Blog – Page 3 – Butter, Bourbon, and Other Sins

Little Leaf Farms

March 14, 2023October 3, 2026Leave a comment

A review of some seriously good lettuce. Yes…lettuce.

I recently enjoyed some fabulous lettuce samples from Little Leaf Farms. I know what you’re thinking…what’s the big deal about lettuce? That’s what I thought until we took our first crunchy bite.

I made my husband and myself a couple of salads with the Baby Spring Mix. Please don’t judge my overuse of feta cheese – it’s so good!

Holy crunch!

I am not exaggerating. We both looked at each other and said this is the crunchiest lettuce we’ve ever had. I am unsure how Little Leaf Farms is doing it, but I have never enjoyed a salad like that. Let’s face it, the first word in the name of this website is “butter.” I don’t ever get excited about lettuce or a salad. What really amazed us was that after the lettuce made a trip from Massachusetts to Illinois, it then sat in our refrigerator for a few days before I made the salads. And still, it was as crunchy as if I had plucked it out of my own garden.

Clean from the start

Little Leaf Farms does have a “little” secret to creating what might be the world’s best lettuce. They have a unique, advanced growing system in their 10-acre greenhouse called Clean From the Start™. Their goal is to bring the local community fresh, nutritious lettuce that isn’t shipped from far away. Thankfully, you can also have Little Leaf brought right to your door with Amazon Fresh or Instacart.

The Clean From the Start™ growing system uses a hands-free technique, which means there’s no need to triple-wash the lettuce like other lettuces you find in the grocery store. Producers of field-grown greens often use chlorine-based cleaners and other chemicals to get the lettuce clean before it is shipped to the stores. Little Leaf Farms is committed to chemical and pathogen-free lettuce.

It begins with Non-GMO seeds planted onto a gutter that enters the greenhouse via a conveyer belt. The seeds then receive plenty of natural sunlight and recycled rainwater for several weeks. Naturally, pests are kept under control with free-roaming ladybugs and other insects that help keep the unwanted ones away. Little Leaf refuses to use chemical pesticides on the greens you consume.

Once ready to eat, the lettuce is packaged in a recyclable container and shipped to local stores within 24 hours. Local shipping is extremely important to Little Leaf Farms. They believe in the importance of eating your greens before losing their nutritional value and fabulous crunch. Plus, cutting down on long-distance shipping is better for the environment.

More salad in my life

If I had known ahead of time how crunchy the lettuce was, I would have recorded it. No joke. If anything, I am tired of brown, scary-looking bagged salad mixes from the store. Most of us are lazy when it comes to washing, slicing, and dicing to eat a salad. I love convenience, and if it’s something that has health benefits as well, I am all about it. As you know, we love to eat. If we can enjoy a salad now and then, it’s best that we do.

I have downloaded some great recipes from Little Leaf Farms as well. As it turns out, salad doesn’t have to be boring. Sometimes we need some new, fresh ideas. How about a loaded Greek salad with Lemon Vinaigrette? Or Buffalo Chicken Tender salad? You can find the recipes here.

I hope I haven’t shocked anyone with my new love for salad. Don’t worry; I still love butter and bourbon; however, my heart and waistline are pleased to have met Little Leaf Farms.

Buchanan’s Pineapple

March 13, 2023October 3, 2026Leave a comment

Buchanan’s Pineapple is tropical sunshine in a bottle.

Buchanan’s Whisky is well known for its blended Scotch whisky, but are you aware of one of the most popular ways to mix it? In the Hispanic American community, Buchanan’s whisky is often mixed with pineapple juice as a refreshing cocktail (The Buchanita). So, Buchanan’s made it even easier by combining pineapple and whisky in one bottle. Buchanan’s Pineapple is the first of its kind in the Buchanan portfolio, and you’ll be glad they finally did it. The company was generous enough to send me a sample, and here’s what I found…

The Nose:

The aroma is pineapple-forward with other citrus.

The Palate:

I have to repeat pineapple-forward, but it’s not overkill. This is a sweet-flavored whisky; when they say pineapple, they mean pineapple. On the palate, there is a light note of caramel and vanilla.

The Finish:

At the finish, you’ll remember you’re drinking a blended Scotch whisky. The slightest taste of iodine lingers on the tongue along with tropical fruit.

