The San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Draft Lottery on May 16 and, in doing so, won the offseason among teams that missed the postseason a year ago. Ever since then, they have been focused on Victor Wembanyama and crafting a short- and long-term plan for the organization focused on maximizing his development and building the best possible team around him.
However, they can’t know exactly what that ideal roster looks like until Wembanyama’s played NBA games and figured out where exactly he’s going to be best deployed on an NBA court. We saw in Summer League that, to start, he’s going to be playing more like a big wing, and the only rumblings about major additions to the team this summer was trying to add a center next to him, giving a clear indication that will be a priority at some point. In the meantime, the Spurs are remaining patient and will use this season as a chance to evaluate all of their young players to see how they fit in alongside Wembanyama — both in who can thrive next to him and who might be a redundancy in the rotation. For now, that requires patience, and they’ve shown plenty of that this summer.
Here we’ll grade out their summer of offseason moves from the Draft, free agency and contract extensions, and on the trade market.
Draft: A+
This was really the only section that mattered for the Spurs this summer, as they won the lottery and got to draft Victor Wembanyama. That has set them up for the chance to build around a generational prospect, and while there will be challenges in the years ahead, this summer is a rousing success simply because of the way the ping pong balls bounced in Chicago in May. Wembanyama still has plenty to work on and develop in his game, but he is as unique a talent as we’ve seen enter the league in a very long time. The Spurs will have to determine what is the best way to build a roster around him to maximize that talent by figuring out where he should be playing, what complementary skills teammates need to bring, and how they can add secondary stars. However, those are all easier tasks than bringing in a true franchise cornerstone, and it appears they have gotten that in Wembanyama, as our Brad Rowland wrote on Draft night.
The Spurs had a bit of good fortune in the lottery to even have the chance to draft Victor Wembanyama, so this isn’t exactly the product of incredible scouting work, but he’s the best prospect in the draft by a wide margin and one of the best prospects to enter the league in the in decades. Of course, that doesn’t ensure anything once he arrives, but the tools are virtually unprecedented and San Antonio has a franchise centerpiece.
Free Agency/Contract Extensions: B-
San Antonio could’ve gotten in the mix for some restricted free agents this summer and tried to pry, say, Austin Reaves out of L.A. with a big offer sheet, but like most of the teams that came into this offseason with lots of cap space, they preferred to eat that up on the trade market. We’ll get to those moves later, but in terms of actual signings made, they chose to simply bring back players from last year. Tre Jones is the most significant of those, landing a 2-year, $20 million to play point guard for the Spurs once again. The Spurs also re-signed Julian Champagnie to a 4-year, $12 million deal and Sandro Mamukelashvili to a 1-year minimum deal. It’s very clear the team wants to spend this upcoming season evaluating their roster around Wemby and then, next summer, they can begin making more significant moves with that information in mind. Right now they want to stay understandably patient, with a focus on having a contender built around Wembanyama once he’s ready to take the mantle as one of the league’s top stars.
Trades: B-
San Antonio was active on the trade market, happily joining trades as a third team or taking on a veteran in a salary dump. It’s possible they still could get in one of the pending blockbusters to further add future assets, but it seems clear they’re not looking to take on any long-term commitments. As such, this was a perfectly fine summer. Again, they have a plan in place and added some veterans in Cam Payne, Reggie Bullock, and Cedi Osman to the rotation that can be helpful to varying degrees. None of them are on long-term deals and won’t clog up space they might want to use to make a bigger splash in the future, but add some depth in the backcourt and on the wing, while also netting some more future second round picks and pick swaps for San Antonio to use in deals in the future.
This summer’s plan in San Antonio was decided when they landed the first pick. It’d be fascinating to know what they would’ve done had they slipped in the Draft and whether they would’ve had a more aggressive mindset like Houston did, but we’ll never know for sure and Spurs fans will be thrilled not to have to worry about that. Everything now revolves around Wembanyama and maximizing his enormous talents, and that means slow-playing it this year and simply evaluating everyone on the roster through the lens of what they can do alongside Victor.
Cardi B will not be charged in the mic-throwing incident that took place in Las Vegas last month, TMZ is reporting.
During a performance at Drai’s Beachclub last Saturday (July 29), a person in the audience had splashed a cup of ice and an unknown liquid at Cardi. Cardi then threw a mic at the audience member, however, the microphone reportedly ricocheted off of that person, then hit someone else — who later, fined a police report.
Cardi was later listed as a battery suspect, however, there hasn’t been much movement in the case. According to TMZ, the case was never even brought to the district attorney.
Earlier today (August 4), Cardi’s lawyers, Drew Findling, David Chesnoff and Richard Schonfeld, issued a statement to TMZ.
“This afternoon we were notified by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Dept., that as a result of their investigation, there will be NO charges against Cardi,” said the lawyers. “On behalf of Cardi, we appreciate the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Dept’s diligent and prompt resolution of this matter.”
Since last Saturday’s performance, the mic has been put up for auction on eBay, with proceeds benefitting Friendship Circle Las Vegas and Wounded Warrior.
Cardi B is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
If you log in to that Pinterest account you made years ago, a trip to Santorini probably has its own “bucket list” travel board. Dubbed one of the most romantic places in the world by Conde Nast Traveler, it’s no wonder Santorini is a highly coveted honeymoon destination. The panoramic views and bright blue waters in Santorini are endless, and if you’re hoping to start and end your days with those swoon-worthy romantic views straight from bed, the luxurious Andronis Concept Wellness Resort is the place to be.
Did you catch that? You don’t have to get out of bed for the views.
Harriet Wright
Over the course of my recent 16-day honeymoon that sprawled two countries and three islands, Andronis Concept Wellness Resort created a new standard of luxury travel for me and my husband. Set back on the hillside adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea, the rooms, intimacy throughout the resort, local cuisine, crafted cocktails, and staff were all five-star. If you’re looking for supreme luxury and a peaceful getaway, this is absolutely the place to be. If you crave people-watching, late nights, and sweaty dance parties, well… you’d better have a cab on speed dial.
WHY IT’S AWESOME:
Andronis Concept Wellness Resort is part of Auberge Resorts Collection, and has set the bar for extraordinary luxury across the globe for years. After catching glimpses of the bright blue ocean Santorini views, pulling up to property felt… a bit underwhelming. Although check-in was seamless, the staff was friendly, and the pool was picture-worthy and inviting, it wasn’t until we got to our room that my jaw dropped.
Harriet Wright
Each of the resort’s 28 luxurious suites comes with a private terrace and infinity pool that overlooks one of the most majestic backdrops I’ve ever seen. After seeing our room, it made complete sense why the hotel was positioned the way it was, saving the best for last. Sure, the main pool was plenty nice, but absolutely nothing compares to having your own private pool set on the cliffside overlooking the volcanic caldera.
