All Aboard Again: The All-You-Can-Drink Tequila Train is Back with a New ELITE Experience

February 22, 2021 by evebushman

Mundo Cuervo’s Jose Cuervo Express now offers its regular Saturday journeys between the towns of Tequila and Guadalajara with a brand new ultra-premium Elite Wagon.

Here’s the story:

Jose Cuervo’s Reserva de La Familia® is the company’s flagship tequila Brand, and a leading player in the ultra-premium 100% agave tequila. Made at the La Rojeña® Distillery and sipped in a champagne-style flute glass, this ultra-premium tequila is now included for a select group of passengers traveling aboard the new Elite wagon.
Starting on Saturday, December 5, the Jose Cuervo Express—known as the Tequila Train—resumed riding on the rails with two trips every Saturday between Guadalajara and Tequila. Priced at $166 USD, the memorable adventure is made only spectacular with floor-to-ceiling views offered by the wagon’s large and private spaces where you can taste an exclusive line of cocktails including Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia®.
The richly decorated new Elite wagon, which was under development for 8 months and which includes wood paneling and luxurious interiors, has 37 comfortable spaces distributed in 2 lounge areas reserved for 10 people, 2 tables for 4 people and 3 lounge areas with tables reserved for 2 people each. It features an open bar for guests to taste a line of cocktails designed exclusively for this experience. Guests must be 18 years of age to travel in the Elite wagon. For safety reasons, the capacity of the new Elite wagon is temporarily reduced from 37 spaces to a maximum of 24 passengers.
Guests will enjoy a three-glass educational tasting guided by a Tequila Expert with our Reserva de la Familia® tequila: Platinum, Reposado and Extra Añejo, as well as cocktails from the Premium Bar on board the train featuring Tequila Maestro Tequilero®, Centenario®, 1800®, Reserva de la Familia®, Rum, Vodka and Whiskey. Mexican botanas and snacks will also be enjoyed and served to the travelers aboard.
Once in the Magical Town of Tequila, travelers will enjoy a festive day with family or friends in an atmosphere full of Mexican essence: mariachi, Mexican games. As soon as safety protocols permit, the journey will also include again a visit to the oldest distillery in Latin America, La Rojeña®. Until then, guests will enjoy a virtual explanation of the tequila production process and walk-through Jose Cuervo’s® La Rojeña® distillery. Click here for information on the Jalisco COVID-19 FAQs for travelers.

Vintage Eve Circa 8/2018: What Did We Love the Most at Live and Dine LA?

February 16, 2021 by evebushman

Angeleno‘s annual Live & Dine LA event honors the city’s most distinguished chefs and restaurateurs that continue to shape and evolve L.A.’s culinary scene. Guests will be treated to exclusive culinary demonstrations prepared by award-winning chefs, which will be paired with delicious wines and artisanal cocktails. This evening of culinary indulgences and refreshing libations is sure to make for a memorable date night, with its luxury lounges and unique tasting experiences under the stars and the Fairmont’s iconic (and romantic) fig tree.

Count me in! The last time I covered an event at the Fairmont Miramar – on Wilshire Blvd. just a block from the beach – was a Union des Grands Crus (UGC) Bordeaux Tasting in one of the large convention rooms. This time, as promised, we were outdoors under their enormous fig tree. Being outdoors was fine with me, as long as it was away from the street that, if you’ve been reading the news, is littered with abandoned electric scooters, the latest “craze” that may be dismantled by the time this article runs.

But lets move on, sorry about that, my attention had definitely been happily taken over by all of the restaurants, wineries and spirit companies – no scooters needed. (Read on or skip to the photos here.)

The crowd of smart couples and singles meandered from one welcoming table to another. My favorites of the tables (I couldn’t do it all!) started with

Menhir Salento Winery represented by Gaetano Marangelli, where I tasted Italian wines from Puglia. Between the Pass-O white blend to the Primitivo – I was enchanted. I hope to go through a tasting of their complete line up soon!

From there I inhaled: the Crab Guacamole with shaved Truffle from The Nixon in Whittier, Garlic Crostini from HomeCooked, the incredible Burrata cheese from di Stefana, a refreshing Lillet-based (a white Bordeaux wine made with quinine and citrus) cocktail made simply with tonic, Chick Souvlaki from Cleo, Roasted Peppers from FIG, Provence’s Domaine de Cala Rose wine, Ocean Prime Watermelon Salad, looooved the Mongibello blood orange juice with Tito’s vodka, and Deviled Green Eggs and Ham from Boa Steakhouse stole the show until I had a Deviled Egg from Yardbird that was equally yum-worthy.

