In the mood to mix your nightcap and dessert tonight? Something boozy and sweet — and brief? Here's just the thing. It's giggle-inducing to call this a recipe; it's more a whisper of a suggestion, a nudge to let you know that yes, Scotch and ice cream go very well together. More

Q: I have given up drinking alcohol and would love to get suggestions for drinks that are not sweet or very caloric that go well with dinner.

I am looking for something to drink at cocktail parties and big dinners where tons of wine is served so that I do not feel deprived or left out of the fun. Any suggestions would be so appreciated!

Sent by Debbie More

Dark and bitter, but with a surprising hit of sweetness rising from the depths? Now this is a beer crafted specifically for the dog-days of winter. More

Item: Nobel Glass Travel Thermos
Price: 16oz thermos: $34.50, 12oz thermos: $29.50
Overall Impression: A stylish and functional way to tote your tea!

I have to admit that I was initially drawn to the Nobel Glass Travel Thermos on looks alone. Sleek and elegant, the thermos consists of a simple double-walled glass column topped with a bamboo lid. Even the small etched logo is unobtrusive and sits quietly towards the bottom. But my superficial admiration was quickly followed by curiosity. I had of course seen double-walled glass used in cups and glasses but never in a travel mug. And the little brew basket tucked into the top meant they were pitching it towards people interested in loose leaf, quality tea. This definitely called for further investigation. More

I am sure most of you have heard someone describe a wine as tannic. What exactly does this mean? What does tannin feel and taste like? Well, if you have ever had a cup of very strong black tea then you have definitely tasted tannin.

Tannin in wine is a textural sensation. Something we feel rather than taste. Tannin gives a wine form and grip. It is a structural element that helps frame a wine. More

Valentine's day is just around the corner, and if you have a special someone in your life (or even if you don't), you may want to make a few drinks. These gin and tonic variations are labeled 'his' and 'hers', but don't let yourself be limited. I enjoy a nice manly cocktail every now and then - and the pretty pink 'hers' variation is so delicious that men might find themselves reaching for it by the end of the night. More

Budget Wine: 2010 Burgáns Albariño
Region: Rías Baixas, Spain
Average Price: $13

I love Albariño. I have recommended this wine before, but it is such a great value, versatile wine, and we so enjoyed this Burgáns last night with dinner, that I needed to give it a shout out again.

The Albariño grape comes from Rías Baixas, the beautiful, rugged, northwestern coastal region of Galicia in Spain. Albariño wines have become very popular in the United States. Why? Firstly they are delicious and incredibly versatile at the table. They are also perfect for sipping as an apéritif. More

Currently, bitter flavors are enjoying a bit of a moment on the American cocktail scene. And it may be more than just a moment — all across the country, bartenders at some of the most elite bars are creating drinks to cater to this oft-ignored side of the palate. Europeans were one step ahead of us on this — long before Fernet Branca took San Francisco by storm, Italians had been enjoying, in the leisurely hours after dinner, a bitter liqueur they call 'amaro'. More

Q: I'm hosting a beer festival at home for 20 people in March. Everyone will be bringing two 22-oz beers or equivalent, with emphasis on variety and uniqueness.

I'm providing palate cleansers for during the tasting and a hearty meal for after, and I would love some ideas.There is at least one vegetarian for the event, so the apres-tasting meal will hopefully be easily modified for this guest. Your thoughts are most appreciated!

Sent by Anna More

Milk, dark, bittersweet — from desserts to cake to handcrafted bites, what are the best wines to pair with this wonderful food of love — chocolate? Read to discover some wines to pour with your favorite kind of chocolate this weekend. More