Harriet Wright
The minimalist room décor only added to the sensorial and simplistic ambiance. Set between the room’s private infinity pool and the distant volcano was a well-traveled hiking path connecting the villages of Oia and Fire, making it a perfect escape each morning. Surrounded by serene views of the water and passing through other boutique properties was a far better wakeup than the strongest cup of coffee.
IN-HOUSE FOOD + DRINK:
Continuing with the sunset theme, every seat inside and outside Throubi Restaurant has a stunning view of the sunset. At the helm of the resort’s only restaurant is Executive Chef Charalampos Koukoudakis, whose specialty is creating high-end Santorinian gastronomy with a focus on well-balanced nutrition. He makes it look easy. Using only the freshest ingredients from the resort’s on-site garden, Koukoudakis collaborates with an expert nutritionist, adding to the overall wellness element of the resort.
If you’re there celebrating, likely amongst other honeymooners, be sure to check out their extensive wine list or their wine or cocktail pairing menu.
The resort’s drink menu was just as well thought out as the resort layout itself, including cocktails that made you bubble with excitement. Pool service featured cocktails like the Caldera Fizz (Prosecco, Aperol, Pink grapefruit soda) and the Salty Kiss (Brut Champagne, Blue cheese gin, Honey, Truffle bitter).
AMENITIES:
Air Conditioning
Bath Amenities
Bathrobes and Slippers
Bathroom with Shower
Cable-Satellite TV
Daily Maid Service
Direct dial telephone
Hairdryer
Living Room
Magnifying Mirror
Pool towels
Safe Deposit Box
Turn down service
Wake-up Call
Wi-Fi Internet Access
ROOM TYPES:
With only 28 rooms, you still have a wide range of choices from cozy suites, split-level living, and two, three, and four-bedroom villas. Each room boasts a lovely terrace and features private infinity pools of varying sizes overlooking the Aegean Sea.
The best thing to do within a 15-minute walk is to actually walk. The idyllic resort borders along one of the town’s most famous hiking paths, which is an easy and stunning walk through Oia. The trail stretches 6.5 miles, but you’ll want to stop so many times to take in the views (and pictures) that you probably won’t get far.
The trail itself is easy to moderate alternating between concrete, cobblestone, rocks, and dirt along with some stairs in various places, and gives you a peek inside neighboring boutique hotels and villas.
THE BEST THING TO EAT/DRINK WITHIN A $20 CAB RIDE:
Andronis Concept Wellness Resort is located on the outskirts of Imerovigli, which is a quick ride from one of town’s best restaurants, Argo. Argo has great vibes and of course, great views — a must in Santorini. If you’re a meat lover, you’ll love their kebabs or lamb shank, and they have a great wine selection.
The resort offers a complimentary shuttle into Thera, so save your $20 for an Aperol Spritz with a view. You’ll be doing that a lot.
BED GAME:
Expect nothing less than luxury when staying at an Auberge Resort, and Andronis Concept Wellness Resort lived up to the hype. The bed was well-appointed but it was the view that made it difficult to wake up and get out of bed.
For the views alone, I would give it a 10. Alas, this is a family-friendly resort, so with kids around, I am mandated to take a point off.
Rating 9/10
THE VIEWS & PICS SPOT:
Jayme Lamm
The resort won a 2022 Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Award as one of the best resorts in the world, and there’s no doubt the view from your suite is what garnered that award. I have traveled the world for many years, and I’ve never seen a hotel room with a better view. You don’t even need to leave your private terrace to get one of the most epic vacation photos you’ve ever taken.
Stepping off the property a few steps to the neighboring hike also provides some of the best panoramic views.
BEST SEASON TO VISIT:
Jayme Lamm
June – September is when most people say is the best time to visit Santorini, but I’d say May. Going a month before the season officially kicks off gives you less crowded areas and better hotel prices.
IF I HAD TO COMPLAIN ABOUT ONE THING:
We should all know by now that influencers always make everything look glamorous. We tried the Instagram-famous floating breakfast trend, and not only did our poor server actually fall in our pool with our entire breakfast, but once it was recooked and redelivered, I realized that I am almost the same height as the pool itself. It didn’t leave any room for me to stand in the pool looking all chic and fun to eat my crispy bacon and drink my mimosa.
So maybe save your money on the floating breakfast and simply enjoy the views from the lounge chairs on your terrace.
Fort Hamilton/Brooklyn/Tod & Vixen/St. Augustine/istock/Uproxx
It’s early August and there’s a lot more summer left to enjoy. Nobody should tell you otherwise. Summer isn’t over until the end of September so don’t let anyone cram any pumpkin spiced nonsense or other fall flavors down your throat just yet. There are still almost two whole months to revel in the fresh flavors of summer. Specifically botanical, herbal, and flavorful gins.
While we eagerly await the arrival of darker spirits and Oktoberfest beer season in the end of August and early September, we’re in no hurry to get there just yet. We’re going to enjoy fresh, floral, citrus-filled gin & tonics, gin gimlets, negronis, and a slew of other exciting cocktails.
To find the best gins to sip and mix with, we turned to our friendly neighborhood bar pros for help. We asked some well-known bartenders, beverage directors, and bar experts to tell us the freshest gins to finish summer on a strong note and they didn’t disappoint with their answers. Keep reading to see all of their botanical, herbal, juniper, and citrus-centric selections.
Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin from Germany’s Black Forest is not to be missed. With 47 botanicals, it has a complex palate that has a bold juniper flavor that isn’t in your face.
Tasting Notes:
The citrus notes found in it make for a wonderfully crisp and refreshing summer cocktail.
Greenhook GinSmiths American Dry Gin
Greenhook GinSmiths
Dana Lachenmayer, head Bartender at The Wesley in New York City
Greenhook GinSmiths American Dry Gin, which is made locally in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, is my go-to gin for the summer. It’s fresh, floral, and loaded with ripe citrus flavors.
Tasting Notes:
It is citrus and chamomile driven, so I love it in an uplifting martini variation or a spritz. It definitely adds a freshness to any summery cocktail.
St. George Terroir Gin
St. George
Alex Dominguez, head bartender at Bar Calico in New York City
St. George Terroir Gin is a foresty, cool, herb forward that makes you think you’re out on a hike in the mountains. A simple southside cocktail or mixed with soda/ tonic is enough to cool you down on any hot day.
Tasting Notes:
Juniper, sage, coriander, and other aromas and flavors of the forest make for a great, summery gin to mix with.
Nikka Coffey Gin
Nikka
Mario Flores, beverage director at Maple & Ash in Chicago
Nikka Coffey Gin is my go-to gin for the summer months. It’s packed with wonderful citrus notes, especially yuzu which is the main citrus they use in the distilling process.
Tasting Notes:
I think the combination of citrus and herbal notes makes it perfect to use in the summer months.
Sipsmith Strawberry Smash Gin
Sipsmith
Shiva Thapa, head bartender at Miller & Lux in San Francisco
Sipsmith Strawberry Smash is my go-to flavored gin. A fruit-forward spirit, it is pot-stilled, vapor-infused, and uses a handful of other tasty botanicals.
