While there will always be something to be said for going out on a Friday to a fancy cocktail bar, or a night out at the club — let’s be real — it’s winter, it’s freezing and you just want to get cozy and stay in your sweatpants. That said, if you’re still looking to stay social, why not throw the ultimate game night for you and your friends? Say goodbye to the drunken, annoying bar crowds and ridiculous cocktail prices and instead unwind and make new memories with your close friends at home. G

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.

Sparkling wine enthusiasts should visit Franciacorta, Italy, a region famed for its namesake wine and the storied history behind its many wineries. Sparkling wine has been produced in Franciacorta since the 16th century, though it wasn’t until 1961 that the first bottle of Franciacorta was produced. Here’s a look at some of the most historic, picturesque wineries in the region, some of which are housed in ancient family villas, others decorated with 15th century frescos.

Looking for a restaurant that has just as innovative of a culinary focus as it does a cocktail program? Then look no further than these nine San Francisco based hotspots. From clarified Cinnamon Toast Crunch infused milk to lemongrass air, these bartenders and mixologists are pushing the boundaries of what ingredients belong in a cocktail with their inventive recipes.

The Reddit and Initialized Capital co-founder Alexis Ohanian has tapped into his Armenian heritage to bring to the American spirits market Armenian brandy, known as konyak in Armenia. Launched in collaboration with Flaviar, a direct-to-consumer spirits club with whom the entrepreneur had initially invested in via Y Combinator, the brandy is appropriately named Shakmat, the Armenian word for chess which is one of the country's most beloved traditions.

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.

When’s the last time you dined in Long Beach? From Mexican, Cambodian and French to vegan and barbecue, you can find nearly every cuisine under the Californian sun in this diverse coastal city. Thanks to its array of multicultural influences, local California classics such as fresh seafood never get old. With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and hometown pride for locally owned businesses, Long Beach has an under-the-radar culinary scene waiting to be explored. Check out this roundup o

You can’t throw a holiday party without bubbly, am I right? Arguably the most festive of all libations, Champagne is the perfect party starter. When have you ever heard of someone saying “no” to a glass of this effervescent beverage? Whether popping a bottle to celebrate the New Year, to make a crowd-pleasing toast or to douse your best buds in a victorious Champagne shower, you simply can’t go wrong.

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.