus, believe it or not) actually lends itself nicely to a wide variety of mixed drink concoctions, including the one you see posted below…

MIX IT UP WITH: “CocoRita”

Ingredients:  4 oz. Malibu Red, 1 oz. fresh lime juice, 3/4 oz. Cointreau, Ice cubes

Directions:  Combine ingredients with ice in a shaker and shake vigorously. Strain into an ice-filled glass and garnish.

St. Claire Green Tea Flavored Vodka

Produced from a blend of neutral grain spirits, green tea extract, and natural honey, St. Claire Green Tea Flavored Vodka was established in 2010 to bring innovation to the spirit industry. By using honey as it’s only natural sweetener, St. Claire Vodka is able to produce one of the lowest calorie beverages on the market today. 57 calories, in fact.

St. Claire Vodka is distilled four times, which allows it to take advantage of a refined product by adding the green tea extract at just the right time. By adding the Green Tea in after the third distillation cycle, it allows more of the Tea to remain and be more potent. The vodka is then distilled one more time, removing any remaining toxins–and combining the vodka, the Green Tea, and the honey.

Proof: 70 (30% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Green Tea and a hint of honey
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B (Good)
Price: $19 – $23 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give St. Claire Vodka a B+ (Highly Recommended). This is an incredible vodka for calorie-conscious drinkers who also demand some flavor in their life. St. Claire isn’t typical by any means, but fares well on its own merits–and mixes very well to boot. If you find St. Claire in your area, we suggest you give it a whirl for yourself! Or you can always have it shipped to your door.

MIX IT UP WITH: “Green Apple”

Ingredients: 1 oz St Claire Vodka, 1 oz Lillet Blanc, 2 oz Apple Cider.

Directions: Serve over ice in short glass with cinnamon stick, or serve heated in glass-footed mug with cinnamon stick.

Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum

Derived from select spices such as clove spice and premium cassia bark, Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum is a blend of pot and continuous still rums from Jamaica, Guyana & Barbados. It’s aged in double-charred blackened oak barrels and has a dark, full-bodied color and distinctive rich taste which is said to be unmistakable.

Accolades: Received Double Gold at the 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Proof: 94.6 (48.3% ABV)
Age: Blended
Flavors: Cinnamon, oak, vanilla, and clove
Taste: B (Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $21.99 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum a B+ (Highly Recommended). It’s clearly Captain Morgan, but if you’re a fan of the original Morgan recipe, then this new rendition could throw your taste buds for a loop! The double-charred oak aging process adds distinct bold flavors of oak and spices that are best served in a mixed cocktail. Though if you’re man enough, hike up a leg and get a little captain in ya! (And at nearly 95 proof, a “little” is all it’ll take)

MIX IT UP WITH: “Black Beard”

Ingredients: 3 oz. Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum, 1 fresh lime, 5 oz Coca-Cola, and ice.

Directions: Fill tall glass with ice cubes. Add rum. Rub cut edge of lime on rim of glass, then squeeze juice into glass. Fill with Coca-Cola. Garnish with lime slice.

Next week:  Krome Vodka | Cardinal Gin | Son Of Bouyre Whiskey

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports-related. When he’s not contributing for COED, his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED, shoot Josh a quick email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

Have No Reservations About Weaving An Irish Jig [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

The weekend is upon us! It’s time to let loose and unwind, and what better way to do that than with COED’s “Drinks of the Week?’ This week we’re checking out two brands from Ireland and one from Canada, including Bushmills Irish Honey, Boru Vodka, and Crown Royal Reserve. Here at COED “Drinks of the Week” is more than just a product showcase, we actually test, taste, mix and review each brand one-by-one in a painstaking process some parents would consider binge drinking. We rather prefer the word “science!” Make sure to read up on our latest reviews and drink recipes below… cheers!

Bushmills Irish Honey

Produced and aged in Ireland’s oldest working distillery, Bushmills Irish Honey is triple-distilled with the finest malted Irish barley, pure Irish water and a touch of honey! First released in March of 2012, Bushmills isn’t the first (or the last) brand to produce this unique blend of honey and whisky. We’ve already seen it from companies like Jack Daniels and Wild Turkey in the past, but the question still remains…. did Bushmills pull it off? Is this concoction more than just a genius marketing ploy, or will it become a long standing staple of the Bushmills family? Earlier this week we found out!

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: Blended
Flavors: Honey, vanilla, and citrus
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B (Good)
Price: $24.99 USD (750 ml)

Overall: We give Bushmills Irish Honey a B+ (Highly Recommended). It’s sweet, but not too sweet. In fact, the honey flavor is somewhat subtle. Fans of original Bushmills blends will likely be impressed with this newest addition to the family. It’s more whisky than honey, and in our opinion is best served on the rocks, though we did find that it can be mixed successfully. Check out the recipe below to see the proof…

MIX IT UP WITH: “Irish Jig”

Ingredients:  1.5 oz Bushmills Irish Honey Whisky, 2 oz lemonade, 2 oz tea, Splash of Sprite or 7-UP, Lemon slice.

Directions:  In a mixing glass filled with ice, add Bushmills Irish Honey, tea, and lemonade. Roll contents but do not shake. Pour into a highball glass. Add splash of Sprite. Garnish with lemon and lime slice.

Crown Royal Reserve

Produced with more than 50 blended and individually aged whiskys that were hand selected by Master Whisky Blender, Andrew MacKay, Crown Royal Reserve is top shelf quality whisky that is actually aged in French Cognac barrels to produce it unique flavor profile.

Accolades: Recently named Canadian Whiskey of the year for 2012 by the Whisky Bible.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Blended
Flavors: Caramel, cinnamon, rye
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $40.00 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Crown Royal Reserve an A- (Highly Recommended). This whiskey is dangerously smooth, and like it’s siblings (crown and crown royal black) it remains deliciously versatile for mixing, enjoying neat, or on the rocks! The next time you’re in the mood for whisky we suggest you consider Crown Royal Reserve, and if you’re looking to drink in style you can even customize the bags they come in! Dad, I hope your not reading this, because I just found your present, which isn’t a tie… and it reads “happy fathers day, now make me a drink!”

MIX IT UP WITH: “No Reservations”

Ingredients: 3 oz. Crown Royal Reserve, 3 large ice cubes.

Directions: Pour the Crown Royal Reserve over ice into a low-ball glass. Sip, and enjoy!

Boru Vodka

Inspired by Brian Boru, the visionary king responsible for driving foreign invaders from Ireland’s shores, Boru Vodka is handcrafted in small batches in the most westerly distillery in all of Europe. It’s first distilled 5 times using crystal pure Irish spring water and the best grain available. It’s then carefully filtered through 10 feet of Atlantic Irish Oak charcoal for unsurpassed purity. Only then is it deemed to have reached the level of quality to be bottled and shipped to the pubic.

This past week thanks to the good people over at Boru Vodka and Castle Brands we were able to give this truly unique vodka a whirl ourselves! The results… well, lets take a look.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: B (Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $13.99 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Boru Vodka a B+ (Highly Recommended). This vodka delivers a clean taste which isn’t totally free of the traditional “bite” associated with most vodkas, but still manages to come off quite smooth. In our opinion Boru is best served mixed with plenty of ice. Vodka fans, the next time you’re in the liquor store and have that burning question running through your mind “what the hell should I get?” take a chance on Boru, we think you’ll like it. Besides at just over $13 a bottle the price it right!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Dream Weaver”

Ingredients: 2 oz Boru Vodka, 2.5 oz cranberry juice, 2.5 oz orange juice, 1.5 oz soda water.

