Hey y’all! If there’s one bottle that seems to find its way onto every backbar, porch table, and tailgate in West Ashley, it’s Tito’s Handmade Vodka. It’s practically a household name at this point, but the story behind that humble yellow label is pure American hustle.
Back in the mid-90s, Bert “Tito” Beveridge was just a guy in Austin, Texas, trying to make a spirit smooth enough that his friends could drink it straight. He built his first pot still out of rig tubing and old copper, teachin’ himself the trade through trial and error. Tito was using old-school copper pot stills—a slow, painstaking method usually reserved for fine scotches and cognacs—to craft a micro-distilled vodka made entirely from yellow corn.
The result? A naturally gluten-free vodka with an unbelievably crisp, clean finish and just a touch of natural sweetness. It blew past the fancy European imports in taste tests, all while keeping a price tag that doesn't break the bank.
Whether you’re blending up a batch of porch punch or mixing up a crisp weekend classic, Tito’s is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Here’s our favorite way to serve it up with a little Lowcountry flair:
The Barrel Lowcountry Lemonade
2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka
1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
1 oz Honey Simple Syrup (equal parts local honey and warm water)
3-4 Fresh Basil Leaves
Instructions: Muddle the basil leaves with the honey syrup in a shaker. Add Tito’s, lemon juice, and ice. Shake well and strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a fresh sprig of basil.
The Food Pairing: This bright, herbal lemonade was born for Charleston food! Pair it alongside a big tray of steamed Lowcountry oysters, a crispy soft-shell crab sandwich, or smoky pulled-pork barbecue. The crisp vodka and citrus slice right through rich, savory flavors.
Next time you’re hunting down the best liquor store or searching for top-shelf quality at everyday prices, stop by and see us at Port City Two Liquors and Wine! We’re your West Ashley staple, friendly and family owned store, stocked with all your favorite affordable spirits in South Carolina. Grab a handle of Tito’s and let's get the weekend started right!

Comments
Post a Comment