Your fall cocktail menu doesn’t need a dozen syrups or a full bar cart, it needs three smart builds and a couple of solid techniques. Our boozy starships Head of Cocktail Engineering Josh joins Matt to roll out a trio of autumn drinks that cover the whole range: bold and boozy, bright and foamy, and light enough to pour before dinner.

First up is a Spiced Pear Old Fashioned made with 100-proof bourbon, St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur, and a bitters combo that keeps the pear from turning cloying. We also talk presentation that actually matters, including how a flamed orange peel adds real aroma and a clean citrus snap. It’s a strong sipping cocktail for crisp nights, porch hangs, and anyone who loves an old fashioned with fall flavor.

Then we shift to the Blood Moon Rising, a blood orange cocktail built with orange rum, allspice dram, and a silky egg white foam created with a dry shake. If raw egg makes you hesitate, we get practical about it: what the risk really looks like, when to skip it, and the bartender-friendly alternative (Fee Foam) that gets you that same velvety texture. 

We close with an Apple Cider Martini featuring applejack, apple cider, and ginger liqueur, basically trick-or-treat night energy in a glass without going heavy.

If you try one of these fall cocktails, share it with a friend, then subscribe, leave a review, and tell us which drink you’re making first.

1Spiced Pear Old Fashioned ("The Headless Pearman")

• 2 oz 100-proof bourbon
• 1 oz St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 2 dashes Fee Brothers old-fashioned bitters

Stir with ice in a mixing glass, strain over a large cube. Garnish with a flamed (warmed) orange peel, spritzing the oils through the flame.

Blood Moon Rising

• 2 oz Don Q Naranja (orange) rum
• ¾ oz allspice dram
• 1¾ oz fresh-squeezed blood orange juice
• ¼ oz lime juice
• 1 egg white

Dry shake (no ice) to foam the egg white, then add ice and shake hard again. Double strain over a large ice cube into a rocks glass. Garnish with a dried blood orange slice (thin slices baked at about 185°F on convection for roughly 3 hours, turned every 30 minutes). An orange slice or cinnamon stick also works.

Egg white alternative: Fee Foam, ½ oz in place of the egg white, or omit it entirely with the same other ingredients.

Apple Cider Martini

• 2 oz Laird's applejack
• 2 oz apple cider (cold-pressed preferred; spiced cider is fine)
• 1 oz Barrow's Intense ginger liqueur

Shake, then strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an apple slice, orange peel, or cinnamon stick (or Halloween candy).

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Your favorite “cheap beer” might be running on nostalgia, not flavor. Big Z, Chris, and Rob sit down with Matt for a follow up to the Budget Beer Battle from season 1 and do the only fair thing: pour a lineup of low-priced brews, sniff the damage, take the sip, and score what we actually taste.

The table gets interesting fast with Utica Club, Foster’s, Coors Banquet, and Peroni, and we keep circling the same question: is it worse to taste bad or to taste like nothing at all? We argue about noses that don’t match the palate, beers that disappear the second they hit your tongue, and why one bottle earns points just for feeling like real beer. Then we total up the numbers and realize our “subjective” system is changing in real time.

Round two brings Iron City, Corona Extra, Garage Beer, and a final contender that makes all of us stop and go, “Oh, there it is.” We talk beer tasting notes, beer pong utility, ABV, and value, including points-per-cost math that turns the episode into a genuine hunt for the best budget beer. One clear winner separates itself from a table full of mediocrities and earns the crown the hard way: by tasting like beer-flavored beer. 

If you’ve got a budget lager you swear by, we want to hear it. Subscribe, share this with your beer group chat, and leave a review so more people can find the show, then tell us which cheap beer deserves a shot in the next battle.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Four wartime icons walk into a bar... Andy, Big Z, and Rob join Matt and we take history way too seriously to keep it simple. We’re back with a Wartime Leaders Booze Battle where each of us brings a leader, their signature drink, and a case for why that person matters long after the last battle ends. Expect real tasting notes, real history, and the kind of arguing that only friends can get away with.

We start with Ulysses S. Grant and a high-proof Kentucky bourbon, tasting it straight and then with a few drops of water to see what actually changes in the nose and the finish. From there we hit Grant’s Civil War reputation, the complicated reality of his life after office, and the Mark Twain connection that turns his final years into something both brutal and inspiring.

Then Big Z swings in with Harry S. Truman and a dangerously drinkable old fashioned, using it to trace the end of World War II and the decisions that shape everything that follows: Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Truman Doctrine, the formation of the United Nations and NATO, and the early blueprint of the Cold War. We also get a deep appreciation for “breakfast cocktails” that may just belong in the past.

Andy takes us medieval with Joan of Arc and a French Bordeaux that changes minds about red wine, price tags, and why drier Old World bottles can feel smoother and more food-friendly. 

Matt closes with Tokugawa Ieyasu and a sake cocktail called The Patient Slice, built with sake, yuzu, and honey syrup, and it might be the best drink he's ever brought to the show.

Hit play, pick your winner, then subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review so more history and cocktail nerds can find us!

The Patient Slice

• 3 oz chilled Junmai Ginjo sake
• ¾ oz yuzu juice
• ¾ oz honey syrup (1:1 honey + warm water)

Floating slice of lemon  

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

America’s oldest brewery has a survival story that reads like a crash course in U.S. history, and we’re pouring it up as part of our Red, White, and Booze celebration for America’s 250th birthday. From the jump, Yuengling is not just a brandbto us. It’s a living thread that runs through history, industry, and the way certain beers become part of a place’s identity, especially here in Pennsylvania. 

We follow the brewery back to 1829, when German immigrant David Gottlieb Yuengling picks Pottsville, Pennsylvania and starts what was first called the Eagle Brewery. Coal country demand, cool storage caves for lagering, a devastating fire, and a relocation that still defines the brewery’s home base all shape the foundation. Along the way, the company becomes D. G. Yuengling and Son, locking in a family legacy that keeps the story personal and surprisingly resilient. 

Then comes the big test: Prohibition. We talk through how Yuengling stays alive by brewing Near Beer and even running a dairy that makes ice cream, plus the celebratory flex when Prohibition ends in 1933 and beer gets sent to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. We also trace the modern era, from Dick Yuengling Jr.’s expansion beyond Pennsylvania to the return of the amber lager in 1987, the flagship green bottle that helped turn “lager” into a shorthand order at bars across much of the East. 

If you love beer history, American lager culture, or the behind-the-label business moves that keep a legacy brewery thriving, you’ll get a lot out of this one. Subscribe, share with a fellow lager drinker, and leave us a review so more people can find the show.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Budweiser is everywhere and Josh takes over to tell the real story is how it became The King of Beers. We take a boozy, history-forward look at one of the most recognizable American beers ever made. Budweiser isn’t just a drink, it’s an industrial blueprint.

We walk through how Adolphus Busch and Eberhard Anheuser turned beer from a fragile local product into a national brand by solving the biggest problems of the era: spoilage, heat, and distance. If you’re into business history, supply chains, or the evolution of American consumer culture, this part hits hard.

Then we get nerdy about what’s actually in the glass. We break down why Budweiser uses rice, how that choice shaped the “American adjunct lager,” and what beechwood chips really do during conditioning (hint: it’s not about tasting like a barrel). From Prohibition survival tactics to the Budweiser Clydesdales and the post-war explosion of TV ads, sports sponsorships, and Busch Gardens, we trace how a beer becomes a cultural institution and why it still matters in the age of craft beer.

Subscribe, share this with a beer-history friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find the Red, White, and Booze series. What’s your personal “first Budweiser” memory?

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Jack Daniel’s is one of those names you can recognize from across the room, even if you’ve never taken a sip. So we decided to go past the black label and square bottle and tell the story that actually built the brand, as part of our Red, White, and Booze run-up to America’s 250th birthday. For this installment, our friend Keb Pound from the Stupid History Minute hands us a tight, surprising history lesson that’s equal parts whiskey, culture, and America.

We start where the legend really begins: Tennessee in the mid-1800s, and the often-overlooked mentor behind the method. You’ll hear why Nathan “Nearest” Green matters to American whiskey history, how his expertise shaped Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, and what the Lincoln County Process actually does to the spirit. 