Tasting Notes:
Expect juicy flavors of strawberry, citrus, juniper, and mint leading to a smooth, long-lasting finish. It is a great gin for summer cocktails.
Spring 44 Gin
Spring 44 Gin
Phillip Miley, beverage curator and general manager at 1308 in Chicago
We use Spring 44 gin at 1308. It is a very clean gin, which makes it great for cocktails. We use it in two of our cocktails, Obannion’s Flower Shop (our twist on a French 75) and the Strawberry Basil Negroni (our twist on a White Negroni).
Tasting Notes:
It’s an aromatic, flavorful gin with gentle juniper, coriander, candied orange peel, ginger, and other herbs and botanicals to round it out.
New World Gin from St. Augustine Distillery would be our number-one choice for the summer. It’s refreshing, and flavorful, and goes extremely well when mixed in a cocktail.
Tasting Notes:
Its bright citrus notes are the perfect representation of Florida’s spirit. The gin is bottled at 94 proof, which allows better preservation of the botanical oils.
Barr Hill Gin is a unique and highly regarded gin produced by Caledonia Spirits in Vermont. What sets Barr Hill Gin apart is its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients—it’s made using only two botanicals: juniper and raw honey. The honey is sourced from the local area, and the flavor can change subtly with the seasons, reflecting the different flowers the bees have been pollinating. This makes Barr Hill Gin a fantastic choice for summer cocktails. The floral notes from the honey pair wonderfully with fresh, fruity ingredients. It’s particularly good in a Bee’s Knees cocktail, which combines gin, honey, and fresh lemon juice. The honey in the gin and the honey in the cocktail amplify each other, creating a drink that’s sweet, tart, and incredibly refreshing. Barr Hill Gin is a great choice for the summer months due to its unique honey-infused flavor that pairs well with a variety of mixers and creates refreshing cocktails.
Tasting Notes:
The juniper provides the traditional gin flavor we all know and love while the raw honey, which is added just before bottling, gives the gin a subtle sweetness and floral notes that are truly unique.
Brooklyn Gin
Brooklyn
Matty Clark, general manager at Dutch Kills Bar in Long Island City, New York
I’m not a fan of big botanical gins. I like a straightforward London dry. That being said I think Brooklyn Gin is probably my favorite “summer gin”. On top of juniper, there’s a lot of citrus flavor.
Tasting Notes:
It has some brighter notes of citrus that really make it pop on a warm day. It’s a great base for a fresh, summery cocktail.
The best, freshest, most flavorful gin to mix with during the summer months is one listed on our menu at Tavern on the Green, Fort Hamilton Gin. It’s made here in New York City and is very tropical and great for summer cocktails.
Tasting Notes:
When you initially put your nose to the bottle you smell a hint of watermelon. This gin holds a ton of tropical notes as well for a great gin cocktail all summer.
We use a lot of Hendrick’s. Since temperatures and humidity increase, the light flavor profile of gin combines perfectly with citrus, creating a perfect balance for our seasonal cocktails.
Tasting Notes:
Its unique flavor of juniper botanicals and infusion of dried flowers and fruits is more suitable for summer.
Tod & Vixen’s Dry Gin 1651
Tod & Vixen’s
Graham Christie, bar manager at The Gem in Bolton Landing, New York
My gin of choice to mix with during the summer is the Tod & Vixen’s Dry Gin 1651. First, I usually like to support New York State products, Vale Fox is based in Poughkeepsie, New York. And secondly, it is punchy and interesting enough flavor-wise to still stand out in a cocktail or a gin & tonic.
Tasting Notes:
It starts with juniper berries, heads into Seville oranges, and ends in herbal, earthy rooibos tea.
Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla Gin
Tanqueray
Pedro Pozo, beverage director of Grupo Bakan in Miami
Citrus-forward gins are a great option for the summer months. We love working with Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla with great notes of oranges and orange blossoms.
Tasting Notes:
It’s crisp, filled with ripe orange flavor, and provides a great canvas for a summer Tom Collins or gin & tonic.
The Botanist Islay Dry Gin
The Botanist
Mercedes Cowper, certified sommelier and bar manager at Round Robin Bar in Washington, DC
The Botanist Islay Dry Gin for its plethora of botanicals and herbs; it’s an excellent option for a gin & tonic or gin martini with a twist, as the lemon oils will bring out the herbaceous quality of the gin.
Tasting Notes:
It’s a lean, straightforward gin that fits well in any cocktail. Juniper, orange peels, lemon, and chamomile, and other spices make this a great summer gin.
Roku Gin
Roku Gin
Chase West, restaurant manager at Percheron in Kansas City
As someone who does not normally enjoy gin, the crisp, clean flavors present in Roku Gin won over my taste buds. For summer, this gin can pair effortlessly with any citrus. My personal favorite cocktail includes Roku gin, strawberry liqueur, aloe liqueur, and lemon.
Tasting Notes:
This aromatic and flavorful gin begins with a base of juniper berries, but also has flavors of cinnamon, orange, lemon peel, coriander, and others.
When it comes to fresh, balanced, highly mixable gins, it’s difficult to beat the appeal of Fords Gin. A favorite of bartenders and home mixologists alike, Fords Gin is a classic London dry gin. Juniper forward, it also has flavors of coriander seed, cassia bark, lemon peel, orange peel, and even jasmine.
Tasting Notes:
There’s a nice kick of juniper upfront, but it’s not overpowering as there are also noticeable citrus, spice, and herbal flavors perfect for an end of summer cocktail.
Small-batch bourbon whiskeys are the ones a lot of us got started on. They’re the bourbons that are inherently cheaper, often under $50. That means if you were looking to drink a good bourbon (that wasn’t too bold) as a newbie, you’d likely be directed towards a small-batch bourbons post haste. And that would be the right call.
Since so many small-batch bourbons are gateways to the wider world of bourbon drinking, I figured it was very high time for another big bourbon blind tasting. But before I dive into the tasting, it’s important to know what exactly “small batch” means when you see it on a whiskey label. “Small batch” simply means one less barrel than a regular batch of the main bourbon released from any brand. For instance, if a regular batch of straight bourbon whiskey is 1,250 barrels, then any expression that the brand releases between 1,249 all the way down to two barrels is a “small batch.” (One barrel in a whiskey release is a “single barrel” of course).
So, when you see “small batch” on a straight bourbon label, it can… mean kind of anything. There are bourbons on the shelf right now that are labeled “small batch” that have more barrels in that batch than a regular batch of Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 (about 375 barrels per batch). Meaning that there is a little bit of bullshit in this destination. Because besides the sort of unwritten rule of “one less barrel than a regular batch,” there’s no actual rule or law for what makes something a “small batch” product.
So what are these brands really saying when they put “small batch” on their label? They’re talking about a step more refinement. Small-batch bourbons are a touch more refined than standard releases. That’s it.
