Creative Twists on the Classic Tequila Cocktail

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Tequila is a well-known liquor noted for its vivid taste and ability to improve any beverage. While traditional tequila cocktails like the Margarita and Paloma have become household names, mixologists and fans continue to push the envelope of innovation by adding new variations to these time-honored beverages.

In this post, we'll look at some inventive takes on the classic tequila drink that will excite your taste buds and dazzle guests. As we begin on an adventure into tequila mixology, prepare to explore new tastes, inventive ingredients, and unexpected pairings.

Smoky and Spicy: The Chipotle Mango Margarita

The Margarita is one of the most classic tequila drinks, and this variation elevates it to a new level. The spiciness of chipotle peppers is combined with the sweetness of mango to create a wonderfully balanced combination of smokey and spicy tastes in the Chipotle Mango Margarita.

Muddle ripe mango pieces with a dab of chipotle powder in a mixing glass, then add tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup to taste. Shake vigorously and pour into a glass with a salt rim. Garnish with a mango slice and a little chipotle pepper for an added kick. The outcome is a spicy Margarita that will stimulate your senses.

If you’re ready to experience the Chipotle Mango Margarita and other creative tequila cocktails? Visit Thirst: Philippines’ First Online Liquor Marketplace today and explore our selection of top-quality tequila brands to elevate your mixology game!

Fresh and Fruity: The Watermelon Basil Paloma

The Paloma is a traditional tequila drink that blends tequila with grapefruit soda for a light and zesty taste. Try the Watermelon Basil Paloma for a unique spin.

Muddle fresh watermelon chunks and basil leaves in a glass, then add tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda. Gently stir in a basil leaf and a piece of watermelon. This Paloma innovation combines the luscious sweetness of watermelon with the herbaceous freshness of basil to create a colorful and energizing beverage.

Creamy and Decadent: The Spiced Mexican Hot Chocolate

While not a typical tequila drink, the Spiced Mexican Hot Chocolate provides a unique and indulgent twist for those looking for a warm and soothing tequila-based beverage. To begin, make a thick hot chocolate using unsweetened cocoa powder, milk, and a pinch of sugar. Add a shot of tequila, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and a dash of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.

Stir thoroughly, then top with whipped cream, cinnamon, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. This take on hot chocolate combines the drink's thick and velvety texture with the powerful tastes of tequila and toasty spices to create a wonderfully decadent treat.

Tropical and Exotic: The Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita

Look no further than the Pineapple Jalapeo Margarita for a tropical variation on the Margarita with a fiery edge. For a genuinely distinctive taste profile, this drink mixes the sweetness of pineapple with the fire of jalapeo peppers.

In a shaker, combine fresh pineapple chunks and jalapeo slices. Pour in the tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and pineapple juice.

Shake well and pour into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a slice of jalapeo. The Margarita takes you to a tropical paradise while packing a flaming punch.

Herbal and Bitter: The Cucumber Sage Margarita

The Cucumber Sage Margarita is a light and herbaceous take on the traditional Margarita. In a shaker, combine fresh cucumber slices and sage leaves. Pour in the tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and orange liqueur. Shake vigorously and pour into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with a piece of cucumber and a sage leaf.

The cold cucumber, fragrant sage, and tart lime combine to provide a wonderfully balanced drink with a hint of bitterness. It's a beautiful addition that adds a distinct herbal flavor to the traditional Margarita.

Citrusy and Floral: The Blood Orange Rosemary Paloma

The Blood Orange Rosemary Paloma is a lively and flavorful take on the classic Paloma. In a glass, muddle fresh rosemary leaves before adding tequila, blood orange juice, lime juice, and a splash of soda water. Gently stir in a rosemary sprig and a blood orange slice.

The zesty sweetness of blood orange combined with the herbal tones of rosemary results in a Paloma with a fragrant twist that is both exhilarating and aesthetically attractive.

Spicy and Tangy: The Mango Habanero Margarita

The Mango Habanero Margarita is a good alternative for individuals who want a robust and spicy taste profile. The tropical sweetness of the mango is combined with the searing spice of habanero chilies in this spin on the standard Margarita.

Combine ripe mango pieces and a slice of habanero pepper in a shaker. Pour in the tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and orange liqueur. Shake well and pour into an ice-filled glass. To add an interesting visual, garnish with a mango slice and a little habanero pepper. The sweet and tangy flavors of mango balance with the powerful heat of habanero, providing an exciting taste sensation.

