
There is always that moment of painful indecision that seizes one when deliberating upon what “shot” to choose. Whether it be amidst a drove of your pals, on an increasingly awkward first date, or during a solo binge-endeavor—the question remains: what to shoot?
Now there is a proliferation of shot “mixtures”—a subgenre of liquor all itself—that subvert quality drinking with catchy monikers and funky combinations. They masquerade around with names the like of “Kamikaze,” “Buttery Nipple,” “SoCo Lime,” and essentially anything uttered in LMFAO’s infamous song. While these concoctions will achieve the optimal results of maximum frivolity and rapid ossification (a noteworthy achievement), this initiative is directed towards the purists: those seeking a quality shot without all the pageantry.
Bottom line: keep it simple, shoot your liquor straight, and discard the superfluous titles that make an already arduous process infinitely more complicated! Here are five quality shots guaranteed to sauce you up without all the hoopla!

As a comfort shot of sorts, Jameson fills the role of token “whiskey shot” in the repertoire of the casual imbiber. Already a staple of the classic take on Irish debauchery (“the car bomb”), Jameson’s reputation as quality hooch speaks for itself. When in the mood for a wallet-friendly, potent whiskey experience, look no further than the consummate harbinger of Celtic intoxication, Jameson!

The Kentucky Bourbon masters over at Wild Turkey crafted this gem not too far back. Though still relatively underground, American Honey is a magical flavor journey that infuses a healthy dose of honey into an already award-winning bourbon. The mere mention of “bourbon” may send shivers through the spines of the uninitiated, yet fret not, for American Honey transcends boundaries of taste by providing a smooth, potent finish. Spice up the next round of hooch by tossing some honey into the mix!

Whether it’s due to the irresistible allure of those majestic gold flakes, the sultry abundance of cinnamon notes, or the sheer epicness of its name, Goldschlager has become pure, vintage goodness in the shot department. Oft overlooked as a “show” shot of sorts, the “schlag” hits you with a fresh, almost “mouth-washy” taste that leaves you both refreshed and intoxicated. Infinitely better when chilled, the “schlag” keeps it simple, brings the proof, and spices up even the drollest of evenings.

Everyone has a tequila story. It’s a rite of passage of sorts, marking one’s ascendancy into the ranks of the drinking elite. Perhaps you engaged in some inter-species erotica while under the influence in Tijuana, or mistakenly soiled a sink in a debaucherous haze—whatever the tale, tequila shots are classic vessels for intoxication. Foremost among the surplus of tequila options is Patron—the pinnacle of velvety agave flavor! Served chilled, Patron has few equals in the quality department, and while occasionally pricey, more than merits the coin! Don’t settle for the lesser, rancid tasting brands that may house those unfortunate invertebrates—step up to the big leagues, and enjoy!

Occasionally, an evening warrants the pomp and circumstance—the bombast of flame and chaos! When such a moment arises, look no further than the consummate incendiary wildcard, Bacardi 151. Potency incarnate, this beast is not for the feint of heart (or tolerance), as a few shots will take down even the mightiest of foes. Best exercised with caution, a nice flaming round of the “151” to commence an evening speaks volumes of one’s intentions! Beware: while the allure of flames may incite repeat performances, the continued sampling of this potent hooch may result in a most incendiary climax!




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