Directions: Place ice cubes into the glass. Shake vodka, orange juice and cranberry juice in a shaker. Pour into glass. Top off with soda water. Garnish with cherry and pineapple slice.

Next week: Malibu Red | St. Claire Vodka | Captain Morgan Black

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

The 10-Tini Is A Honeybox Assassin [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

Packaging is often what urges consumers to buy a particular liquor brand. Whether it be the labeling, the name, or even the bottle itself.  This week we’re taking a close look at three intriguing brands, one with a subdued old school look named Spicebox Whisky, another that is designed to exude class and refinement called Rebecca Creek Whiskey, and finally a vodka called Clear10 which screams BUY ME! Make sure to check out our full reviews, opinions, and thirst quenching drink recipes below… cheers!

Rebecca Creek Whiskey

Oak barrel aged in San Antonio, TX, Rebecca Creek Whiskey is made with a rare blend of corn, wheat, rye, malted barley, new make spirit, and natural limestone filtered water from the Texas Hill Country. Rebecca Creek hit the market back in October of 2011, this past week we finally got our opportunity to put this exciting whiskey to the test!

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: N/A
Flavors: Rye, caramel, and vanilla
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $30 – $35 USD (750 ml)

Overall: We give Rebecca Creek Whiskey an A- (Highly Recommended). This Texas jem is crazy smooth! One of our favorite whiskeys to-date. Personally I think it’s best served 50/50 mixed with cola, and chalk full of ice! If you fancy yourself a whiskey fanatic and you haven’t yet pursue what’s being called Texas’s finest whiskey, we urge you to get off your butt and give it a whirl already. You can thank us later!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Texas Assassian”

Ingredients:  1/2 oz Rebecca Creek, 1/3 oz Tequila,  1/3 oz mint schnapps, 3 oz chilled cola (pepsi, coke, etc…)

Directions:  Pour Rebecca Creek, tequila and peppermint schnapps into a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice cubes. Shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass, fill with chilled Coca-cola, and serve.

Clear10 Vodka

Using water sourced from a natural alluvial aquifer, Clear10 Vodka is hand-crafted locally in Olathe, Kansas in small batches and slow-filtered an incredible 10 times! This meticulous process is said to allow it’s distillers to create the most luxurious vodka in the world, free of additives. The brains behind this operation… three Midwest friends who decided local grains and naturally-filtered water were the perfect recipe. Their background in farming, mixology, chemistry and 50 combined years consuming quality (and not so quality) vodka has provided them with an extremely fastidious palate and a knack for crafting amazing vodka.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $23.99 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Clear10 Vodka a A- (Highly Recommended). This vodka is simply incredible for mixing and down right smooth. It’s important to point out that several members of our tasting panel even preferred Clear10 straight-up as a sipper! Vodka isn’t typically the liquor of choice for sipping, but Clear10′s extensive distillation, filtration process and all natural ingredients make for a pleasing drink, straight or mixed!

MIX IT UP WITH: “10-tini”

Ingredients: 1 oz. Clear10 Vodka, 1 oz. Grand Marnier, 1 oz. Cranberry Juice, 1 Lemon Twist

Directions: Twist lemon in a chilled martini glass. Drop lemon twist into glass. Combine CLEAR10, Grand Marnier and cranberry juice in ice filled cocktail shaker. Shake and pour into large martini glass.

Spicebox Whisky

Inspired by an enterprising Canadian who shipped contraband cargo to the U.S. in wooden barrels marked “spices” during the prohibition era, Spicebox Whisky was actually developed and brought to market by Master Blender Michel Marcil using a blend of 3, 4, 5 and 6 year old Canadian Whiskies, distilled in Alberta Canada.  To start, the distillers extract the essence of the aroma and flavor through a process called “cold extraction” and then infuse them into distilled rye whisky. The end product is truly Canadian and absolutely unique!

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Blended
Flavors: Vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper
Taste: B+  (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $16 – $20 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Spicebox Whisky a B+ (Highly Recommended). This whisky is remarkably sweet, and 100% delicious! We enjoyed Spicebox both mixed and on the rocks. It makes for a great sipper over ice on a hot day and mixes nicely with both cola and ginger ale. This is not your typical whisky, it’s Canadian and spiced which makes it totally unique and if you’re given the chance to get your hands on a bottle, we suggest you don’t pass up the opportunity!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Honey Box”

Ingredients: 1 oz Spicebox, 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice, 1/2 oz Honey syrup, Sparkling wine.

Directions: In a mixing glass combine Spicebox, lime, honey and ice. Shake and strain into a champagne flute. Top with sparkling wine and garnish with lime wheel.

Next week: Bushmills Irish Honey | St. Claire Vodka | Crown Royal Reserve

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

El Matador’s Bloodhound Is ReDonkulicious [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

Mmmm… Tequila, Vodka, and Whiskey! No, we’re not mixing a jumbo batch of jungle juice or long island ice teas… we’re talking about this week’s installment of “Drink of the Week” featuring Toro de Lidia Reposado, tequila directly from Mexico; Enchanted Vodka, proudly produced in the great state of Texas; and Rendezvous Rye Whiskey from the High West Distillery in Park City, Utah! Check out our full reviews and drink recipes below…

Enchanted Rock Vodka

Founded at Rebecca Creek Distillery in the summer of 2010 by San Antonio entrepreneurs Steve Ison and Mike Cameron, Enchanted Rock Vodka is actually named after the national landmark (an enormous natural granite formation that rises 425 feetabove its surrounding terrain in the Texas Hill Country). Enchanted Rock is a grain-based, 80-proof vodka that is distilled six times and was designed with sustainability in mind. Green initiatives include employing an extensive water-recycling program, incorporating water that is naturally filtered using native limestone from the Trinity Aquifer, and donating left over grains to local farmers to use as livestock feed. Also, Enchanted Rock has been officially certified by the Texas Departmentof Agriculture with its GO TEXAN stamp, a program that recognizes Texas-based agri-businesses that positivelysupport and promote the state of Texas. Somewhere, Al Gore is shedding a tear!

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $18 – $20 USD (750 ml)

Overall: We give Enchanted Rock Vodka an A- (Highly Recommended). Not only is this brand eye catching from a design perspective, but everything about the vodka is pure and clean. The folks over at Rebecca Creek Distillery hit a home run with this vodka, and if you enjoy similar vodkas such as ABSOLUT or Ketel One, you’ll likely fall in love with Enchanted Rock as we did. It’s great for mixing, yet soft enough to sip… a great combo!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Bloodhound”

Ingredients:  2 oz Enchanted Rock Vodka, 3 oz Fresh Squeezed Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice, .25 oz Finest Call Orgeat Syrup.

Directions:  Shake over ice, pour into a tall glass and granish with a ruby red grepefruit wheel.

Toro de Lidia Reposado Tequila

A few weeks back you might remember we gave our review a little known blanco (silver) tequila by the name of Toro de Lidia. Well, today we’re going hands-on with it’s older brother – Toro de Lidia Reposado. Similar to its sibling in that it’s produced with 100% of the finest selection of Blue Agave in Mexica Toro uses pure spring water for fermentation. Where the two differ is in the maturing process. The reposado version of Toro de Lidia is aged from 6-12 months in un-charred American white oak barrels.  It is then oxygenated, chilled to 4 degree centigrade then filtered through activated carbon filters before bottling. From start to finish, producing tequila can be painstaking!