Moving to the other side of the fig tree my taste buds were further delighted with wheat-based Carbonadi Vodka from Italy, AN Catering Garlic Noodles, a carved tri-tip sandwich from Grand Food and Beverage, really tasty cocktails from Gratitude, and Viva Tequila 32 Reposado in my favorite cocktail of the day made with Grapefruit and lime juices, agave, orange bitters and Aperol!

Still not done I munched on a heavenly slice of Grilled Cheese with Summer Truffle from Salt in Marina Del Rey (well worth a short wait in line), killer Reposado cocktails from Gracias Madre in West Hollywood and more lovely Burrata from Mozza. Of final note guests really appreciated the two open lounge spaces that served delicious Brugal Rum from the Dominican Republic and chilly gin cocktails from Sipsmith.

Restaurants and Beverage Companies

Sponsors

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Hornburg Jaguar Land Rover Santa Monica, CBS 2, KCAL 9, Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West, and nonprofit partner City of Hope.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Ojo de Tigre Artisanal Mezcal Seeks to Invite New Consumers into the Small but Rich Mezcal Category (Cocktail Recipes Included)

December 13, 2020 by evebushman

Puebla, México – Introducing approachable Mezcal. Renowned Mexican actor Luis Gerardo Méndez, who is best known for starring in and executive producing Netflix’s first Spanish-language original comedy series, Club de Cuervos, the groundbreaking comedy Nosotros Los Nobles, as well as for roles in Netflix’s Murder Mystery and the 2019 Elizabeth Banks reboot of Charlie’s Angels, has partnered with Casa Lumbre to create Ojo de Tigre Artisanal Mezcal, a new offering that seeks to bring Méndez’s love of this historic spirit to a new generation of drinkers, including those unfamiliar or unaccustomed to Mezcal.

Luis Gerardo Méndez

Ojo de Tigre redefines intimidating expectations of mezcal for new drinkers, offering fresh, inviting aromas on the nose, like green apple, fresh pear, and pepper. On the palate, think herbal notes, chocolate, and light smoke. With a process that is designed to broaden the experience of Mezcal, it is important to note what Ojo does not do: overwhelm. Each step of the process was crafted to create accessibility for new palates, paring down the acidity and funkiness during fermentation and any aggressive smokiness from roasting.

What it is not short on is flavor, driven by the unique signature blend of two agaves: Espadín and Tobalá. With sustainable practices at the forefront of all farming and harvesting decisions, and with the goal of maintaining this delicate resource, Espadín is grown in the state of Oaxaca and harvested after seven years, while the rarer Tobalá variety matures for between 10-14 years in Puebla. Each agave variety imbues the spirit with their own unique characteristics and nuances. Herbal notes along with hints of fruit and citrus in the Espadín blend nicely with the earthier, umami flavors of the older Tobalá.

The agave is roasted in underground stone pits, unlocking the plant’s sugars for fermentation, imparting some subtle smoky notes, and avoiding the strong char or smokiness that many intimidated drinkers may associate with Mezcal. The spirit is then naturally fermented in wooden vats and distilled in copper pot stills. The result is a smooth, low-smoke Artisanal Mezcal bottled at 40% ABV – lower than most Mezcals currently on the market.

The resulting flavor profile makes Ojo de Tigre spirit equally suited to sip neat, as is tradition in Mexico, or to balance other flavors in bright, fresh cocktails. The Ambar is a take on the margarita that marries the herbaceousness of the Mezcal with passion fruit and lime, while the Amethyst mixes Ojo de Tigre with lime juice, hibiscus syrup and ginger beer, offering a tropical retreat in a glass.

Even the product’s name seeks to invite consumers into the world of Mezcal. Ojo de Tigre translates to Eye of the Tiger – the brand takes its name from the semiprecious stone of the same name, recognized as a universal amulet of good fortune and bravery. Camille Austin, Director of Advocacy for Ojo de Tigre, explained “There’s a wonderful Mezcal proverb ‘El que Mezcal bebe, nada teme’ or, ‘He (or she!) who sips Mezcal fears nothing.’ Drinkers need not be intimidated by what they think they know about Mezcal, but should be fearless and experiment within a category that has so much diversity and richness in it!”