I know there are skeptics out there regarding flavored whisky; however, perhaps that’s because they had to cut their teeth on the hard stuff back in the day. Today, with a whisky like Buchanan’s Pineapple, a newbie can try whisky without getting “burned.” At only 70 proof, it goes down easy and reveals the slightest taste of Scotch. For old pros, Buchanan’s shakes things up a bit and makes drinking Scotch fun. The pineapple is surprisingly refreshing, and well, to tell you the truth, it was a welcome change for someone currently living through a northern winter. It took me to a tropical paradise, which is what Buchanan wants to do.

Buchanan’s Pineapple is running a campaign on social media for those 21 and older called “It’s Piña,” and it’s all about encouraging a tropical state of mind, whether at home or out on the town. James Buchanan, the founder of Buchanan’s whisky, believed in community and sharing, which led to the 200% concept: 100% American identity + 100% Hispanic identity = 200% life. How beautiful is that?

I don’t see Buchanan’s Pineapple as a Scotch to sip neat but rather on the rocks. Even better, it’s perfect for cocktails. Check out the recipes for Piña Fizz and Bucha Colada.

Kayla Houchin: Charity Water

March 11, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

“Everyone should have access to life’s most basic need. If I could have any wish for anything in this world, it would be that everyone has safe and clean drinking water.” ~ Kayla Houchin

Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kayla Houchin, founder of Sonder Bakehouse in Fargo, North Dakota. If you ever get to meet Kayla, please take it. She is the kind of person who reminds you there is goodness and joy in a sometimes tumultuous world. You see, Kayla loves to bake, but more importantly, she loves people. This shows even in the name she chose for the bakehouse. “Sonder” is the realization that everyone you meet, every stranger, has a story all their own and a complex life just as you do, even if you know nothing about them.

Kayla credits the woman who babysat her as a young girl, Karla, for lighting her fire for baking. They would spend time together in the kitchen baking, making messes, and sharing conversation, and her life changed because of it. Today, Karla, now 76 years old, is back in the kitchen, spending time with Kayla at Sonder Bakehouse whenever she can. As Kayla says, “I believe baking brings people together.”

Even while at college, where Kayla studied to be a teacher, the baking bug never left, and she soon learned that people were happy to pay for her efforts so they could enjoy the delicious things coming out of her kitchen. She baked for weddings, fundraisers, and whenever the community needed her help. Fast forward to 2021, and Kayla had to decide between teaching and baking, two things dear to her heart. The stars aligned, and she knew it was time to make the jump, and now here she is, running Sonder Bakehouse. The world may be a better place thanks to Kayla’s fabulous, sweet treats; however, it’s the message she is spreading through those treats that make one stop and consider how they, too, can make the world a better place.

Inspired by a book

Kayla is an avid reader and all-around knowledge seeker, and several years ago, she read the book, “Start Something That Matters,” by Blake Mycoskie, which discusses finding one’s purpose and using your talents to make a difference in the world. The book is full of success stories about passionate people helping others, and Kayla was specifically drawn to the story of Scott Harrison, who wrote “Thirst,” a book that spreads the word about the world’s need for clean water and how we can help. Have you ever seen something and knew you were meant to see it? That’s what happened to Kayla. She knew immediately that her talent for baking would be used to help bring clean water to those who need it.

The story gets more impressive. As luck, coincidence, or perhaps God would have it, it just so happened that Scott would come to Fargo, North Dakota, to speak just four months after Kayla read his book. She went to hear him speak, and that was it. She wasn’t going to waste any more time. When her next birthday came around, Kayla launched her first birthday campaign on social media to raise awareness and money for Charity Water. This charity uses all donations to bring clean water to areas of the world that do not have it.

Today, Kayla continues her birthday campaigns (in 2019, her campaign raised $17,000) and, of course, uses Sonder Bakehouse to raise money to bring fresh, clean water to people in countries without it. She also speaks at schools; some of her sweetest stories come from those times as she’s seen the hearts of children willing to give. Kayla says, “One 5th grader gave me $100 and said it was their report card money. A kindergarten student gave me $7 and some odd change; everything in her piggy bank.” Listening to Kayla speak with passion in her voice and hearing her impact on children and the world gave me chills the entire time. Another child, deeply moved as Kayla spoke of the world’s need for clean water, has since published a book while in 8th grade about the need.