Conclusion

The world of tequila cocktails offers endless possibilities for creative twists on classic recipes. From smoky and spicy concoctions to fresh and fruity combinations, these innovative variations allow mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts to experiment and discover new flavor profiles. Whether you prefer a twist on the Margarita, Paloma, or another tequila-based cocktail, exploring creative combinations can take your mixology skills to new heights.

7 Must-Know Tips For A Memorable Yacht Charter In Amalfi

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Looking to create lasting memories while exploring the picturesque Amalfi Coastline? A yacht charter could be just the ticket. This destination has something to suit all, including cliff-top restaurants, vibrant villages, and fascinating heritage and culture. The bonus of chartering a yacht? You set the tone of your vacation.

Read on to discover our seven tips to ensure a memorable yacht charter on the Amalfi coast.



1. Picking the Correct Season

When it comes to booking a vacation to the Amalfi coastline, it’s essential to choose the right season. Luckily, this part of the world boasts a Mediterranean climate. What does this mean? It’s home to mild winters and hot, dry summers, meaning you can visit all year round.

Of course, if you wish to avoid rainfall, the summer months are your best bet. Equally, if you wish to avoid crowds on your Yacht charter Amalfi, the beginning or the end of the season are great options. Although the temperatures may be slightly cooler, the water is still warm.

You can even get away with booking a trip to this part of the world very late in the season. In October, the sun still shines, yet the crowds have vanished, making it the perfect time to visit if you want a peaceful or romantic escape.



2. Create an Itinerary in Advance



Although going with the flow is an adventure, preparing a sailing itinerary is a great way to ensure you get to see everything you want on your trip. This comes in handy when doing your research or speaking to the agency you wish to charter the yacht with. They will likely have several tried and tested itineraries to hand.

Before picking one, consider what it is you want from your trip. Are you a history buff? If so, your itinerary should include visiting some of the Amalfi Coast’s famed heritage spots, UNESCO sites, medieval cathedrals, and Roman-style luxury villas.

Are you an explorer? Then Ponza and Palmarola Island are not to be missed! Both are renowned for their rugged coastlines, craggy heights, and mountain views, particularly those enjoyed from the top of Monte La Guardia.

More of a foodie? A visit to the celebrated Faraglioni Rocks in Capri will not be missed. Here, you can embrace Positano’s incredible amphitheater views while sampling the local Limoncello liqueur and fresh seafood in one of the area’s open markets or local restaurants.



3. Book in Advance

When planning a trip like this, booking in advance is important. The Amalfi Coast is an extremely popular area. Although it’s home to numerous mooring options, comprising both small-town ports and secluded bays, as well as larger, more expensive marinas, these do get fully booked - especially in the height of summer.

If you plan on traveling between July and August, book your charter well in advance so your crew can reserve places before your arrival.



4. Where Should You Begin Your Amalfi Yacht Charter?

The majority of Amalfi yacht charters sail from Naples. However, you can also chart from one of the neighboring towns of Castellammare di Stabia or Salerno. These places are easy to get to from the international airport of Naples.



5. Do You Need A Skipper?

If you aren't a sailor, this doesn't mean you can’t enjoy the Amalfi Coastline from the water. However, you must book a skippered yacht charter instead of a bareboat yacht charter.

For those wishing to take to the helm, a bareboat yacht charter is the answer. Before embarking on your trip, You must hold an RYA day skipper license or an RYA Yachtmaster license.



6. Choosing the Right Yacht



Picking the perfect yacht for your vacation is important to ensuring a memorable experience. The right vessel should be tailored to your group, which means it’s key that you do your research.




There are numerous yachts to choose from, including:

Sailing Yachts: These are the perfect option for those looking for a romantic or traditional sailing experience. These vessels allow all onboard to embrace the Almalfi’s picture-perfect waters while harnessing the power of the winds.

Catamarans: This is a popular option for groups looking for a vessel that boasts a roomy environment. They provide a perfect platform for cruising, particularly for those traveling with children.

Motor Yachts: These are more suited to adrenaline junkies, as they're celebrated for their speed. Despite this, they’re also renowned for their luxurious and comfortable amenities. A motor yacht is the perfect choice for individuals and families looking to access a variety of destinations on one trip.



