To quote a term from the famous Appalachian moonshiner Popcorn Sutton, Florida loves its “likker” as much as the next Southern state, as well as our sweet tea and beer and wine and…
Whether you’re on the side that believes our sawgrass-laden peninsula is part of “the South” or not, we go to town on down-home, Southern-style sipping in this year’s Drinking Issue, touching on everything from creative koozies to local and regional distilleries.
Kate Bradshaw looks into the Sunshine State’s blue laws and drinking water. Scott Harrell discovers where Florida fits into the South’s craft beer scene. Cathy Salustri reveals the truth about bourbon and pays a visit to South Carolina’s Firefly Distillery, while also dipping into moonshine and a lesser-known daiquiri called the Florida Derby.
Plus, CL contributors Chris Fasick and Jamie Peiffer whip up 10 booze-filled and booze-free drink recipes to try at home.
If you’re still parched, visit this week's Food & Drink section, where you'll find a review of Oldsmar's Craft Street Kitchen (they craft a mean Smoked Old Fashioned); tips on Virginia wineries; and an update on Proper, a new barbecue and cocktail concept hitting downtown St. Pete.
—Meaghan Habuda
This article appears in Feb 25 – Mar 2, 2016.