Supporting Charity Water

Sonder Bakehouse offers regular events to raise money for Charity Water, such as experiences that guests sign up for, with part of the price going toward clean water. You can also find baked goods, like a box of beautiful macarons on her site to order and support Charity Water.

boxes of colorful macarons — Image Credit: https://sonderbakehouse.com/charity-water-macarons/charitywater-macarons

In May, an exciting event is coming up, hosted by Kayla, called Fargo Gala: Charity Water. Kayla took a shot and reached out to Scott Harrison, assuming the chances were slim that such a busy person, heavily involved in clean water charities, would have the time to speak at a gala in North Dakota. Chances are worth taking, and Scott will speak at this critical event on May 2nd. You can find more information about the Fargo Gala here.

When I asked Kayla how others can get involved, she said, “Get involved however you can. Anything you enjoy doing, you can turn it into a beautiful giving moment.” Kayla reminds others that it’s not always about money. We can also raise awareness with social media posts and bring up the topic in conversation.

I do a lot of interviews, and I can promise you this…I will never forget Kayla Houchin, her empathetic heart, and her passion for giving to others. One of Kayla’s favorite quotes, which you’ll find in Sonder Bakehouse, is “You’re the Magic.” I hope this story resonates with many, and if only one more person uses their gifts to help others and share their magic, the world will be better because of it.

Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey

February 18, 2023October 3, 20261 Comment

Hear me out. I am fairly new to the bourbon whiskey scene but came in fast as a writer who does research on topics I know little about. My love for bourbon is born not only out of taste but also out of respect for its history and stories. I’m full of random facts and constantly learning more. One thing I learned early on when studying bourbon is that you don’t mess with the way things are done. It makes those of us who believe in the rich traditions of Kentucky bourbon, nervous. After tasting a bourbon with the added flavor of chocolate, I see that tradition can remain as whiskey evolves.

Ballotin is created by Saloon Spirits, LLC, in Louisville, Kentucky, and was founded by Paul Tuell. Paul is a Kentucky boy himself and didn’t go into this half-hazard. He understands bourbon and has created a drink that brings out the beautiful bourbon notes we love rather than covering them up. It’s like pairing the right chocolate with the perfect bourbon, all in one bottle.

My husband and I sat down to finally taste our bottle of Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey the other night. It had been torture opening the bottle each day just to get a sniff and maybe steal a tiny sip here and there. I felt it was best we do not drink it on a weeknight in case we couldn’t resist overindulging. I have to say, this drink is tough to put down.

The notes in Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey

I recommend you allow the Ballotin to open up before beginning your taste. You can do this by allowing it to sit in the glass for a while or adding a couple of drops of water.

Here are the notes we found:

The color

The gorgeous color changes depending on the lighting. At first, I saw a deep, golden amber and then near a different light, the whiskey was a garnet red.

On the nose

*Very vanilla forward with sweet dark cherry.

*A slight hint of oak

*Pipe tobacco

*After it opened up we noted a nuttiness as well

The Palate

*On the tongue, dark chocolate as well as vanilla and mocha

*Spicey notes (slightly cinnamon) mingling with tobacco

The Finish

*caramel finish that lingers on the tongue for quite some time

What surprised us is the layers of this chocolate whiskey. I wasn’t expecting it. We were giddy with excitement (you understand I’m sure) as it continued to open up and we continued to taste new notes, including butterscotch and a subtle hint of orange.

Add Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey to your collection

Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey feels and tastes like a luxurious dessert. There’s a sweetness that is far from overbearing and it lessens the burn often felt by whiskey. I think those new to bourbon might like to give it a try for that reason alone; however, the taste is the best reason.

Seasoned bourbon whiskey drinkers will enjoy something new and different and be amazed at how this does taste like bourbon — like a rare and unique one. Ballotin Chocolate whiskey isn’t a bottle of whiskey with some chocolate thrown in. It’s well thought out, just as if one were pairing the right chocolate with the right bourbon.

Mr. Tuell has no intentions of turning out as many flavors as possible. He tells Kentucky Living, “I never want to see a day when there is Cotton-Candy whiskey, believe me,” he says. “However, people have become more accustomed to drinks and foods that infuse flavors that they never would have thought of before. Plus, what we are infusing into our mix are all off the bourbon flavor wheel.”

I say it is perfection and a welcome surprise.

