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Cannabis Chills While Alcohol Can Get Dark

Cannabis tends to chill people out while alcohol can fan the flames of domestic violence

The social media universe is buzzing about the shove between French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte. TWhile they have clearly stated it is a playful moment between the two exited a plane.  But, sometimes drinking on a long flight can bring out an ugly side, violent side of a person. Meanwhile, cannabis chills while alcohol can get dark. In today’s fast-paced world, finding healthy ways to relax is more important than ever. Many people are turning to cannabis as a natural aid for stress relief and emotional balance. With growing research and personal testimonials supporting its calming effects, cannabis is gaining recognition as a gentler alternative to alcohol—especially when it comes to managing emotions and preventing conflict.

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Cannabis has long been known for its ability to help users unwind, sleep better, and reduce anxiety. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating mood, sleep, and stress responses. Unlike alcohol, which acts as a depressant and can impair judgment and increase aggression, cannabis often promotes a sense of tranquility and mindfulness. Many users report feeling more introspective and patient while using cannabis—traits that naturally help de-escalate tense situations rather than fuel them.

Julia Roberts in Sleeping with the Enemy

In contrast, alcohol is widely recognized as a contributor to domestic violence. Numerous studies and law enforcement reports link alcohol consumption with increased aggression, impulsivity, and abusive behavior. According to the World Health Organization, alcohol is a factor in nearly half of all cases of domestic abuse. Its ability to lower inhibitions and amplify emotions can turn minor arguments into serious, sometimes dangerous conflicts.

Cannabis, on the other hand, is associated with a lower incidence of aggression. While more research is always valuable, current data suggest that cannabis users are less likely to become violent or confrontational. This is likely due to its sedative properties and the way it can enhance emotional awareness and empathy when used responsibly. For many couples and families, cannabis has become a tool for bonding—sharing a joint or edible becomes a moment of calm connection rather than a trigger for tension.

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Of course, like any substance, cannabis must be used mindfully. But the growing body of evidence suggests that for many people, cannabis offers a peaceful way to unwind that doesn’t come with the volatile side effects of alcohol. As society continues to reevaluate its relationship with both substances, cannabis stands out as a potentially safer option for relaxation and emotional wellness.

Ultimately, the shift toward cannabis for stress relief isn’t just a trend—it’s part of a broader movement toward more conscious, compassionate living. By choosing substances that promote peace rather than conflict, individuals and communities can take an important step toward healthier relationships and a more harmonious society.

The Perfect Memorial Day Cocktails

Summer is starting and what better way than one of these perfect cocktails!  Happy Memorial Day!

This weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and nothing says celebration like a refreshing drink shared with friends and family. Whether you prefer gin, vodka, whiskey, tequila, or something bubbly, here are five crowd-pleasing drinks with a bit of history behind each. Here are the recipes for the perfect Memorial Day cocktails.

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The Classic Tom Collins

This citrusy classic dates back to the 1800s and became especially popular in America during Prohibition thanks to its easy-to-drink profile.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz London dry gin
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • Club soda to top

Create

  1. Shake gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice
  2. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice
  3. Top with soda
  4. Garnish with a lemon wheel and cherry
Peach and Black Tea Highball

French 75

Named after a powerful WWI artillery gun, the French 75 has packed a punch since the early 20th century, blending bubbles with botanical notes.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz gin
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • 3 oz Champagne or Prosecco

Create

  1. Shake gin, lemon, and syrup with ice
  2. Strain into a flute and top with bubbly
  3. Garnish with a lemon twist

Peach & Black Tea Highball

Inspired by Southern porch traditions, this highball gives a nod to classic sweet tea with a modern whiskey backbone.

