A new Bert for Ernie's, a Washington Avenue Sanctuary and more new bars hit Houston

It's that time again. A slew of new places to whet your whistle or whittle your thistle or whatever it is you do (your prerogative) have opened up in H-town. Here are five of 'em:

Corkscrew may have shuttered, but from its ashes comes Sugarcane, an eco-centric concept by the same owners. Serving all organic spirits, the Washington Avenue spot makes a mean mojito and seems destined for date-night clientele. Our pick? The cucumber mist, made with acai-infused liqueur.

We hear that Big Star Bar, an easy to (but don't) miss dive bar in the Heights, is opening a second location in Montrose. Here's hoping they keep the patio atmosphere and the usual crowd.

There were cries heard round the city when Ernie's on Banks closed, but new owner Brad Moore (also the dude behind BSB) promises his new crew of bartenders and part-owners will rival the old guys. No name for this one yet — we'll keep you posted.

There's Onion, Dry and Cedar, and now there's Canyon Creek. Just off Memorial Park on Westcott, the also Austin-themed bar and eatery by Gary Mosley has all the charms of its sister spots — from the burgers to the Beans Barton murals.

Spiritual, it is not. Pulsing music, bottle service and winding make-out worthy corridors your thing?

Head to Sanctuary Lounge on Washington Avenue (the old Block 21), but expect a list and a line. If you're a single guy, we advise bringing some girlfriends along to speed up the entry process.