Then the pressure hits: temperance, Tennessee’s early Prohibition, national shutdowns, and the resilience it took to survive when so many distilleries didn’t. We also get into the strange lore, including the infamous safe story, plus the postwar choice that helped Jack Daniel’s explode by selling tradition instead of “new and improved.”

If you like whiskey history, brand storytelling, and weird facts you can drop at the bar, hit play, subscribe, and share this with a friend. And if you enjoyed it, leave us a review so more listeners can find the show.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Nine bottles. One table. Zero patience for boring wine. Andy, Josh, and Siobhan join Matt to drink, enjoy, and evaluate white wines! We’re back with a white wine tasting where we rank everything rocket-style and say the quiet parts out loud: some wines are perfect “patio pounders,” some are interesting but polarizing, and one local Riesling goes so candy-sweet it resets the entire definition of “sweet.” Along the way we compare three Sauvignon Blancs side by side, from California fruit to that unmistakable Marlborough, New Zealand grapefruit and grassiness, and we talk about what “finish” really means when you’re trying to explain why a wine does or doesn’t work for you.

We also get practical with wine pairing and give you a simple rule you can reuse at home: think about where the wine comes from and what people eat there. From raw bar favorites and citrusy salads to pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic, we connect acidity, minerality, and body to real food decisions. Then we detour into the fun science, including how a White Malbec is even possible (skin contact is everything), what wild fermentation can add to a dry Riesling, and why “fruit-forward” is often mistaken for actual sweetness.

The second half turns into a mini world tour: Spanish Albarino with a frizzante vibe, a stainless-steel Burgundy Chardonnay that surprises the self-proclaimed Chardonnay skeptics, and a Sicilian Etna Bianco with a mineral, savory edge that ends up taking the crown when we tally the final rankings. If you love white wine, want to love it, or just want to hear friends argue about oak, acidity, and bubblegum notes, hit play. Subscribe, share this with your favorite wine friend, and leave us a review with the bottle you want us to rank next.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Elvis drove what? Madonna got fired from where? What famous artist wore a chicken suit to work? Jen, Jordan, and Rob join Matt for a "Think Or Drink?" showdown around wacky music trivia like that, and it turns into the kind of game night where one risky lifeline can send your score into the negatives.

We bounce through categories that mix pop culture, music history, and pure chaos: musicians’ odd jobs before fame, actors with secret band pasts, strange one-off performances, and the kind of weird artist quirks you can’t unhear. Along the way we see who’s actually behind famous guitar parts, and test how smart it is to “put it on their tab” when you’re not sure of an answer.

If you’re into music trivia, classic rock facts, pop star lore, guitar history, and comedy podcasts that feel like friends around a table, this one delivers. We hit iconic credits like the Beat It solo, surprise guest appearances on legendary tracks, and the stories that make famous names feel strangely relatable. Then we crown a winner, pick the stellar sip, and send you off with a boozy quote to close the night.

Subscribe for more Think Or Drink trivia, share this with your favorite music nerd, and leave a review if you want more wacky categories. What’s the wildest music fact you know?

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Reviving your hero requires one simple move: finish your drink. That is the core rule that turns our table into pure chaos as we play Drinking Quest, the Dungeons and Dragons inspired drinking game built for party nights, bad decisions, and big laughs. Matt takes the dungeon master seat while Andy, Chris, Siobhan, and Rob roll for initiative, argue about house rules, and immediately discover why you do not bring heavy drinks to this game.

We’re playing the Belch of the Wild edition of Drinking Quest, a Zelda parody packed with monsters, coin rewards, saving throws, and a shop full of questionable upgrades. Sidekicks join the party too, boosting stats or dragging them down at the worst possible time. Along the way we deal with falling beers, vengeful chickens, living cocktails, and saving throws that somehow include self worth and sexual prowess. The mechanics are simple, but the stories that pop out of each card feel like a fast actual play one shot.

If you like tabletop role playing, drinking games, and comedy podcasts, hit play, then subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave us a review so more people can find the show.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Guinness has one of the most unlikely résumés of any beer on Earth: an 18th-century Irish origin story, a masterclass in industrial brewing, a global export giant, and even a quiet role in shaping modern science. We walk through how Arthur Guinness grows up around practical brewing in a time when beer is safer than water, then turns a £100 inheritance into a real business that rides the rise of porter and scales fast. 

From there, we zoom out to the worldwide footprint of Guinness today. We also put real numbers to the cultural moment: about 7.5 million pints a day on average, jumping to roughly 13 million on St. Patrick’s Day. 

Then we get into the beer science that makes a Guinness pour so recognizable. We also break down the two-step pour and why that foam cap protects aroma and flavor stability. Finally, we connect Guinness to statistics through a famous statistical test that was originally developed to improve brewery quality control. 

Subscribe, share this with a fellow stout fan, and send us a text with the most surprising Guinness fact you learned!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

A St. Patrick’s Day celebration deserves a master storyteller! We sit down with Seamus Kennedy, Irish singer, song writer, and comedian to relive so of his most unforgettable moments at our local Celtic Classic festival and beyond, including the night a planned onstage proposal gone very wrong, the tornado that ripped through a festival tent mid-set, and the surreal evenings he performed for President Ronald Reagan and the Pope. Seamus pairs every tale with heart, turning mishaps into folklore and reminding us why live music still feels like magic. We trace his path from linguistics student bound for the UN to full-time troubadour after a chance pub gig in New York. 

No Irish conversation feels complete without a proper pint, so we trade notes on Guinness, Scotch ales like Old Chub, and Lehigh Valley favorites including Bagpiper’s Scotch Ale. There’s brewery lore, a Guinness guitar origin story, and classic jokes that still bring down a room. 

Crack open a pint of your favorite Irish beer and join us for some laughs with Seamus! Hit follow, share this with a friend who loves Irish music or a good stout, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find the show. Sláinte!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Sparkly moonlight, cotton candy clouds, and a snap of flame—our Anime Booze Battle brings big fandom energy to the bar. We have each crafted original cocktails inspired by Sailor Moon, One Piece’s Gear Five Luffy, Fullmetal Alchemist’s Roy Mustang, and a nod to Sword Art Online’s Black Swordsman Kazuto Kirigaya. Then was argue, laugh, and debate our way to a winner.

First up, Sailor Moon gets a radiant makeover with a yuzu-forward gin and tonic. Empress Gin brings the purple hue, edible glitter channels that iconic transformation sequence, and a dash of lavender-rosemary bitters balances the citrus. We swap stories about how Sailor Moon shaped pop culture, and why it remains a welcoming gateway for newcomers without losing depth.

Then we sail into One Piece. Gear Five Luffy inspires a dessert-like cocktail with vanilla vodka, Malibu, triple sec, soda, and a cotton candy cloud crowned by a handcrafted straw-hat garnish. We break down what makes Luffy’s world so enduring: devil fruit lore, “adventure-first” pacing, and that polarizing yet brilliant Looney Tunes elasticity of Gear Five. It’s a sugar rush with substance—joy as rebellion and resilience.

Things heat up with Roy Mustang. A classic Fireball and RumChata shot nods to snap-born flame and the moral weight at the heart of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. We dig into equivalent exchange, war, and redemption, and why Brotherhood’s tight storytelling and character arcs stick the landing. 

Finally, we pour a dark, smooth SAO-inspired sip—Kahlúa, vanilla vodka, and a splash of cola—to capture the tension between quiet life and hero’s duty in a VR world where death has real stakes.

By the close, we crown the cocktail champion for presentation, flavor, and thematic flair. If you love anime, mixology, or both, you’ll leave with new recipes, fresh watchlist ideas, and a smile. Subscribe, share this episode with your favorite fan, and tell us: which anime would you drink to next?

Christa’s Gear 5 Luffy cocktail was one of the best to ever appear on the podcast!  