Angel’s Envy Bourbon

February 18, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

I was quickly spoiled in the bourbon world since Angel’s was one that I tasted pretty soon after I became interested in whiskey. Angel’s Envy is absolutely one of the smoothest out there. And when I say smooth, I mean not just taste but how it feels. The first time I sipped it, I said it felt like velvet on my tongue, though I think silk is a better word. I have yet to find anything that compares.

A Little History

Lincoln Henderson developed well-known brands such as Gentleman Jack and Woodford Reserve. He was a master distiller, and after he retired, his son Wes approached him about starting a family business. Dad agreed, and the business became Angel’s Envy.

The distillery in downtown Louisville, Kentucky is the youngest and opened its doors in 2016. Don’t let that fool you though. The distillery is young, but Angel’s Envy is steeped in Kentucky Bourbon history.

Have you ever wondered how Angel’s Envy gets its name? The alcohol that evaporates as the bourbon sits in barrels for years is traditionally called the “angels’ share.” What’s left is then the envy of the angels.

How It’s Distilled

They say Angel’s Envy is Scotch-inspired and American-made (with a dash of rebellion). I say it’s the perfect combination.

Like Scotch, Angel’s Envy uses a secondary barrel finish, but not just any barrel — ruby port wine barrels. That’s where the rebellion comes in. Angel’s Envy was among the first to use such a cask to finish a bourbon. Bourbon and port wine are introduced to each other, and the reaction is the sweetest, velvety perfection you’ve ever met.

Oh by the way, the distillers of Angels’ Envy are pure perfectionists and take their craft seriously, tasting every barrel before we consume it. It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it.

The Notes

After aging for 6 years, the bourbon spends 6 months in the port casks. What’s left are some of the world’s most beautiful notes:

The color — golden amber
The aroma — caramel, maple syrup, nuts, and vanilla
The palate — creamy vanilla, tangerine, slightly smokey
The finish — hints of Madeira (Portuguese wine), smooth, silky, it lingers on the tongue

How To Enjoy Angel’s Envy

With its list of smooth, almost sensual notes, certainly, Angel’s Envy needs no additions to make it enjoyable. If you haven’t found a bourbon you enjoy or are new to bourbon, I think it’s the perfect one to try. Angel’s has considerably less “burn” than some bourbons. But be warned, you’ll compare everything else to it and it’ll be tough to beat.

Women and Bourbon Whiskey

February 18, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

As a woman who loves bourbon, I’m often left feeling like I’m forcing myself into a men’s club when I order two fingers or want to join in on the bourbon conversation. Don’t get me wrong. I am not man-bashing. My husband can attest, I’m a big fan of men. It’s just that most men probably don’t realize there are women out there who enjoy the layers of notes in a fine bourbon and the fun discussions that come from it (if they can find someone to talk to).

Times are changing for sure, but the world of bourbon is still aimed at men. Yet, I know women, including myself, who are fascinated by the stuff and enjoy drinking it. It’s no mystery as to why this attitude exists. Bourbon is as old as America itself, and with that comes old customs and habits that are tough to break. Back in the day, it wasn’t ladylike to go into a bar, let alone enter a smoke-filled room with gents and ask for a whiskey. Men today certainly aren’t against a lady drinking bourbon — they just aren’t used to it. And hey, it goes both ways. If a guy wants a pink comso, let him enjoy his cosmo.

If you are new to bourbon, as a woman it is intimidating for sure. Here’s the thing: you were born for tasting layers of flavor. It sounds dramatic but hear me out. According to Health, women’s senses behave differently than men’s and it may make them better at catching flavors and aromas. When tested, women often pick up smells that men can’t, and there are actually scientific reasons for it. For females, the area of the brain that controls our ability to smell shows 43% more brain cells and nearly 50% more neurons than a man’s. And when it comes to taste, women have more tastebuds on their tongues than men do. Interesting stuff. It’s not a competition; however, it’s an encouragement for the gal who wonders if she can taste bourbon as well as the guys.

If you need more encouragement, check out the awesome ladies from BourbonWomen.org. The founder of the organization, Peggy Noe Stevens, recognized a need for women to find like-minded women who enjoy bourbon whiskey. She is a Master Bourbon Taster and, in the past, she felt odd having so much knowledge, understanding, and love for bourbon in a world where she almost didn’t feel welcome. You can search for local branches of Bourbon Women in your area, here.

If you’re considering trying bourbon or learning more about it; jump in. If you’ve loved bourbon for a while now, keep sipping away. Bourbon whiskey was meant to be shared and everyone is welcome.