Ingredients

  • 1½ oz bourbon
  • ½ oz peach liqueur or purée
  • 3 oz chilled black tea
  • Lemon or peach wedge for garnish

Create

  1. Fill tall glass with ice
  2. Add all bourbon, peach liqueur and black tea
  3. Stir gently
  4. Garnish with Lemon or peach wedge

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Spicy Paloma Verde

The Paloma, Mexico’s real national cocktail (sorry, margarita), gets a green upgrade with jalapeño and fresh herbs.  The spicy is a perfect way to combat the heat, While it might feel like the opposite, the sensation of heat from spicy food triggers a cooling response in the body through sweating.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz blanco tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • ½ oz agave syrup
  • 2 oz grapefruit soda (like Jarritos)
  • 2 jalapeño slice for garnish

Create

  1. Muddle 1 jalapeño slice lightly in cocktail shaker
  2. Add tequila, lime, and agave and shake lightly
  3. Strain into a salt-rimmed glass
  4. Top with soda
  5. Garnish with 2nd jalapeño slice

Michelada Negra

A darker, spicier cousin of the basic beer cocktail, this version uses a dark Mexican lager and smoky mezcal for depth. Micheladas likely originated in Mexico in the 1940s.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz mezcal
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • 3 dashes hot sauce
  • 1 dash Worcestershire
  • 1 pinch Tajín or chili salt
  • Dark Mexican lager (Negra Modelo or similar)

Create

  1. Rim a pint glass with Tajín
  2. Mix mezcal, lime, hot sauce, and Worcestershire
  3. Top with beer
  4. Stir gently and enjoy

Cheers to summer, sunshine, and remembering those who served.

Johnny Cash, Cannabis And The Trip To Folsom

The Man in Black enjoyed some green and lifted up the downtrodden

He was the iconic “Man in Black,” often remembered for his deep voice, rebellious spirit, and connection to the downtrodden. His complex persona blended gospel roots with outlaw bravado, and like many artists of his era, he battled addiction. While he is more famously associated with amphetamines and barbiturates, there are confirmed accounts that he also used marijuana. Here is the facts about Johnny Cash, cannabis and the trip to Folsom.

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Cash admitted to using marijuana, but during the 1960s, Cash struggled with hard substance abuse, frequently arrested for drug-related offenses. In 1965, he was famously arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas, for smuggling amphetamines and sedatives hidden in his guitar case. He experimented with various substances in an effort to escape the pressures of fame and personal demons. And he knew about mistakes and how you should be able to rise above them.

It was during this period that he sought solace in faith, nature, and, eventually, recovery—with the help of June Carter. His drug use had a major impact on his career and personal life, leading to both profound lows and a redemptive arc that fans would celebrate for decades.

He performed live at Folsom State Prison in California. His connection to Folsom began much earlier. In 1953, while serving in the U.S. Air Force in Germany, Cash saw the documentary Inside the Walls of Folsom Prison. The film left a deep impression on him and inspired the 1955 song “Folsom Prison Blues,” featuring the haunting lyric: “I shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die.” The track became one of his signature songs and built his reputation as a voice for the downtrodden.

On January 13, 1968, Cash performed at Folsom State Prison in California, backed by June Carter and the Tennessee Three. The resulting album, At Folsom Prison, revitalized his career and cemented his status as a voice for the voiceless. The performance was raw, electric, and filled with empathy—traits that defined Cash at his most authentic. The show solidified his outlaw image. His performance struck a chord with inmates and the general public alike, humanizing prisoners and lending voice to their struggles.

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Though cannabis may have played a minor role in Cash’s personal saga, it’s clear that his deeper legacy lies in his ability to turn pain into poetry and performance. The Folsom concert, in particular, reflected his hard-earned authenticity and compassion—qualities shaped not just by addiction, but by a profound desire for redemption and truth.

South Africa’s Current Stance On Cannabis

The country is one of the powerhouses on the continent, but is South Africa’s current stance on cannabis?

The country and their leadership is in the news, but what is South Africa’s crest stance on cannabis? The country is undergoing a significant shift in its relationship with cannabis, a plant long entwined with its cultural and economic history. Known locally as “dagga,” cannabis has been used for generations across rural communities for medicinal, recreational, and spiritual purposes. Today, evolving legislation, court rulings, and commercial interests are reshaping how the country views and engages with this controversial crop.

