#Pappy Van Winkle bourbon

[bourbontrend]

Discover the magic of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon paired with the elegance of opera in Kentucky!🍂🍷 Don't miss the unique chance to win a bottle and support the arts. Get all the details on the amazing OperaLex raffle and more. Cheers to culture and bourbon!✨ #PappyVanWinkleBourbon #KentuckyTradition #OperaLexRaffle

[pappyvanwinklebourbon]

Unveiling the Mythos: Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon - More Than Just a Drink

In the world of bourbon, there exists a name that reverberates with an almost mythical quality: Pappy Van Winkle. This distinguished bourbon has transcended its status as a mere spirit, ascending to the realm of legend and lore. But what lies behind the mystique of pappy van winkle bourbon, and why does it captivate the hearts and palates of whiskey enthusiasts worldwide?

To comprehend the allure of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon, one must first grasp its storied history. Rooted in the traditions of the American South, this bourbon traces its lineage back to the pioneering spirit of Julian "Pappy" Van Winkle Sr., who laid the groundwork for the brand's legacy at the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Kentucky during the early 20th century. It was here that Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon began its journey towards becoming the epitome of craftsmanship and quality.

The tale of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon took a dramatic turn in the late 20th century when Julian Van Winkle III, Pappy's grandson, assumed the reins of the family business. Armed with a reverence for tradition and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Julian III embarked on a mission to elevate Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon to unprecedented heights of acclaim and admiration.

One of the defining characteristics of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon is its meticulous production process. Crafted in small batches using a closely guarded family recipe, this bourbon undergoes an aging process that spans years, not mere months. The result is a spirit of unparalleled depth and complexity, with flavors that unfold on the palate like a symphony of sensations.

Yet, it is not merely the taste of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon that sets it apart; it is also its scarcity. Each year, a limited number of bottles are released to the public, sparking a frenzy among collectors and enthusiasts alike. The quest for a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon has become a pilgrimage of sorts, with aficionados scouring the country in search of this elusive elixir.

But beyond its rarity and flavor, Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon embodies something deeper—a sense of heritage, tradition, and craftsmanship that harkens back to a bygone era. It is a reminder of the artistry and dedication that go into creating truly exceptional bourbon, and a testament to the enduring appeal of an American tradition.

Of course, the cult status of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon has not been without its controversies. Some critics argue that its astronomical price tag and limited availability have transformed it into a symbol of exclusivity rather than a celebration of bourbon craftsmanship. Others lament the commodification of what was once a humble spirit, fearing that its legendary status has eclipsed its true essence.

In the end, whether you view Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon as a symbol of connoisseurship or a victim of its own success, there's no denying its impact on the world of whiskey. From its humble beginnings in a Kentucky distillery to its status as a global phenomenon, Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon continues to captivate and inspire, reminding us that sometimes, the true value of a spirit lies not in its scarcity, but in the stories it tells and the traditions it upholds.

[dougielombax]

*crawls out from under a rock covered in 5,000 years worth of moss and lichen*

“Ooooooh…..WHAT YEAR IS THIS?!”

[artbyvalsblog]

10 x 8 1/2 gallery wrapped 10 yr Old Rip with Opus X cigar $115 at www.michaeljohnvalentine.com

[collectiblebourbon12]

Special Supplies in Stock!*

Message through our email address or contact us to place your order if interested! +1(313)774.4096

collectiblebourbon@gmail.com

*Explore our online selection:*

- Whiskey

- Scotch Whisky

- Bourbon

- Tequila

- Spirits

Follow us for updates and promotions:*

#WhiskeyLife #Rum #ScotchWhisky #Wine #Alcohol #BourbonEnthusiast #Dram #Cocktail #BourbonHunting #RyeWhiskey #Liquor #SingleBarrel

[exotic-essentials]

Some Pappy sounds good right about now.

[butterbourbonandothersins]

How to Score a Bottle of Pappy Van Winkle

Pappy Van Winkle’s retail suggested prices range from about $70 to $300, depending on the bottle. Unfortunately, when it leaves the shelves and is sold on the secondary market, prices skyrocket.

Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/CXrIPubJ1i_/ Pappy Van Winkle may be one of the most famous bourbons around, and it’s not just because of its quality, although the quality is at the highest level and to be respected. Still, it’s a little bit about the mystery of it as well. Where do all the bottles of Pappy Van Winkle go? Why is it so hard to find? The hefty price tag According to…

[taphousebourbon1]

I think bourbon is the best whiskey in the world

[pappyvanwinkleforsale]

Navigating the Hunt for Pappy Van Winkle For Sale

In the realm of rare and sought-after spirits, few names hold as much mystique as Pappy Van Winkle. This Kentucky bourbon, crafted by the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, has become the Holy Grail for whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its scarcity and exceptional quality have turned the search for pappy van winkle for sale into a quest that spans the globe.

