Zinfandel’s story begins far from California’s sunbaked vineyards.
In this episode of The Second Glass, we follow the unexpected journey of Zinfandel from its Croatian origins as Tribidrag, through its Italian identity as Primitivo, to its reinvention as California’s heritage grape.

We explore everything a CSW-level student should know:
• DNA discoveries and Old World origins
• how Zinfandel arrived in the U.S. in the 1800s
• key regions like Lodi, Sonoma, and Paso Robles
• old-vine culture and why it matters
• the grape’s bold, high-alcohol, jammy style
• the surprising influence of White Zinfandel on its survival

Whether you’re studying for certification or just fascinated by wine history, this deep dive uncovers how Zinfandel became one of America’s most iconic—and misunderstood—grapes.

Malbec didn’t start in Argentina — but Argentina made it a star.
In this episode of The Second Glass, we trace Malbec’s journey from its ancestral home in Cahors to its modern dominance in Mendoza. You’ll learn how altitude shapes flavor, why the grape nearly disappeared in France, and what makes Argentine Malbec so lush, dark, and unmistakably iconic.

We break down the essential CSW-level knowledge:
• origin and history
• key regions and growing conditions
• classic tasting profile
• Argentina vs. Cahors stylistic differences
• blending partners and food pairings

Whether you’re studying for an exam or just curious about what fills your glass, this deep dive reveals why Malbec remains one of the world’s most compelling red wines.

Step into the smoky saloons of the 19th century with this episode of Drink Different, where we meet the original rockstar of the bar world: Jerry Thomas. Discover how this flamboyant showman turned bartending into performance art, wrote the world’s first cocktail book, and helped define American drinking culture.

More spirits wisdom is pouring soon—Drink Different has much more in the shaker. Stay tuned.

In this episode of The Second Glass, we explore the legacy of Masataka Taketsuru—the visionary chemist who brought Scotch tradition to Japan and helped create a new whisky identity. From his time in Scotland to founding Nikka, Taketsuru's story is one of cultural fusion, discipline, and devotion to quality.

More spirits deep-dives are coming soon from Drink Different—stay tuned.

In this episode of The Second Glass, we raise a tulip glass to the man who distilled ideas as deftly as he distilled spirits—Franciscus Sylvius. Often hailed as the father of gin, Sylvius was far more than a physician or flavor tinkerer. He was a thinker, a chemist, and a product of the Dutch Golden Age’s thirst for exploration—both literal and intellectual. Join us as we untangle the truth from the marketing, examine his real contributions to genever, and situate his legacy within the wider world of spirits history.

Stay tuned—Drink Different has much more coming your way, with new episodes, deep dives, and study content dropping soon.

In this episode of The Second Glass, we dive into the life and legend of William Schmidt—better known as “The Only William.” A towering figure in the golden age of bartending, Schmidt was equal parts artist, poet, and alchemist. From his ornate drink recipes to his influence on cocktail literature, we uncover how this German immigrant helped shape the theatrical and intellectual foundations of American mixology.

This is part of our Certified Spirits Educator (CSE) series—designed to bring spirits history to life through vivid storytelling and exam-ready insight.

🎧 More episodes are on the way from Drink Different, including explorations of spirits, cocktails, and the characters who made them iconic. Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.

Step into the spirited heart of New Orleans with this episode of The Second Glass, where we explore the history and cultural impact of The Sazerac House. From 19th-century apothecaries to modern-day cocktail education, this landmark represents more than just a drink—it’s a living museum of American mixology. Perfect for Certified Spirits Educator (CSE) candidates or curious drink lovers. More spirited stories and exam-ready insights coming soon from Drink Different.

The Savoy Hotel’s American Bar isn’t just a glamorous footnote in cocktail history—it’s the cradle of modern mixology. In this episode, we explore how bartenders like Ada Coleman and Harry Craddock turned this London landmark into a global powerhouse of drinks culture. From the invention of the Hanky Panky to the legacy of The Savoy Cocktail Book, this story is essential CSE listening. More spirited deep dives are coming soon—only from Drink Different.

In this episode of The Second Glass, we spotlight Constante Ribalaigua y Vert—“El Rey de los Cocteleros.” From the bar at El Floridita in Havana, Constante pioneered the art of precision, balance, and blended cocktails, forever changing the Daiquiri and inspiring generations of bartenders. Discover the legacy of this quiet giant and the golden age of Cuban mixology.

More episodes from the Certified Spirits Educator (CSE) series are on the way—only from Drink Different.

In this episode of The Second Glass, we dive into the spirited legacy of Gary "Gaz" Regan—author, iconoclast, and the orange bitters evangelist who redefined cocktail culture. From The Joy of Mixology to his Taoist bar philosophy, we unpack how Regan transformed bartending into a soulful craft. Whether you're studying for the Certified Spirits Educator (CSE) exam or just love a great story with your Negroni, this one’s for you.

🎙️ More CSE episodes are on the way—stay tuned and stay spirited with Drink Different.