Archive for the ‘Culture’ Category

Starr African Rum

Starr African Rum

Starr African Rum

Rum Diaries: Africa

It’s been said that good ideas can come from anywhere. While this is not always true (case in point: the dimwit who changed Coca-Cola’s formula), it IS true that good rum can come from anywhere—even Africa. And we can prove it. Starr African Rum ($30.00) hails from the island of Mauritius, just off the southeastern coast of Africa. As a former French colony, and with Mauritian Creole as their daily spoken language, it’s almost like they’re in the Caribbean, so they know a thing or two about rum. This ultra-refined spirit derives its smooth, clean taste from sophisticated distilling techniques, and its unique flavor comes from the island’s rich, volcanic soil, reflecting the vivacity of its African roots, with hints of citrus and cardamom. Serve over ice with fresh lemon, in an African Rum Punch, or of course, in a Rum and Coke—original formula, thank you very much.

An Underground Education

An Underground Education

An Underground Education

Know It All…

If there’s a crowd formed at a cocktail party, odds are a million to one that you’re at the center of it, regaling eager partygoers with your tales of swagger and adventure. However, if you’d ever like to steer clear of personal anecdotes for a stretch (it is rude only to speak of oneself for too long, regardless of how much prodding you receive), browse through An Underground Education ($14.00) by Richard Zacks for some backup conversation ammo. This volume is filled with entertaining tidbits, such as the fact that Sir Isaac Newton died a virgin, women didn’t start wearing underwear until the 20th century, and that the 1949 Nobel Prize for Medicine went to a doctor who performed lobotomies with an ice pick. Fascinating conversation starters, no doubt. Of course, in addition to that story about your Outdoor Inflatable Twister Game and a case of Tartuf Langhe White Truffle Oil.

Sir Francis Bacon Peanut Brittle

Sir Francis Bacon Peanut Brittle

Sir Francis Bacon Peanut Brittle

Treat Fit For A Queen (Who Enjoys Bacon)

As you discussed with the Queen last week, Sir Francis Bacon is easily one of your top favorite British philosophers (no offense to John Locke, of course). And as the creator of empiricism (aka the theory that all human knowledge comes from sensory experience), Sir Bacon would truly have loved to indulge his senses in a fat hunk of Sir Francis Bacon Peanut Brittle ($18.00). At once savory, salty and sweet, your tongue will enjoy a unique, bacon peanut brittle covered with a rich, delicate coat of milk chocolate. Allow your nose to pick up the faint hint of a bacony scent as you revel in the crunchy feel of bacon peanut brittle between your teeth. And the next time you have tea at Buckingham Palace, be sure to bring some along. According to her majesty’s secret service, the old gal should already be stocked up on accompanying bacon accoutrements, such as Bacon Candy Canes, Bacon Floss and Doughnut Bacon Maple Ale.

Stay Puft Caffeinated Marshmallows

Stay Puft Caffeinated Marshmallows

Stay Puft Caffeinated Marshmallows

Who You Gonna Call?

As a sucker for all things pop culture (can you say Space Invaders Salt and Pepper Shakers?) there’s nothing that satiates your appetite for nostalgia more than an edible tribute. The licensed Stay Puft Caffeinated Marshmallows ($15.00) play off the iconic Marshmallow Man with a gourmet twist. The delicious marshmallow morsels are packed with over 100 mg of caffeine, which will keep you awake through a Ghost Busters movie marathon no problem. However, don’t be surprised if you start seeing things when you come down from your caffeine high. We ain’t afraid of no ghosts!

Seven Deadly Sins Wine

Seven Deadly Sins Wine

Seven Deadly Sins Wine

Sinfully Delicious

Sometimes there’s nothing more effective then a well-timed, backhanded compliment. Something like, “Wow! Your hair cut makes your face look SO much less fat!” Or, “I’m so happy you finally found someone as unsuccessful as you.” But other times, it pays to be a little more subtle. Next time you’re invited to a dinner party by one of the many business associates riding your coattails, bring along a bottle of Seven Deadly Sins Wine ($16.00) to do the dirty work for you. The elegant series, designed by Spanish agency Sidecar, features each of the seven deadly sins interpreted with stunning colors and typography. The shiny gold bottle inspires envy and the red, lingerie laced bottled is as lusty as it gets. Each label in the collection features a deadly sin. Your challenge will be gifting just one.