The Pappy Van Winkle phenomenon began with a family legacy deeply rooted in the art of bourbon making. The Van Winkle family's commitment to producing exceptional spirits traces back to the 19th century, with Julian P. Van Winkle Sr. laying the foundation. However, it was his grandson, Julian Van Winkle III, who elevated the family name to legendary status with the creation of Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve.

The allure of Pappy Van Winkle lies not only in its rich history but also in its meticulously crafted flavor profile. Aged for an extended period, often beyond two decades, the bourbon exudes complexity, depth, and a smoothness that sets it apart from its peers. With a limited number of barrels produced each year, obtaining a bottle has become a test of patience and perseverance.

The scarcity of Pappy Van Winkle for sale can be attributed to various factors. The aging process alone requires a significant investment of time and resources. The Van Winkle distillery's commitment to quality over quantity means that only a select number of bottles make it to market each year. Furthermore, the hype surrounding Pappy Van Winkle has led to an unprecedented demand, creating a supply-and-demand dynamic that has made these bottles increasingly rare.

For enthusiasts eager to experience the magic of Pappy Van Winkle, the quest often begins with an online search. However, the digital landscape is rife with pitfalls, as counterfeit bottles and dubious sellers abound. To navigate this treacherous terrain, it's crucial to rely on reputable sources and established retailers with a track record of authenticity. Genuine Pappy Van Winkle for sale often comes from licensed liquor stores, reputable online marketplaces, or directly from the distillery.

For those with the means and inclination to explore the secondary market, Pappy Van Winkle auctions have become a popular avenue. However, buyers should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before participating. Verification of a bottle's authenticity, provenance, and the reputation of the auction platform are paramount to ensure a legitimate acquisition.

Despite the challenges, the pursuit of Pappy Van Winkle remains a testament to the passion and dedication of whiskey enthusiasts. The thrill of finding a bottle for sale, whether through traditional channels or the secondary market, adds to the allure of this liquid gold. The camaraderie among collectors who share tales of successful hunts or near misses further enhances the sense of community surrounding Pappy Van Winkle.

In conclusion, the journey to find Pappy Van Winkle for sale is a quest marked by scarcity, history, and a shared appreciation for exceptional bourbon. As the legend of Pappy Van Winkle continues to grow, so does the fascination with this elusive elixir. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, the pursuit of Pappy Van Winkle is a venture into the heart of bourbon lore, where each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.

[maltrunners]

Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year 2018 Release

Review by: The Muskox As of this week, I’m a legal resident of the United States! I’m already sweating through all my shirts, and I don’t think I really needed all that free healthcare anyways. I think it’s appropriate to mark the occasion with a few reviews of American whiskies. I’ll also state that this review is coming from a bit of a different point of view than usual for a bourbon at this…

[bourbontrend]

Discover the essence of tradition & taste with the Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon story 🥃🌟 Dive into the legacy that marries quality with timeless family values. A sip is all it takes to journey through generations of bourbon perfection. #PappyVanWinkle #BourbonLegacy #CraftedWithPassion

[sugaggukkie]

namjoon putting his googly-eyed pet rock in front of his $250 johnnie walker blue label scotch is so hfkdhdksjdkjdkd

[sycamorelibrary754]

Guardian Angel

Chapter 3: You're Still Worthy

Summary: Emotional conversations and difficult choices were on the table for everyone the moment Wanda stepped back into the Avengers compound for the first time after Westview. But just because Wanda is starting over doesn’t mean she has to do it alone. 

Warnings: Trauma, angst, cursing.

Word Count: 3.1k

A/N: This chapter has two distinct parts. The flashback of Wanda’s first moments back in the compound (italicized) and the present day, approximately one year after Westview.

Guardian Angel Masterlist

Trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and forever to repair. Stepping foot back in the Avengers compound for the first time after Westview was freed was the latest in a series of painful and tragic chapters in Wanda Maximoff’s story.

Fury was seated in his spacious office with a glass of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon. He had a stern expression as he intently watched Wanda's movements on the numerous security monitors placed strategically around the compound. Fury closely monitored every twist and turn she made, remaining vigilant and alert throughout.

A soft knock on his door broke his concentration as he sat there, lost in thought. He straightened up in his chair, alert and ready to face whatever was coming. The door creaked open slowly, and a faint light spilled into the dimly lit room, revealing the outline of a figure standing in the doorway.

“Director, Ms. Maximoff is here,” Maria announced. 