1oz triple sec

1oz Malibu rum

1oz vanilla vodka

Top with Sprite

Garnish with cotton candy

Serve on the rocks

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ten bourbons, one table, all the hype, and no mercy! Andy M., Chris, and Josh join Matt for another bourbon extravaganza! We lined up everything from a $20 Bottled-in-Bond workhorse to beloved Buffalo Trace labels, a sleeper single barrel, a stave-finished Maker’s Private Selection, and a cask strength closer—and let the flavors fight it out. With four palates in play, we tracked nose, finish, drinkability, and real-world use cases to answer the question that actually matters: which bottle should you reach for, and why?

The ride starts with contrasts: Bib & Tucker Double Char’s toasted oak and short finish against Noble’s feather-light four-grain profile that drinks almost like a blended scotch. Then we dive into the Buffalo Trace family where bias meets reality: approachable sweetness in Buffalo Trace, refined citrus-honey spice in Elmer T. Lee, and the soft-but-divisive richness of Weller 12. We pause to unpack how proof tolerance evolves, why wheat can smooth edges, and when “hard to find” becomes head noise on your palate.

Mid-show, the value conversation heats up. Clover Single Barrel brings classic vanilla and baking spice flavors at 92 proof, while Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond earns respect as the 100-proof cocktail backbone you actually want behind the bar. We break down the Bottled-in-Bond Act and how it still signals quality: one distillery, one season, at least four years, exactly 100 proof. From there it’s an ascent: Baker’s 7 Single Barrel charms us all and a special Maker’s Mark Private Selection, brought by Chris, layers French oak complexity into holiday warmth. Brothers Bond Cask Strength closes with caramelized sugar and a lingering burn that begs for a spirit-forward cocktail.

Use the link below to send up your favorite bourbon or suggestions for us to try next! 

We tally the scores and determine which of our 10 bourbons comes out on top. We hope you’ll leave with a simple bar strategy: keep a dependable 100-proof mixer, a nuanced mid-proof sipper, and a special-occasion bottle that rewards slow pours. Press play, compare your top three with ours, and tell us what would move up or down. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share with a bourbon-loving friend, and drop a review so more listeners can find us. Cheers!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Josh and Matt bring you visions of a bright red glass, a room full of friends, and a recipe that earns its place at the table—our cranberry whiskey sour brings seasonal flavor to a timeless form while telling the story of how a humble template shaped cocktail culture. We start with the build: rye for spice, cranberry for tart depth, fresh lemon for lift, real maple for warmth, and orange bitters to tie it all together. Then we zoom out to the roots of the sour—spirit, citrus, sugar—born from sailors fighting scurvy and refined from ship to saloon.

Across the episode we share why the whiskey sour is a benchmark order at any bar and how mastering it unlocks the logic behind the many other popular cocktails. Our holiday variant respects the classic while speaking in winter tones—cranberry’s tannic snap, maple’s woodsy echo, and a bright orange twist. You’ll leave with a reliable recipe, a sharper palate for balance, and a new way to explain why a “basic” drink often carries the deepest craft.

If this story and recipe hit the spot, follow and subscribe, share with a friend who loves cocktails, and leave a review telling us your favorite whiskey sour riff. Cheers to balance and to better holiday drinks.

Christmas Cranberry Whiskey Sour

Ingredients

• 2 oz rye whiskey
• 4 oz cranberry juice
• ½ oz real maple syrup
• 1 oz fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• A couple dashes of orange bitters

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well. 
3. Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.

Garnish - Orange twist

Makes 2 cocktails

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

A frosty glass, a warm toast, trivia, and a roomful of music nerds trying not to cry-laugh over a slide whistle—our holiday special brings the good stuff. We start with a cookies-and-cream Sugarlands concoction and buttery-nipple shots poured into Matt's Grandpa’s vintage shot glass set, then raise a heartfelt toast to departed friend. From there the energy jumps: holiday music trivia, name‑that‑tune chaos with student recordings, and a chord-progression challenge that reveals how deeply these carols live in our bones.

We dig into the stories behind the songs with some trivia. The slide whistle segment might be the funniest minute of our year, but it’s also a clever lesson in melody recognition: strip away the production and you can still sing your way home. Then we pivot to the all-time top toys list—Slinky, Yo-yo, Barbie, Game Boy, LEGO, Hot Wheels, Wii, Switch—and unpack why certain fads explode, which classics endure, and how design, scarcity, and nostalgia shape holiday demand.

To cap it off, we play a yes–no lightning round of questions to guess what Andy is thinking of and pick our Stellar Sip. It’s equal parts music history, party game, and story time—woven with real friendship, small traditions, and the kind of laughter that lingers. Pour something sweet, press play, and join the table. If you smiled, shared a memory, or guessed a tune before we did, subscribe, leave a review, and tell a friend who needs a holiday laugh.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

A herd of buffalo carved a path across Kentucky, and that same path led to one of the most storied distilleries in America. We follow that trail from frontier stills to a modern distillery campus, unpacking how Buffalo Trace became a benchmark for bourbon history, science, and hype—often all in the same bottle.

We start with the unlikely origin story: prehistoric buffalo trails guiding settlers to a natural river crossing, early farm mashups turning into documented distilling, and a run of owners who built, rebuilt, and refined through fires and setbacks. The narrative accelerates with E.H. Taylor Jr., who pushed for federal standards and turned whiskey making into a repeatable craft, then shifts to George T. Stagg’s scale-up. The Prohibition chapter proves pivotal too as stills were kept running and knowledge alive.

From there, we spotlight Elmer T. Lee, the WWII veteran who treated bourbon like a system to be modeled. His creation of Blanton’s Single Barrel reframed what premium could mean, celebrating individuality instead of blending it away. Under Sazerac, the portfolio expanded into a galaxy—Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, W.L. Weller, George T. Stagg, Elmer T. Lee, and the Van Winkle partnership—each with distinct mash bills, age statements, and loyal followings.

We break down why bottles vanish and why billion-dollar expansions still can’t rush oak. Through floods, fires, and shifting tastes, Buffalo Trace keeps threading tradition with experimentation, turning history into a living practice that you can actually taste.

If you love bourbon lore and the craft behind the hype, this story is your pour. Hit follow, share with a friend who’s still hunting their first Eagle Rare, and drop a review to tell us what bottle you’re chasing next. Cheers.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

A special thank you to the Sugarlands Distilling Company for sending us 4 jars of their sipping create and a bottle of High Rock Vodka!

Andy, Rob and Siobhan join Matt to line up four Sugarlands Sippin’ Cream flavors—Orange Dream, Peanut Butter, Birthday Cake, and Eggo Waffles Brunch in a Jar—taste them straight, then put them through a cocktail gauntlet to find out which is our favorite! 

First, we break down the flavor profiles and texture surprises: Orange Dream smells like a melted creamsicle with a vanilla glide, Peanut Butter is roasted and familiar, Birthday Cake goes full funfetti, and Eggo Waffles Brunch in a Jar brings maple and butter with a toasty edge. Then the mixology begins! A waffles-and-coffee delight, a cherry pie adventure make up round one. Round two raises the bar higher: a boozy Orange Julius that channels mall-counter glory followed by a Peanut Butter Cup martini. 

Which Sippin' Cream and cocktail will we crown this episodes stellar sip?

If you love dessert cocktails, creamsicles, peanut butter cups, or coffee liqueur riffs, you’ll leave with recipes, ratios, and smart tweaks to make your next creamy drink sing. Enjoy the ride, then tell us your favorite flavor and how you’d mix it. If you like what you hear, follow, share with a friend, and leave a quick review so more drink lovers can find the show. Cheers!

Recipes from Sugarlands Distilling:

Brunch Chocolate Coffee

Cherry Pie

Orange Julius

Peanut Butter Cup Martini

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Strike a match, pour a fall old fashioned, and settle in for a Halloween watch-along that blends 90s chills with grown-up sips. Andy, Chris, Rob, and Siobhan join Matt and cue up two Are You Afraid of the Dark standouts—The Tale of the Shiny Red Bicycle and The Tale of the Ghastly Grinner—and unpack why these kid-friendly scares still hit.

We start at the campfire with SNICK nostalgia, TV ratings lore, and a shout to the show’s practical-effects roots, including the SFX lead who later racked up Emmys for a very different show. 

