Change is on the menu. Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, and Kathie Durbin, Director of Alcohol Beverage Services, unpack how consumer habits, global trade, and local policy are reshaping the drinks landscape. From falling overall alcohol use to surging curiosity about flavor, moderation, and convenience, guests examine the forces affecting your next purchase.

Wine Educator Robert Cavanaugh and Kensington Store Manager Preston James share smart, budget‑savvy ways to choose wines and spirits for holiday parties, stocking stuffers, and tasteful gifts. Get expert tips on dessert wines, eggnog, and global liquors. And learn how to score rare bourbons at great prices. Want a signature cocktail for your celebration? Try Robert’s variations on the Kir Royale or Preston’s overnight sangria.

How do control systems balance great selection, fair pricing, and public health while still celebrating local flavor? Host Jocelyn Rawat set up in Bethesda at the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association's Administrators Conference with leaders from across the country to share what’s working—from smarter stores and faster delivery to regional spirits and traditions that tell a story. Guests reveal answers to some compelling questions, including: Does Prohibition still influence today's spirits? Which monsters make the best drinks? And who stole the huckleberries?

Your book club will love these novels served with their famous cocktails.

ABS Liquor Store Assistant Manager Mike Gantt and MCPL Librarian Nathan Chadwick join host Jocelyn Rawat to curate a list of a dozen books and their signature drinks that will keep readers entertained while they relax by the pool or plan a cocktail-themed book club. Guests share literary insights paired with bartending tips – like why James Bond’s preference for “shaken not stirred” results in a weaker drink or how some bars incorrectly make the tequila sunrise.

The episode coincides with Montgomery County Public Libraries' second annual Color Our World Adult Summer Reading program.

Can you guess the top ten best-selling beers, wines and spirits? ABS Communications Manager Melissa Romeo and Breakthru Beverage Division Sales Director Joe Giardina join host Jocelyn Rawat to reveal the ten most purchased products by category, the broad array of products available through the ABS warehouse, and how new products come to the Montgomery County market. Guests also recommend some popular mixed drinks you can make with the top-selling liquor.

ABS Special Events Licensing Manager Roddy Aguirre and Parks Activation Director Mike Coppersmith join host Jocelyn Rawat to discuss upcoming Montgomery Parks festivals with alcohol, Parks rental facilities, and the ABS special events licensing program. Play along as guests take a quiz about which events need a license. Wedding reception? Block party? Concert? HOA meeting? Grand opening? The answers might surprise you.

Discover the culture of Mexico and the nuanced flavors of premium sipping tequila.

ABS Community Business Engagement Specialist John Bowles and Clase Azul Mexico Global Brand Maestro Rubén Vargas join host Jocelyn Rawat to discuss tequila-making practices, tips for enjoying premium expressions, and traditional cocktail recipes. Guests examine tequila’s growth in popularity and how you can be the first to learn about masterclasses and other tasting events in ABS retail stores.