“Maximoff, have a seat. Or do you prefer Scarlet Witch now?” Placing the glass down on his desk.

Maria glanced from Fury to Wanda before taking her place next to the Director's desk. Wanda sat down, trying her best to hide her nerves. The two of them sat in silence for a moment until Fury finally spoke up.

“You know, it’s crap like this that gives me trust issues,” leaning back in his chair, reading the file on Westview. 

“Really? I thought your sparkling personality gave you trust issues,” the redhead whispered under her breath.

“Come on, don’t give me that shit. What the hell were you thinking? Throwing the file onto his desk. “3,892 people. Three thousand eight hundred ninety-two people manipulated, tortured, and held hostage so you could live out some television family fantasy!” he shouted. “Do you know what I went through to keep Westview classified? What I went through with SWORD to make sure you walked out of there alive and not thrown in the Raft?” His anger was growing. 

"It wasn't a fantasy!" she exclaimed, as her emotions finally surfaced.

“It was selfish!” Fury shouted. 

Maria flinched at the sound of Fury's voice before the room fell silent again.

"Director, have you ever lost someone?" Wanda asked, her gaze fixed on his desk.

“I was a Colonel in the United States Army and a CIA Operative. I’ve lost more people than I can count, including my parents. You’re most certainly not the first person to experience grief.”

Wanda looked determined as she raised her head to speak. "I cannot help but feel sorry for the ordeal those people went through," she said with a heavy accent, her voice filled with emotion. Their suffering will continue to trouble me for the rest of my life."

Tears glistened in her eyes as she continued, "When I finally realized the agony I was inflicting, I knew I had to put an end to it. It was a difficult decision, but I have no regrets about my life with my husband and children. We had our struggles, but we also had many happy moments together."

As she spoke, it was clear that Wanda had gone through a lot in her life. Despite the pain and hardship, however, she remained resolute in her determination to do what was right and to find peace in her memories.

Fury exhaled heavily and asked, 'Where are your boys?'

The redhead immediately tensed up, her heart pounding against her rib cage. 

“I need you to be completely honest with me, starting right now,” Fury said. “If you want to remain a member of this team and continue to be a productive member of society, it's important that I know everything. Please understand that no one will hurt them.”

In a moment of urgency, Wanda found herself making a quick decision. Despite her reservations, she hesitantly slipped into Fury's mind as his thoughts were too loud to ignore. She knew that this was the only way she could be certain of his intentions and confirm that he was telling the truth. When she emerged, she was certain that Fury was to be trusted. She responded with confidence, "Billy and Tommy are with Darcy Lewis."

 Fury nodded. “Where is the Darkhold?”

“I destroyed it.” 

“That’s not what the wizard thinks. Strange is sure you wouldn’t have survived the destruction of that type of dark magic.”

Wanda leaned forward in her chair and cleared her throat. "Given everything that's happened, Director, it would be unwise to bet against my abilities."

Fury finished his drink; the ice clinked at the bottom of his glass. "You are dismissed for now, but do not leave the premises," he said.

After leaving his office, Wanda rose to her feet without saying another word. Maria locked eyes with Fury before hurrying after the redhead out the door.

When they were out of earshot of the Director, Maria called after her, "Wanda, wait!"

Wanda stopped moving and stood still with her back turned towards Maria.

“I’m… I’m sorry,” Agent Hill empathized. 

"Sorry doesn't undo what I did or what I've lost," she countered. "Every season of my life has led to a goodbye. My parents, Pietro, Vision. No matter what I've done to try and be better, to help others, to heal. It never ends," her voice cracked. "I don't know how the boys survived, but my heart can't take anymore.”

Maria gently placed her warm hand on Wanda's shoulder, feeling the tension and pain in her friend's body. In response, Wanda turned around and fell into Maria's embrace, her composure crumbling as she sobbed. Maria held her tightly, offering a safe and comforting space for her friend to release her emotions. As Wanda continued to weep, Maria could feel her tears dampening her shirt, but she didn't mind. All that mattered was being there for her friend.

*^~^*

Wanda wandered aimlessly around the compound for the rest of the day. The cold and judgmental gazes of numerous SHIELD agents going about their daily routines bore into her like a hot iron, making her feel like she had committed a grave mistake. The compound was the same as she had left, but everything felt different. The once-familiar surroundings now seemed foreign and unwelcoming.

Wanda was not ready to return to her room. The memories of her past life seemed distant and unfamiliar to her now. She was unsure of what to say if she encountered any of her former colleagues. The fear of their judgment and condemnation made her hesitant and unwilling to face them. Lost in her thoughts, Wanda wandered around the compound, hoping to find solace or peace. But the echoes of her past mistakes and the fear of the future kept haunting her, making her feel helpless and alone.