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: 6 – 12 Months
Flavors: Agave, honey, citrus, and hints of oak
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $22.00 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Toro de Lidia Reposado Tequila a B+ (Highly Recommended).  The aging process which takes place in un-charred American white oak barrels gives this reposado tequila an exceptionally smooth profile that is easily enjoyed as a sipper, shooter, or mixer. While we enjoyed Toro de Lidia reposado best overall when mixed, there’s no reason to keep the shot glasses, salt, and lime wedges too far away!

MIX IT UP WITH: “El Matador”

Ingredients: 4 oz Toro de Lidia Teposado tequila, 4 oz triple sec, 8 oz cranberry juice.

Directions: Make by the glass for a few guests or in a shaker or pitcher for a large party. Serve in a cocktail glass, garnishing the glass rim with a half slice of fresh lime.

Rendezvous Rye Whiskey

Refusing to chill filter their whiskies because they prefer to retain the natural oils that contribute flavor, texture, and a lingering finish, High West Distillers produces their whiskey for sipping. Rendezvous Rye is no exception! Bottled at 92 proof, (the minimum proof where chill haze is less likely to form) Rendezvous Rye is a blend of two exotic straight rye whiskies; one old, and one young. They’ve married the rich aromatic qualities of a 16-year-old rye with the bold spicy properties of 6-year-old rye, creating a full flavored, very complex whiskey. Earlier this week we were given the opportunity to test and review their labor of love. The results were surprising!

Proof: 92 (46% ABV)
Age: Blended
Flavors: rye spices, cinnamon, oak
Taste: A-  (Excellent)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: A (Awesome)
Price: $30 – $40 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give High West Rendezvous Rye an A- (Highly Recommended). Remember when we said the results of our testing and review were surprising? Well, what we meant by that was for once the distillers description matches the product 100%. This whiskey is best served straight or with a splash of water where it’s true complexities and long finish can truly be appreciated. At 92 proof it’s a bit of a kick in the mouth for novices to whiskey, but after spending a little time with it and easing into it with a splash of water, we came to truly appreciate this unique rye whiskey. Wondering if you can mix it? Of course… but please, man up first and give it a whirl neat. The distillers designed it that way.

MIX IT UP WITH: “ReDonkulicious”

Ingredients: - 2 oz. Rendezvous Rye, 1 small peach, 3 mint leaves, 2 pieces lemons, 1 oz water, 1/2 oz simple syrup

Directions: Muddle all ingredients except whiskey in a bar glass. Add whiskey, and shake with ice. Strain into an ice-filled old-fashioned glass, garnish with a sprig of mint and a peach slice, and serve.

Next week: Rebecca Creek Whiskey | Clear10 Vodka | Spice Box Whiskey

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

The German Martini and Free Fallin’ Know They’re Sexy [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

It’s common knowledge that each week here at COED, we share our reviews of new and exciting liquor brands. You should also know that we take the time to concoct a few tasty mixed drink recipes to go along with each brand. You shouldn’t feel bad for us in the slightest but this job, at times, can be quite challenging. Other times, it’s a breeze… This week it was surprisingly simple due in large part to the quality of products we have on-hand for review.  We’re featuring vodka from Canada called FLYTE, Tequila from SX Liquors, and new honey bourbon liqueur from Bärenjäger. Soooo… what are you waiting for? Our reviews and recipes are waiting for you below!

SX cha cha cha Reposado Tequila

Released in June of 2011 and produced from 100% blue agave, SX cha cha cha is Reposado Tequila with a hint of honey and the exotic bite of Mexican lemons. It is the brain child of CEO David Knight, a proven business leader who has managed and grown some of the world’s largest brands. Knight is a global marketing expert and executive who worked for Frito Lay, Gatorade, PepsiCo, Quaker Oats and eBay before starting SXLiquors. Needless to say this very young company seems to be in very capable hands.

Earlier this week SX Liquors approached us with one of the most unique and sexy bottles of tequila we’d ever seen. They asked us to taste, test, and review it… we were flattered and thirsty, so we took the job!

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: N/A
Flavors: Honey, Citrus, Agave
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B (Good)
Price: $29.99 USD (750 ml)

Overall: We give SX Cha Cha Cha a B+ (Highly Recommended). The bottle is as, if not more amazing than it appears in pictures! It’s a total conversation piece and would quickly spruce up any home bar. As for the tequila held within… it’s delicious and smooth. The honey and lemon tones make this reposado easy to drink both mixed and straight up. If you’re lucky enough to find SX Liquors in your area we suggest you pick up a bottle. Or find them online!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Sexy & I Know It”

Ingredients:  2 oz SX Cha Cha Cha Reposado Tequila, 1 oz rum (dark), 3 oz lime soda, 1 splash maraschino cherry juice, 1/2 oz orange schnapps, 2 maraschino cherries.

Directions:  Drop the cherries and some ice into a highball glass. Pour the SX Cha Cha Cha, Rum, lime soda and orange schnapps into the glass. Add a splash of maraschino cherry juice on top, stir and serve.

Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon

Recently announced and made available to the public this April, Bärenjäger (the cousin of Jägermeister) has produced it’s first-ever line extension. They’re calling simply – Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon and it is said to be a delicious blend of premium honey liqueur and Kentucky bourbon whiskey, made with generous amounts of pure honey and all natural ingredients.

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: N/A
Flavors: Honey, vanilla, bourbon
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: C+ (Above Average)
Price: $28.99 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon a B (Recommended).  It’s absolutely unique and unapologetically sweet. We’ve seen other distillers like Jack Daniels and Wild Turkey jump on the honey trend in the past year, but this is something Bärenjäger has been doing for a long time and it shows in the final product! The honey and bourbon complement each other nicely and in our opinion this liqueur is best served mixed. Fans of the original Bärenjäger will love new edition to their line.

MIX IT UP WITH: “German Martini”

Ingredients: 2.5 parts Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon, 1/2 part sweet vermouth, 2 dashes orange bitters

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass, stir and strain into a martini glass. Rim glass with a lemon peel. Garnigh with a lemon peel.

FLYTE Vodka

You’re looking at Canada’s very first premium Vodka! They’re calling it FLYTE and it’s distilled from fine Canadian grains and the pure spring water. Based on a 150 year old recipe, the distillers at FLYTE claim they’ve achieved a remarkable flavor with an extraordinary clarity. Before ever being bottled, FLYTE Vodka undergoes a continuous distillation process to attain its flavor with and smoothness.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: A-  (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B (Okay)
Price: $32.99 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give FLYTE Vodka a B+ (Highly Recommended). This vodka is tremendously smooth, making it truly versatile for a wide swath of mixing and shot concoctions! We could do without the somewhat bitter aftertaste, but honestly FLYTE has caught our eye (and taste buds) and it’s one bottle that we plan to keep in-stock in our secret stash!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Free Fallin’”

Ingredients: 2 oz. Flyte Vodka, 1 oz peach schnapps, 1 oz triple sec, 4 oz grapefruit juice, 1/2 oz lemon juice, 1 oz orange juice.