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The landmark moment came in September 2018, when the Constitutional Court decriminalized the private use and cultivation of cannabis for adults. This unanimous ruling declared that laws prohibiting personal use infringed on the right to privacy, effectively making it legal for individuals to grow and consume cannabis in private spaces. However, the sale and public consumption of cannabis remain illegal under national law, creating a legal grey area that continues to be debated.

South Africa's Current Stance On Cannabis

In 2024, the South African Parliament passed the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill, providing clearer guidelines on personal use, possession limits, and cultivation rules. Yet, critics argue the bill does not go far enough in addressing the commercial potential of cannabis or in rectifying the harms of prohibition, particularly among marginalized communities disproportionately affected by past enforcement.

Economically, the potential for a legal cannabis industry in South Africa is substantial. With favorable growing conditions, experienced cultivators, and high-quality strains, the country is well-positioned to become a global player in medical cannabis exports. Several licensed producers have already begun exporting cannabis products to Europe and other regions. The industry has the potential to create thousands of jobs, particularly in rural areas where unemployment is high.

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Yet, significant challenges remain. Regulatory uncertainty, bureaucratic delays, and limited access to capital have hindered the sector’s growth. Traditional growers—many of whom have operated informally for decades—often find themselves excluded from the legal market due to complex licensing requirements and high entry costs.

There is also a broader social conversation underway. Advocates are pushing for policies that support restorative justice, equitable participation in the cannabis economy, and public education about responsible use. As South Africa navigates this evolving terrain, it faces the dual challenge of crafting laws that respect constitutional rights while unlocking the economic and medicinal potential of cannabis in a way that is inclusive and sustainable.

Native American Tribes Find Economic Power In Alcohol, Cannabis And More

Sins are powerful – and for many – lucrative.  Native American Tribes understand their economic strength

For many Native American tribes, economic self-sufficiency has long been a priority. In the absence of traditional revenue streams, tribal governments have explored and embraced industries that leverage their unique legal status. The industries of cannabis, tobacco, and alcohol—often referred to as “sin industries”—are among the most lucrative and influential sectors globally. Their profitability and power are shaped by market size, profit margins, and their ability to influence policy and public perception. Today, Native American tribes find economic power in alcohol, cannabis and more.

Historically, alcohol and tobacco sales on reservations provided vital funding for health, education, and infrastructure. Now, a growing number of tribes are turning to cannabis and hemp as new economic engines.

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Tribes operate under a complex web of sovereignty and federal oversight. While the sale of alcohol on reservations is regulated through tribal law and federal approval, tribes have been able to tax and profit from tobacco sales without being subject to all state taxes. This allowed several tribes to establish retail and wholesale tobacco operations that significantly boosted revenue, particularly when selling to non-tribal members in nearby communities.

Photo by Cappi Thompson/Getty Images

Cannabis represents a new frontier. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized industrial hemp nationwide, opening the door for tribes to cultivate and sell hemp-based products like CBD oil and textiles. With full cannabis legalization expanding across the U.S., tribes are asserting their right to grow, process, and sell both hemp and marijuana products—even in states where such sales remain restricted.

Today, more than two dozen tribes have launched cannabis-related ventures. For instance, the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe in South Dakota became the first tribe to legalize recreational cannabis on its reservation in 2015. Other tribes, such as the Puyallup Tribe in Washington and the Shinnecock Nation in New York, have opened dispensaries, processing centers, or are planning vertically integrated cannabis businesses. These enterprises not only serve tribal members but also attract customers from surrounding areas, generating much-needed revenue and job opportunities.

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The economic potential is significant. Tribal cannabis operations benefit from fewer regulatory hurdles compared to state-regulated businesses, allowing them to innovate and compete more aggressively. However, tribes still face legal uncertainties, particularly around banking and transportation across state lines.

Despite these challenges, cannabis and hemp are becoming part of a broader tribal economic development strategy. Revenues are being reinvested into housing, health clinics, addiction services, and youth programs. For many tribal leaders, cannabis is more than a business—it’s a tool for sovereignty and healing.