The sight of the gym brought back a flood of good and bad memories of the time spent within its walls. She hesitated before peeking through the sliding doors, ensuring no one was around before stepping inside. The gym had become a sanctuary for her, a place where she could channel her inner strength and work on honing her abilities. Countless hours were spent in this space, sweating, training, and pushing herself to the limits to discipline her body and mind. However, all that hard work, all that dedication, was shattered. The unspeakable grief and loss that followed had left her broken, both physically and emotionally. Yet here she was, standing once again in the same space, her heart heavy with memories and emotions that she had thought she had left behind.

“No matter how often I tried to train you to fight without using your powers, you always resisted.” 

The distinct and familiar sound of a deep, slightly raspy voice reverberated through the spacious gym. She turned her head and was captivated by the sight of Natasha Romanoff, who stood poised and confident on the other side of the room. Natasha's hair was elegantly styled in double braids, and her black workout attire clung to her fit and toned physique in all the right places, accentuating her curves and strength.

Wanda sighed, "Why fight with one hand tied behind my back?" She moved a strand of hair behind her ear.

"Because it makes you stronger," Nat replied, strolling towards her.

“I don’t feel very strong right now,” Wanda admitted.

“I beg to differ,” the widow argued. “Otherwise you wouldn’t be here.”

Nat quietly observed Wanda's demeanor, noticing the subtle nuances of her body language. The woman standing in front of her seemed to be a mere shadow of her former self, weighed down by the immense burden of grief. It was evident that Wanda was still struggling to come to terms with all that had been lost in Sokovia, Wakanda, and most recently, in Westview. The pain and sorrow etched on her face spoke volumes of the emotional turmoil she was going through, and it was clear that she needed someone to talk to, someone who could understand her pain and help her find a way forward.

Natasha took another tack. “Get in the ring.” 

“What?” she asked.

Natasha put down her water bottle and stepped between the ropes. "Get in the ring," Nat repeated.

“I’m in no condition to spar,” Wanda argued.

“Says the Scarlet Witch,” Nat smirked. “Now, come on.”

Wand released a long, tired sigh and slowly removed her jacket. With a hint of nervousness in her movements, she cautiously stepped closer to the ring, her eyes fixed on the ground beneath her.

“No hand tied behind your back this time,” Nat said, securing her Widow Bites to her wrists.

Natasha took her fighting stance. Wanda mirrored her as wisps of red danced between her fingers. She took the first shot, summoning a wave of telekinetic force toward her opponent. With lightning-fast reflexes, Nat rolled out of harm's way, narrowly avoiding the destructive force. Sensing an opening, Natasha launched herself into an acrobatic assault. Her strikes were precise, knocking Wanda off balance. The split-second window allowed Nat to grip her arm and flip her over her shoulder. 

With a flick of her wrist from her backside, Wanda unleashed a barrage of red energy crackling with otherworldly force. The sparring became an explosive dance as Nat deftly dodged and rolled through the chaos, narrowly escaping each attack. Seizing her only opportunity, she countered with a well-timed Widow's Bite. Grunting in pain, Wanda launched her backward into the ropes with one swift motion. 

With a fierce determination, Natasha charged forward. Wanda used the last of her depleted stamina to summon a swirling vortex of red. As the intense aura surrounded her, she directed one final blast towards the Black Widow. Nat mustered every ounce of strength and somersaulted forward through the explosion, landing sprawled on the mat. 

Wanda collapsed, her knees hitting the mat with a thud. She was gasping for air, her body wracked with sobs. Natasha lay nearby, her chest heaving and her breath coming in short, ragged bursts. The widow slowly rolled over and crawled towards her, her movements slow and labored. She reached out and wrapped her arms around the redhead’s body, pulling her close. The two women held each other tightly, neither of them speaking. Wanda's sobs echoed through the room, the sound of her pain filling the air.

*^~^*

Secretary Ross glared intensely at the team gathered around the conference table, his virtual presence towering over his desk in a show of authority. He spoke up with a tone that conveyed both anger and concern, "I'm genuinely curious. In what universe do you think I'm going to look the other way while you jeopardize the safety of everyone in existence?" His words hung heavily in the air, leaving no room for doubt that he meant every word.

“I don’t know, Mr. Secretary. Why don’t you pick one, and we’ll find out,” Natasha remarked coldly. No love was lost between herself and Ross.

Maria gently placed her hand on Nat's arm, silently signaling her to maintain decorum.

"If you had taken my warning about Wanda Maximoff seriously eight years ago, we wouldn't face the dangerous threats to all universes she has unleashed. Her actions have repeatedly proven that she is a clear and present danger, and it's time we take action before it's too late." Ross urged.

