Beginning mid-2011 and ending mid-2012 we took a pretty extensive road trip to find the oldest bars in the nation. During our journey we had a number of libations that stuck with us, that were noteworthy and worth recording, and that made us want to stumble back to the bar again and again.

But we also had a lot of pretty lousy drinks. It’s easy, we found, to screw up what would otherwise be a uncomplicated cocktail.

One in particular was the Old Fashioned. This otherwise unassuming and humble drink seems like it should be simple to whip up, but alas we found ourselves facing many a bartender that didn’t know how to mix three ingredients into one of America’s most distinguished drinks.

Ask just about anyone what Chartreuse is and they’ll tell you it is a color, a shade of green as a matter of fact.  Few people know that Chartreuse is actually a spirit created by monks high in the French Alps which has a history over 400 years in the making.

Rum Punch: An Ancient Drink Fit For A Country's Birthday

With the 4th of July just around the corner many are already planning their backyard festivities--probably composed of something on the grill and a variety of alcohol. After all, what's more American than a burger and a Bud on the lawn, right? But (yawn) hasn't that been done before?

Instead of the old standby why don’t you make this year's party both memorable and traditional by creating a batch of one of the most American of drinks: rum punch.

As we come into the full swing of the Christmas and Hanukkah season we are reminded of and partake in some of our most cherished traditions.  From decorating the Christmas tree to decorating the house, the lighting of the menorah, spinning the dradle and holiday gatherings spent with friends and family, it truly is a season of traditions and holiday spirit.  Of course with holiday gatherings come holiday drinks with none more popular than Eggnog.