Recipes

We’ve all experienced that distinctive "fizz" that hits your lips and tongue when you crack open a cold beer, soda, seltzer, or sparkling water. But have you ever wondered what’s actually happening when you hear that familiar pop or feel the bubbles burst in your mouth? That is called carbonation, which basically involves dissolving carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas into a liquid.

If you’re curious about the science behind your favorite fizzy drinks, we’re here to explain it all.

New trends are evolving every day in the world of beverages in response to everything from changing tastes to health-conscious movements to advancements in technology. From eco-friendly packaging to exotic flavors, the global beverage landscape has never been more vibrant or creative.

Whether you’re in Boston or Beijing, unique drinks are emerging in bars, stores, and even in homes.

Oftentimes, the ingredients that make or break a cocktail or mocktail are often ones that are hidden in plain sight. One of the most underappreciated yet essential components to these drinks are the bitters. This is a secret weapon of bartenders everywhere, taking drinks from boring to brilliant thanks to their complex layers of flavor and intrigue.

Beverages aren’t just a refreshing way to cool off. They have a big place in literature, too, acting as symbols, markers of cultural identity, and even plot devices. In fact, drinks play vital roles in setting the mood in novels across all genres, as well as defining character relationships and contributing to the thematic depth of the story.

Now that craft beverages have become a mark of individuality, home brewing gives people an exciting and rewarding way to personalize their drink experience. From soda to kombucha, brewing at home offers full control over all the flavors, ingredients, and even the health benefits of what you are consuming.