"We don't judge people based on their worst mistakes," Natasha declared.

"Perhaps you should," he said, his gaze fixed on the Black Widow.

Yelena stood up slowly from her chair, her voice laced with a hint of malice. "Maybe it's time the world knew about your worst mistakes, Thaddeus," she threatened, her eyes flashing with anger.

“And we’re sitting,” Kate said, wrapping her arms around her girlfriend and pulling her back down.

"Excuse me, Mr. Secretary, with all due respect, we are not seeking your permission in this matter. As a courtesy, we intend to inform you of our decision. This meeting is solely to share our plans with you and ensure that you are kept in the loop about our steps,” Steve interjected.

“Tell me, Captain Rogers, what is your intended course of action when the witch inevitably betrays your moral compass yet again?” Ross asked, rising from his virtual chair.

“We never abandon one of our own, Sir,” Steve said.

“To be honest with you, Mr. Secretary, the only one here who lacks a moral compass is yourself,” Maria hissed, swiping away his hologram in frustration.

A hard silence fell across the room.

“That went well,” Clint said, as he placed his head in his hands.

“I know you don’t want to hear this, but he has a point,” Fury concurred, leaning up against the door frame.

"Are you still here?” Tony asked. “I thought you were off to sail the seven seas,” he snarked as he got up to pour himself a scotch.

“Fury might be right,” Bruce interjected. Are we all forgetting how we met Wanda? Or would you like a replay of the nightmares she put in our heads?” 

“No, I’m not,” Natasha said heatedly, turning toward Bruce. “And I’m sure as hell not forgetting who destroyed the Mind Stone when it meant losing the one she loved. Or who was a split second away from defeating Thanos single-handedly, had he not blitzed the shit out of his entire army.”

“Maximoff took an entire town hostage! She manipulated the realities of 3,892 people,” Fury argued. 

“In a state of shell shock and overwhelming grief,” Maria countered. “You and I both know she would never hurt anyone intentionally or of her own accord.” 

“Are you sure about that? Do you know where the Darkhold is today?” Fury yelled. “Because I can tell you right now, Strange sure as hell doesn’t believe it’s gone.”

“I think you’ve made your point,” Bucky interrupted sternly. His Vibranium hand on Fury’s shoulder.

“Buck,” Sam cautioned.

Thor's booming voice cut through the tense and chaotic chatter, demanding attention from all present. "Wanda is still worthy!" he declared with the power of a god. "We shall leave no stone unturned in our quest to help her regain her belief in herself."

“That’s more like it,” Nat said.

“Let’s go,” Maria ordered.

*^~^*

Upon her return, Wanda made it clear that her priority was to provide a normal and safe environment for Billy and Tommy, free from the influence of her past mistakes or her sterile work environment. She was determined to create a loving and secure home for her boys. After multiple meetings with Stark, Wanda decided to move out of the compound and into a house that Tony had designed. True to form, the billionaire created a spectacular home for her and her family.

The elegant craftsman-style house painted in a soft, creamy white hue exuded a warm and inviting aura, beckoning visitors to enter. The stunning embellished concrete path, beautifully winding its way up to the charming wraparound brick porch and the wide entryway, added to the home's alluring charm. The interior was just as captivating, with each room meticulously furnished and perfectly decorated. Tommy and Billy couldn't contain their excitement as they had room to adorn and personalize to their heart's content. She encouraged the boys to let their imaginations run wild, and they eagerly reveled in the opportunity to showcase their unique interests and personalities.

Photographs adorn the walls, each capturing a distinct memory the family held dear. As Wanda gazed upon them, she was immediately transported back to the bittersweet moments of their life in Westview - a life that was nothing more than a fabrication. Despite this painful truth, she remained steadfast in her desire to preserve a fragment of that existence for her sons, who knew no other place to call home. Though tinged with sorrow, the memories were a testament to the love and bond that the family shared, and Wanda was determined to keep that flame burning, no matter how difficult it was to revisit the past.

The family room is tastefully decorated with a large navy blue sectional couch, two elegant Paisley armchairs, and a beautiful Cherry coffee table that seems to beckon you to come and sit. The room's focal point is a stunning painting by Wanda hanging above the fireplace—a reflection of her creative soul and a way to channel her emotions and thoughts. The built-in bookshelves are a treasure trove of knowledge, holding a vast collection of books for all ages. The shelves are adorned with a few carefully chosen plants, each in its decorative pot, adding a touch of nature to the room. The cozy atmosphere of the family room is perfect for relaxing and spending time with loved ones.

