With Independence Day upon us, we can all celebrate with a toast to America. And there are many different ways to do so.
Acclaimed crystal glassware maker Riedel has designed a special tumbler that can actually enhance your beverage. This is nothing new — the shapes of wine goblets have long been tailored to specific qualities of red and white wines — but what it applies to might be. The Coca+Cola+Riedel is made to make Coke taste better in the glass. The shape, a sort of exaggerated hour-glass figure that echoes the iconic bottle itself, accentuates the aromas, carbonation and flavors of the soft drink. The glasses are available at Bed Bath & Beyond for 2/$25, or online at Riedel.com.
For an even more indulgent drink, Tillman’s Roadhouse in the Bishop Arts District has developed what they call “sweet tooth cures,” but which are really rich versions of classic milkshakes. One, S’mores for the Team, combines strawberry, java and maple marshmallows, cinnamon Graham crackers and dark chocolate bark; Not Your Momma’s Milkshake is equally awesome, mixing fresh vanilla bean ice cream, salted caramel and … wait for it! … a bacon straw. Yup. Bacon. In straw form. I’m gonna need to take a moment….
For those who don’t mind a little alcohol (I’m sure some of you qualify), there’s this recipe for the “big ginger,” of course from the Irish whiskey brand 2 Gingers: Two parts whiskey, poured into a pint glass of ice. Top with ginger ale and one wedge each of lime and lemon. For another refresher, try a “cherry rickey,” pictured: Shake two parts whiskey with fresh-squeezed juice from a quarter of a lemon and a teaspoon of maraschino liquid, then top with Sprite or 7-Up. And enjoy your Fourth!
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition July 4, 2014.