Brandy Rand

Ben SandrofNortheast Sales Manager, St-Germain (Cooper Spirits) BEN SANDROF is someone who knows the world of wine and spirits from all sides of the business.  From crafting the perfect cocktail to attending sales meetings, he’s represented brands from behind the bar as well as out in front, working as both... Read More

MAUREEN RUBINOCO-OWNER of CENTRAL BOTTLE WINE & PROVISIONS, CAMBRIDGE      Central Square and neighboring Kendall Square in Cambridge have become burgeoning biology and technology hubs, with MIT-spawned start-ups and notable companies like Google and Novartis setting up shop.  Not the only ones to miss the opportunity to be part of an... Read More

If you’ve been in this industry awhile, you’ve likely been served a drink by Alexei Beratis.  From behind the bar to behind the scene of some of Boston’s hottest bars and restaurants, Beratis now divides his time between beverage consulting(he owns Of the Spirits Beverage Consulting) and running the newly... Read More

It wasn’t too long ago that having an extensive whiskey selection was limited to a few specialty bars and stores. Most places simply stocked the standard call brands, because whiskey was not a staple on cocktail menus or “on trend” with mojito and martini obsessed consumers. What a difference a... Read More

During the chilliest months of New England weather, cozy bars are a snowbound escape for those looking to warm up – inside and out. After-dinner staples like Irish or Mexican coffee are often placed below the dessert menu, signaling the end of the night. Why not elevate and innovate with... Read More

Take a close look at beverage menus around the country, and you may start noticing an interesting ingredient in cocktails – beer!  The popularity of craft brews has been growing steadily over the years, resulting in a larger share of shelf space as well as expanded beer lists at bars... Read More

BARTENDER, I’D LIKE AN “APP-EALING” DRINKNext time a customer asks you for the ingredients in one of those fashionable pre-Prohibition era cocktails and you aren’t quite sure of the recipe, just turn to your iPhone.  Much more discreet and all-encompassing than a battered Mr. Boston Bartender’s Guide, there are dozens... Read More

In the beverage alcohol industry, there is never a shortage of new products, flavors and ideas to grab the attention (and wallets) of ever-fickle consumers. While some have a short shelf life, others have staying power and can change the way we think and drink. Here’s a glimpse at emerging... Read More