As you enter the kitchen, a beautifully arched doorway frames the entrance, inviting you in. This is Wanda's favorite room in the house, and it's easy to see why. The spacious area is furnished with sleek granite countertops and a convenient center island, making it the perfect place for her sons to sit and share stories of their day at school. As you take a deep breath, the delightful scent of Paprikash or homemade pies fills the air, reminding every guest that Wanda's favorite way to show love is through her cooking.

Through the off-white French doors, one could step into a tranquil and inviting backyard that Wanda meticulously cared for. Her passion for gardening was evident in the way she transformed the space into a lush oasis of greenery. The fragrant air was filled with the aroma of the citrus trees that she had lovingly transplanted, and the raised bed, bursting with a variety of colorful seedlings that had sprouted on the kitchen windowsill, was a testament to her dedication to creating a verdant sanctuary for her family to relax and enjoy together.

*^~^*

"Boys, it's time for cake and presents!" Wanda shouted through the window.

"Coming, Mom!" Tommy shouted in response.

Wanda organized a cozy and warm birthday bash for Billy and Tommy and cordially invited the team and their families to attend. It was the first time they had a group gathering outside of work since Wanda's return to the team. While the adults chit-chatted and caught up with each other in the cozy family room, the youngsters were having a blast playing games in the backyard. Cooper, Lila, Morgan, and Nate were among the kids who enjoyed themselves with Billy and Tommy.

Let's go," Clint exclaimed, clapping his hands. "Bring on the cake!

“Relax, it’s not your birthday,” Yelena teased.

Steve and Bucky, with their arms full of colorful gift-wrapped presents, walked over to the elegantly set dining room table. At the same time, Wanda gracefully lit the candles on the birthday cake, decorated with blue and green icing. As soon as Wanda finished lighting the candles, the friends and family sang "Happy Birthday" in unison, and the twins, Billy and Tommy, eagerly blew out the candles.

After the birthday song ended, Billy and Tommy opened their presents excitedly while their mom looked on proudly. The team made sure to honor Wanda's request for no Stark-enhanced gifts. Tommy's gifts included a pair of stylish Nike sneakers, a shiny new scooter, a high-quality baseball glove, and a popular video game he had been asking for for months. Billy, on the other hand, received a high-tech microscope that he could use to explore the world around him, a remote-controlled drone that could fly up to 100 feet in the air, and a brand new sketchbook with Prismacolor Premier colored pencils, so he could continue to develop his artistic skills.

"Okay, here's one more small gift, but let's not devour it all at once," Wanda cautioned as she placed the personalized candy bags from your shop in front of the boys.

“Candy!”

“Sweet!” 

"You can each choose a couple of pieces, and we'll save the rest for later," their mom instructed as the boys rummaged through their bags.

Tommy whirled around the table and embraced his mother. "This is the best birthday ever, thanks, Mom!"

“Yeah, Mom, this was awesome!” Billy followed. 

"Mmmm, this is good," Tony said, returning from the kitchen where he had raided the bag of candy you made for Wanda.

“Excuse me, that’s not yours!” Wanda scolded.  

“I don’t see your name on it.” Tony argued.

Crossing her arms, the redhead insisted, 'Turn it around.'

“Well,” Tony paused. Calligraphy is a lost art,” tossing her the bag.

“Yeah, that’s what I thought you said,” she muttered.

*^-^*

Maria and Natasha decided to stay with Wanda to help her with the post-party cleanup. As they put things away, they noticed red wisps of magic floating gently around the room, lifting empty plates and glasses to the sink. Wanda had always been careful about using her powers outside of missions. Still, resisting the temptation to make things a little easier for herself was hard, especially when her house was full of messy superheroes who weren't particularly good at cleaning up after themselves. As she was putting away dishes, one of them unexpectedly slipped from her grasp and hit the floor, shattering into two pieces.

"Are you okay?" Maria asked as Natasha carefully picked up the broken plate.

“I’m fine, just a bit clumsy,” the redhead insisted.

“Like mother, like sons,” Natasha teased.

“Oh yeah,” Maria said with a grin. “Nat told me all about your little adventure. She said you were smitten.”

"I was not smitten!" Wanda insisted, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

“You had a goofy grin when you came back to the cafe,” Natasha said, scoffing.

“I was simply being a good Samaritan,” Wanda argued.

Natasha's lips curled into a playful smirk as she said, "Oh?" And who were you pretending to be when you purchased those candy bags for Billy and Tommy from Y/N's shop?"

Wanda's eyes widened as she asked, "How did you find out? And more importantly, how do you know her name?"

“Wands, I'm a spy. If one of my friends leaves with a stranger and goes to their apartment alone, you can bet I will check them out.” 