All of it pairs with our seasonal cocktail: a cider-honey old fashioned tuned toward bourbon for a proper backbone. Think apple, cinnamon, and oak with a warm finish, easy to batch and perfect for a cozy rewatch. Along the way we compare Monster-of-the-Week storytelling to today’s binge era, trace how practical effects give scares real texture, and reflect on how these tales taught us to name fear, protect siblings, and read the signs before trouble hits.

If this rekindles your SNICK heart or inspires your next movie-night pour, tap follow, and share with a friend who knew the Midnight Society by heart!

🍂 Fall Old Fashioned Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 oz bourbon (they used Buffalo Trace)
• 1.5 oz apple cider
• A drizzle of honey (for sweetness)
• A few dashes of bitters
• Simple syrup (optional, if you like a sweeter old fashioned)

Garnish

• Cinnamon stick
• Apple slice
• Cinnamon-sugar rim on the glass

Notes

• The original online recipe called for equal parts bourbon and cider, but Siobhan modified it to cut the cider in half so the bourbon flavor comes through more strongly.
• Served as a fall twist on the classic old fashioned — bourbon-forward, balanced with cider and honey for seasonal warmth.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Christa, Josh, and The Fish join Matt for a casual stout tasting that quickly transforms into a fascinating exploration of craft brewing's darkest frontier. Diving headfirst into ten distinct stouts ranging from modest 5% session-friendly options to formidable 14.2% bourbon barrel-aged behemoths, our panel discovers that ABV numbers and fancy descriptions don't always align with drinking pleasure.

The journey takes unexpected turns as pre-tasting predictions fall flat. A chocolate strawberry ice cream stout initially dismissed as potentially undrinkable surprises everyone with its restrained balance, while a high-priced, wax-sealed special release bourbon barrel stout polarizes the group. Throughout the tasting, the conversation weaves between technical brewing knowledge, flavor analysis, and entertaining tangents—including a passionate defense of raccoons and trash pandas found on one particularly memorable can.

As the group progresses through progressively stronger offerings, clear patterns emerge about what makes a truly exceptional stout. Is it balance? Drinkability? Flavor complexity? Or simply how well it lives up to its name? 

Whether you're a stout aficionado or simply curious about dark beers, this episode offers valuable insights into how seasoned tasters evaluate these complex brews and what separates the truly stellar from the merely adequate. Which stout would claim the top spot on your personal ranking? Listen, learn, and maybe discover your next favorite dark beer along the way.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Chris, Josh, and Siobhan join Matt as fate takes control of the cocktail shaker in this hilarious second round of our drink-based Russian roulette. Armed with nothing but dice and questionable courage, Matt and friends submit themselves to the whims of chance as they roll for cocktail ingredients that no sane bartender would ever combine.

The dice show no mercy as rolls produce increasingly apocalyptic combinations: a shot mixing gin, pickle juice followed by a curdling science experiment and a unanimously reviled tequila martini with pickle juice.

Through grimaces and gags our brave drinkers uncover a fundamental truth about cocktail creation—balance is everything, and sweetness is crucial for making even the strangest combinations palatable. The episode delivers equal parts mixology disaster, chemistry lesson, and friendship test as participants down concoctions that would make even the most adventurous bartender blanch.

Text us your own random cocktail experiences or suggestions for the future —though after this episode, pickle juice might be permanently banned from the rotation.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Prepare to enter a tavern where fate determines what's in your glass! In this hilarious and chaotic episode, Chris, Josh, and Siobhan join Matt to play "Roll for Cocktail," a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired drinking game where dice decide every element of their drinks—from base spirits to garnishes.

The adventure begins with dramatic character introductions worthy of a fantasy campaign before explaining the rules of this perilous drinking quest. Armed with multi-sided dice and one precious re-roll each, our heroes face the prospect of everything from pleasant combinations to nightmare concoctions featuring Clamato juice or habanero peppers.

The true joy comes from the group's willingness to embrace chaos, their genuine reactions to each bizarre combination, and the surprising discovery that random ingredients occasionally create something genuinely good. Their discussions about what's missing from each drink—acidity, sweetness, balance—reveal the fundamental principles of good mixology even when working with the strangest ingredient combinations.

This episode represents just the first part of this dice-rolling series. Will you join us for the next round? Roll for initiative, grab your glass, and discover what unexpected combinations await when chance determines your cocktail fate!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

The mysterious Green Fairy beckons you into a world where art, controversy, and botanical alchemy collide. Absinthe has captivated and terrified in equal measure throughout its storied history, and we're pulling back the emerald veil to reveal what makes this spirit so enduringly fascinating.

Discover the botanical trinity that forms absinthe's soul. From ancient Egyptian remedies to Swiss medicine to Parisian cafés, we trace absinthe's remarkable journey through time. You'll learn why the 5 o'clock hour was once known as "l'heure verte" as bohemians and bourgeoisie alike gathered for their daily ritual with the Green Fairy.

We explore the golden age when absinthe inspired an entire artistic movement, with luminaries like Van Gogh, Picasso, and others falling under its spell. But fame brought scrutiny, and we unpack the moral panic, scientific misconceptions, and notorious murder case that led to absinthe being banned across the globe for nearly a century. 

Whether you're an absinthe aficionado or curious newcomer, you'll appreciate our breakdown of the proper serving ritual that transforms this potent spirit into a cloudy, mesmerizing experience through the addition of water and sugar. We even suggest modern cocktails that showcase absinthe's unique herbal complexit.? Subscribe now and join us for a sip of the extraordinary.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Christa, Josh, and The Fish join Matt to explore how the first sip can transport you back to great memories. From a campfire, to the bar that saved a girls' weekend in Ocean City, or back to college hallway where your nickname was born in the craziest way possible.

"A good drink can be an experience, and a good experience can call for a good drink," sets the tone for this journey through our most memorable beverage moments.  Christa brings her Orange Crush to the table. The discussion naturally flows to how fresh ingredients elevate any drink from ordinary to memorable, with everyone agreeing that real citrus and quality ingredients make all the difference.

Josh shares his camping bourbon sidecar, revealing the ritual of pre-batching cocktails for evenings by the fire. There's something special about planning that moment of adult relaxation amid the chaos of family adventures. Meanwhile, Matt discovers unexpected nostalgia in a beer label that triggers powerful memories of his band days, when music served as both escape and identity during crazy teenage years.

The highlight comes when we finally learn why "The Fish" earned his nickname during freshman year at UConn, back in 1990. Will we finally learn his real name?

What drink transports you back in time? Share your stories with us on social media and subscribe for more unforgettable drinking adventures.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Armed with nothing but a $4.99 MTV Throwback Music Party Game from Five Below, Josh, Rob, and Siobhan join Matt and dive headfirst into a chaotic game of music trivia that tests our musical knowledge and performance skills across decades. Players have just 15 seconds to name songs containing specific words, perform interpretative versions of hit tracks, or recite lyrics from memory – all while the pressure of the timer makes previously obvious answers completely disappear from our minds. By the end, it's clear I may have paid to much for this game!

The night kicks off with Josh's masterfully crafted "My Name is Muddy Waters" cocktail. This coffee-themed creation blends Stoli vanilla, St. George Nola coffee liqueur (a nod to New Orleans jazz), Mozart chocolate liqueur, and half-and-half into what even the non-coffee drinkers declare delicious. Later, Siobhan introduces us to a craft beer series appropriately named "One Hop Wonders."

The true magic happens in those panic-inducing moments when someone blanks completely on artists they've listened to for decades – creating some of the most genuine laughter you'll hear on any podcast.

Grab your favorite drink, hit play, and see if you can outperform our contestants before they hit that dreaded "time's up!"

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

The beer landscape in America has shifted dramatically, and Modelo Especial now wears the crown as the nation's best-selling beer. This remarkable transformation—from a Mexican import to America's favorite brew—speaks volumes about changing consumer tastes and the evolving American identity.

Born in Mexico City in 1925, Modelo's origin story defies expectations. A Spanish baker decided to trade flour for foam, partnering with industrialist  and 22 other investors to launch Cerveceria Modelo. Their ambitious start brought us Modelo Especial and Corona in that first year, followed by Negra Modelo in 1926. The company flourished under unusual leadership: a former Dominican friar and one who rose from sweeping floors to running the entire business. Modelo has expanded beyond its core Hispanic customer base and in 2023 became America's top-selling beer, a position it maintains today.