As federal cannabis reform continues to evolve, Native American tribes are positioning themselves at the forefront of the industry. Their early investments and regulatory innovations could help shape the national cannabis economy while continuing the longstanding tribal tradition of economic resilience and self-determination.

Which Is The Better Aphrodisac Oysters Or Cannabis

There are tons of myths, facts and thoughts about them…but which is the better aphrodisiac oysters or cannabis

When it comes to natural aphrodisiacs, two of the most talked-about contenders are oysters and cannabis. But which is the better aphrodisiac oysters or cannabis? While they both have passionate advocates, their effects—and histories—differ significantly.

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Oysters have been associated with sensuality and virility for centuries. The legend of Casanova, the 18th-century Venetian adventurer known for his romantic escapades, includes stories of him consuming dozens of oysters for breakfast to enhance his amorous energy. The aphrodisiac reputation of oysters likely originates from their high levels of zinc, a mineral crucial to testosterone production and sperm health. Additionally, oysters contain amino acids like D-aspartic acid and N-methyl-D-aspartate, which may help stimulate the release of sex hormones. Their texture and raw consumption may also play into their sensual appeal, making them a staple of romantic dinners for centuries.

brown chocolate food close-up photography

Cannabis, on the other hand, is a relatively newer player in the realm of aphrodisiacs—at least in the West. Historically, cannabis has been used in ancient India and the Middle East as part of tantric and spiritual sexual rituals. In modern times, many users report heightened sensitivity, reduced inhibitions, and increased libido when using cannabis. Some studies support these claims, showing that low to moderate doses of THC can enhance sexual desire and satisfaction. However, too much cannabis can lead to lethargy, decreased motivation, or even difficulty with sexual performance, depending on the individual and dosage.

So which is better? It depends on the experience you’re seeking. Oysters provide a subtle, nutrient-based boost that supports long-term sexual health, making them a natural and sustainable option. Cannabis can intensify sensations and foster emotional intimacy in the moment, but it carries more variability in effects and potential legal or health considerations.

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For those looking for a romantic evening with proven nutritional benefits and a time-honored history, oysters might be the better choice. But if enhancing sensory perception and relaxing into the moment are your goals, cannabis could offer a different kind of aphrodisiac experience. Ultimately, the best option may be a mindful combination—shared oysters to start the evening, and perhaps a gentle cannabis product to set the mood. As with anything romantic, the magic lies in the chemistry—both literal and personal.

Cannabis Grows and Water Usage

Outdoor cannabis grows are productive, energy effective and very popular…but how much water do they use?

As marijuana cultivation expands across the United States and globally, concerns are emerging about its environmental footprint—particularly about cannabis grows and water usage. A commonly raised question is whether cannabis affects water tables as much as notoriously water-intensive crops like avocados, almonds, or rice. The answer depends on several factors, including growing methods, location, and water regulation practices.

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Cannabis is a thirsty crop. Outdoor cannabis plants require an estimated 5 to 6 gallons of water per plant per day during peak growing season. In comparison, an avocado tree typically consumes 40 to 50 gallons per day, but it also produces a larger volume of fruit over a longer growing period. On a per-acre basis, cannabis can use slightly less or more water than avocados depending on planting density and climate. However, the water impact of cannabis becomes more problematic in regions where it’s grown illegally or without proper oversight.

Cannabis Grows and Water Usage
Photo by Anton Petrus/Getty Images

n California, for example, both avocados and cannabis are cultivated in drought-prone areas, but cannabis farms—especially unpermitted ones—are often located in ecologically sensitive headwaters or forested areas. These illicit operations may divert streams, destroy native vegetation, and withdraw water from small creeks that feed local water tables. Unlike avocados, which are typically grown on large farms with regulated irrigation systems, cannabis operations may lack water rights or infrastructure to capture and store water sustainably.

Legal, regulated cannabis farms generally use more efficient water systems such as drip irrigation, water recycling, and rainwater capture, which can significantly reduce environmental strain. In fact, some indoor cannabis grow operations use less water per gram of product than outdoor farms due to tighter control of inputs. However, indoor cultivation shifts the environmental burden to energy use and carbon emissions rather than water withdrawal.

