Crisp cucumber and lime, a jalapeno kick that lingers, a margarita mix that doesn’t taste like it came off a gas station shelf, and a grapefruit Paloma base that divides the room in the best way. We’re back in the Northwoods at Callahan Lake Resort with BK, Suzy, and Noelle, putting Fresh Victor’s cold-pressed cocktail mixers to the test and seeing what happens when you stop following the “one spirit only” rule.

We start simple and then get curious: cucumber lime with a smoother gin, then a rum swap that turns it into a mojito-inspired summer crusher. Jalapeno lime gets the full treatment, from classic vodka to prickly pear vodka that smooths the heat, and even a bourbon version that brings a longer, warmer finish. If you care about gluten-free cocktail mixers, natural ingredients, and mixers that aren’t overly sweet, these taste tests get specific fast.

Then we hit tequila territory with Mexican lime and agave and land on a margarita that tastes freshly squeezed. Brian takes it one step further with a smoked margarita using peach wood, plus we break down what makes smoked cocktails such a crowd magnet at the bar. We wrap with grapefruit and sea salt for a Paloma, including a Northwoods twist with maple syrup and bitters, and we share what’s new at the resort, from year-round lodging plans to turtle races and a brand-new bar top.

Grab the discount and try them yourself: visit freshvictor.com and use code NBG20 for 20% off. If you liked the tasting, subscribe, share this with your cocktail friend, and leave a review, then tell us which mixer and spirit pairing we should try next.

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