Cocktails With Friends

S2 E24  Novio's Radio | Consistency Matters In this lively episode, Bob Cutler kicks off the new year with a spirited on-air discussion on cocktails, New Year's resolutions, and his philosophy of perseverance, inspired by words from Command Sergeant Major William A. Cutler. Bob introduces a revamped version of the classic Boulevardier cocktail, featuring equal parts bourbon, Cynar (an Italian arti...

S2 E23 The Scramble Johnny Episode Bob Cutler welcomes Dr. Jess Riccardi, Assistant Professor and Speech-Language Pathologist, to discuss her research on head traumas and concussions in children and athletes. They explore the long-term effects of brain injuries, the risks faced by young children, and advancements in sports safety. Jess emphasizes the need for better support systems and education w...

In this Cocktails with Friends Hotline Edition , Bob Cutler offers one listener (Eric with a "c") guidance on expanding his home bar, suggesting essentials like vermouths, orange liqueurs, Italian red bitters, and Giffard liqueurs, as well as mixers like fresh citrus and syrups. He highlights the importance of choosing personal favorites and including versatile bottles like coffee liqueur for tren...

In this Cocktails with Friends episode, host Bob Cutler chats with branding expert Karley Cunningham of Big Bold Brand, delving into the essentials of authentic branding. Karley explains that a brand is defined by its reputation and exposure, not merely its logo or colors. Using Bob's journey with his restaurant, Novio's, as a case study, they discuss how small businesses often focus too early on...

In this holiday edition of Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler joins the George Hale Ric Tyler Show on VOM with a Banana Bread Old-Fashioned served from a High Camp Flask.  Bob shares the recipe, highlights the practicality of the flask, and entertains with humorous holiday anecdotes about family obligations and cocktail calorie myths. Between laughs, Bob emphasizes the importance of enjoying the s...

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler speaks with Italian winemaker Sara Veza at Josetta Safarillo Vineyard, where they explore her journey as a fifth-generation vintner producing Barolo, her sustainable vineyard practices, and the challenges posed by climate change. Sara shares her passion for wine and a cherished Vermouth recipe inspired by her grandmother, as well as the rewards...

In this hotline edition of Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler answers listener questions about everything from choosing the right glassware and creating layered drinks to infusing spirits and making mocktails. He highlights the role of proper glass design in enhancing drink flavors, shares techniques for crafting stunning layered cocktails, and explains the difference between dirty and clean ice....

Bob Cutler hosts Matt Bolinder, owner of the Maine-based coffee roastery Speckled Ax, in this episode of Cocktails with Friends, to explore craft coffee and whiskey pairings. From wood-roasting techniques to the flavor intricacies of espresso martinis, Matt shares the origins of Speckled Ax, his passion for coffee, and details of the annual Advent Calendar featuring unique roasts each day, giving...

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler shares humorous and insightful tales from his recent trip to Italy and France, where he explored the nuances of European cocktail culture and winemaking. From mixing his own old-fashioned on a flight to discovering the art of Aperol spritzes at French bistros, Bob's adventures offer a lighthearted look at the differences in drink-making tr...

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler welcomes David Fleming, Executive Editor of Whisky Advocate, to talk all things whisky and give listeners a preview of the upcoming Whisky Fest in New York City. Together, they discuss must-try whiskies, insider tasting tips, and current trends shaping the whisky world. Whether you're a longtime whisky fan or just curious, this episode off...

This is a "Hotline" edition of Cocktails with Friends where host Bob Cutler dives into listener questions on all things cocktails! From the debate over muddled fruit in Old Fashioneds to setting up a top-tier home bar, Bob shares his expertise and helpful tips to elevate your cocktail game. Bob answers questions about everything from proper spirits storage to the subtle art of balancing flavors. D...

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler sits down with Susan Baier, founder and CEO of Audience Audit, to discuss the art of thought leadership and how to share your expertise in a way that truly makes an impact. Susan shares insights from her research and experience, offering practical advice on how to authentically position yourself as a thought leader, no matter your industry...

In this Halloween-themed episode, Bob Cutler brings a taste of fall with creative, seasonal cocktails, drawing inspiration from a classic How I Met Your Mother episode. Joined by guest Paul Melrose, Bob whips up the "Slutty Pumpkin," a tequila-based drink infused with candy corn, and a luxurious Amaro Flip. Tune in for fun banter, cocktail tips, and a bit of mixology magic perfect for the spooky s...

