Pour it On Me

April in the DMV is officially in full swing, and this month’s lineup is packed with some of the best events happening around DC, Maryland, and Virginia.From cherry blossom celebrations and cultural street festivals to wine tastings, hands on food experiences, and even a rooftop throwback party, there is no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the city this spring.In this episode of What’s On Tap, we are breaking down some of the top events happening this month, including where to go, what to expect, and why each one is worth adding to your plans.Whether you are looking for a relaxed daytime outing or a fun night out with friends, this guide has a little bit of everything to help you make the most of April in the DMV.🍸 What’s on tap this month:Cherry Blossom ParadeSakura Matsuri Japanese Street FestivalApril Fools Festival at a local wineryArtisan Pizza and Craft Cocktails experience at The CommentaryDC Wine Fest at Dock 5 inside Union MarketBack to the 2000s Rooftop Party at Lucha RosaSpring is one of the best times to explore the DMV, and this episode is your starting point for finding something new to try.

February gave us the perfect excuse to explore a few fun date night ideas around the DMV. Instead of focusing on just one Valentine’s outing, this episode is a recap of several different adventures Auntie A tried throughout the month. From throwing axes to cheering on knights at a medieval tournament, we’re sharing what the experiences were actually like, what we drank, and whether they’re worth adding to your own date night list.We start things off with a night of axe throwing and drinks before heading out to dinner at State Fare. Later in the month we stepped into a completely different kind of evening with dinner and live jousting at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. The month also included a cozy snowy cabin getaway that involved cocktails, relaxation, and one unfortunate dessert situation that didn’t quite go according to plan.Throughout the episode we talk about the drinks we tried, the atmosphere of each place, and what stood out about the experiences. Whether you’re planning a special night out or just looking for something different to do in the DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia area, these spots might give you a few ideas for your next adventure.In this episode we talk about• Axe throwing as a date night activity• Dinner and drinks at State Fare• What it’s like attending Medieval Times• A snowy cabin getaway with cocktails• The drinks we tried throughout the month• A dessert mishap that didn’t quite go as plannedIf you enjoy exploring new places around the DMV, this episode is packed with inspiration for your next night out.

March in the DMV is not a slow month. It’s layered.From District Beer Fest at Union Market to hands-on cocktail classes, themed parties, and full-blown St. Patrick’s Day chaos, there’s something happening every single week. Cherry blossom season brings pink drinks and outdoor vibes, then we close things out with chocolate and wine pairings and the DC Cocktail Festival.If you like discovering new spirits, dressing up for a reason, or just having an excuse to text the group chat and actually go out, this month delivers.Takeaways• March offers layered experiences beyond the usual bar crawl.• Cherry blossom season brings seasonal cocktails and outdoor energy.• Guided tastings and festivals make exploring new spirits approachable.• The DMV cocktail scene is thriving and there is a vibe for everyone.

This episode is what happens when we take over the mic, open the freezer door, and make some truly questionable drink choices. We’re experimenting with freezer door cocktails, laughing through pours that are way stronger than expected, and sharing the kind of stories that only come from pour decisions made without supervision. From surprise favorites to instant regrets, it’s chaotic, honest, and very on brand. Pull up a seat and pour something at your own risk.

The podcast episode features an introduction to Pour It On Me, an exploration of Lost Boy Cider, and a discussion on New Year's reflections and resolutions. The conversation covers New Year's Eve celebrations, favorite drinks and cocktails, reflections on 2025, looking forward to 2026, and an introduction of new and exciting things happening with the podcast in 2026! TakeawaysCocktail culture and experiencesNew Year's reflections New Year's Eve celebrationsFavorite drinks and cocktailsNew Year's resolutionsChapters00:00 New Year's Reflections and Resolutions26:30 New Year's Eve Celebrations and Favorite Drinks36:27 Reflecting on 2025 and Looking Forward to 2026

