It's the most wonderful time of the year and there are few places better to take it all in than New York City! Aside from shopping at Christmas markets, ice skating, admiring the Rockefeller tree, seeing the Rockettes, strolling by glowing storefronts and other Big Apple traditions, this city gets extra lit thanks to outrageously festive holiday pop-ups that completely transform favorite hot spots into whole new worlds filled with more spirit than you could ever wish for.

Flavored vodka is a polarizing subject. Most people either love the fact that you can get a vodka in nearly any flavor under the sun, or think they’re pretty gross and that nothing should taste like cake other than cake. While some flavors should probably be avoided at all costs (wasabi? Cotton candy? Cinnamon bun?) there are plenty of unique vodkas that step up a cocktail’s yum factor.

When you think of tequila, what comes to mind? Sugary margaritas? Horrible hangovers? Shots? It’s time to put an end to the so-so reputation tequila has as the cringe-worthy party spirit, one best not tasted. Whether your taste preference is for sweet, spicy, savory or somewhere in between, we have a bottle that’s perfect for your sipping pleasure—or for a friend's!

Though the spirits industry is often characterized as one dominated by men, that isn’t to say that there aren’t plenty of women who are currently at the helm of some of the world’s most notable liquor brands. From master distillers, brand ambassadors and owners to those at the forefront of marketing, innovation and every role in between, these women haven't let stereotypical industry “norms” hold them back.

The eighth US season of Speed Rack is back and stronger than ever with 25 of New York City's fiercest female bartenders kicking off the competition this Sunday, Nov. 18th at Melrose Ballroom. For those that don't know, Speed Rack is a nationwide competition that was specifically designed to showcase the talent of up-and-coming women in the cocktail industry, along with giving back to individuals who have been affected by breast cancer.

Franciacorta, located in the Northern part of the country, is best known for its namesake sparkling wine, Franciacorta. This sparkling wine is handcrafted in the “metodo classico,” or traditional method of re-fermentation and aging in one bottle, the same method used in that other sparkling wine destination, Champagne. That said, Franciacorta is held to even stricter standards than the bubbly there.

Though the spirits industry is often characterized as one dominated by men, that isn’t to say that there aren’t plenty of women who are currently at the helm of some of the world’s most notable liquor brands. From master distillers, brand ambassadors and owners to those at the forefront of marketing, innovation and every role in between, these women haven't let stereotypical industry “norms” hold them back.

Once upon a time, hard cider was more popular than beer was in the Northeast. Though it’s not quite as ubiquitous as beer is today, the fruity beverage is making a comeback thanks to the countless distilleries, cideries, and orchards coming together to produce quality, craft hard cider.

From the theatrical, molecularly inspired mixology at The Alchemist in London to the Art Deco decadence of The Great Gatsby-inspired Atlas Bar in Singapore, extravagant bars worth your money, time and sobriety are waiting to be discovered. That's why Master Sommelier, Jurgen Lijcops decided to research and write the ultimate guide to the best bars around the world.

Summer is coming to a close and if you're regretting not taking one last beach trip, don't fret. The Upper West Side's NYLO New York City Hotel is extending summer straight in to the fall season with its newest pop-up bar on the 16th-floor terrace called 'Secret Beach.' As a part of Arthouse @ NYLO's ongoing art and culture programming, the terrace has been completely transformed into a secluded, beach getaway with picture-perfect views of the Upper West Side skyline.

September is National Bourbon Heritage Month and no place is more appropriate to celebrate this liquor than in Kentucky, the birthplace of American Bourbon. Kentucky is home to 14 signature distilleries, 13 craft distilleries and 44 Louisville bars and restaurants that pride themselves on both their bourbon expertise and bourbon-centric offerings which include bourbon-infused dishes, craft cocktails and flights.

Whether or not you make a pilgrimage to Kentucky, the birthplace of bourbon this Sept., you can still celebrate America’s only native spirit right in New York City. In case you’re unfamiliar with what Bourbon is exactly, this liquor must be made with a minimum of 51 percent corn, aged in charred new oak barrels, stored at no more than 125 proof and bottled at no less than 80 proof. Otherwise, it’s not bourbon.

Haven’t heard of Saskatoon? Most people haven’t. Located about 300 miles north of Montana, it’s quickly rising in popularity thanks to landing the number 18 spot on the New York Times 52 Places to Go in 2018 list. In addition to the opening of the Remai Modern, the recently opened modern museum that’s put this obscure Canadian destination on the art map thanks to its impressive Picasso linocut collection, Saskatoon has a burgeoning culinary and craft drink scene.

California is an incredible state known for its sunshine, sandy beaches, incredible scenery, wine country and so much more. One of the often overlooked ways of traveling the Golden State? Through the exploration of its flourishing spirits scene! From an innovative distillery using cutting edge technology to produce unparalleled rums and whiskey to a distillery that incorporates San Francisco fog into its vodka, the opportunities to imbibe are endless.

Brian Nation could very well know whiskey better than anyone in the world. As the Master Distiller at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Ireland known for Single Pot Still Irish whiskeys that include Redbreast, Midleton Very Rare, and Green Spot, he’s responsible for the quality and taste of all new pot and grain distillates produced in the esteemed Midleton Distillery.

From wind-shaped caves and saguaro cacti to rocky canyons and incredible sunsets, Mesa, Arizona is known for its stunning desert landscape. What some might not be aware of, is how big its food scene is. With a bounty of locally sourced ingredients from nutrient-rich farm lands and an endless array of talented chefs pushing the boundaries of seasonal cuisine, this region serves as a culinary gateway to both Phoenix and Scottsdale, as well as the surrounding farms and agritourism attractions.

What is your definition of time well spent? Is it time spent honing skills to perfection? Time spent laughing with loved ones? Or perhaps it’s time spent reminiscing on past memories that bring a smile to your face, all the while making new memories you’re sure to cherish down the road. Embodying this idea of “Time Well Spent” is the premium spirits brand, Mount Gay Rum.

Back in 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt passed a law that allowed people to brew and sell their own beer, so long as it remained under 4 percent alcohol by volume. At the time, it had been 13 years since Americans could buy beer, thanks to Prohibition. Fast forward to today and beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in the U.S.—and many brews are well beyond that 4 percent ABV mark.

New York City is unparalleled when it comes to incredible dining, events, nightlife and anything else that screams fun. This Valentine’s Day, it's easy to go all out. Get the chocolates and the roses. And the jewelry. Perhaps a nice spa treatment to start the day off right? Whatever you decide, this roundup of date ideas, restaurants, bars, hotels and spas is everything you need to plan big.

With the winter season comes holiday parties, and no holiday get together is complete without a (preferably) constant flow of Christmas cocktails to keep your spirits bright.