7. What Should You Pack?




Once you’ve booked your charter, it’s a good idea to consider what you’ll need to pack. In addition to your standard holiday attire of flip flops, floaty dresses, sun hats, and sun cream, there are a few additional items that may come in handy on a yacht charter.

These include deck shoes, soft-side luggage, dry bags, any sea sickness medication you may require, waterproof attire, books, and a deck of playing cards.

Everything else, such as utensils, towels, bedding, blankets, speakers, and yacht equipment, will be found on board. You can always contact the charter specialists in advance if there is a particular item you require. In most cases, they’ll be able to accommodate your needs.



The Bottom Line

A trip to the Amalfi Coast has something to suit all ages and tastes. Following a few top tips, your vacation is guaranteed to be memorable!

Just plan an itinerary, pick the correct season, and choose a yacht tailored to your group and desired destination.

Sheraton Manila Bay’s KAPESTAHAN Coffee Festival Triumphs with Unlimited Coffee Tasting, Artistic Flair, &More

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Sheraton Manila Bay proudly presents "KAPESTAHAN," a weeklong coffee festival in celebration of Coffee Month, marking one of the four events commemorating Sheraton Manila Bay's 4th Hotel Anniversary. The event kicked off on October 15, 2023, at &More by Sheraton, aiming to showcase the rich coffee culture in the Philippines.

Stephanie Cabrejas, Marketing Communications Manager of Sheraton Manila Bay, remarked, "Our commitment is to showcase and celebrate the diverse flavors of Philippine coffee. Each cup is a unique expression of our culture and the natural richness of our land. We want to bring the heritage of coffee to the forefront, acknowledging the tireless efforts of our local coffee farmers and the artistry that goes into every roast and brew, all while reaffirming the position of &More by Sheraton as the coffee authority in Manila."

Since its opening in 2022, &More by Sheraton has gained a devoted following among epicurean diners and local coffee enthusiasts seeking
to explore artisan coffee experiences. True to its tagline, "Morning to Evening, Work to Fun," &More by Sheraton offers a bespoke coffee experience all day and provides an inviting community space that brings together coffee aficionados, artists, travelers, and locals in a vibrant and flavorful experience.

The KAPESTAHAN featured local beans from Sultan Kudarat, Benguet, Sagada, and Kalinga, heralded by Hasiera Lagom Coffee. Allegro Beverage added to the charm with an array of coffee essentials, ideal for both seasoned coffee connoisseurs and budding baristas. Coffee experts, including Gerald Atendido of Hasiera Lagom Coffee, Lyssa Visda of Allegro Beverage, and Renz Tuzon of "Sining, Kape, and Kultura," shared their insights on the nuances of the coffee industry. From the intricacies of bean sourcing to the art of brewing, their talks enriched the coffee journey for all attendees.

KAPESTAHAN transcends mere coffee tasting, offering an immersive experience into the artistic flair intertwined with coffee. Renowned artists from "Sining, Kape, at Kultura" showcased masterful coffee paintings and provided live demonstrations of their art and coffee calligraphy. The event also featured a Barista 101 Workshop, allowing attendees to delve into different coffee-making methods and techniques.

Throughout the day, guests savored unlimited coffee tasting and barchow sampling, providing an opportunity to explore the diverse flavors and profiles of the showcased local beans. In the evening, a live acoustic performance added a harmonious note to the festivities.

KAPESTAHAN will culminate on Saturday, October 21, 2023, with the 2nd Latte Art Throwdown Competition, in partnership with Pukaw, MilkLab, Allegro Beverage, and Barhead Solutions. It is a latte art competition that is open to aspiring barista students. Participants will showcase their creativity and skill in crafting latte art masterpieces, with the chance to win the prestigious Manila Latte Art Championship Trophy and other exciting prizes, including a gift certificate for an overnight stay with breakfast for 2 for the winning university/college, Php 2,000 worth of F&B credit, and a personalized coffee training with Coffee Master Ronnie Sararana at &More by Sheraton.

Don't miss this exciting conclusion to the KAPESTAHAN Coffee Festival, where creativity, community, and coffee come together to celebrate the Philippines' vibrant coffee culture. The participation fee is Php 1,500 net. To join, please call +632 5318 0788 or email sh.mnlsb.fnb@sheraton.com.

Sheraton Manila Bay is conveniently located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. Like us on Facebook and Instagram @sheratonmanilabay and follow us on Twitter at @sheratonmnlbay.