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The effect of cannabis on water tables also depends on its cultivation scale. In California alone, illegal grows have been linked to declining streamflows and drying wells in rural areas. Conversely, avocados, almonds, and other crops are grown on tens of thousands of acres and, in total volume, have a much larger water footprint. For example, almonds in California consume over 1.1 trillion gallons of water annually, a figure far beyond cannabis.

While cannabis can have a significant localized impact on water resources—especially when grown without regulation—it does not yet rival the large-scale water consumption of avocados or almonds in total volume. Still, its environmental footprint deserves careful oversight. Encouraging legal cultivation, sustainable irrigation, and environmental compliance will be key to minimizing cannabis’ effect on water tables as the industry continues to grow.

DeSantis In Trouble From Congress Over Blocking Marijuana

Congress is looking into DeSantis’s use of federal funds to block marijuana…despite Congress doing nothing about cannabis

Governor DeSantis was once the golden boy of politics. But during the election, he ran afoul of the current administration. This has caused him to appear weak in Florida and one compliant politicians are now seeing weakness, especially as the federal aren’t being overly warm to the state. The latest is DeSantis in trouble from Congress over blocking marijuana Amendment 3. Congress initiated an investigation into Florida Governor alleged misuse of state funds to oppose a marijuana legalization initiative, raising concerns about the ethical and legal implications of such actions.

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The controversy centers on the use of opioid settlement funds to finance an extensive advertising campaign against Amendment 3, a ballot measure aimed at legalizing recreational marijuana in Florida. Reports indicate the Florida Department of Children and Families allocated nearly $4 million from the state’s opioid settlement trust fund to Strategic Digital Services, a marketing agency, for an educational campaign highlighting the dangers of marijuana and other drugs.

Photo by Cappi Thompson/Getty Images

Critics argue that this campaign, which included over 13,000 television ads and more than 5,000 radio spots, effectively served as political propaganda against Amendment 3, rather than genuine public education. Notably, some of the funds used were originally intended for opioid addiction treatment programs, leading to bipartisan criticism. Republican State Senator Joe Gruters stated, “We do not spend taxpayer dollars in advance of a political issue.”

Further scrutiny has been directed at the Hope Florida Foundation, a charitable initiative led by First Lady Casey DeSantis. The foundation received a $10 million donation from a Medicaid settlement with Centene Corp., which was then distributed to two nonprofits. These nonprofits subsequently donated millions to a political committee opposing the marijuana legalization referendum, raising questions about the appropriate use of charitable funds for political purposes.

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In response to these developments, Florida lawmakers have launched a formal probe into the matter. Republican Representative Alex Andrade has accused key figures in the DeSantis administration of conspiracy and money laundering related to the misuse of funds. Governor DeSantis has defended the initiatives, attributing the investigations to political motives aimed at undermining his administration and his wife’s charitable work.

The U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI have been called upon to further investigate the allegations. While the DeSantis administration denies any wrongdoing, the controversy has sparked a broader debate about the use of taxpayer funds for political advocacy and the need for transparency and accountability in government spending.

As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these revelations will impact Governor DeSantis’s political standing and the future of marijuana legalization efforts in Florida.

The Best Pro Tips For Consming Outdoors

It is the thick of spring – a great time to be outside. And if you are out and want to consume, here is a quick guideline.

Using cannabis outdoors can be a deeply enjoyable and enriching experience. Nature offers a calming, open environment that can enhance the effects of cannabis in safe and meaningful ways. Here are some of the best tips and reasons to take your cannabis use outside and make the most of it.

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One of the biggest benefits of using cannabis outdoors is the heightened connection to nature. Whether you’re in a forest, by a lake, or just lounging in a backyard, cannabis can amplify your senses—making colors brighter, sounds richer, and the air feel more alive. It encourages mindfulness, helping you fully appreciate the moment and your surroundings.

Outdoor settings often inspire creativity. Many users report more vivid thoughts, new ideas, and deeper insights when consuming cannabis while immersed in natural beauty. At the same time, the calm of the outdoors pairs perfectly with cannabis’s relaxing properties, making it ideal for unwinding after a long day or easing stress.

The Best Pro Tips For Consming Outdoors
Photo by tekila918 via Pixabay

Being outside means better ventilation and fewer lingering odors, especially important when smoking. The open air also reduces the intensity of the smell, making the experience more discreet. Plus, being in a spacious environment gives you the freedom to move around, stretch, or even do light activities like hiking or yoga.

Tips for a Great Outdoor Experience

  • Choose the Right Strain: Sativa or sativa-dominant hybrids are great for daytime outdoor adventures due to their energizing effects.

  • Stay Safe and Legal: Always consume where it’s legal and safe. Avoid driving or going into unsafe areas.

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  • Bring Essentials: Water, snacks, sun protection, and a blanket or chair can make the experience more comfortable.

  • Respect the Environment: Leave no trace. Dispose of waste properly and be mindful of local wildlife and other people.

Combining cannabis with the great outdoors can refresh your body and spirit. With the right mindset and preparation, it can become one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy both.

The Best Cocktails For May

Winter is in the rear view mirror and summer is around the corner.  It is time to relax and enjoy – and here are May cocktails to help you along

May is a month of renewal and celebration. With warmer weather, blooming gardens, and longer evenings, it’s the perfect time to freshen up your cocktail repertoire. Whether you’re entertaining outdoors or simply unwinding after a long day, these five easy, unique cocktails bring bright flavors and a splash of history to your glass.

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The Southside

The Southside is a Prohibition-era cocktail, believed to originate from Chicago’s South Side. It was a favorite among speakeasy patrons who needed something smooth to mask the harshness of bathtub gin.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz gin
  • 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
  • 3/4 oz simple syrup
  • 6–8 mint leaves, saving one for garnish

Create

  1. Muddle mint with lime juice and syrup in a shaker
  2. Add gin and ice, shake well
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe
  4. Garnish with a mint sprig

The Best Cocktails For May

Strawberry Basil Smash

A modern twist on the classic “smash,” this cocktail celebrates spring produce. Smashes date back to the 1800s as a category of julep-like drinks with herbs and fruit. Fresh strawberries and basil are springtime staples that offer an aromatic, subtly sweet flavor. Mint is in season and this refreshing blend makes an ideal pre-dinner cocktail.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1/2 oz lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
  • 2 strawberries
  • 2 basil leaves

Create

  1. Muddle strawberries with basil with lemon juice and syrup
  2. Add vodka and ice and shake well
  3. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice
  4. Garnish with a basil leaf

Rhubarb Paloma

The Paloma, a tequila-based drink, is Mexico’s answer to the margarita, often considered more popular locally. This version gets a tart twist with rhubarb syrup. Rhubarb is in season and pairs wonderfully with citrus for a tangy, effervescent cocktail.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz tequila blanco
  • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 oz rhubarb syrup
  • Soda water

Create

  1. Combine tequila, grapefruit juice, and syrup in a shaker with ice
  2. Shake lightly and strain into an ice-filled glass
  3. Top with soda water
  4. Garnish with a grapefruit slice

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Elderflower Spritz

Inspired by the Italian Aperol Spritz, this floral version swaps in elderflower liqueur for a fragrant, lighter take. Light, bubbly, and aromatic, it’s the ultimate garden party cocktail.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)
  • 3 oz dry sparkling wine
  • 1 oz soda water

Create

  1. Combine all ingredients to a wine glass filled with ice
  2. Stir gently
  3. Garnish with a lemon twist or edible flower

Cucumber Collins

A riff on the Tom Collins, this version adds crisp cucumber to the classic 19th-century gin cooler. Cucumber brings a cooling element that pairs well with gin’s botanical profile.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz gin
  • 1 oz lemon juice
  • 3/4 oz simple syrup
  • 3 cucumber slices
  • Soda water

Create

  1. Muddle cucumber in a shaker, add gin, lemon juice, and syrup
  2. Shake with ice
  3. Strain into a tall glass with ice
  4. Top with soda
  5. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon

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