Generally speaking, the hierarchy of bourbon refinement with brands is as follows:
Bourbon Whiskey
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Small Batch Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Bottled In Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey
That puts small-batch bourbons right in the middle of the cheap shit and the good stuff both flavor and price-wise. Of course, there are mixes of those designations on labels (bottled in bond single barrels, small batch bottled in bonds, and so on), but that’s the general gist.
All of this leads me to our lineup of small-batch bourbons today:
Cedar Ridge Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey Small Batch
Union Horse Distilling Co. Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey Small Batch
Woody Creek Distillers Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey Hand-Crafted in Small Batches
Deadwood Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Small Batches
Knob Creek Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged 9 Years
Doc Swinson’s Session Blend Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged 5 Years Bottled in Small Batches
E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey Bottled In Bond
Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Four Roses Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey Aged 6 Years
I purposefully chose a wide array of small-batch bourbons, all under $50, from all over the scene. I did add one ringer — an allocated (small distribution) $45 small batch bourbon that sells for three times that at most retail. I wanted to see if it was really that much better in a big blind taste test and worth that inflated price tag or something closer to its actual one.
After my wife shuffled and poured these for me, I dove in and started ranking. I was honestly kind of shocked at how this one shook out — a big outlier stole the whole show. Let’s dive in!
Also Read: The Top 5 UPROXX Bourbon Posts Of The Last Six Months
Nose: There’s a nice sense of orchard fruits and barks that leads to a dry grassy graininess (hello, craft whiskey) with a soft apple pie and peach cobbler vibe that leads to a floral honey cut with clear Caro corn syrup sweetness.
Palate: That sweetness attaches to the dry grains on the palate with a sense of white cornmeal over smudging sage with a hint of orchard and winter spice bark rounding out the palate before the ABVs start to rise.
Finish: The rise of the ABVs peak pretty quickly with a pleasant buzzing, more honeyed sweetness, and dry prairie grasses on a summer’s day.
Initial Thoughts:
Wow, this was just really goddamn nice whiskey. Even the higher proof was excellently balanced and never overpowered the rest of the pour.
Taste 2
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Hint of butterscotch and old oak pop on the nose with a dash of maple syrup and vanilla-forward pancakes with margarine (it weirdly works).
Palate: There’s a light nuttiness on the palate that’s akin to peanut shells that turn into a buttery peanut brittle on the palate before vanilla and cinnamon hot chocolate pop up.
Finish: That butterscotch comes back in full force on the end with more peanut and maybe some walnut shell with a hint of milk chocolate powder and vanilla pudding cups.
Initial Thoughts:
This was nice. It was pretty standard with a lean toward nuttiness. Overall, just nice.
Taste 3
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: There’s a clear sense of crafty bourbon (light sweet grains) on the nose with a soft sense of winter spice, old caramel candies, and a hint of orange honey.
Palate: The taste leans into the peppery spice with an apple/pear vibe next to red fruit, vanilla beans, and caramelized grains.
Finish: The end is short and slightly spicy with an apple/pear pie filling vibe next to wet biscuit dough.
Initial Thoughts:
This was a tad grainy and could have used a touch more balance between the crafty sweet grains and the classic bourbon notes.
Taste 4
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose is lighter but does have a lot of sweet dry corn, old orchard vibes, hints of leather, and a touch of tobacco spice.
Palate: The palate is full of stewed fruits and winter spices with a hint of lemon pepper and creamed honey over lightly aged oak.
Finish: The spice and fruity sweetness kick up on the finish with a mild sense of proofing water and smoldering oak staves.
Initial Thoughts:
This was a good standard table whiskey. Nothing special, nothing wrong, nothing more.
Taste 5
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose on this feels classic with a bold sense of rich vanilla pods, cinnamon sharpness, buttered and salted popcorn, and a good dose of cherry syrup with a hint of cotton candy.
Palate: The palate mixes almond, orange, and vanilla into cinnamon sticky buns with a hint of sour cherry soda that leads to a nice Kentucky hug on the mid-palate.
Finish: That warm hug fades toward black cherry root beer, old leather boots, porch wicker, and a sense of dried cherry/cinnamon tobacco packed into an old pine box.
Initial Thoughts:
This had a lot going on with a big finish (warm). It was good, but not “wow” good. It felt like a really solid Kentucky bourbon.
Taste 6
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose draws you in with a sweet candied almond vibe next to a vanilla sheet cake, dark chocolate nibs, rum-soaked raisins, brandy-soaked cherries, and plenty of woody winter spice.
Palate: Dark and spicy dried fruits with plenty of buttercream drive the palate toward pecan waffles with real maple syrup, singed marshmallows, and dark winter spices barks tied up with dried orange slices and old tobacco leaves.
Finish: That spice and tobacco rise on the finish with a sense of stewed pears, oranges, and cherries rolled into a winter nutcake with a mug of warm apple cider-spiked mulled wine on the side.
Initial Thoughts:
This is some delicious whiskey. It’s very holiday-forward and dark, which is a good thing.
Taste 7
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: This has a lot of apple cobbler on the nose with sweet and bright stewed apples, plenty of dark brown spices, brown sugar, buttery pastry cobbles, and a touch of honey sweetness.
Palate: The honey becomes creamy and spiked with orange zest as the malt shines through as a digestive cookie with a hint of fresh mint and more of that honey with a flake of salt.
Finish: The finish brings about that spice again with a little more of a peppery edge this time as the fade slowly falls off, leaving you with a creamy vanilla tobacco feeling.
Initial Thoughts:
This is another really nice whiskey overall. No notes!
Taste 8
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose opens with a sense of soft leather with a hint of fresh green chili, Saigon cinnamon (a little sweet), orchard tree bark, and the black mildew that grows on all the whiskey warehouses in Kentucky.
Palate: The palate leans into buttery toffee with a twinge of black licorice next to cinnamon-spiced dark chocolate tobacco and a hint of huckleberry pie with vanilla ice cream.
Finish: The end has a salted caramel sweetness that leads back to a hint of sweet cinnamon and dark tobacco with a light sense of the fermentation room with a hint of sweet gruel.
Initial Thoughts:
This was really nice too. If I had to nitpick, I’d say the end was a little light, but that’s really splitting hairs on a great pour.
Taste 9
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose on this is very fruity with a mix of bruised peach, red berries (almost like in a cream soda), and apple wood next to a plate of waffles with brown butter and a good pour of maple syrup that leads to a hint of cotton candy.
Palate: The sweetness ebbs on the palate as vanilla frosting leads to grilled peaches with a crack of black pepper next to singed marshmallows.
Finish: The end is plummy and full of rich toffee next to a dash of cedar bark and vanilla tobacco.
Initial Thoughts:
This is incredibly well-balanced. It’s weird to say this but it’s almost too clean.
Taste 10
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Soft and sweet apple and cherry woods greet with a good dose of sour red berries dusted with brown winter spices, especially clove and nutmeg.