This 4th of July, as you celebrate independence with friends and family, take a moment to appreciate how your beer choice reflects America's beautiful blending of cultures and traditions. After all, what's more American than the freedom to gather together and to choose exactly what you want in your cooler?

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Join Matt and Jon from Poppin's Travel on an EPIC adventure! What happens when two theme park enthusiasts are granted VIP access to Universal Orlando's Epic Universe before its grand opening? A 19-mile walking marathon, 25+ attractions, and an evening of complimentary food and signature cocktails that transformed us into living testimonials for the park's perfectly chosen name.

Our adventure began with a whirlwind tour through Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, conquering classics like ET's Adventure and modern marvels like Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. By afternoon, we'd ridden 15 major attractions and were preparing ourselves for the evening's exclusive preview of Epic Universe.

Stepping into Epic Universe feels like entering multiple worlds at once. The attention to detail is staggering—in the 1920s Paris area, buildings stand at true-to-life scale with no forced perspective tricks. At the Blue Dragon restaurant, bartenders crafted smoky, theatrical cocktails that delighted our senses. The Dark Universe section delivered both thrills on Monsters Unchained and theatrical drinking experiences at the Burning Blade Tavern, where servers stayed perfectly in character while serving "eyeball" garnished cocktails.

Super Nintendo World brings tears to the eyes of lifelong games. The Isle of Berk captured How to Train Your Dragon's magic through both its stunning environmental design and family-friendly coasters that deliver excitement without excessive intensity.

As fireworks and drones lit up the night sky, we reflected on what makes Epic Universe special. It's not just the rides or the perfectly themed areas—it's how seamlessly everything works together to create genuine moments of awe. This isn't just Universal's newest park; it's their masterpiece.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ready your wands and prepare your potions as Christa, Chris, Josh, and Siobhan join Matt to embark on a magical journey through the wizarding world with an epic Harry Potter-themed trivia night. This butterbeer-fueled showdown transforms our regular "Think or Drink" game with special Hogwarts-inspired power-ups like the Marauder's Map and the Pensieve, allowing players to access behind-the-scenes movie facts or explore the differences between the books and films.

The competition quickly heats up as Chris reveals himself to be a walking Potter encyclopedia, prompting the others to form an alliance worthy of Dumbledore's Army against him. Laughter erupts as players debate their Hogwarts houses, struggle with Latin spell pronunciations, and discover fascinating trivia gems – like a very famous actor being turned down for the role of Hagrid due to J.K. Rowling's insistence on an all-British cast.

As homemade butterbeer flows (complete with homemade whipped cream topping) and Dragon's Milk bourbon barrel-aged stout enters the mix, the questions range from wand cores and forgotten common room  passwords to scenes from the novels that never made it into the movies. Throughout it all, nostalgia weaves through the competitive atmosphere as contestants share their first experiences with Harry Potter.

The friendly rivalry culminates in an unexpected victory that proves even the most knowledgeable wizard can be outmaneuvered with the right strategy. So grab your favorite magical beverage, tune in, and test your own Potter knowledge alongside us.

Mischief managed! 

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ever wonder what happens when science, celebrities, and craft beer collide? Welcome to Invertase Brew Company in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, where every pint comes with an extraordinary tale! 

Our conversation with owner Steve Zolnay reveals how a Father's Day homebrew kit led to a family-owned brewery founded by a biochemist, and a mechanical engineer. The scientific precision behind their brewing process creates remarkably balanced and approachable beers that have earned a devoted following.

What truly makes this episode special are events that take place at Invertase and Steve's incredible stories. Like the time he traded 50 pounds of goat manure for backstage passes to an ELO concert, the repeat customer that arrives by freight train, and a ghostly friend that visits from time to time.

The brewery's connections to musical royalty are astounding - from Bruce Springsteen's saxophone player, to and insurance agent who has big names like Springsteen in her "portfolio." These aren't just celebrity name-drops; they're genuine human connections formed through Steve's natural curiosity and warmth.

Between Stellar Sips of their stellar Belgian Triple and Hazy New England IPA, we explore how Invertase hosts comedy nights, professional wrestling, and became a hub for unforgettable experiences.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, music lover, or simply appreciate great storytelling, this episode captures the magic that happens when passion, science, and community flow together. Ready to discover a brewery where the stories are as remarkable as the beer? Pour yourself something delicious and join us. 

If you are in Phillipsburg New Jersey, please visit our friends from Invertase Brewing Company! 

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Andy, Josh, and Rob join Matt for a riotous episode, as we play a trivia game that tests our ability to identify fabricated names among genuine, albeit ridiculous, real-world counterparts. Get ready for the inappropriateness! 

The game comes with high stakes – each incorrect answer means spinning our shot spinner to determine our fate. With tequila, bourbon, vodka, and the infamous Malört lurking among the options, strategic gameplay becomes crucial as points dwindle and shot glasses empty.

From athletes with unfortunate names like "Fair Hooker" and "Harry Colon" to craft beers including "Nutsack Brown Ale" and "Sexual Chocolate Imperial Stout," we explore the bizarre reality that truth is often stranger than fiction. The As Seen on TV product round reveals equally absurd genuine items – including a golf club with a hidden feature.

Rob's dramatic reaction to Malört alone is worth the price of admission, as he desperately reaches for anything to cleanse his palate after declaring it "worse than the tuna taco" from Drinkables! 

Subscribe now to catch our upcoming episodes featuring Harry Potter trivia, and a stout tasting with guest "The Fish." Share your favorite moments with us on social media @MattAndFriendsDTU!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Andy, Josh, and Siobhan join Matt to take a sip of nostalgia with Monica and David Kowalski, the creative duo behind Lebowski's Kool-Luah coffee liqueur and Lebowski's Tap Room in Colorado Springs. Monica shares how she's been crafting this remarkable coffee liqueur since she was just eight years old, using her late father's recipe from the 1970s that has now become an award-winning spirit taking the cocktail world by storm.

As we sample White Russians and espresso martinis made with Lebowski's Cool Lua, Monica and David reveal the incredible versatility of their spirit through creative concoctions like a limoncello White Russian that tastes like German chocolate cake. Their passion for crafting unique, high-quality experiences extends to their tap room, where they showcase local producers and have developed over 50 different White Russian variations.

Rapidly expanding distribution throughout the country, Lebowski's Kool-Luah represents the perfect blend of family tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation. Are you ready to abide a truly exceptional coffee liqueur? 

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

This episode is about celebrating the joy that video gaming brings to our lives. Andy, Chris, Josh, and Rob join Matt for video game trivia! We are all avid gaming enthusiasts which makes for a raucous episode filled with insight, laughter, and a delicious drink to match the mood. Chris assembled a truly "Game Genie" level of trivia quests which fosters engaging conversations about favorite single-player and multiplayer games, offering something for everyone. Our drink of the day, Matt's Gerudo Vally margarita, sets the relaxed vibe as our hosts dive into nostalgic memories and hilarious anecdotes about their gaming journeys. 

The tension mounts as we kick off an exhilarating trivia battle, where Chris set the difficulty level to "Expert" and challenges us with questions and categories ranging from classic titles to next-gen wonders. With a sprinkling of laughter and friendly roasts, we foster an atmosphere of competition that’s both playful and spirited. 

We conclude by delving deep into classic video game soundtracks, showcasing how music enhances our gaming experiences and evokes cherished memories. Sip, laugh, and play along! 

Subscribe for more delightful episodes, and let us continue to raise a toast to our shared passion for gaming. Cheers!

Special thank to Jeff Steitzer, the Halo multiplayer announcer, for the very special sound drops featured in this episode!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Andy, Chris, Josh, and Rob join Matt for our inaugural "Bar Chat" episode as we welcome special guest: Jeff Steitzer! Jeff's unforgettable booming announcements set the tone for multiplayer combat throughout the Halo video game series. Jeff candidly shares his journey from the vibrant stages of the theater scene to the recording booth, all while being initially unaware of the seismic impact his voice would have on gamers worldwide.

Listen as we chat about the blend of gaming and theater work in Jeff's career, and how conventions have become a cherished avenue for him to connect with fans. Whether you're a gamer who reveres his voice or want to learn more about his journey, this episode promises a delightful mix of nostalgia, industry insights, and personal anecdotes that underscore Jeff’s fascinating career.

In honor of our interview with Jeff, we’ve whipped up the perfect concoction for a toast to him — the "Sticky Grenade," inspired by Halo:

Ingredients:

• 1/8oz Grenadine
• 1/2oz Blue Curacao
• 1/4 Silver Tequila
• 1/4 Lemon Juice

Instructions:

1. Pour just a few drops of grenadine into the bottom of a shot glass.
2. Add the blue curacao carefully over the grenadine.
3. Layer the silver tequila on top. Use the back of a spoon, ensuring it sits above the curacao.
4. Top with a light splash of lemon juice.

The result is a vibrant colored shot with a sweet start and a strong finish!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Drinkables! Ready for a hilarious culinary escapade? Join us on "Matt and Friends: Drink the Universe" as we embark on a spirited journey through the world of budget-friendly dollar store snacks paired with margaritas. Andy, Josh, and Rob join Matt for a flavor-packed adventure filled with laughter, and candid critiques. We’re pairing 3 snacks with Teremana tequila margaritas. 

We tackle an array of Mexican-style snacks, turning an ordinary taste test into a comical critique of unexpected flavor combinations. Some good, some not good at all. We share our raw reactions.

In true "Matt and Friends" fashion, the episode takes a whimsical turn into DIY culinary creations, blending childhood nostalgia with adult innovation. Featuring Jack Link's Steak Bites, tiny chicken tacos, guacamole-flavored chips, salsa verde, Mexican style rice, and even corn nuts for a Mexican-style street corn flair. Top it off with watermelon rings for a margarita garnish, and you have the perfect recipe for discount snack greatness! 

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Unearth the captivating stories behind one of the world's favorite cocktails, the margarita, and dive into its rich, flavorful history. Discover how the delicious pairing of tequila and lime captured hearts and palates worldwide as the margarita rose to iconic status alongside tequila's growing popularity in the United States.

But what about that distinctive glass? Could a mishap at a Los Angeles restaurant have given birth to the classic margarita glass, or is Marie Antoinette's bosom? Finally, fast forward to 1971, when Mariano Martinez drew inspiration by a humble soft-serve ice cream dispenser to create a frozen classic. As we toast to the margarita's legacy, be ready with your ingredients for our special recipe reveal at the end—perfect for sipping along and celebrating this beloved cocktail's storied past.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Reflecting on an incredible journey through 2024, I am thrilled to share a heartfelt tribute to the amazing team behind Matt and Friends Drink the Universe.

As we toast to a new year filled with possibilities, we are eager to embark on exciting new adventures in 2025. If you know of a brewery, distillery, or winery worth exploring, we'd love to connect. E-mail us at mattandfriendsdtu@gmail.com 

Cheers to a safe, healthy, and prosperous New Year, and a huge thank you to our listeners!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Did you know that you can roller skate to church in a certain country for Christmas? Join us for a holiday-themed episode filled with laughter, trivia, and festive cheer as we, alongside our good friends Andy, Chris, Rob, and Siobhan, explore the quirkiest international Christmas traditions. Sip along with us as we try the Frosted Cranberry 75. Our trivia game challenges you to master the art of giving—in points, that is—while strategically "peeking under the tree" to dodge those pesky wrong answers.

 Discover surprising nuggets of holiday music history, like Judy Garland's unexpected contribution. As the drinks get trickier and the questions tougher, our camaraderie and banter keep the spirits high, peppered with jokes and the occasional rosemary garnish suggestion.

Ever wondered about the origins of Mrs. Claus or the history of the Yule Goat? Our discussions meander through festive lore. We cap off the episode with a light-hearted guessing game inspired by "A Christmas Carol." With joyful toasts and playful banter, we wrap up with warm holiday wishes and a nod to the true essence of the festive season—shared laughter and joyful experiences.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ever had an adventure sparked by a simple drink? Andy, Christa, and Rob join Matt for round of story telling to answer the question "How Did We Get Beer?"

Rob takes us on a vibrant journey with Treehouse Brewing’s Super Typhoon American Double IPA, where citrus notes from hops blend with tales of a memorable trip to Vermont. Meanwhile, the Weyerbacher’s Merry Monks triple unleashes smooth flavors and potent memories of casual rehearsals turned into memorable escapades. Alongside Andy and Christa, we reminisce on how the perfect blend of good company, great music, and exceptional brews transforms ordinary moments into cherished stories.

Switch gears with us as we indulge in the hilarious chaos of a $28 vodka tonic mystery, complete with torrential rain and unexpected bar prices.

Reflecting on the wild nights of our past, we fondly recount escapades involving parking meters and Long Island iced tea at 2 a.m. Through laughter and nostalgia, we embrace the growth into responsible adulthood, proving that even the most disorderly conduct can lead to some of the best stories. Join us for all this and more as we toast to the adventures that make life memorable.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Josh joins Matt to introduce Matt and Friends Drink the Universe's official cocktail for 2024 holiday season! Ever wondered why the French 75 cocktail, born amidst the vibrant backdrop of Paris, still captivates cocktail enthusiasts more than a century later? Join us as we unlock the secrets of this iconic drink and explore how it became a symbol of sophistication and defiance.

This holiday season, we're thrilled to unveil our Frosted Cranberry 75, a festive take on the classic that promises to elevate your celebrations. Josh, guides the crafting of this winter delight using Koval Cranberry Gin Liqueur and Prosecco, offering a refreshing burst of flavor with a hint of sweetness. Discover our tips for creative garnishing with lemon twists and frosted cranberries, or learn how to whip up a homemade cranberry simple syrup if you're feeling adventurous. Whether you're a fan of the original or eager to try our holiday twist, this episode is a spirited toast to both tradition and innovation in cocktail-making.

The Frosted Cranberry 75

1. Add to a shaker with ice:

• 1 oz Koval Cranberry Gin Liqueur
• 1/2 oz half ounce of fresh lemon juice

2. Shake and strain in a champagne flute.
3. Top with 3 oz of Prosecco.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Feel free to use whatever sparkling wine you like best. You can also mix up the garnish with whatever festive ingredients you'd like. A sprig of rosemary or a frosted cranberry would also work great. 

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Andy, Chris, and Siobhan join Matt for some drink tasking and story telling, Matt and Friends Drink the Universe style. Imagine standing on the edge of a 70-foot cliff on the island of Lanai, feeling the adrenaline and the Hawaiian sun on your skin, just before plunging into the crystal waters below. That's the spirit behind the Gold Cliff IPA from Kona Brewing, and the spark for our storytelling adventure. In this episode, Chris takes us back to his 10th wedding anniversary in Hawaii, where he and Siobhan renewed their vows amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Kauai. 

Next Siobhan shares with us a harrowing tail of an encounter with bees. She loves to trauma dump for these episodes! This inevitably leads to all of us sharing tales of winged devils and the various times we have been terrorized by all manner of things with stingers. 

Matt then takes us to the Cayman Islands, where the iconic mudslide recipe stirred up sweet honeymoon memories and humorous tales of driving challenges. 

Our storytelling then takes a cultural turn with Andy as he shares a taste of Lithuanian spirits, comparing the robust flavors of fermented rye mash to familiar whiskeys, and recalling a personal visit to Lithuania that was as warming as the spirits themselves. In the end, we promise not just laughter and nostalgia but a chance to connect over the universal language of good drinks and great adventures. 

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Happy Halloween! Can Chianti really tango with liver and fava beans, or is that just a culinary mismatch immortalized by pop culture? Join us as we unravel this flavorful mystery, teasing the truth behind Dr. Hannibal Lecter's infamous dinner pairing in Silence of the Lambs. This episode promises to enlighten and entertain. Travel back to the 13th century Tuscany and learn how Chianti evolved from white to the rich red icon of today, boasting the robust Sangiovese grape and a distinctive Black Rooster emblem. We’ll even share the medieval legend that put this proud rooster on the map! So pour yourself a glass, and let’s toast to Chianti’s notable place in both wine history and pop culture.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Rob guides us on a journey to discover the fascinating legacy of the Reinheitsgebot, the historic German Beer Purity Law, and how it continues to shape brewing centuries later. What if a 500-year-old law could guarantee not just the quality of your beer, but also a slice of cultural history with every sip? Join us on for this Alcohology short as we unravel the origins of this pioneering regulation, enacted in 1516, which revolutionized beer brewing by mandating just three ingredients.

As we toast to tradition, we'll discuss how Oktoberfest honors this brewing standard, with the the beers served at the illustrious festival. Prost to exploring a bubbling history that promises both quality and fun!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

On this episode of Matt and Friends Drink the Universe, where we pit our wit and musical expertise against each other in "Think or Drink." Andy, Chris, Rob, and Siobhan join Matt for some music trivia. Each bringing their rich musical backgrounds to the table. The stakes for bragging rights are high, and the trivia is intense. Will Andy retain his crown from the infamous "Let it Eb" episode? 

We kick off by savoring the mouthwatering Cookie Monster golden stout from Funk Brewing. Its delightful blend of vanilla, chocolate, and natural flavors provides the perfect backdrop as we dive into a lively trivia game spanning the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. Emo kids, you'll want to be here for the 2000s. Expect playful banter and nostalgic anecdotes as we tackle questions about Madonna's "Like a Virgin," Guns N' Roses' debut single, and the first-ever music video on MTV. The camaraderie and competitive spirit among us shine through, making for an engaging and informative session.

Finally, we take a nostalgic journey through viral internet phenomena and iconic musical moments, from the Foo Fighters to the unforgettable Numa Numa dance. Siobhan and Andy battle fiercely for trivia supremacy, while the rest of us share humorous stories and fun trivia tidbits. We reminisce about Weird Al Yankovic's hilarious parodies, Dashboard Confessional's emo anthems, and even discuss Queen's legendary Live Aid performance. Tune in for an episode brimming with laughter, nostalgia, and a deep love for music trivia that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ever wondered how a molasses based spirit was born in the Caribbean? Join us as we bring to life the captivating story of rum. We promise you'll uncover the rich history that makes this Caribbean delight very unique. We also share some eye-opening tales, like the underwater discovery of Morgan's lost ships and the NFL's unexpected ban on the iconic Captain Morgan pose. This episode is filled with thrilling history, adventurous anecdotes, and the timeless allure of one of the world's most beloved spirits.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ever wondered how well you know the intricate mythology of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle Earth? Prepare for an epic journey with us as Andy, Jason, Rob, and Siobhan, join Matt for a special edition of Think or Drink trivia. We kick things off with unique "One Ring" mechanics that let players swap lore questions for movie-related ones, all while enjoying Dragon's Milk Reserve and Eagle Banana Bread beer. 

Tune in as we traverse the creation of Middle Earth and dive into the complex roles of characters like Manwë and Melkor. Our guests share their personal connections to Tolkien's works, from childhood memories of reading "The Hobbit" to the deeper complexities of "The Silmarillion." Stories of cherished collectibles and special movie screenings bring a nostalgic atmosphere to the trivia challenge, making it a heartfelt segment that any Tolkien enthusiast will appreciate.

Finally, the stakes rise with challenging Middle-Earth Trivia, featuring tough questions and strategic use of lifelines. The competition heats up with discussions about legendary creatures, punctuated with friendly banter and quick-witted humor. Whether you're a casual fan or a Tolkien scholar, this episode is packed with passion and knowledge, making it a must-listen for anyone who loves Middle Earth.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Join us for a high-energy episode of Matt and Friends Drink the Universe as we humorously recount Rob "Straightfire Stehly's" recent, fiery ordeal that earned him his new moniker. Alongside Mike "Big Z", Christa, and Matt, we'll dive straight into our first beer tasting with the Fantasmic 2.0 from Second Sin Brewery, known for its impressive can art and flavorful punch.

From there, we embark on a flavorful journey through the craft beer landscape, savoring the well-balanced brew and one abhorrently bad apple! Wrapping up with our final rankings, we highlight the impact of tasting order and provide a fair evaluation of each brew. Don't miss out on ways to connect with us on social media and join Unfiltered Studios for more creative content. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a deep appreciation for the art of craft beer tasting.

We taste:
Second Sin - Phantasmic 2.0
Great Lakes Brewing - Vibatious
Ship Bottom - The Shack
Flying Dog - Giant Slice
Lost Tavern Brewing - The Steel
Neshaminy Creek Brewing - Shape of Hops to Come
New Trail Brewing - Back Cast
Victory Brewing - Dirt Wolf

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Get ready for a lot of IPAs!  Andy, Chris, and Siobhan join Matt to kick off our 2 part "Rocket Rankings" series of IPA tasting. We taste our way through Sierra Nevada - Celebration, Sherman St. - Hop Next, Beer Tree - Citra Grove, Adroit Theory - Death.net, Dogfish Head - 90 Minute IPA, Other Half - Broccoli, Lost Tavern - Life's a Trip Vol. 10, and Oliver - First Class.

As we journey through a galaxy of IPAs, we review everything from label art to the intriguing aromas that each unique brew presents. You'll hear our candid takes on the dryness and flavor profiles of brews like Sherman Street's offerings and discover why Beer Tree's Citra Grove New England IPA got our attention big time. Our tasting session is filled with colorful anecdotes and brewery backstories, making each sip not just a tasting experience but a trip through the craft beer cosmos.

Personal stories from a bachelor party at the Dogfish Head brewery add a touch of humor and nostalgia, especially as we discuss their wild creations like the Pennsylvania Tuxedo and even a lobster beer. We wrap up this episode by ranking our favorite IPAs, debating their qualities, and highlighting why beer, much like music, is a deeply personal adventure. Tune in and taste the universe with us!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

In this Alcohology short, French wine! Our salute to the fine wine made by the host country of the 2024 Summer Olympics. Join Matt as he traces the story of French wine all the way back to the ancient Greeks and follows the remarkable journey of French viticulture through centuries of history and innovation. You'll learn how how it all started, the Catholic Church's role in preserving and perfecting winemaking techniques, and the historical milestones. Discover how these developments have shaped the standards and flawless reputation of French wines today.  

Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply curious, grab a glass and tune in for an engaging and insightful journey into the world of French wine. Cheers!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Sip your way though American history with us while celebrating the 4th of July! Andy, Jen, Josh, and The Fish go head-to-head in a spirited game of Think or Drink. Expect laughs, unexpected twists, and a lot of friendly banter as we test our knowledge on everything from Founding Father's smuggling booze to the last state to repeal it's prohibition laws.

Ever wondered how many cases of beer Americans crack open during the Independence Day weekend? Get ready to be amazed as we uncover jaw-dropping statistics about beer sales and reveal the nation's favorite brews.

Don't miss Josh's special lemonade and vodka cocktail recipe, featuring a unique liqueur blend, Perfect for your 4th of July celebrations.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Curious about how America's oldest brewery managed to thrive for nearly two centuries? Discover the captivating journey of Yuengling, from its founding by German immigrant David Gottlieb Yuengling in 1829 to its modern-day success. Join us as we explore the brewery's clever strategies for surviving Prohibition, including the production of near beer and even a foray into the dairy business. We'll also uncover the pivotal role Dick Yuengling Jr. played in reviving the brand with the reintroduction of the iconic Amber Lager in 1987.

Our episode goes beyond history to discuss Yuengling's evolution and steadfast commitment to quality and heritage. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or a history buff, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the enduring spirit of Yuengling, a name synonymous with quality beer in Pennsylvania and beyond.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ever wondered what happens when beer, wine, and cocktail knowledge collides in a trivia game? Join Matt and his spirited friends Chris, Siobhan, and Rob as they navigate the first ever episode of "Top Shelf" trivia. "Matt and Friends Drink the Universe." With Snooty McBeer hilariously laying down the rules, our contestants embark on a journey from bottom-shelf Mezcal to top-shelf glory. The more questions they get right, they better drink they earn. If all 3 contestants answer all of their questions correctly, Matt must suffer the notorious Mezcal from episode 1!  