Directions: Pour the lemon vodka, peach schnapps and triple sec into a collins glass filled with ice cubes. Add the juices, and stir vigorously. Top with extra grapefruit juice if desired, and serve.

Next week: Enchanted Rock Vodka | Toro de Lidia Reposado Tequila | Rendezvous Rye Whiskey

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

The Mexican Volcano Is A Cannonball Skyscraper [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

The weekend is knocking at your door and it’s about time you let it in! In this week’s edition of “drinks of the week” we’re discovering vodka from Long Island, Mezcal from Mexico and Whiskey from Ireland. That’s right, we’re going international on your @ss with brands like: Mezcal Union, LiV Vodka, and Concannon Irish Whiskey! There’s a lot of good times that can be made and forgotten with these three make sure to check out our full reviews and diabolical drink recipes below…

LiV Vodka

Small batch distilled from 100% potatoes with extreme care, LiV (long island vodka) is actually produced in the first distillery on the Island since the 1800′s and is said to deliver a superb texture, delicious creaminess, and an amazingly smooth finish.

The artisan distillers that create LiV are hyper-focused on creating the finest vodka ever made. In order to achieve this distinction, each batch of LiV is carefully tasted along the way to ensure its exceptional quality, smoothness and distinct flavor. It’s this old-world, slow and exacting process that is said to create the remarkable character of LiV Ultra Premium Vodka.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $27.00 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give LiV Vodka an A- (Highly Recommended). At first glance this vodak isn’t what you’d expect an “ultra premium vodka” to look like, but as we know very well at this point, it’s what’s on the inside of the bottle that really matters! LiV is best served mixed in our opinion, though it is tremendously smooth and delivers a crisp clear taste. LiV isn’t what you’d expect, it’s better!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Skyscraper”

Ingredients:  1.5 oz. LiV Vodka, 1/2 oz. Blue Curacao, Lemonade

Directions:  Fill a Collins glas with ice and add LiV Vodka, then add Lemonade and float the Blue Curacao on top.

Concannon Irish Whiskey

Produced in Ireland in conjunction with Cooley Distillery, this artisan whiskey has been years in the making, a true labor of love and a salute to the Irish heritage for the folks at the Concannon Vinyards.

Double distilled for proper balance, character and purity, Concannon Irish Whiskey is matured in barrels for at least four years. What sets Concannon apart is that it is aged in former Concannon wine barrels in addition to traditional ex-bourbon barrels! This unique step lends extra fruity notes to the final blend.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: 4 years
Flavors: Vanilla, oak, caramel, slight citrus tones
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B (Good)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $18 – $21 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Concannon Irish Whiskey a B+ (Highly Recommended). This whiskey is truly unique! The wine barrel aging process has given the whiskey a more “drinkable” profile. It’s undoubtedly Irish, but it’s softer and more appealing for mixing. If you’ve got a thing for Irish whiskeys like Jameson or Bushmills, you’ve gotta try Concannon!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Cannon Ball”

Ingredients: 1/2 oz sweet vermouth, 1 oz Concannon Irish Whiskey, 1/2 oz ginger ale, 1 dash Angostura bitters, 2 oz lemonade.

Directions: Wash an old-fashioned glass with bitters and ice. Discard excess. Add vermouth, whiskey and ginger ale. Top with lemonade and serve.

Mezcal Unión

Mezcal Union is the brain child of a group of Mezcal fanatics. Following their visits to Oaxacan Mezcal producers in Mexico, the group decided to form a union with them and create Mezcal Union Ltd. – the company that produces Mezcal Union. This group has since produced and launched their 100% handmade spirit and today they’re asking for our opinion!

Mezcal Union, through its brand is looking to break the mold, without destroying what has been done, to be free but with roots, be cutting edge but with history, differ belonging to something, be independent by being united.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Citrus and herbs
Taste: B (Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B- (Okay)
Price: $32.00 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Mezcal Union  a B (Recommended). Mezcal is typically thought of as tequila’s ugly cousin, but to be fair, there’s nothing ugly about this mezcal! Mezcal Union is surprisingly flavorful, somewhat smooth, and quite nice for mixing. If given more time with this mezcal, I think we’d become very good friends!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Mexican Volcano”

Ingredients: 1 oz Mezcal Union, 1/2 oz white rum, 1/4 oz Cointreau, lime juice, lime twist.

Directions: Shake and servein a cocktail glassand garnish with the twist.

Next week: Cha Cha Cha Tequila | Flyte Vodka | Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon

Have suggestions on brands you’d like to see us test, review, and feature on “Drinks of the week”? Don’t hesitate to drop us a line in the comments section below!

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

Tigers Woods PGA TOUR 13 [REVIEW]

Today marks the return of the world’s #1 selling golf video game franchise and this time it’s jam packed with an array of exciting new features. This year EA is boasting that Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13 contains the most comprehensive swing mechanic revamp in over a decade. They’re calling it the “total swing” and it provides gamers with unprecedented control over their swing tempo, ball position and stance, allowing you to replicate countless swing combinations.

Like we said, the swing mechanics have undergone a substantial upgrade over last year, and while we could explain it to you in every detail, wouldn’t it just be easier on both of us if you’d just take a gander at the embedded video below? Yeah, we thought so!

Early last week we got our hands on a reviewer’s copy of the game to test and review. We were asked to keep our lips sealed… until today!

As the game starts out you have a couple paths to choose from. You can simply start your career, create a character and try to claw your way from the amateur tour through the ranks and on to the pros. Or… you can play Tiger’s legacy, a new game mode which starts you out as a 2-year old toddler rendition of Tiger. Yeah… we’re not kidding (see below). During the legacy mode you can work you way through all of Tiger’s amazing achievements and even into the future where Tiger eventually surpasses Jack Nicklaus’s 18 majors record.

Playing Tiger’s legacy is time consuming, but overall is a fun and entertaining experience. We suggest you start and finish it! (Extra-marital affairs not included. DLC possibilities remain unannounced).

As you progress through the game you have the opportunity to tune your clubs, out fit your character with new gear and equipment, gain experience (XP) and earn sponsorship’s. All this in an attempt to become the world’s #1 (video) golfer! If you’re into just popping in the disc and picking up where you left off in last year’s game, you’ll find that’s not as simple as in previous years. With the new total swing system and an altered putting system… for most gamers it will take hours upon hours to bring your character to full stats. For some this is great and entertaining, for others who are looking to post 10 under par on their first round, well, good luck!

The Key Features:

22 Licensed Professional Golfers –  Fans can take to the course with any one of 22 PGA TOUR golfers in Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13, including Tiger Woods, 2011 US Open Champion Rory McIlroy, 2010 PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year Rickie Fowler and Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13 US cover art finalist Bubba Watson.

Kinect for Xbox 360 Integration –Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13 will be the first-ever  Kinect for Xbox 360 sports simulation title, tracking full body movements to create the most advanced and authentic swing to date on the virtual golf course. Controller-free and voice-enabled controls provides for a unique, never-before-seen sports gaming experience.

Total Swing Control – Taking its most significant leap forward in swing mechanics in over a decade, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13 revolutionizes the virtual golf swing. Golfers will take full control over their swing with all-new tempo, swing plane and shot power controls along with an adjustable shot setup, allowing players to address the ball in a number of ways to create limitless shot types with just one club.