Keywordsholiday drinks, Christmas traditions, festive cocktails, mocktails, family gatherings, holiday celebrations, Christmas movies, gift giving, cozy nights, cocktail cultureSummaryIn this festive holiday episode of 'Pour It On Me', host Amanda DeSimone and her niece Rebecca explore a variety of holiday drinks, including cocktails and mocktails, while discussing Christmas traditions, family gatherings, and the joys of the holiday season. They share personal anecdotes, taste test drinks, and engage in light-hearted debates about Christmas movies and gift-giving traditions, all while emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and responsible drinking during the holidays.Holiday Cocktail Recipe List PDFTakeawaysThe holiday season is a time for celebration and connection.Cocktails can be made into mocktails for inclusivity.Traditions like decorating the tree can evoke nostalgia and joy.Family gatherings can be both chaotic and heartwarming.Choosing thoughtful gifts over expensive ones can enhance the holiday spirit.Movies play a significant role in holiday traditions.The debate over whether 'Die Hard' is a Christmas movie continues.Sweet treats often take precedence over savory snacks during the holidays.Cozy nights in can be just as enjoyable as holiday parties.It's important to drink responsibly during festive celebrations.TitlesPour It On Me: A Holiday CelebrationMixing Up Holiday CheerSound bites"Merry Christmas!""I love that idea.""Drink responsibly."Chapters00:00 Holiday Cheers and Cocktails02:49 Taste Testing Holiday Drinks05:24 Inclusive Holiday Celebrations08:07 Christmas Traditions and Decorations11:11 Cozy Nights vs. Holiday Parties13:56 Movies and Music During the Holidays16:42 The Great Christmas Movie Debate19:31 Gift Giving Traditions21:54 Mocktails and Festive Drinks24:35 Sweet Treats vs. Savory Snacks27:39 Family Gatherings and Hosting29:56 Final Thoughts and Holiday Wishes

KeywordsHalloween, spooky, event, atmosphere, cocktails, experience, science, fun, bar, entertainmentSummaryThe conversation explores a Halloween-themed event where the atmosphere is a blend of spooky and scientific elements. The host shares experiences of mingling at the bar, the eerie yet playful ambiance, and the creative cocktails served by bartenders dressed as lab assistants.TakeawaysThe event had a Halloween theme with a spooky atmosphere.Guests mingled at the bar while enjoying themed cocktails.The entrance to the event was designed to resemble a lab.The bartenders were dressed as lab assistants, enhancing the theme.Cocktails were creatively presented, resembling potions.The ambiance was playful, combining elements of fun and fright.Blacklight effects added to the eerie atmosphere.The event encouraged a sense of community among guests.The experience was both entertaining and immersive.The overall vibe was a mix of science fair and Halloween celebration.TitlesA Spooky Welcome at the BarThe Start of the Event: Entering the Lab

Keywordscocktail culture, Irish bars, D.C., Halloween, Metro Bar, Delray, pub experience, drinks, nightlife, Pour It On MeSummaryIn this episode of Pour It On Me, Amanda DeSimone takes listeners on a vibrant journey through the cocktail culture of D.C., exploring Irish bars, Halloween-themed pop-up bars, and the unique Metro Bar experience. Each venue offers a distinct atmosphere, from lively Irish pubs to spooky cocktail experiences, culminating in a heartfelt tribute to her late dog, Lila, with a special cocktail recipe.TakeawaysCocktail culture thrives in D.C. with diverse venues.Irish bars offer a unique blend of atmosphere and drinks.The Dubliner is a lively spot with live music.The Irish Channel Pub serves authentic Irish comfort food.Delray's Pop-Up Bar transforms into a Halloween wonderland.Bar Wicked offers creatively themed cocktails.Metro Bar combines nightlife with immersive experiences.Halloween celebrations enhance the cocktail experience.Personal stories add depth to the cocktail culture.Every drink tells a story, connecting people. TitlesPour It On Me: A Cocktail JourneyExploring D.C.'s Irish Bar SceneSound bites"This isn't your average bar night.""It's witchy, weird, and wildly fun.""Ride the rails into this experience."Chapters00:00 Welcome to Cocktail Culture00:52 Exploring Irish Bars in D.C.03:28 Halloween Celebrations at Delray06:09 Unique Experiences at Delray's Pop-Up Bar08:23 Metro Bar: A Night of Drag and Film12:14 A Tribute and Closing Thoughts

Keywordscocktail culture, Shirlington, Copperwood Tavern, Palette 22, Samuel Beckett's, Arlington, happy hour, drinks, bar crawl, nightlifeSummaryIn this episode of Pour It On Me, host Amanda DeSimone takes listeners on a journey through Shirlington, Virginia, exploring its vibrant cocktail culture and unique bar scene. She visits three distinct venues: Copperwood Tavern, Palette 22, and Samuel Beckett's, each offering a different atmosphere and drink experience. From rustic comfort to artistic flair and traditional Irish warmth, Amanda highlights the charm and variety of Shirlington, encouraging listeners to explore this hidden gem.TakeawaysShirlington is a walkable neighborhood with diverse dining options.Copperwood Tavern offers a rustic yet polished atmosphere.Palette 22 is vibrant and artsy, perfect for creative cocktails.Samuel Beckett's is a traditional Irish pub with a lively ambiance.Each venue has its own unique personality and drink offerings.Happy hours in Shirlington provide great value and variety.The storytelling aspect of cocktails enhances the drinking experience.Shirlington is ideal for a bar crawl or a night out.The community vibe in Shirlington is welcoming and friendly.Exploring Sherlington allows for a personalized night out.TitlesDiscovering Shirlington's Cocktail SceneA Night Out in ShirlingtonSound bites"Grab a glass, and let's pour it on.""Each drink is like a brush stroke.""You'll find your place here."Chapters00:00 Welcome to Cocktail Culture00:20 Exploring Shirlington: A Hidden Gem02:26 Copperwood Tavern: Rustic Comfort04:10 Palette 22: A Creative Experience05:41 Samuel Beckett's: Traditional Irish Pub07:07 The Shirlington Experience: A Night to Remember

Keywordscocktail culture, Scotch tasting, whiskey, alcohol regulations, tasting notes, Scotch pricing, smoky Scotch, Lagavulin, Johnny Walker, MacallanSummaryIn Part 2 of 'Let's talk about scotch baby! ', hosts Amanda and Ted dive back into the world of Scotch whiskey, exploring various brands and tasting notes. They continue to discuss the nuances of flavor, the impact of aging on quality, and the differences between Scotch and other spirits. The conversation flows from light-hearted banter to insightful discussions about the complexities of whisky tasting, pricing, and the culture surrounding it. With a mix of humor and education, they aim to demystify Scotch for both novices and enthusiasts alike.TakeawaysCocktail culture is vibrant and diverse.Scotch whisky can have a wide range of flavors.Aging does not always determine quality in whisky.Tasting notes can be subjective and vary by individual.Understanding pricing can help in selecting quality spirits.Regulations can affect availability and selection of alcohol.The smoky flavor in Scotch can enhance the tasting experience.Personal experiences shape one's appreciation for whisky.Unique names of whiskies can reflect their flavor profiles.Sharing a drink can create memorable experiences.TitlesPour It On Me: A Scotch AdventureExploring the Depths of Scotch WhiskySound bites"You get what you pay for.""I need a bottle of this. Holy cow.""I drink to feel even better."Chapters00:00 Welcome to Cocktail Culture00:50 Exploring the World of Scotch02:40 The Art of Tasting Scotch05:35 Understanding Scotch Pricing and Quality10:40 Navigating the ABCs of Alcohol Regulations14:34 The Smoky Side of Scotch18:01 The Journey of a Scotch Enthusiast21:04 Biting a Nurse: A Unique Tasting Experience38:28 Reflections on the Tasting Experience

keywordsScotch, whiskey, tasting, cocktail culture, distillery, flavors, regions, whiskey brands, alcohol, spiritstakeawaysScotch is a specific type of whiskey that must be made in Scotland.There are various types of whiskey, including bourbon, rye, and Irish whiskey.The flavor profile of Scotch varies significantly compared to bourbon.Tasting events can enhance the appreciation of different Scotch varieties.The region of production influences the flavor of Scotch significantly.Japanese whiskey has gained popularity and is known for its quality.Food pairings with Scotch are less common, but cigars complement it well.The price of Scotch often reflects its quality and production methods.Personal experiences and preferences play a big role in Scotch appreciation.Tasting techniques, such as palate cleansing, are important for a proper experience.summaryIn this episode of 'Pour It On Me', hosts dive deep into the world of Scotch whiskey, exploring its rich history, diverse flavors, and the nuances that set it apart from other types of whiskey. Joined by a guest, they taste test various Scotch brands, discuss their personal experiences, and share insights on tasting techniques, regional influences, and food pairings. The conversation highlights the importance of quality and the unique characteristics of Scotch, making it a fascinating journey for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike.Chapters00:00Introduction to Scotch Culture02:55Understanding Scotch vs. Other Whiskeys06:02The Journey into Scotch Tasting08:39Exploring Different Scotch Varieties11:46Tasting Techniques and Palate Cleansing14:37Regional Differences in Scotch17:27Personal Scotch Experiences and Recommendations20:42The Influence of Distillery Practices23:13Japanese Whiskey and Global Trends26:12Food Pairings and Scotch Culture28:59Comparing Scotch Brands and Preferences31:41The Macallan Experience34:20Final Thoughts on Scotch and Closing Remarks

