Drinking Made Easy Season 2 Episode 25 Ultra Premium Imperial Reserve
- April 11, 2012
- 51 min
Drinking Made Easy season 2 episode 25, titled Ultra Premium Imperial Reserve, is a boozy adventure through Boston, Massachusetts. The show follows hosts Zane Lamprey and Steve McKenna as they explore the city's rich history and local drinking culture while sampling some of the finest brews, spirits and cocktails the city has to offer.
The episode begins with Zane and Steve enjoying some delicious Irish coffee at Southie's favorite Irish pub - the Playwright. They then head to Boston Harbor Distillery on the city's waterfront, where they meet with master distiller Rhonda Kallman to learn how she creates her unique, award-winning spirits. Rhonda takes the duo through the distilling process, giving a detailed breakdown and tastings of their various products, including whiskey, rum and gin.
Zane and Steve then head to Bully Boy Distillers, located in Boston's vibrant Roxbury neighborhood. The distillery, founded by brothers Will and Dave Willis, is known for its high-quality spirits and locally-sourced ingredients. The hosts get a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery, learning about Bully Boy's impressive roots in Boston and the various techniques that go into crafting their delicious spirits.
Next up on the itinerary is a visit to the beloved Harpoon Brewery, one of New England's largest breweries. The hosts have a wide range of Harpoon's crafted beers to try, including their Belgian Quad, brewed with cinnamon and raisins, and their Boston-exclusive Dunkin' Coffee Porter, brewed in partnership with Dunkin' Donuts. Zane and Steve even get a tour of the brewing facilities and learn about the company's innovative brewing practices.
After leaving Harpoon, the duo heads to Trina's Starlite Lounge in Somerville, a cozy bar where the bartenders are known for creating custom cocktails with unique twists. The hosts sit down with bartender Sother Teague, who whips up a few creative concoctions using rare ingredients that are sure to make mouths water. The highlight of the segment is Sother's take on a classic Mai Tai, which he infuses with custom-made honey syrup and is served over smoked hickory.
As the night wears on, Zane and Steve stop by Roxy's Grilled Cheese, a local foodie favorite for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. To wash down those delicious sandwiches, the duo heads next door to Aeronaut Brewing Company, a local brewery that is quickly becoming one of Boston's top beer spots. Zane and Steve make sure to sample all of Aeronaut's unique brews, including their hoppy A Year With Dr Nandu and their Stowaway Milk Stout.
In the final segment of the episode, Zane and Steve head to JM Curley, a local gastropub with an impressive whiskey collection. Here they meet with general manager and whiskey expert Kevin Mabry, who walks them through JM Curley's impressive whiskey selection. The hosts get a primer on the most important whiskeys to know and taste some of the best - including the rare Pappy Van Winkle 23-year-old bourbon, which retails for a whopping $200 per pour!
Overall, Drinking Made Easy season 2 episode 25, Ultra Premium Imperial Reserve, is an adventure-packed tour through Boston's drinking scene, filled with unique spirits, delicious beers, and custom cocktails. Zane and Steve do an excellent job of highlighting the city's rich history and culture, making viewers feel as though they've been transported to the heart of Boston. This episode is perfect for anyone who loves good drinks, great company, and wants to explore a new city. Don't miss out!