PlayStation Move Integration – Improve your game with the true-to-life golf swing created for the PlayStation Move. Fans will once again be able to experience the authentic golf swing created by the PlayStation Move, allowing golfers to emulate their swing style as they drive the ball down the fairway or sink a 30-foot putt.

Experience Tiger’s Golf Legacy – Relive first-hand Tiger Woods’ most memorable golf accomplishments as he rises from a child prodigy to golfing legend.

Online Country Clubs –In Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13, gamers will be able to invite friends to join their own exclusive country club and team up to gain quicker access to downloadable golf courses or compete against other club members for the coveted Club Championship.

The Review:

Characters: (9 out of 10) With more than 20 PGA & LPGA Tour pros to choose from, EA has done well to sign on the likes of Rory McIlroy, Natalie Gulbis, Rickie Fowler and Bubba Watson. Yet we’d still like to see “lefty” Phil Mickelson and a few more international players on the roster. New golfers for 2013 include: Ben Crane, Ross Fisher, Dustin Johnson, Hunter Mahan, and Graeme “G-Mac” McDowell.

Voice Acting: (10 out of 10) Jim Nantz and David Feherty… Need we say more?

Graphics: (9.5 out of 10) This is EA’s most realistic golf simulation to-date. It’s the best we’ve seen and completely immersed us.

Online: (9 out of 10) The EA servers offer - connection and uninterrupted game play. With a variety of game play options it’s easy to get lost online for hours with friends.

Golf Courses: (10 out of 10) You will not find another collection of golf courses like this on any other game. There’s more than 30 courses to choose from and 11 fully licensed tournaments to play in. We were truly impressed with this year’s line-up.

Replay Value: (9 out of 10) If you’re at all like us, you’ll be coming back time after time. Initially it’s to win your first tournament, or move along in Tiger’s legacy, but as you complete the game and win some majors, playing online is where it’s really at! Challenging friends and foes to increase your online ranking is an absolute blast.

Pros:

• Overall the game is more challenging and fun to play than in previous years.
• No annoying caddie like last year.
• Exceptional graphics!
• Quick load times.

Cons:

• Menus are sometimes difficult to navigate.
• Can be somewhat glitchy online at times.

The Bottom Line: We highly recommend Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13 to anyone who’s already a fan of the franchise and to those who’ve never played. It’s a great gaming experience from start to finish. And oddly enough it’s the one game we’ve played that has actually inspired us to get off our butts, pick up some clubs and head out to the local driving range ourselves. For more info on Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 13 take a trip over to EA’s  website or check out a behind the scenes look at the game with Tiger Woods himself in the embedded video below.

Buy: $59.99 (Regular) | $69.99 (Masters Collection) or go to: EA.com/Tiger-Woods

The Cactus Hummer Goes Down With A Silky Squirt [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

“Drinks of the Week” has become an institution here at COED over the past year and a half and we plan to keep the tradition running strong. If you have suggestions on brands you’d like to see us test, review, and feature don’t hesitate to drop us a line in the comments section at the bottom of this post. Now on to the good stuff… this week we’re reviewing Kansas Clean Distilled Whiskey, Bacardi Limón, and el Jimador Tequila Blanco. Check out our full reviews and truly intoxicating drink recipes below. Cheers!

Kansas Clean Distilled Whiskey

Launched in September of 2011 exclusively in Kansas and Missouri, Kansas Clean Distilled Whiskey isn’t your granddad’s whiskey! The distillation process begins with winter wheat – a softer alternative to the corn, which is used in most American whiskeys. And unlike many whiskies, Kansas is column distilled rather than pot distilled. Before bottling the clear vodka-like distillate is married to premium aged whiskey to create the final product.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Vanilla and sweet hints of bourbon
Taste: A (Awesome)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $29.99 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Kansas Clean Distilled Whiskey an A- (Highly Recommended). This whiskey is puzzling and simply delicious! It’s distilled in the same fashion as some of the world’s finest vodkas and the results have created a very light, smooth and perfectly mixable light whiskey! We recommend Kansas to novices and whiskey fanatics alike. Kansas is a spirit unlike any other we’ve tested and you should absolutely try it.

MIX IT UP WITH: “Silky Squirt”

Ingredients: 1.5 oz. Kansas Clean Distilled Whiskey, 1.5 oz. Chambord, 1.5 oz. Fresh lemon juice.

Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass and ENJOY!

Bacardi Limón

Developed through the experience and tradition of Bacardi rum, Limón is a citrus flavored white spirit produced by our good friends over at the Bacardi distillery. It’s intense citrus flavor is produced from the combination of essential oils from lemons, limes and grapefruits. Limón is aged with Bacardi Rum for a total of 1 year.

A while back we were given the opportunity to test, review, and feature several of Bacardi’s fine flavored rums. When asked which flavors we’d like start with, Limón topped our list. And now, finally, we’re happy to share our thoughts the world!

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: 1 year
Flavors: Lemon and citrus all the way!
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B- (Okay)
Price: $14.99 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Bacardi Limón a B+ (Highly Recommended). This is an excellent warm weather rum that is ideal for mixing in a variety of ways. It’s flavor is bold, yet finishes somewhat smooth. Bacardi Limón is quite versatile and was enjoyed by our crew both mixed and as a shooter.

MIX IT UP WITH: “Summer Hummer”

Ingredients:  1 oz. Bacardi Limón, 3 oz. 7-Up, 3 oz. Sour Mix, 1 oz. Lemon Juice.

Directions:  Shake with ice, strain into a collins glass and enjoy.

El Jimador Tequila Blanco

Touted as the No.1 selling tequila in all of Mexico, el Jimado Blanco is said to be as natural as tequila can get. Blanco which means “white” in Spanish, is a remarkably crystal clear tequila that is bottled immediately after distillation. El Jimador’s distiller tells us that it’s unique taste comes straight from the 100% blue agave it’s made from. They say it’s a crisp, authentic tequila with subtle cooked agave taste and hints of citrusy sweetness and makes for an exceptional choice for great tequila cocktails.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Agave, citrus, peppery-like spices
Taste: B (Good)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: B (Good)
Price: $19 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give el Jimador Tequila Blanco a B (Recommended). This affordable blanco is surprisingly smooth, yet often departs with a less than desirable aftertaste. A bit oily in-fact. Beyond that, it’s an exceptional tequila for mixing!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Cactus Kicker”

Ingredients: 1.5 oz el Jimador Blanco, 1/2 oz Midori, 2 oz Pineapple juice1 oz Sour mix, Splash of Sprite.

Directions: In a shaker filled with ice, add all ingredients and roll to mix. Pour into rocks glass. Garnish with twist of orange peel.

Next week: Mezcal Unión | LIV Vodka | Concannon Irish Whiskey

Have suggestions on brands you’d like to see us test, review, and feature on “Drinks of the week”? Don’t hesitate to drop us a line in the comments section below!

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

Bombastic Fire Crushes the Orange Ice [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

We’re not telling you how or when to drink, we’re just letting you know the right liquore choices to make! In this week’s installment of “Drinks of the Week” we are getting up close and personal with three distinct spirits, including: Toro de Lidia Blanco Tequila, Jägermeister, and Ultimat Vodka. If two’s company and three’s a crowd, then this is party waiting to get started.

Jägermeister

Develeped in Germany in 1934, Jägermeister, which actually translates to “master hunter,” is now the #1 selling imported liqueur in the United States and one of the top shot brands in the world. The liqueur is based on a secret recipe, combining 56 different natural ingredients, including select herbs, blossoms, roots and fruits.

