This edition of the OnMilwaukee #WeWant
Must try it: Usquaebach Old-Rare Blended Scotch Whisky
Light bodied, slightly spicy, a tad malty and with just a hint of smoke, this Usquaebach -- which I will not try to pronounce -- comes in a striking flagon. While I usually prefer more smoky and peaty single-malt whiskies, I like that this smooth blend is not too oaky. That seems a rarity. – Bobby Tanzilo
Sip it: Whistlepig Straight Rye Whiskey
I'll be the first to admit I'm not expert on rye whiskey. I tend to focus my energies on single malt scotches. But two delectable examples from Whistlepig – aged and bottle on the same farm in Vermont where the rye grain is grown – caught my attention this week. There's a 12-year-old "Old World" label that's 86 proof and is aged in a blend of Sauternes, Madeira and Port barrels from Europe. It packs a creamy vanilla and honey luster that nestles alongside a bit of spice and fruit ($118 retail). But I especially liked the slightly younger (10 years) but more potent (100 proof) concoction, aged in bourbon casks, that was spicier, with a surprising hint of mint and citrus. This one – which retails around $75 – earned 96 points from Wine Enthusiast. whistlepigwhiskey.com – Bobby Tanzilo
Drink it: Svedka grapefruit jalapeño vodka
At first, I thought this sounded gross. Then I thought about how much I actually like both grapefruit and jalapeño peppers and decided not to knock it before I tried it. Turns out, this shit is delicious. There are a bunch of interesting cocktails on the website to make with this spicy, refreshing booze, but I prefer it mixed with a little LaCroix. – Molly Snyder
Treat Yourself With It: Club Vivant
Wine subscriptions are great, but what's better? Sparkling wine subscriptions. Sparkling doesn't get enough attention outside of special occasions. You don't have to wait for your kids to get married to open a bottle of bubbly. With Mumm Napa's Club Vivant, you get three bottles (their choice) mailed out to you every three months. Think you don't have occasion to drink a bottle a month? Why do you need a reason? There is no Sparkling Wine Appropriate Regulatory Committee; just make one up. Watching the finale of your Netflix show, finally eating together at the table like real people, or your sparkling shipment just arrived - all good reasons. – Nick Barth
Drink it: Meiomi Pinot Noir
Meiomi (May-oh-mee) is a Pinot Noir that gets its fruit from the coastal areas in California and is a lush and balanced favorite. This is a terrific wine at a decent price as it retails just under $20. It is one I regularly go to and enjoy with food or alone. It has a smooth taste with cherry notes that are juicy, sweet, and fresh on the tongue. Finishes fruity and smooth! – Carolynn Buser
Drink it: Lamole di Lamole Chianti Classico (blue label) 2011
From a historic Tuscan vineyard comes this strong, rich Chianti that runs deeper than just the muscle provided by Sangiovese's tannins. Maybe it's the dashes of Cab and Merlot speaking, but there's also a nice balance of floral and spice notes that accompany a blackberry-like sweet-tartness. The effect is of a complex kaleidoscope of flavors that mean this round gem can stand up to grilled steaks, hearty roasted autumn vegetables, ripe cheeses and even truffles. Or just pop the cork and cozy up next to the hearth with this satisfying, elegant wine. Retails for about $20. A grey label "riserva" blends Canaiolo – instead of Cabernet and Merlot – with Sangiovese. I hope to try that next. – Bobby Tanzilo