Palate: The palate leans into soft and salted caramel with a hint of those berries underneath while the spices get woodier and a thin line of green sweetgrass sneaks in.
Finish: The finish is silky and boils down to blackberry jam with a good dose of winter spice, old wood, and a hint of vanilla tobacco.
Initial Thoughts:
This is so succinct and deeply tasty.
Taste 11
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: There’s a light sense of rickhouse wood beams next to that mild taco seasoning on the nose with caramel apples, vanilla ice cream scoops, and a hint of fresh mint with a sweet/spicy edge.
Palate: The palate opens with a seriously smooth vanilla base with some winter spice (especially cinnamon and allspice) next to a hint of grain and apple pie filling.
Finish: The end leans towards the woodiness with a hint of broom bristle and minty tobacco lead undercut by that smooth vanilla.
Initial Thoughts:
This felt like classic bourbon and that’s it. It’s very, “Yup, that’s good bourbon!”
Taste 12
Zach Johnston
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Raw leather and wet cedar mix with vanilla cream and a sense of black licorice protein powder on the nose.
Palate: The palate leans into ginger spiciness with yellow masa and cinnamon-heavy apple cider and vanilla wafers rounding things out.
Finish: The finish is light and has a black Necco Wafer vibe next to winter spices and apple tobacco warmth on the end.
Initial Thoughts:
This was pretty nice overall. It’s clearly from Tennessee but hits high bourbon-heavy notes.
Part 2 — The Small Batch Bourbon Ranking
Zach Johnston
12. Woody Creek Distillers Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey Hand-Crafted in Small Batches — Taste 3
This Colorado craft distillery is all about that Rocky Mountain vibe. The whiskey is made from a 70% corn mash with a touch of local rye and malted barley mixed with Rocky Mountain spring water. The whiskey is aged for at least four years in deeply charred new oak before batching, proofing, and bottling.
Bottom Line:
This was a tad grain-forward. It wasn’t off balance but just needs a little more of something. That all said, I can see this working nicely in highballs with good fizzy water and a nice garnish from the garden.
11. Deadwood Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Small Batches — Taste 4
This sourced whiskey is made from two-year-old barrels in small batches of no more than 20 barrels each. The whiskey is MGP of Indiana bourbon with 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. Those barrels were sent down to Kentucky where they were batched and bottled with that Kentucky limestone water.
Bottom Line:
This was perfectly fine bourbon. It was balanced and tasted like standard good ol’ bourbon. Use it in highballs or garage pours with your pals. It’ll be fine.
10. Union Horse Distilling Co. Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey Small Batch — Taste 2
This Kansas whiskey is a neo-classic sour mash recipe of just corn and rye (no barley). The whiskey is distilled on copper pot stills before aging for over five years in Kansas’ rolling green hills and harsh winters. The final batch is touched with local water before bottling.
Bottom Line:
This is a pretty good bourbon overall. I’d use it more for whiskey cocktails (sours, smashes, etc.) than as a sipper, but it’ll be fine over rocks.
9. Knob Creek Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged 9 Years — Taste 5
This is Jim Beam’s small batch entry point into the wider world of Knob Creek. The juice is the low-rye mash aged for nine years in new oak in Beam’s vast warehouses. The right barrels are then mingled and cut down to 100 proof before being bottled in new, wavy bottles.
Bottom Line:
This is a classic Kentucky bourbon … for cocktails. This is fine over some rocks but it really shines brightest in whiskey-forward cocktails.
This four-grain Kentucky bourbon is made with 70% corn, 10% malted wheat, 10% honey malted barley, and 10% malted barley. That spirit is then aged for three years in toasted and charred barrels before it’s batched from 15 barrels, proofed, and bottled.
Bottom Line:
This is very much the same as above. It’s really good standard Kentucky bourbon that’ll shine in cocktails but can totally work over rocks on any ol’ day of the week.
This is Elijah Craig’s entry-point bottle. The mash is corn-focused, with more malted barley than rye. The whiskey is then rendered from “small batches” of barrels to create this proofed-down version of the iconic brand.
Bottom Line:
This was a notch above standard. Still, this felt like an old fashioned cocktail base more than anything.
6. Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey Aged 6 Years — Taste 12
Bib & Tucker pulls barrels of Tennessee whiskey from an old and quiet valley in the state. They then blend those barrels to meet their brand’s flavor notes. While they are distilling their own whiskey now, this is still all about blending those barrels in small batches.
Bottom Line:
This had a nice extra layer in its profile that help elevate it. Those Tennessee sweet earthy tones and choco-powder vibes add an extra something. I’d sip this in a nice whiskey-forward cocktail happily.
5. Doc Swinson’s Session Blend Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged 5 Years Bottled in Small Batches — Taste 6
This blend from Washington is made with MGP bourbons that are at least five years old. The lion’s share of the blend is a 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley bourbon married to a 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley bourbon.
Bottom Line:
This dives deep into the slow-sipper territory. This is a really good whiskey. I want to add a little water or a rock to let bloom in the glass. This also feels like it’s going to make a killer Manhattan come winter.
4. E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey Bottled In Bond — Taste 8
Buffalo Trace’s Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch is an entry point to the other 12 expressions released under the E.H. Taylor, Jr. label. The whiskey is made from Buffalo Trace’s iconic Mash Bill No. 1 (which is a low rye recipe). The final whiskey in the bottle is a blend of barrels that meet the exact right flavor profiles Buffalo Trace’s blenders are looking for in a classic bottled-in-bond bourbon for Taylor.
Bottom Line:
This is a very on-point whiskey. I’m surprised to see it at 4th, but we’re already into the really good whiskeys and this had a softer landing than the next three.
Michter’s really means the phrase “small batch” here. The tank they use to marry their hand-selected eight-year-old bourbons can only hold 20 barrels, so that’s how many go into each small-batch bottling. The blended juice is then proofed with Kentucky’s famously soft limestone water and bottled.
Bottom Line:
This was the most balanced whiskey on the list. I wanted a little more though. That said, this is clearly a great cocktail whiskey that’ll make a dope whiskey-forward cocktail all day long.
2. Four Roses Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey — Taste 10
Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon is a blend of four whiskeys. The blend is split evenly between the high and low-rye bourbons with a focus on “slight spice” and “rich fruit” yeasts — that means OBSK, OESK, OBSO, and OESO are in the mix. After six to seven years of aging, the whiskey is blended, cut with soft Kentucky water, and bottled.
Bottom Line:
This was interesting and very dialed-in. I wanted to take another sip as a neat sipper. That’s high praise.
1. Cedar Ridge Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey Small Batch — Taste 1
This Iowa whiskey is all about the Iowa corn. The mash is 74% corn, 14% malted rye, and 12% malted barley that is rested in oak for a few years. Since the temperature in Iowa swings by 100 degrees through a single year, aging doesn’t need to last forever. When the barrels are just right, they’re batched and bottled completely as-is.
Bottom Line:
This was just delicious. It’s deep and old-school and fresh and fun. It’s everything you want in a small-batch bourbon with some kick. I really want to make a Manhattan with this.