Rumor: Elk blood is used in the production of Jägermeister.

Fact: Vegetarians rejoice! Jägermeister has never contained elk blood.

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Herbs, black licorice, almost medicinal
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B- (Okay)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $19 – $25 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Jägermeister a B+ (Highly Recommended). Its distinct flavor is oddly delicious and somewhat puzzling. First timers take notice – Jägermeister is like nothing you’ve ever tried before! And even though its proof is just 70 (10% lower than most whiskys and rums), it somehow manages to pack one hell of a punch! Tip: always keep Jägermeister on chill, in the freezer preferably!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Bombasstic”

Ingredients: 1 part Jägermeister, 2 parts orange juice, 2 parts cherry juice

Directions: Combine all ingredients into a ice-filled glass and drink!

Toro de Lidia Blanco Tequila

Created for the “Fiesta Brava,” the centuries-old Spanish bullfighting feast, To De Lidia Blanco is produced with 100% of the finest selection of blue agave, well trimmed of its pencas (leaves) to avoid bitterness, and utilizes spring water throughout the fermentation process. Toro de Lidia is oxygenated, chilled to 4° C then filtered through activated carbon filters before bottling.

Accolades: Named the ”Best of the Best” Lowland Blanco Tequila at the 2011 TEQUILA.net Awards.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Agave, Citrus, Orange peel, slight peppery spiciness
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B (Good)
Price: $18 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Toro de Lidia Blanco a B+ (Highly Recommended). This relatively unknown tequila has truly surprised us! It has a fresh, clean agave profile that delivers minimal “bite” and leaves a subtle aftertaste. Grab the bull by the horns and give it a try!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Fire & Ice”

Ingredients:  4 oz Toro de Lidia Blanco Tequila, 1/2 fresh jalapeno, 1.5 oz lime juice or margarita mix, 4 oz orange liqueur, and ice.

Directions:  Muddle jalapeno and then combine lime juice (or margarita mix), tequila and orange liqueur. Shake and strain over ice.

Ultimat Vodka

From the minds that brought you Patrón Tequila, Ultimat Vodka is created through a distillation of wheat, rye and potato. And is produced where else but in Poland. It’s the birthplace of vodka! The process for creating Ultimat begins with milling the grains then steam cooking them to produce a mash for fermentation. Once fermented, the mash is distilled in a column still, then passed through a copper filtration system four times before the alcohol content is reduced to its final level of 80 proof using purified water.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $38 – $42 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Ultimat Vodka an A- (Highly Recommended). The combination of rye, wheat, and potatoes used to distill this vodka is something we’ve never seen before and has produced some excellent results! Ultimat is very smooth and has and overall richness typically not associated with vodka. It’s versitile and classy, a truly exquisite vodka!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Orange Crush”

Ingredients: 1.5 ounces Ultimat Vodka, 1.5 ounces Patrón Citrónge orange liqueur, Fresh orange juice, Fresh lime juice.

Directions: Combine ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Shake well. Strain into glass with ice. Garnish with orange wedge.

Next week: Bacardi Limón | Kansas Whiskey | El Jimador Blanco Tequila

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

The Waterloo Martini Is a Naked, Salty Dog [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

Today marks the 67th consecutive installment of COED’s “Drinks of the Week,” which is a major milestone because today also marks the 200th bottle of booze we’ve reviewed! That’s right, in just over one year we’ve reviewed 200 individual liquor brands, concocted 200 insanely delicious mixed drinks, and by all accounts knocked countless years off of our livers… This week we’re taking a close look at bottle #199 – Waterloo Texas Style Gin, #200 – Platinum 7X Vodka, and #201 – Naked Jay Whip Cream Vodka. Here we go!

Waterloo Texas Style Gin

Produced as a “distilled gin” as opposed to a compound gin, Waterloo is distilled by placing various botanicals into the column of a still while the wash is boiled. The vaporized distillate then passes through the botanicals and absorbs the flavor. A compound gin is made simply by steeping botanicals into neutral grain spirit. According to Waterloo’s master distiller, “The goal with Waterloo Gin was to stay true to the traditional London Dry Gin style while still making the gin’s Texas roots evident. Waterloo Gin is a true Texas Native.”

Proof: 94 (47% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: juniper, citrus, ginger, and dried fruits
Taste: B (Good)
Mix-ability: B- (Okay)
Buzz Factor: A (Awesome)
Price: $19.00 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Waterloo Gin a B (Recommended). Woooooo doggy, this is one powerful gin! Weighing in a whopping 94 proof, we wouldn’t recommend this gin for sipping because it packs a bite. It has a distinct flavor profile that is somewhat similar to London Dry Gins, but certainly has its own Texas twist. When mixed this gin truly alive. We recommend Waterloo for traditional mixed drinks with a KICK!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Waterloo Martini”

Ingredients: 2 oz Waterloo Gin, 1 dash dry vermouth, 2 bar-spoons of olive brine, lemon zest, and green olives.

Directions: Add the Waterloo, dry vermouth and olive brine to a shaker or pint glass filled with ice. Stir (don’t shake). Strain into a chilled martini glass with a lemon-zested edge. Garnish with an olive.

Platinum 7X Vodka

Distilled seven times from American corn, Platinum 7X Vodka’s first four distillations are carried out in column stills with the remaining three distillations being made in a special pot still at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Limestone water is added to bring the vodka to bottling proof. The resulting product is said to be remarkable in its clean, refreshing, smooth taste. We’ll see about that…

Accolades: Awarded the Gold Medal in the Vodka category at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2011. Ultimate Spirits Championship rated “Highly Recommended” and
Named a “Best Buy” and rated “Highly Recommended” from The Beverage Tasting Institute.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Neutral
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $12.99 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Platinum 7X Vodka a B+ (Highly Recommended). This vodka delivers great bang for your buck. At just $13 a bottle, you’d be hard pressed to find another vodka which takes the time to distill and re-distill seven freakin’ times before being bottled. From appearances this is just another cheap vodka in a plastic bottle, but we’re here to tell you that it’s more than just affordable. 7X has a clean and crisp flavor that is excellent for mixing!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Salty Dog”

Ingredients:  1 ½ oz. Platinum 7X vodka, 5 oz. grapefruit juice, ¼ tsp salt

Directions:  Pour ingredients into a highball glass over ice cubes, stir well, and serve.

Naked Jay Whipped Cream Vodka

Just recently Naked Jay Vodka unleashed a new line-up of premium and uniquely flavored vodkas, lucky for us we have friends and high places and were able to test, taste, and review each of them! Like anyone in their right mind we started with dessert – Naked Jay Whip Cream, an 80 proof American vodka distilled four times.

Naked Jay’s Motto: ”Meet the vodka that’s not afraid to bare it all.”

Proof: 60 (30% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Whip Cream!
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: C (Average)
Price: $14.99 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Naked Jay Whip Cream Vodka a creamy B+ (Highly Recommended). While they weren’t the first to think of it and they’re certainly not the last, this Whip Cream Vodka maybe some of the best we’ve yet to taste. It’s the perfect party drink because you can do almost anything with it… Shoot it, mix it, cook with it, and even freeze it! The texture of the vodka is a bit oily and shockingly sugary, but in the end the flavor is all that matters. Naked Jay hit this one out of the park!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Screaming J”

Ingredients: 1.25 oz. Naked Jay Whip Cream Vodka, 1 oz. Irish Cream, 3 oz. Chocolate Milk.

Directions: Combine in a highball glass and stir. Garnish with cocoa powder.

Next week: Jägermeister | Toro de Lidia Blanco Tequila | CREAM – Alcohol Infused Whipped Cream 

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

The Cosmic Cowboy’s Silver Dog is a Son of a Beach [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

We’ve all put our noses’ to the grindstone for the past five days in an attempt to make the weekend come around just a little bit quicker and now it’s finally time to let loose with a new installment of COED’s “Drinks of the Week.” This week, thanks to our good friends over at Treaty Oak Platinum Rum, 1800 Tequila, and CAYRUM we have three exciting liquor brands to review and three deliciously intoxicating mixed drink recipes to school you on!

1800 Silver Tequila

1800 Tequila is the United States’ best selling super-premium tequila and was named (of course) after the year it was created. 1800 Silver Tequila is produced from pure 100% blue agave tequila grown on family-owned ranches and bottled in Jalisco, Mexico. Each bottle of 1800 Tequila is double-distilled and matured in French and American oak barrels.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Agave, pepper, citrus, and a hint of vanilla
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $30.00 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give 1800 Silver Tequila an A- (Highly Recommended). It’s consistently smooth, and down right tasty! 1800 Sliver Tequila overnight has become one of our favorite tequilas we’ve tested to-date. It’s what you want in a tequila. It has a fresh and crisp aroma, tastes buttery smooth, and best of all… the freakin’ cap is actually a shot glass! TIP: the cap is somewhat of hard to remove. Make sure to read the directions on the back of the bottle before attempting to use the bottle cap as a shot glass. It will save tequila from spilling and you from making an @ss out of yourself, trust us!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Silver Dog”

Ingredients: 1.5 oz 1800 Silver Tequila, 3 oz grapefruit juice, garnish with lime wedge.

Directions: In a tall mixing glass combine all ingredients. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain over fresh ice into a rocks glass and garnish with a lime wedge.

CAYRUM

CAYRUM is a specially blended golden rum produced with the use of natural honey and fresh ginger root. It’s a dark rum that is aged three years in Kentucky oak bourbon barrels. Handmade in the Dominican Republic, the recipe for CAYRUM is one that was born out of a family home in the small beach town of Cabarete.

Accolades: WSWA Gold Medal Winner, WSWA Best of Show Winner and Sip Awards Gold Medal Winner.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: 3 years
Flavors: Honey, vanilla, and ginger
Taste: B (Good)
Mix-ability: B (Good)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $25 – $30 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give CAYRUM a B (Recommended). This rum is absolutely one of a kind! It’s super sweet (almost too sweet) and quite smooth. When mixed properly you can rarely taste any harsh alcohol tones. Initially the honey jumps out aggressively, but the more you taste it, the more the sweet honey flavor grows on you and before you know it you’re on your second, third, and forth drinks! If you’re into making sweetly flavored mixed drinks or just like a good sipping rum CAYRUM is worth looking into!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Son of a Beach”

Ingredients:  2 oz. CAYRUM, 3 lemon wedges, ginger ale, 2 Maraschino Cherries

Directions:  Muddle lemon wedges and cherries in a tall glass, add ice, Cayrum and shake. Once shaken fill the glass with Ginger ale and garnish with a cherries.

Treaty Oak Platinum Rum

Handcrafted with real molasses sourced from the last operating sugar mill in the great state of Texas, Treaty Oak Platinum Rum is blended with filtered Hill Country water, and then double filtered through activated carbon. The result is a “Made in the USA” rum that the distiller says was designed to compete with other top rums and vodkas alike.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Citrus, vanilla and nutmeg
Taste: B- (Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B- (Good)
Price: $30.00 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Treaty Oak a B (Recommended) This is sophisticated American rum that is unexpectedly flavorful and somewhat harsh initially, but serves well as a base for several mixed drink recipes. It’s not like Captain Morgan and it’s not Bacardi, it’s handcrafted and more refined. Casual rum drinkers would do best to sample this rum at a bar. If you fancy yourself a rum expert of sorts, you’d do well to find Treaty Oak at your local liquor store.

MIX IT UP WITH: “Cosmic Cowboy”

Ingredients: 1 oz. Treaty Oak, 1 oz. Cointreau, 1½ oz. Cranberry juice, ½ oz. Fresh lime juice.

Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

Next week: Waterloo Gin | Platinum 7X Vodka | Naked Jay Whipped Cream Vodka

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

The Rainier Russian Made Sofia Swizzle with Crannessy [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

Reposado Tequila, Cognac, and Cherry Vodka, sounds like one hell of a good time, right? Well, I’m here to tell you it was! Earlier this week we had the distinct privelage of testing, tasting and reviewing three top notch spirits including: Partida Reposado Tequila, Hennessy Black Cognac, and 44° North Rainier Cherry Vodka. Sadly the bottles are empty, but on a good note we’re here to share our expert opinions with you on these three unique brands.

Hennessy Black

Hennessy Black is a versatile blend of 35 to 45 unique, pale and gold-colored eaux-de-vie (grapes) selected for their unique floral characteristics, which are aged in French oak barrels for at least five years. Packaged in a sleek, bold, black bottle, Hennessy Black’s gentler wood influence results in a totally different experience from traditional Hennessy cognac.

We’ve tried the original and loved it. So when we found out about Hennessy Black we jumped at the opportunity to review it!

Proof: 86 (43% ABV)
Age: 5 years – blended
Flavors: Citrus, honey, and fresh grapes.
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $40 – $45 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Hennessy Black an A- (Highly Recommended). This isn’t your granddad’s cognac, its proof is 6% higher, it looks like a stealth bomber wrapped in a bottle, and was designed specifically for mixing, which is exactly what it does best! Hennessy Black is soft and easy to drink, we suggest this cognac to anyone who’s looking to add some class to their drinking portfolio and can afford to drop a couple twenties on it.

MIX IT UP WITH: “Crannessy”

Ingredients: 2 parts Hennessy Black, 3.5 parts cranberry juice, 2.5 parts apple juice, a dash of lemon juice.

Directions: Fill a shaker with ice, add all ingredients. Shake and strain into a highball glass over ice. Garnish with a blackberry and a raspberry.

Partida Reposado Tequila

Partida Reposado Tequila is the product of a marriage between traditional tequila making and cutting edge technology. Something we’ve noticed is happening more and more these days. Partida uses only 100% agave which is cultivated for 7-10 years until the piñas are perfectly ripened with concentrated sugars, harvested by hand and then slowly baked in state-of-the-art stainless steel autoclaves.  The resulting distillation is aged for 6 months, bottled and shipped to the masses.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: 6 months
Flavors: Agave, citrus, and pepper.
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B+ (Very Good)
Price: $50 – $60 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give Partida Reposado Tequila a B+ (Highly Recommended). This is a rich, full bodied tequila that has an absolutely bold agave flavor. It’s excellent when mixed and is also quite drinkable as a shooter. No training wheels required, but you might experience a warm lingering bite. The bottle is a show piece and the contents within are something special. If you fancy yourself a tequila connoisseur, you’ll certainly want to give Partida Reposado a whirl sometime soon!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Sofia’s Swizzle”

Ingredients:  1.75 oz. Partida Reposado Tequila, 1.25 oz. apple juice, 0.25 oz fresh squeezed lime juice, 0.25 oz. velvet falernum, dash of Angostura bitters, and ginger beer.

