Sean Ludford

Undoubtedly, Vodka is terrifically versatile as well as the key component of many popular and classic cocktails. Without the Bloody Mary at Sunday brunch we all may just opt for an extended sleep-in. Vodka is an essential component to any bar (big or small).

Bourbon is America's drink, so deeply submerged in this country's history that most every obvious trace of its legacy has been eroded away by time, politics, and image problems.

Rum is a chameleon-like spirit; light or dark, silly or considerable, unadulterated and impregnated.

Tequila is one of the world's most mysterious and unique beverages. It is surrounded by much legend, myth, and lore both at home in Mexico and around the world.

The name, India Pale Ale, is derived from the style of Beer made by British brewers and intended for export to India in the late 18th and 19th century. British soldiers and "visiting" British colonizers insisted on comfort goods from the homeland.

Before the 1980s Grappa was scarcely known outside of Italy. Seemingly overnight Trattorias and Ristorantes in London, New York, and Chicago were offering Grappa

In a time of instant gratification, incredible mechanization, and homogenized flavors, Lambic stands on a lonely plateau of products that rely on old methods and uncompromised character.

Gin, the original flavored Vodka. Invented by the Dutch, where it is known as Genever (Dutch for juniper) and later adopted by the British. Gin is the primary ingredient of the “real” martini.