“Well, nothing happened. I got her some ice for her ankle and left, and I didn’t even know it was her shop,” Wanda dismissed. Besides,” Wanda whispered, peering over at her boys asleep on the couch. “Billy and Tommy are just starting to feel at home here. I would never do anything to put that in jeopardy… Not again,” fidgeting quietly with the wedding ring still holding tight to her finger. It had been a year, but she still hadn’t found the strength to remove it.

“We know you wouldn’t,” Maria reassured, placing her arm around her shoulder. “But you are still worthy of the chance to be happy again, honey.”

“Just because you’re starting over doesn’t mean you have to do it alone,” Natasha added. “Is that what Vis would have wanted?” 

*Chapter 4 coming soon*

[lordelmelloi2]

last ask for me; can you recommend an alcoholic beverage for people who hate the taste of alcohol but want to be drunk?

my first genuine advice is to get over it and learn how to drink like everyone else has to and learn to appreciate the notes in a beverage instead of going YUCK! ALCOHOL TASTE! IT BURNS! at everything... GET OVER IT!!!!!

Alcohol is an acquired taste. You must treat it with respect for that fact, but also treat the creation and history and culture behind the beverages with respect as well. I genuinely hate and feel disgust when people tirade about how alcohol tastes bad -- I'm not saying it's a heaven-sent beverage or that it doesn't cause cancer or substance abuse or anything, massive disclaimer, but there is culture and history behind many alcoholic beverages and like any culture and history there must be respect put behind it. Not everyone has had a poor relationship with alcohol. There is, in fact, a way to have a healthy, moderate relationship with alcohol; to not be dependent on it psychologically or physiologically, and to not let it ruin your life. I do believe that having a strong sense of self-discipline is key to this, as well as remembering moderation and temperance as well as humility when it comes to managing one's relationship to alcoholic beverages. I can't stress this enough. I am someone who comes from a DV household where alcoholism was a massive factor. I am well aware of the risks, I am not condoning alcohol abuse. Don't take my words in bad faith. Please god

This is in no way an absolutely comprehensive list but I get really intensely focused about this topic so this is where I am going to start.

beginner alcohol suggestions for those who are weaning into alcoholic beverages generally start sweet or mellow. You are going to stick to regions and grape varietals (varietal = the name of the grape used in the wine i.e. cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, moscato, riesling) that are sweeter or milder/mellower/softer. Thus it usually goes like:

Moscatos

Sangrias

White Zinfandel

White Merlot

Ports (VERY high in ABV, proceed with caution)

Chocolate Wine

Icewine

Sauternes

Meads

(Sweet, not Dry) Rieslings

Sweet Red Blends

Spumantes/Off-dry Cuvees

Vinho Verde

for what wines people generally try first. For beers, I would suggest Fruit Beers, Wheat Ales, chocolate Stouts/Porters and the like -- things that have flavors added to them. Or inoffensive beers like Lagers and Cerveza styles (which translated literally just means Beer Styles, but generally refers to Mexican lagers). Sours are another one that people start with but I hate sours, so...

For liquor there's no real good starting point I think. people who aren't used to drinking alcohol are going to taste it in everything.

Flavored whiskies (not Fireball. stop fucking drinking Fireball)

Irish Cream Liqueurs

Liqueurs in general, in particular Amarettos, Orange liqueuers, Schnapps of any kind (lower proof), Limoncellos

Aged Tequilas (i.e. reposados and anejos/extra anejos as those are smoother and tend to have a sweeter taste in some regards, these are meant to be Sipped)

Cocktails in fucking general ...

If trying to get into whiskies, usually people start with Bourbon and such because the high amount of corn (51%+) in the mash bill means that it will have a corn-syrupy sweetness to the body (known sometimes as caramel). Do not fall to the Mental Illness of Trying To Seem Cool And Knowledgable About Bourbon. I'm sick of coming into work to be on the floor helping customers and having to watch people stand in front of the bourbon section for 15-30 minutes just staring and poising and being like "I don't need any help" only to come grab a merchandiser later and be like "Where's your Pappy Van Winkle/Blanton's/E.H. Taylor/Buffalo Trace" fuck you.

And another thing about getting into Bourbon -- Wheated styles are going to be softer than High Ryes, Cask Strengths, Bottled-in-Bond etc. those are not very beginner friendly for people trying to acclimate to the taste of alcohol. Wheated styles are friendlier in general. Maker's Mark is a very common one, but I personally am fond of Larceny. If you can get a chance to do Redemption Wheated I also recommend that. Redemption is a great beginner bourbon in general, very reliable all-purpose bourbon, great to sip and mix.