Keywordsspeakeasies, prohibition, cocktail culture, DC bars, history, Carrie Nation, Off the Record, The Mirror, The Allegory, drinking cultureSummaryIn this episode of Pour It On Me, Amanda DeSimone takes listeners on a journey through the history of speakeasies during Prohibition, highlighting their cultural significance and evolution. She visits three notable speakeasies in Washington, D.C., sharing her experiences and the unique offerings of each venue, from classic cocktails to immersive storytelling. The episode blends historical context with modern cocktail culture, inviting listeners to appreciate the artistry and ambiance of these hidden gems.Takeaways:The temperance movement led to the creation of speakeasies.Carrie Nation was a key figure in the temperance movement.Prohibition aimed to create a society free of alcohol, which failed.Speakeasies became popular as secretive places to drink.The Great Depression led to the repeal of Prohibition in 1933.Off the Record is a renowned speakeasy in D.C. with a rich history.The Mirror offers a playful take on classic cocktails.The Allegory combines cocktail culture with storytelling.Modern speakeasies focus on creating immersive experiences.Cocktail culture today emphasizes quality and approachability.TitlesThe Secret World of SpeakeasiesProhibition: A Historical PerspectiveSound Bites"Every great story starts with a pour.""They invented the speakeasy.""Your drink becomes part of a larger story."Chapters00:00The Allure of Speakeasies and Prohibition History02:56Exploring Off the Record: A DC Institution05:40The Mirror: A Playful Speakeasy Experience08:27The Allegory: Where Cocktails Meet StorytellingCredits: Lucas Films https://youtu.be/hT8ybuuPBnE?si=PO6vUuU6MctyYYZ9Hay Adams Hotel :https://www.hayadams.com/gallery/The Mirror DC: https://themirrordc.com/The Allegory: https://www.allegory-dc.com/Music and Imagery: Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/OpenAI: https://openai.com/Midjourney: https://www.midjourney.com/imagineGoogle Gemini: https://gemini.google.com/Canva: https://www.canva.com/

Keywordscocktail culture, bartending, drink recipes, cocktail stories, speakeasies, cocktail preferences, bar etiquette, local bars, cocktail adventures, drink experiencesSummaryIn the inaugural episode of the Pour It On Me podcast, hosts Amanda and Katie Rose dive into the vibrant world of cocktail culture. They explore the stories behind cocktails, the unique spaces where they are enjoyed, and the people who share these experiences. The conversation flows from personal cocktail preferences to the evolution of drink culture, touching on surprising aspects of cocktail making and the personalities that cocktails can embody. They also discuss bar etiquette, pet peeves, and the excitement of discovering local bars and unique drink experiences. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted reflection on their adventures and a call to action for listeners to join them on their cocktail journey.TakeawaysCocktail culture is about more than just drinks; it's about stories and experiences.The hosts emphasize the importance of exploring new cocktail spaces and flavors.There is a growing acceptance of adventurous cocktail preferences among drinkers.The conversation highlights the evolution of personal cocktail tastes over time.Bar etiquette is crucial; snapping fingers at bartenders is a major pet peeve.The hosts share their favorite cocktails and the memories associated with them.Cocktail culture is becoming more mainstream and accessible to everyone.The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the social aspect of drinking.Unique and creative cocktails are becoming more popular in bars.The episode promotes the idea of exploring local bars and hidden gems.TitlesPour It On Me: A Toast to Cocktail CultureExploring the Stories Behind Every PourSound bites"Pour it on me, baby.""I love a dirty Tito's martini.""I can't do shots anymore."Chapters00:00 Welcome to Cocktail Culture02:02 Exploring Cocktail Stories and Spaces05:28 The Evolution of Cocktail Preferences11:27 Surprising Aspects of Cocktail Culture13:58 Cocktail Personalities and Trends18:35 Navigating Cocktail Experiences20:10 Introducing the Pour It On Me App20:39 Exploring Local Adventures24:02 Drink Preferences and Judgments25:40 Bar Etiquette and Pet Peeves29:39 The Perfect Bar Experience33:35 Future Plans and Local Tourism

Welcome to Pour it On Me, the podcast where cocktail culture takes center stage. Each week, hosts Amanda and Katierose explore the stories behind the drinks, the bartenders who craft them, and the unique atmospheres that make bars and lounges unforgettable.From hidden speakeasies in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) to legendary cocktail spots across the U.S.—and eventually abroad—we’ll share the flavors, the history, and the trends shaping how we sip today. Think barrel-aged Old Fashioneds, tiki twists, sustainable mixology, and the quirky bar rituals you didn’t know you needed to try.🍸 What you’ll get:Conversations with bartenders, distillers, and drink innovatorsSpotlights on must-visit cocktail bars & local gemsFun, off-the-cuff banter about drinks, travel, and bar cultureThe first pour drops July 31, 2025—and you’ll find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.If you love a good drink, a good story, and the vibe that comes with both, subscribe now and get ready to pour it on with us.