GOOD TASTES.

NEW SPICE PRODUCTS: McCormick has released several new spices and rubs (wet and dry). New Grill Mates wet Spice Rubs include Spicy Hickory and Mesquite. Steak, Chicken and Pork are the new Grill Mates dry Spice Rub flavors. Suggested retail price is $2.69 per container (ranging from 3.25 to 8.1 ounces).

McCormick has also expanded its spice grinder line with the addition of two new varieties - Italian Herb Seasoning Grinder and Steakhouse Seasoning Grinder. Both blends feature an easy-to-use grinder, built into the top of the glass bottle, so you can enjoy the flavor of freshly ground spices and herbs. Suggested retail is $1.99 per bottle.

Kenya Shake It, the winner of the 2004 McCormick $10,000 Blend to Win Challenge, created by Valerie Szlatenyi of Rhode Island (she out-spiced 1,700 other entries), is now available from McCormick for $2.99 per 1.6-ounce bottle by calling [phone]. It's a slightly sweet mixture of coriander, cumin, orange and lemon peel, cloves, brown sugar, salt and pepper - and lends itself to grilled chicken, pork chops, rice, fresh tomatoes and vegetables.

- Natalie Haughton

APPLE VODKA: Flavored vodkas continue to proliferate and the latest line addition to the Vox brand (from Jim Beam Brands Co.) is Vox Green Apple Flavored Vodka. The ultrapremium vodka joins Vox Raspberry Flavored Vodka. The clear-colored green apple boasts the flavor of crisp, Granny Smith apples. Try it as a foundation for assorted cocktails or use it for apple martinis. It retails for about $30 a bottle.

- N.H.

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(1 -- 3 -- color) no caption (McCormick's new spices and rubs)