A lot of people also choose Vodka because it is supposed to be distilled to be as inoffensive as possible. But you don't usually drink Vodka straight. especially not if you're a beginner. most beginner drinkers just make screwdrivers (vodka+OJ) or cape codder's (also known as a vodka cran) or anything like that. Try experimenting with adding different liqueurs and juices into Vodka (like i.e. making White Russians or Cosmopolitans)

If you're starting to acclimate to these sweeter, milder types, and you're ready to start foraying into drier and more complex/refined styles, you're ready to start to move onto other types of wine and spirits and beers. So these are decent transition wines. So that looks like, for wine:

Off-dry/Dry Rieslings

Pinot Grigio/Gris/whatever

Vouvray/Loire Valley French Wines/Alsace French Wines

Southern Italian White Wines (i.e. Pecorino, Falerio, Puglian wines, Campanian wines are my absolute favorite)

Chardonnay (oaked and unoaked), Chablis

Sauvignon Blanc/Sancerres

Prosecco, Cava, Champagne, other Sparkling wines in general (which tend to be made with majoritively Chardonnay grapes, along with Pinot Noir grapes in those same styles ALTHOUGH there are Sparkling Sauv Blancs & Sparkling Rieslings in existence and a ton of other grapes people use too)

Rosés (try Gamay grape Rosés/French Rosés)

For red wines: try Merlots

Zinfandels

Red Blends

Fruit-forward Pinot Noirs (ask somebody about these -- in general, with wines, if you do prefer vaguely sweeter styles, ask somebody about which wines are more "fruit-forward" for whichever varietal you're shopping)

Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignons (due to them being very fruit-forward). Of note -- the tannins can tend to be just as firm in Cab Sauvs, so if you really can't handle dry wines yet, wait before getting into Cabs unless you really want to jump into learning how they taste.

And then similarly for beers, try:

More lagers. just do it fuck all life

Ales in general. any kind of ale. Amber ale also

Hazy IPAs are pretty good to start with IMO because they're a little fruitier and softer than regular IPAs due to the lack of filtering

Porters

Bocks

Tripels

Stouts

For liquors, try:

Silver/Blanco Tequila

Gin

Irish Whisky

Speyside Scotch Whisky (tends to be the softest style of scotch and is easy for beginners to acclimate to)

if you're used to Bourbon, try Rye Whiskies, or other styles of American Whiskey

Aperitifs (think Campari and Aperol, but there are other styles of apertif as well)

When you think you've acclimated to drier styles of wine there are a quite a few dry styles of red wine that are worth taking a look at. I touched a bit earlier about dry red wines like Bordeauxs. Bordeauxs are usually varying blends of Cabernet Sauvignons & Merlots depending on which riverbank side of the region they are located on. LCRM is an acronym describing it - Left, Cab, Right, Merlot.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Syrah

Malbec

Bordeaux AOC

Cotes du Rhone AOC

Tuscan DOCG

Piedmont DOCG

Sangiovese of really any location in Italy but whatever

Chianti/Chianti Classico DOCG

Italian dry red wines of any kind fuck it

Rioja

Ribeira del Duero

there's so many Portuguese wines too. I can't remember all these okay just try to do European red wines whenever you can. They do Pinot Noir in Germany too. God there's so much my brain hoirts

I'm afraid Tumblr's going to kill my document at this point so I'm just going to say when you've really reached the point that you feel comfortable drinking most of those transition wines or spirits or drinks and have a feel for what you do and don't like, you can pretty much try anything and have some degree of enjoyment of it without being put off by an alcohol taste. Learning to drink alcoholic beverages without reflexing from the taste of alcohol is an acquired skill and will not come overnight. But there is a lot of fun culture and history to explore in alcoholic beverages -- learning how to taste and discover notes in wines and spirits and beers, as well as learning how people make different alcoholic beverages, the creation of cocktails, craft beers, craft spirits, new wines, different styles of wines ETC. ETC. there's a big world here and I think it's worthy of being elaborated on.

[artbyvalsblog]

10 Year Old Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon, Diamond Back Revolver 6 Shooter and One Bad Ass Fuente Opus X Cigar. Abstract Cigar and Bourbon Art on canvas in various sizes and price points at https://michaeljohnvalentine.com/product/10-year-pappy-van-winkles-abstract-bourbon-and-opus-x-cigar-wall-art-painting-on-canvas/

[collectiblebourbon12]

Special Supplies in Stock!*

Message through our email address or contact us to place your order if interested! +1(313)774.4096

collectiblebourbon@gmail.com

*Explore our online selection:*

- Whiskey

- Scotch Whisky

- Bourbon

- Tequila

- Spirits

Follow us for updates and promotions: