The Find: December 2012 Edition

Borrowing from the culinary world, mixology has a fresh take on the notion of “semi-homemade.” The new Cocktail Rx line features the tools (reusable stylish shakers) and essential ingredients needed to make eight servings of each of three festive holiday cocktails—Peppermint Martini, Cranberry Margarita and Pomegranate Martini. Home bartenders need only add ice, liquor and shaking power. Five other flavors are available as well, for after the holiday season. 

SRP $6.99-$7.99

cocktailrx.com

New to the U.S., Big Peat announces its style in cartoonish fashion. A “vatted” selection of robust malts from the Islay island—including Ardbeg, Bowmore, Caol Ila the rare Port Ellen plus a couple of other distillates kept secret by the producer, the Glasgow-based Douglas Laing Company—Big Peat flaunts its strong, smoky character. Having already earned both critical praise and design accolades, importer International Spirits and Wines currently sells the Scotch in New York, with plans to expand nationally.

SRP $59.99

internationalspiritsandwines.com

Not just another flimsy foam-rubber sleeve, the new BeerHugZ is a stylish, ergonomic holder that fits most bottles and cans. Colorful and easy to hold, BeerHugZ is foam-lined with a plastic exterior that is designed to keep beer cold and the hand holding it dry. The sturdy base has a bucket that prevents spillover from condensation that can create ugly rings on tabletops. SRP for individually packaged BeerHugZ is $4.99-$6.99; five colors; bulk orders and imprinting also available.

beerhugz.com

Wine boom and cocktail culture notwithstanding, there is still a place in the world for shots. Catering to the wild and colorful side of the shot spectrum, Tooters have reloaded, so to speak, with two new flavors (Maragarita and Triple Berry Punch), making nine total. The tubes are available for individual sale, or in newly redesigned party packs (holding 15 or 30 tubes); perfect for countertops by the register. SRP is $1.99 each, $9.99/15, $17.99/30; all Tooters are 30 proof. Top sellers are Ala Bama Slama, Blu Dacious Kamikazi and Red Diculous on the Beach.

mangobottling.com