Directions:  Shake the first five ingredients in a shaker with ice. Stain over fresh ice into a highball glass. Top off the cocktail with chilled ginger beer. Garnish with apple slices.

44º North Rainier Cherry Vodka

44° North Rainier Cherry vodka features a rare and delicate cherry that is combined with 100% Idaho Potato Vodka.  44° North Rainier Cherry Vodka is distilled from Idaho Potatoes, blended with Rocky Mountain Water from the Snake River Aquifer, then infused with a proprietary blend of all natural cherries.

The sweet cherry flavor of 44° North Rainier Cherry Flavored Vodka is all natural and represents the result of an experienced farmer coaxing the best flavor, size, and color from a harvest. These cherries are harvested mainly in June and July, which limits the enjoyment of this fruit to the summer months.

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: Unaged
Flavors: Cherry
Taste: A- (Excellent)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: B (Good)
Price: $30.00 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give 44º North Rainier Cherry a B+ (Highly Recommended) This cherry vodka is intoxicatingly sweet and moderately smooth. The initial cherry aroma is subdued, but the flavor held within is a punch to your taste buds, and in a good way! We loved this vodka and would suggest it for mixing a wide variety of mixed drinks.

MIX IT UP WITH: “Rainier Russian”

Ingredients: 2 oz. 44º North Rainier Cherry Vodka, 2 oz. Bailey’s Irish Cream Liqueur

Directions: Combine vodka and liqueur. Serve over ice.

Next week: 1800 Tequila Silver | Dr. McGillicuddy’s Vanilla Schnapps | Treaty Oak Rum

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder

Smash Body Art at Sunset [DRINKS OF THE WEEK]

The art of drinking is not learned overnight, it is learned over many nights! Knowing what to drink and what not to drink is a skill typically obtained by trial and error. In an attempt to lighten the load on your wallet and your taste buds COED is bringing you yet another installment of “Drinks of the Week”  This week we’re featuring: TAUCA Liqueur, Tequila Avión Añejo, and Cockspur 12 Bajan-crafted rum. Without further adieu, here we go…

Tequila Avión Añejo

Best known as the fictional tequila brand owned by Turtle on HBO’s Entourage, Tequila Avión believe it or not, is actually real! And from what we already know about its blanco (sliver) version, it’s also quite good! This time around we’re looking at Avión’s Añejo expression. Which draws its distinct flavors through a combination of slow-roasting at lower temperatures to protect the natural flavors of the agave and an ultra-slow filtration process which is said to create an unusually smooth taste profile.

Proof: 80 (3240% ABV)
Age: 2 years
Flavors: Agave, citrus, and vanilla
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: A- (Excellent)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $50 – $60 USD (750ml) - Currently sold in 48 US states!

Overall: We give Tequila Avión Añejo an A- (Highly Recommended). Do yourself a favor and put down the Jose for a minute… Avión Añejo is in the building and it’s fantastic! The 2 years of aging that Avión put into this tequila shows itself in its smooth character and mellow aftertaste. This tequila is excellent for sipping and even holds up well in the mixed drinks arena. If you’re a tequila junkie and haven’t tired this stuff, you’re missing out!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Papaya Smash”

Ingredients: Slice of Fresh Papaya, ¼ oz. Agave Nectar1, ¼ oz. Avión Añejo, ½ oz. Aperol, ½ oz. Orange Juice, ¾ oz. Fresh Lime Juice.

Directions: Add a slice of fresh papaya and agave nectar to your mixing glass. The amount of nectar you add depends on how sweet you like your cocktails, but usually about a teaspoon will do the trick. Muddle to release the papaya flavor. Add 1¼ ounces of Avión Añejo, ½ ounce each of Aperol and orange juice. Then, top them off with ¾ ounce fresh lime juice.Add ice and give it a good shake. Strain over ice, and garnish with a fresh slice of papaya.

TUACA Liqueur

TUACA is 100% natural, based on a 500-year-old recipe originating in the hills of Tuscany. The process begins according to tradition with the selection of the finest Italian brandy, ranging from 3 to 10 years old. It’s sourced from Faenza, a small city near Bologna, known for producing brandy with a pleasing aroma, amber color and an exceptionally smooth finish. The final presentation is created as the master blender folds the Italian brandy into a blend of natural sugar and fine spirits before adding the crowning touch of soft citrus and vanilla essences.

Recently TUACA teamed up with renowned tattoo artist Corey Miller for a bottle redesign. The new bottle features Cory’s etching of the TUACA lion which actually turns blue when the bottle is chilled.

Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
Age: N/A
Flavors: Vanilla, cinnamon, and citrus
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B+ (Very Good)
Buzz Factor: C (Average)
Price: $20 – $26 USD (750ml)

Overall: We give TUACA a B (Recommended). This is an intriguing liqueur that begs to be mixed! Beyond its distinct vanilla and citrus flavor profile, it’s actually quite smooth coming in at only 70 proof and is best enjoyed in our opinion when chilled. Tip: Keep it stored in the freezer, there’s no better way to enjoy TUACA!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Body Art”

Ingredients:  1.5 oz TUACA, 1.5 oz Lillet Blonde, 1/2 oz Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur, 2 strawberries.

Directions:  Pour Chambord into a martini glass and blend remaining ingredients with ice. Pour into martini glass and add a dash of Chambord to top. Garnish with an additional strawberry.

Cockspur 12 Bajan-crafted rum

Produced from the oldest rums kept on reserve at the distillery, Cockspur 12 Bajan-crafted rum is distilled from island cane molasses and Barbados’ own coral-filtered water. Utilizing both column still and pot still distillation methods, Cockspur 12 is then aged in American oak bourbon barrels. This combination of aging and blending defines the smooth character for which Cockspur is renowned for.

Barbados is generally considered the birthplace of rum, so it’s no surprise that Cockspur Rum was founded there in 1884.

Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
Age: 12 years
Flavors: Molasses, caramel, and cinnamon
Taste: B+ (Very Good)
Mix-ability: B (Good)
Buzz Factor: A- (Excellent)
Price: $30 – $37 USD (750ml) 

Overall: We give Cockspur 12 Bajan-crafted rum a B+ (Highly Recommended) Ladies don’t be mistaken, this is a manly rum. When served in a tumbler over ice, Cockspur 12 is pure class in a glass. Its sweet overtones and subtle complexities make it ideal for sipping, yet given the correct recipe Cockspur 12 also mixes fine too. If you’re looking to step up your rum game, this bottle will do it!

MIX IT UP WITH: “Island Sunset”

Ingredients: 1 oz. Cockspur 12, 1 oz. Cockspur White rum, 1 tbsp. Passion fruit syrup, 2 tsp. lime juice, Dash grenadine

Directions: Shake and pour over ice in a chilled large glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Next week: 44 North Rainier Cherry Vodka | Tequila Partida Reposado | Hennessy Black

Josh is COED Magazine’s resident testing and review specialist, with a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports related. When he’s not contributing for COED his latest work can be found over at BeSportier.com. To have your products tested, reviewed, and featured on COED shoot Josh a quick Email. You can also follow Josh on Twitter - @JoshHerder