The Thirsty Traveler

Scotland – The Water of Life Through the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh to the rolling hills of the Speyside Valley to the salty water of the Island of Islay, The Thirsty Traveler searches this lush and historic country for its fine whiskey on the "Whiskey Trail." And while on Islay he helps a local B&B owner prepare a whiskey-laced meal.

The Sparkle of France The French have always been known for their flare for the elegant. Champagne is just one of their many aristocratic passions. Our Thirsty Traveler journeys through the heart of the French Champagne region, picking grapes, pressing, bottling and even sabering the odd bottle. He'll take you under ground, through miles of caves that house millions of fine bottles. Plus he's invited to dine at one of Europe's finest restaurants.

Black Gold, Irish Nectar There is nothing more Irish than a pint of stout. The Thirsty Traveler explores the history of this dark ale and makes his way from the crowded streets of Dublin, through Waterford and lands in Cork. From haunted castles to yacht sailing to the local pub for a caleigh, the Irish nectar is there.

Belgium – Beer Paradise Beer, beer and more beer! The Thirsty Traveler journeys to Belgium, beer capital of the world. Everyone here is making beer and have been for generations. Some of the world's tastiest and most unique beers can be found among the naturally fermented lambics and wheat beers. Our Traveler's zest for the history of the drink leads him to the Orval Monastery. Join him as he leads you to the rarely-seen abbey in the Ardennes Mountains of Belgium.

Kentucky – The Frontier Spirit Some say there is nothing like good Bourbon after a home cooked meal. Our Thirsty Traveler heads to Kentucky and bourbon country. Folks around these parts have been distilling since Daniel Boone settled here in the 1700's. Today fine Kentucky Bourbon goes hand in hand with this regions southern hospitality. Sit down to a true home cooked meal in a local mansion, and then sip on a bourbon while enjoying your cigar after dinner, now that's the life!

Ontario – Vin Glace Burrr, picking grapes in the middle of a Canadian winter night, what could be more fun than that? Our Thirsty Traveler bundles up to show you how frozen grapes turn into Canada¹s premium dessert Icewine. This sweet winter grown wine is fast becoming an International favorite. Plus The Thirsty Traveler and a local chef prepare a decadent meal using these Icewine grapes.

Mexico – Tequila Taco Bell Ariba, ariba! The Thirsty Traveler takes you to the heart of the Mexican desert where ground covered by volcanic ash makes perfect growing conditions for the agave plant. You¹ve seen the sun, sand and beaches of Mexico but not the Tequila making haciendas and burro riding Jimadors who cultivate this national drink. Join him as he explores the true Mexican spirit.

Jamaican Rum Man During the Second World War, whiskey was in short supply and a Jamaican company experimented on a drink that would serve as a substitute. Their smooth, light, fragrant rum proved to be very popular. Today sugar cane fields still adorn the landscape of Jamaica as rum is a worldwide favorite. Join The Thirsty Traveler as he travels in search of the secrets behind this sugar-based elixir.

Wine of the Valley California brings a vision of sun, surf, sand, and the Beach Boys. Travel a little further up the coast and you're in wine country. Sonoma County is a mass of fine Californian Wineries. It all started in the 1800's when a Spanish Priest planted the first vines. Then a Hungarian Count brought vine cuttings, then the Russians, Italians and Germans hopped on. Join our Thirsty Traveler as he explores the history of America's melting pot.

Japanese Sock’em To Ya Sake Well the Japanese live longer than North Americans and Europeans, could it have something to do with what they are eating and drinking? Our Thirsty Traveler examines how they take their national food staple to a higher level and create Sake. Plus incorporating this rice wine into sake-laced sushi. Does the Thirsty Traveler go lo-cal?

Greece is the word. Ouzo The island of Lesvos is a mecca for making the traditionally Greek spirit, ouzo. Part of the Aegean Archipelago nestled close to Turkey, Lesvos locals make 100's of unique ouzo's. It begins with 100% alcohol made from raisins, then the local anise and herbs are distilled into it. And you can't drink ouzo without Sardines - or "sardeles pastes", raw with salt and lemon, Yum! Join the Thirsty Traveler as he takes you to the many villages of this unspoiled and rich island of ouzo.

Newfoundland “Screech” and Iceberg Vodka Have you ever tried to lasso an Iceberg? They do just that in the cold waters around Newfoundland Canada. Once this snow covered, air pocketed mass of ice is captured by boat they use the clear virgin contents to make Iceberg Vodka. Plus our Thirsty Traveler will introduce you to the local moonshine, Newfie screech! Hold onto your toque.