Part 3 — Final Thoughts on the Small Batch Bourbons
Zach Johnston
This is a very top five heavy blind tasting. I really do recommend any of the top five whiskeys above. They’re all very different but all offer something truly special.
What’s clear though is that the E.H. Taylor Small Batch which is supposed to cost $45 but does cost $150 (in most retail) actually feels right at home among bourbons that still actually cost $45. You can take that fact to the bank, folks.
And to be completely fair, the rest of the whiskeys ranked on this list were perfectly good whiskeys. There are no faults, no hard passes, and no embarrassments. They’re just average ~ good ~ bourbons. So if that’s what you’re looking for, knock yourself out!
It feels like every week, another friend of mine is either moving to North Carolina, visiting North Carolina, or visiting North Carolina to decide if they might want to move to North Carolina. And it’s not just a quirk of my friend group, either — North Carolina has been near the top of every “Places People Are Moving To” list for the past several years – with relocation rates only increasing.
With incredible natural diversity, beaches and mountains within mere hours of each other, a (relatively) lower cost of living when compared to other major cities in the Northeast or West, and a milder climate than other popular Southern locales it’s booming for a reason, y’all. But while I’ve visited the beaches of North Carolina and briefly enjoyed some brews in the hipster haven of Asheville, I hadn’t fully explored the region. And with all the friend group chatter, I found myself curious about the area that so many pals rave about. I had seen gorgeous photos of mountains and waterfalls, quaint downtowns, and crystal blue lakes on Instagram and now I wanted to see them for myself.
So I set off on a solo road trip through Western North Carolina – from Charlotte to just outside Asheville. And, you guys, I may not be Zillowing the area yet but… I definitely get why everyone else is. Here is my recommended route, where to stay, what to do, and where to eat.
START IN CHARLOTTE
Emily Hart
Before visiting, I didn’t know much about Queen City, except its status as a banking hub and the largest city in the state. I found a much more diverse city than expected, with unique neighborhoods, friendly people, easy access to nature, and great food and drink. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is not only the 7th busiest in the world but was also recently named the most efficient airport in North America. Hence, it’s an ideal spot to start your Tar Heeled adventure.
WHERE TO STAY:
Emily Hart
I stayed at the JW Marriott in what’s known as Uptown in Charlotte. From the moment I walked in (and was greeted by name), I was already making a mental note to return for a more extended stay. The property, which opened in 2021, is sleek, modern, and light-filled, but the best part of my stay was, hands down, the incredible staff. As someone who literally stays at hotels for a living, I was blown away by the hospitality, attention to detail, and, for lack of a better word ~ vibes ~ of this property. Despite being a part of a huge hotel chain, it felt intimate and welcoming.
I stayed in a King room with expansive views of uptown Charlotte, with a luxurious mattress, a sitting area, a spa-like bathroom, and high-end amenities. I enjoyed one of the best massages of my life at the Spa by JW and got some vitamin D lounging on the rooftop pool deck before hitting the road.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:
I didn’t have much time to do anything other than eat and drink in Charlotte, but hey, I’m not complaining. Named one of America’s “Next Great Food Cities” by Food and Wine last year, there is no shortage of culinary options to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
DILWORTH TASTING ROOM
Emily Hart
For a low-key dinner in a gorgeous yet laid-back setting, Dilworth Tasting Room is the perfect choice. In the Dilworth neighborhood, DTR has an extensive wine list and cheese and charcuterie without sacrificing quality on other more substantial menu items. I enjoyed the crab cakes with some rosé, followed by a decadent Bajadera dessert – chocolate layered nougat with Nutella, raspberries, and whipped cream.
CALLE SOL
Emily Hart
I rarely have a dining experience that feels genuinely new, but that is just what happened at Calle Sol. The Latin Café & Cevicheria seamlessly blends Latin influences from Cuba to Peru to create a menu that is as extensive as delicious. I was lucky to try several menu items, including the mouth-watering Pollo A La Plancha, a marinated chicken breast served with papa a la huancaína and house aji amarillo aioli.
Another standout was the Classic Ceviche and perfectly prepared Flan.
AURA ROOFTOP
Emily Hart
If you’re looking for more of a scene, head up to the Aura Rooftop at JW Marriott for some inventive cocktails, a lively crowd, interesting bites, and a city view. The rooftop was packed on a weekday evening when I visited with a wide range of people enjoying the view. I opted to try the Burnt Ends Lollipops (I’m a sucker for food on a stick) that were as delectable as you’d imagine, along with a cocktail (or two).
CHARLOTTE TO BURKE COUNTY — 1.5 HOURS
Next, I drove the short distance from Charlotte to Burke County, North Carolina. There are several smaller towns within the massive county, but I needed help to pinpoint exactly where I was during my stay, so referring to the entire county made more sense. With abundant outdoor adventure, it is a great place to base yourself in Western North Carolina.
WHERE TO STAY:
Emily Hart
A fun reason to detour to Burke County is the opportunity to visit – and stay overnight – in a renovated historic mill village cabin that served as the filming location of District 12 in The Hunger Games movie. Henry River Mill Village was a textile village that, by the 2000s, was abandoned entirely. The Hunger Games, filmed in various locations in the area, used the town to film District 12, and tours are still given to visitors and fans across the globe.
The first renovated cabin – House 12 – has two units with two bedrooms and bathrooms each, lovingly and luxuriously restored, weaving the history of the former occupants into the design.
WHAT TO DO:
Emily Hart
Burke County’s motto is “Nature’s Playground,” I can easily see why. There’s plenty of outdoor adventure, from fishing, camping, and hiking to boating and rock climbing. I loved visiting McGalliard Falls Park, where you can find hiking trails along the creek, a historic grist mill, and a 45-foot waterfall and swimming hole for those warm summer days.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:
COPPER PENNY GRILL — LAKE HICKORY
Emily Hart
I loved stopping off at Copper Penny Grill on Lake Hickory (there are three locations in North Carolina) for lunch during my stay in Burke County. The shrimp tacos were tasty and filling, and the service was exceptional – all with incredible views.
BURKE COUNTY TO BREVARD — 1.5 HOURS
Since planning this trip, I had most looked forward to visiting Brevard in Transylvania County. Known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” the county has an incredible 250, all within just miles of each other. Known as a gateway to the North Carolina mountains, the quaint and artistic town has long brought artists, musicians, and adventurers to its scenic beauty.
WHERE TO STAY:
THE GREYSTONE INN
Emily Hart
While not technically in Brevard, The Greystone Inn is just a 30-minute drive up the mountain to Lake Toxaway. The historic inn is the only public access to the gorgeous private Lake Toxaway, which has long been a secluded home to the rich, famous, and influential.
The charming inn is luxurious and just secluded enough. It’s the perfect place to escape and relax in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stay on the property for boating, pickleball, or a cocktail by the fire, or head into the nearby trails for hiking and adventure.
WHAT TO DO:
CHASE WATERFALLS
Emily Hart
There are 250 waterfalls around Brevard in Transylvania County, so you’d be remiss not to visit at least a few. Sliding Rock, a natural waterslide, is a perennial favorite. Take your turn sliding down the 60-foot waterfall into the water below, or just watch the shocked faces of other visitors as they hit the nearly freezing waters. There are lifeguards on duty and a small fee to enter and park, but it is unlike any other experience you’re likely to have.
I loved stopping off the road to see the 60-foot-tall Looking Glass Falls, thought to be one of the most photographed waterfalls in the United States. The hike to Triple Falls in DuPont State Forest is moderate but with a huge payoff to view the 125-foot triple waterfall.
ATTEND A PERFORMANCE AT THE BREVARD MUSIC CENTER
Emily Hart
One of the nicest surprises on my road trip was a visit to the Brevard Music Center. The prestigious summer music institute’s 180-acre campus resembles a mirage driving from Brevard over the gentle Blue Ridge Mountains. The center includes state-of-the-art practice rooms, rehearsal spaces, performance venues, and dormitories for students from all over the country working on their craft. The center’s summer festival runs for several weeks, attracting music enthusiasts nationwide to attend concerts in an outdoor amphitheater and other campus venues. I was happy to watch some student orchestras rehearse and would love to return for a performance.
ENJOY A SUNSET CRUISE ON MISS LUCY
Emily Hart
Take a nostalgic trip around Lake Toxaway on the hand-built mahogany electric boat. Nightly one-hour cruises on “Miss Lucy” are complimentary for guests of The Greystone Inn from May through October and $25 for outside guests. The ride feels like stepping back in time. Pro-tip: get a drink from the bar to bring along.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:
GRAND OLDE STATION
Emily Hart
For a slice of history along with your meal, head over to Grande Olde Station restaurant at Lake Toxaway. The former train depot has been lovingly adorned with memorabilia from the lake throughout the years. The service on my visit was impeccable, and the fried fish was cooked to perfection.
BREVARD TO HENDERSONVILLE — 30 MINUTES
WHERE TO STAY:
THE HORSE SHOE FARM
Emily Hart
If you’re seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and connection with nature but also like luxury – then The Horse Shoe Farm needs to be added to your United States travel bucket list. The expansive property is immaculate, with rolling hills, views, a pond, river access, farm animals, and vast open meadows – and that’s before you even step foot into any of the accommodations.
You can opt to stay in a luxuriously appointed stand-alone home – there are 8 to rent on the property — or in the Stable Spa Lofts, rooms above the Stable Spa. I stayed in the immaculate Sun Suite and loved the design and, for lack of a better word: vibes. The welcome note in my room was absolutely right, its not just a place to stay but to be. Drop by the Silo Cookhouse for a drink or farm-to-table meal, dip in the beautiful pool overlooking the farm, or walk down to the French Broad. You can feel the care put into every detail here, and I can’t wait to spend more time.
WHAT TO DO:
PADDLE THE FRENCH BROAD RIVER
Emily Hart
You can’t leave Hendersonville without getting out on the French Broad River. Thought to be the third oldest river in the world, the North flowing river is believed to be over 250 million years old. Flowing from North Carolina to Tennessee, it is the perfect place to spend a summer day. I rented a kayak with Lazy Otter Outfitters and was extremely impressed with the service (and super convenient location). You can choose a more mild, shorter paddle of just 4 miles on the horseshoe bend or opt for the Sierra Nevada Express, which is a longer seven-mile trip that ends just minutes away from Sierra Nevada Brewing.
ENJOY A SPA TREATMENT WITH A VIEW
Emily Hart
After your kayaking adventure, spend some time relaxing in a spa like no other. The Horse Shoe Farm is also home to the Stable Spa – a full-service luxury spa in a converted and renovated barn. Enjoy a massage in a luxurious stall or a rejuvenating foot bath with hot tea while looking out over the pasture. Spa guests also have the option to add on a farm day pass to enjoy the pool, sauna, steam and amenities of The Horse Shoe Farm if they opt not to stay overnight.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:
SIERRA NEVADA
Emily Hart
Head to nearby Mills River to enjoy a brew and some grub at Sierra Nevada’s “Eastern HQ.” The sprawling property near the French Broad River is stunning, with a large taproom, tours, outdoor areas, and, of course, the quality brews you expect and love from Sierra Nevada. I enjoyed a burger and a flight of beer – many of which are only available in the taproom.
When people think of body positivity, oftentimes the image that comes to mind is that of a person that society would place in the category of woman. It seems that men and boys get left behind or overlooked when it comes to these conversations. The focus of teens and tweens developing eating disorders is also very driven by information on girls so it may be difficult to hear that boys struggle, too.
Mom and influencer, Samantha Sophia found herself in an unexpectedly emotional conversation with her 11-year-old son about tween boy body image. The mom vlogs about her life and parenting journey using “gentle parenting” techniques, this means she sometimes catches vulnerable moments with her kids, like this one.
Samantha was starting to record something else when her son walked in and they had a short dialogue about how they were feeling and how they slept. It was typical parent-child jibber jabber until she digs a little deeper into his new fitness journey.
“You’ve been like on a serious fitness kick with your friends. Y’all have been like…I don’t understand why 10 and 11 year olds are so focused on fitness,” she says, before correcting, “11 and 12. Why are you guys doing it?”
The mom chuckles through the question until she hears her son’s response on why these young boys are suddenly into fitness. Her tween son reveals he and his friends have been working out because one of his friends didn’t like the way he looked. Samantha’s face quickly changes as she attempts to hold back emotions after hearing this information but that wasn’t the end of the conversation.
“What’s your face,” the boy asks.
“I don’t like that he doesn’t like the way he looks,” Samantha responds.
Her son says that his friend is now feeling more confident about his appearance, but her son confirms that he also doesn’t like the way he looks, Samantha can no longer hold back her tears.
“Why?” she asks a few times before saying, “you guys are perfect. Y’all are perfect”
The boy comforts his mom while she picks her broken mom heart off of the floor. No parent ever wants to hear that their child is unhappy with their body, but the openness in which this mom and son are having this conversation could help other parents.
I am sharing this as a reminder that body image concerns also affect boys. I read recently that disordered eating was on the rise among boys. And while my household eats mostly organic and almost no fast food, we are on the heavier side. And while I’ve wanted all of us to eat even more plants and be more physically active and adventurous as a family (because its good for our emotional and physical health), kids counting carbs and calories and working out not because they like the challenge (Sophie does burpees just because and loves it) or to prepare for a sport they love but to have a body they saw on tv, is not going to be a thing I can support. #BlackTikTok #bodyimage #gentleparenting
According to Child Mind Institute, “as many as a third of people with eating disorders are men or boys. But boys are often missed because people think of eating disorders as something that only affects girls. Eating disorders tend to look different in boys.”