Prepare for some laughter-filled moments as the gang tackles questions on Beer, Wine, and Cocktails. No shortage of our famous silly sound drops in this one either! Tune in to find out who ascends to the top shelf and who might need a little help from a Fishy lifeline in this fun filled episode!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Ever wondered how a bitter bark from the South American wilderness became a staple in your favorite cocktail? Uncover the incredible saga of tonic water in this episode of Alcohology as Siobhan and Matt take you on a journey from the depths of the Amazon to British colonial life. Hear about the cinchona tree's miraculous medicinal properties, the role of quinine in combating malaria, and how this led to the creation of tonic water. You'll also learn about its transformation from a life-saving remedy to a fizzy mixer that’s now a must-have in cocktail culture. Join us for a sparkling conversation, rich with history, science, and a dash of humor.

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Top O’ the episode to ya! Andy, Chris, Rob, and Siobhan (slightly Irish), join Matt for a St. Patrick's Day episode brimming with plenty of shenanigans, trivia, and of course Guinness! Andy to guest host trivia as we raise a pint (or several) and dive headfirst into all things St. Patrick’s Day! We test our knowledge with questions ranging from the legendary tales of St. Patrick himself to the mischievous antics of leprechauns. There might even be a little music along the way.

More than one member of the crew has ventured to Ireland in the past and kissed the Blarney Stone. Imbued with the gift of gab and filled with Irish spirit, we share stories and anecdotes of trips to Ireland and our St. Patrick’s Day memories in between questions. So pour pint of your favorite brew, get comfy, and let's toast to the spirit of St. Patrick's Day!

Sláinte!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Matt and Friends Drink the Universe recorded live from Bald Birds Brewing! In this episode, we're toasting to Bald Birds brewing and owners Joey and Abby Feerar's journey as brewery owners. Andy M. joins Matt to get the scoop on Joey's leap into the craft beer scene from banking, the challenges of starting a brewery, and the Robin's nest that inspired it all! As we tour the brewery and sample their finest, like "Other Robots," "Highway Miles," "Timbre," and "Jed over Heels,"  we discover the nuances of beer making and the creativity that bubbles beneath the surface.

Breathing life into the community, Joey shares how partnerships, like their collaboration with Penn College’s brewery science program, are essential ingredients in the recipe for innovative brews. They are innovating with bourbon too, revealing how a rapid-aging process could revolutionize barrel aging.

Grab your glass and join us for a heartfelt celebration of the craft, the culture, and the community of beer making. From the meticulous crafting of the their beer, to the personal tales behind the names of our beloved brews, this episode is more than just talk – it's a journey through the heart and soul of brewing. 

We’re not just drinking beer; we're drinking in this universe of craft beer together! So pull up a chair and let's savor the stories as rich as the craft beer we cherish. Cheers!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Grab a pint and pull up a chair! We traveled to The Alementary Brewing Company in Hackensack, New Jersey and recoded this one on location! Get ready for a hearty dose of humor and hops as Big Z, The Fish, Rob and Matt sit down with the brewery's own Ryan, who serves up a frothy blend of anecdotes and insights. From the scientific marvels of Alementary's brewing process to the beloved image of a brewer's dog gracing every label, we're venturing beyond the pint glass to uncover what makes this spot a popular and delicious haven for beer lovers.

This episode is no ordinary beer run; it's a symposium of laughs and suds that will leave you with a better understanding of craft brewing – without any student loans. With tales as rich as a stout and banter as lively as a freshly tapped keg, you're in for an auditory feast that pairs best with a beer from Alementary!

Cheers!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Grab a cup of cheer and join us as we embark on a festive journey with 'Matt and Friends Drink the Universe.' Alongside my raucous crew—Rob, Chris, Siobhan—and our special guest host, Andy, we're serving up a Christmas Think or Drink trivia. Expect to be enlightened with the history behind classic Christmas songs and the international traditions that brighten our holidays, all while we indulge in Butterscotch shots, a whiskey Shamash, and a Captain Morgan classic!

Ever wondered about the unusual origins of your favorite holiday tunes or the curious customs celebrated across the globe? We're dishing it all out with laughs and surprises at every turn. From the influence of a historical conflict on "Do You Hear What I Hear?" to the tale of the Ukrainian Christmas spider, we're unspooling the festive yarns that bind us together. You'll also get a glimpse into our personal family traditions, proving that holiday warmth is universal.

We've got Santa Claus trivia that will stump even the jolliest elf. We're recalling the actors who've donned the famous red suit, sharing our favorite holiday specials, and wrapping up with classic Hollywood actors who've never played Santa.

So, if you're in the mood for a hefty dose of Christmas camaraderie, jolly trivia, and a sprinkle of festive banter, listen in and toast to the season with us!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

 Andy, Emma, and Siobhan join Matt, embarking on a fascinating journey through the world of sparkling wines, exchanging stories, personal anecdotes, and some surprisingly informative insights on wine tasting.

First up, we blind-tasted six different sparkling wines, each of us rating them out of 25. Our conversation turned hilariously chaotic as we shared tales of our past boozy exploits. We grappled with the sweet versus dry wine debate, causing our scores to veer wildly from wine to wine.

Our scores and opinions diverged, igniting a spirited debate about the merits of each wine. Which sparkling wine will be the highest ranked? So join us as we raise several glasses of effervescent goodness, and who knows? You might even discover a new favorite bubbly. Cheers!

The sparkling wines we tasted:
Chardone Brut
Easton Wine Project Sparkling Wine
Korbel Extra Dry
Lamarca Prosecco
Scandi Frizzante
Verdi Spumante

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

No laws with Claws! Emma, Rob, and Siobhan join Matt on an audacious adventure of sipping and munching through combinations of White Claw flavors and budget snacks. We each bring our preferred White Claw flavor to the table but the real fun begins as we pair them with unexpected gas station treats. 

Our episode wraps up with a delightful homemade chicken dip and a debate about its qualifications in this competition. Whether you're a foodie, a drinks enthusiast, or someone who enjoys hearty conversations sprinkled with laughter, you're in for a ride. So come on, let's drink this unique part of the universe together!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

"Exploding Mutants" 

Andy, Chris, Rob, and The Fish join Matt for an exciting round of our signature "Think or Drink" trivia. After we crack open our Oskar Blues Brewery Mutant IPAs, Rob unveils his superhero alter ego. As the game begins, we serve up a strong cocktail of superhero knowledge. We tackle questions about various characters, their superpowers, and the storylines they've been part of.

As the game progresses, we dive deeper into the multiverse of comic book knowledge. The laughter never stops as harder questions come into play about the masterminds behind iconic comic book films, their gripping plotlines, and the unforgettable cinematic moments they gifted us.

Which of the contestants will be heroically victorious? Who’s thinking and who’s drinking?

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

Part 2 of our Halloween special (all puns intended)! Chris, Rob, and Siobhan join Matt in watching and reacting to Harrison Smith's movie, 'The Special'! We enjoy the "Special" cocktail we crafted for this occasion. We laugh, scream, gasp, and cry out in horror as we enjoy the horror story of Jerry who follows his friends bad advice down a dark path of addiction and death.

The Special IMDB
B. Harrison Smith IMDB

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!

For our Halloween special Matt and Rob interview writer, producer, director, best-selling author, and host of the Cynema podcast Harrison Smith! This episode promises an insightful conversation with Harrison as he gives a peak into his upcoming projects and shares the origins of his passion for horror films.

As we delve deeper into the convolutions of the entertainment industry, we explore the potential seismic shift AI could inflict on Hollywood. Harrison, armed with his wealth of knowledge, offers enlightening perspectives on the rapidly emerging technology; from its application in de-aging actors and generating film characters, to the challenges it presents to those in the industry.

Matt and Rob also present Harrison with a new cocktail they have specially crafted to pair with his movie, "The Special," which Matt and friends will watch and react to next week!

Support the show

Visit www.mattandfriendsdtu.com for links listen, support the podcast, and more!

Check out our sponsor, Poppin's Travel Company, for all of your travel needs! Their highly qualified agents are ready to book your next big adventure or dream vacation.

Visit our merch store

We'd love to hear from you on social media! Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X.

Cheers, and thanks for listening!