In this fall-themed episode of Cocktails with Friends , Bob Cutler is joined by Courtney, the head bartender at Novio's Bistro, to dive into their favorite season for cocktails. From hot toddies to seasonal syrups, they share how the flavors of autumn inspire their latest cocktail menu. Get ready for cozy drinks and behind-the-bar banter as they talk about their creations, including the infamous "...

In this "Hotline Edition" of Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler takes listener questions straight from the community! From crafting the perfect cocktail to impress a future father-in-law to spicing up Halloween treats for parents, Bob provides expert advice and personal insights on cocktail-making for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party, preparing a special dinner, or just looking for the...

  In this week's Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler goes pro at the Bangor Municipal Golf Course with Rob Jarvis, the head professional and former New England PGA Golf Professional of the Year. The pair play a few holes and discuss everything from golf course history to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, all while sharing tips on improving your golf game.   Main Topics: The history and devel...

In this episode of Cocktail with Friends, Bob Cutler takes us on a journey as he crafts a cocktail worthy of becoming the official drink of Maine. Bob shares his expert cocktail tips while discussing the potential of creating a state-signature drink. With a unique combination of Maine-made ingredients like gin, blueberry syrup, and Moxie, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves mixology...

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler is joined by returning guest Robert Haynes, co-founder of Hoste Cocktails. Together, they dive deep into creating high-end, ready-to-drink cocktails that elevate your drinking experience. From the intricacies of the Gold Old Fashioned to the Hoste's latest creations like the Mezcal Negroni and Perfect Manhattan, this conversation blends in...

This is the Hotline edition of Cocktails With Friends. Bob Cutler answers the audience's burning cocktail questions live from the deck at Bertie's at Bangor Municipal Golf Course. From perfecting cocktails for an Italian dinner party to creating low-ABV sippers for stressed-out parents, Bob dishes out advice with a side of humor.    Main Topics Covered: Ideal cocktails to pair with Italian food Te...

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler sits down with Joseph "Joey" Newell, the pastry chef at Novio's Bistro, as he prepares to embark on a new adventure. Joey reflects on his time at the Bistro, sharing stories of culinary creativity, personal growth, and friendships forged in the kitchen. From wrestling fandom to the intricacies of dessert preparation, this conversation is a...

In My Mouth Cocktails with Friends Radio Edition Bob Cutler, host of Cocktail with Friends, takes over the airwaves at the Voice of Maine to mix up some creative and refreshing cocktails with a twist. Joined by George Hale and Rick Tyler, Bob experiments with a non-alcoholic riff on the classic Moscow Mule, dubbed the "Ukrainian Liberation Donkey." The trio delves into the history of cocktails lik...

Exploring Maine's Unique Spirits with Andrew Stewart of Barrens Distillery Bob Cutler sits down with Andrew Stewart, co-founder of Barrens Distillery in Camden, Maine, to dive into craft spirits on this episode of Cocktails with Friends. They cover the origins of Barrens Distillery and the creation of seaweed-infused vodka.  Andrew shares his passion for distilling and his commitment to supporting...

Bob Cutler fields phone calls from five "semi-desperate" drinkers in the premier episode of Cocktails With Friends Hotline. He answers queries from a "confirmed beer bachelor," a "shoulder season sipper," a woman seeking to break her fella from his "old fashioned" ways, a deck party hostess not bound by whiskey, and a husband happy to welcome his world hopping-honey back home. If YOU have a questi...

In this episode of "Cocktails with Friends," host Bob Cutler chats with Dina Samson and Kelso Norris about their innovative and delicious contributions to the mixology scene in Los Angeles. Dina, owner of Superfine and Silicon Beach, and Kelso, a partner with Sips of Impact, share their experiences and expertise in crafting cocktails that cater to a diverse clientele. Join us as we explore the vib...

In this special highball edition of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler returns to the studio with George Hale and Rick Tyler for a lively mixology session. Bob introduces listeners to the versatile world of highballs, demonstrating both classic and creative twists on this simple yet refreshing drink category. From non-alcoholic mocktails to innovative cucumber and basil-infused vodka highball...