Boys are driven by different factors when it comes to body image issues and generally focuses on becoming more fit whether it be because they’re an athlete and want to lose weight, or they’re thin and want to add muscle. Achieving the perfect physique can become an obsession that quickly parlays into an eating disorder.
But when we’re talking about tweens and early teens, weight gain before the onset of puberty is normal and should be expected. Bodies are storing up to grow at a rapid rate and having that knowledge on hand may be helpful to parents who’s children are having concerns about their weight gain.
It’s important that parents and society doesn’t forget boys are also affected by negative body image and eating disorders and Samantha is using her vulnerable moment with her son to spread the message. Boys and men are also absorbing information about their bodies that can be harmful and we should also be doing our part to make sure they’re included in the body positivity messaging.
People, there’s no shortage of new TV shows to stream. Even with the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes running for god knows how long, the streaming services have no shortage of projects coming, much like during the pandemic. Yet it says plenty that billions of minutes of a TV show that ended in 2019 are being streamed weekly. That series, as you can probably guess by now, is Suits (starring Meghan Markle), which is somehow now the biggest show of 2023. The streaming audience at large has apparently decided that this comfort show is more their style than The Witcher Season 3, and the Nielsen numbers don’t lie.
As Deadline reveals, Suits has actually busted through its own Nielsen “record for acquired programming.” It’s done so twice, and now, the USA Network show has conquered the third week at the top of the Nielsen streaming TV chart. From July 3-9, 3.7 billion (not million) minutes of the show rolled onto streaming devices, which is astronomical. What’s potentially even wilder is that the focus of these minutes have been from Season 1, meaning that the influx of viewers will likely work their way through seven more seasons (Season 9 has not yet hit Netflix).
This practically guarantees that Suits will land in the Netflix Top 10 All-Time list for streaming TV series. Whoa:
This marks the third week that Suits took the No. 1 spot on the Nielsen streaming charts. According to Nielsen, this week’s viewing also puts the series at No. 13 on the company’s list of highest weekly viewing totals of all time for a streaming program, behind shows like Stranger Things, Wednesday, Tiger King, and Ozark.
Nielsen also reported that, even in the third week, viewership has been primarily concentrated to Season 1. This indicates that there’s plenty more weeks on the streaming charts ahead for Suits. In fact, Nielsen predicts that we haven’t yet seen the viewing peak for the decade-old series.
Meanwhile, The Witcher landed at #3 on that same week, which isn’t too shabby, but still, one would have guessed that new episodes would have pushed the fantasy series higher on the chart.
What is (still) happening with Suits? Well, we can guess one thing for sure. These clicks aren’t coming from Prince Harry after he admitted to being seriously disturbed by his wife’s sex scenes of yesteryear. Let’s hope that he’s recovered by now.
This drink is elevated without being overly difficult to make. Sure, you need some fresh juices and a little elbow grease to shake it up, but it really isn’t that much harder than any other tropical shaker out there. The key that really elevates this drink and made it an instant classic when it was first shaken up at the Soggy Dollar Bar in the British Virgin Islands is nutmeg. The spice adds that x-factor that takes this from your standard tropical fruit bomb to something deeper and more refreshing.
Come on? You’ve already seen that image up above. You know you want to know how to make this drink. Let’s just dive in and get shaking!
Also Read: The Top Five Cocktail Recipes of the Last Six Months
Technically, you’re supposed to use Pusser’s Rum for this one (and a tin mug if you want to go old school). Look, I love Pusser’s and its funky British Caribbean navy vibes. But you can really use any decent dark mixing rum from the Caribbean. I’m using Ron Del Barrilito 3 Star Rum. It has a nice spicy balance and a hint of caramel funkiness that works really well in creamy fruity cocktails like this. It’s basically made for these drinks.
One thing that you do need to use is bar-grade cream of coconut like REAL Coco Cream Of Coconut. It’s sweetened already and provides the right texture. It’s also why this drink doesn’t call for simple syrup. Between the cream of coconut and the fruit juices, there’s plenty of sweetness to go around.
The rest of the ingredients are all easily findable at any grocery store.
Zach Johnston
What You’ll Need:
Hurricane glass or large tin mug
Cocktail shaker
Cocktail strainer
Pairing knife
Juicer
Jigger
Zach Johnston
Method:
Add the rum, juices, and coconut to a cocktail shaker with a large handful of ice. Affix the lid and shake vigorously for about 20 to 30 seconds until the shaker is ice cold and the drink is nice and frothy. There’s a lot of liquid in the shaker with this one, so start slowly and build up speed.
Fill the glass with fresh ice — about 3/4 full. Strain the cocktail into the glass. Dash nutmeg over the top of the drink and garnish with a pineapple wedge and cherry. Serve.
Bottom Line:
Zach Johnston
I mean, this is obviously delicious. It’s sweet, yes, but the acids from the fruit juices really balance that sweetness well.
The best part really is that nutmeg. At first, it’s simply providing a nose element that primes your palate for the incoming tropical treat. Then as you drink the cocktail, the nutmeg starts to integrate into the actual liquid, making it really bright yet deeper. It’s not spicy but more nutty and raisin-esque. It adds a wonderful complexity to the drink.
This is such a crushable drink. Don’t be surprised if you’re shaking up another one almost right away.
Donald Trump didn’t even get a chance to be arraigned on Thursday before his attorney already started shooting the former president’s case in the foot. Ahead of Trump’s appearance in court following his now third indictment, his attorney Alina Habba held a press conference where she basically threw out Trump’s defense that he believed he lost the election and therefore his actions leading up to and including January 6 were justified.
When asked by a reporter how she reconciles aides testifying that Trump was told by several people that he lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Habba flat out admitted that Trump was aware he lost.
“I think that everybody was made aware that he lost the election” — oh, so she admits it pic.twitter.com/FxLSvUVESN
“I think that everybody was made aware that he lost the election,” Habba said causing several eyebrows to be raised on social media. “But that doesn’t mean that was the only advice that he was given. As anybody understands what happens in the Oval Office, there are numerous amounts of advisors and politicians and lawyers. Not just one or two that are giving you advice and telling you what they believe is true. So he might not agree with Mike Pence, he may not agree with one of his lawyers, but that doesn’t mean there weren’t other people advising him exactly the opposite. The president has a right, as everyone of us do, to listen to several opinions and make their decision.”
Habba’s admission that everyone was made aware that Trump lost sparked numerous reactions on Twitter as people couldn’t believe that she just threw Trump’s whole defense under the bus. His whole thing is that he believed the election was stolen, and she just went live on the news and said he knew otherwise. Incredible lawyering.
When you’re the fifth-string lawyer to the world’s worst client, you’re not going to have a lot of good days. https://t.co/uWvAygxDXX
— rebranding in progress (@thephilosotroll) August 3, 2023
I cannot believe how bad his lawyers are. Just standing in front of TV cameras and immolating their own defense. 10/10 no notes https://t.co/EHs8tmj6KC
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