Ojo de Tigre comes in a standard 750 mL bottle as well as a smaller 200 mL for those looking to bravely experiment with a category they may be less familiar with.

“I’ve been asked a number of times by other brands to collaborate, but it was important to me to create something I believed in with a partner I trusted,” said Méndez. “I wanted more people around the world to experience Mezcal the way we do here in Mexico and knew the team at Casa Lumbre had a like-minded vision. What we have created is a truly exceptional Mezcal that epitomizes the inviting Mexican and Mezcal culture – a spirit to toast the small successes, to the big moments, and everything in between. It’s a spirit for everyone and everyday life.”

Cocktail Recipes

Tahiti Pearl

Ingredients:

1.5 oz Mezcal Ojo de Tigre
8-10 Mint Leaves
1 oz Simple Syrup
2 Dashes Lemon Bitters
3 Drops Olive Oil

Method: Place all ingredients except olive oil in a shaker with plenty of ice and give it a good shake. Serve in a cold coupe glass and use a fine strainer to catch stray pieces of leaves. Finish with 3 drops of olive oil on top and decorate with a mint leaf.

Tiger Lily

Image HERE

1.5 oz Mezcal Ojo de Tigre
1.5 oz Pineapple Juice
2 oz Ginger Beer

Method: Build all ingredients over ice in a Highball Glass. Garnish with a pineapple slice or lime.

Amethyst

Ingredients:

1.5 oz Mezcal Ojo de Tigre
.5 oz Lime Juice
¾ oz hibiscus syrup
2 oz ginger beer or ale

Method: Combine all ingredients and shake well. Strain and top with ginger beer.

The Diamond of Duality: Tequila Partida Launches Añejo Cristalino

November 30, 2020 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Tequila Partida is excited to announce the launch of Partida Añejo Cristalino, the latest expression to join Partida’s award-winning portfolio. The portfolio, once described as “simply the finest line of tequilas that money can buy,” by leading spirits authority F. Paul Pacult, currently includes a Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo. Available nationwide beginning November 2020, the Añejo Cristalino is aged a minimum of 18-months before being naturally filtered through activated carbon, showcasing the complexity of both age and minerality. The Añejo Cristalino follows the launch of Partida Roble Fino, a luxury line of sipping tequilas made in partnership with Edrington’s best in cask management.

“To create Cristalino the right way, the perfect base is needed. We tasted through our portfolio and found that our Añejo retained the most interesting aromas and flavors that typically tend to disappear with longer aging time,” says Maestro Tequilero José Valdez. “With Cristalino, there’s a duality where the flavors of age–chocolate, maple–and the flavors of the field–agave, minerality–meet. This is truly an achievement of cristalino.”

Partida Añejo Cristalino is produced using fully mature blue weber agave cultivated in the Tequila Valley. The freshly harvested agaves are slowly and evenly cooked for 24 hours before they’re aged in white American oak medium toast ex-bourbon barrels for a minimum of 18 months. After the liquid finishes aging, the cristalino is naturally filtered using activated carbon to remove most of the color while still maintaining the aromas and flavors gained through aging. The transparent Añejo is then diluted with demineralized volcanic spring water until 40% ABV.

Silky and delicate with a transparent, full body and light yellow shimmers, Partida Añejo Cristalino offers sweet and woody aromas stemming from its prolonged aging process. After the intense, natural fragrance of vanilla and toasted America oak, a second layer emerges with dry fruits such as raisins, quince and figs. Flavors of butterscotch, agave, vanilla, citrus and banana encapsulate the palate before a gentle, pleasantly dry finish completes the complex tasting experience.

Cristalino is the fastest growing tequila category in Mexico which has helped tequila become the largest spirit category in the country. It’s exponential growth has led to the category’s rise in the US.

Partida Añejo Cristalino will be available nationwide and online at a suggested retail price of $59.99 per bottle.

For more information on Tequila Partida, please contact Andrew Quinzi at Colangelo & Partners (Aquinzi@ColangeloPR.com) and visit: http://www.partidatequila.com/.

About Tequila Partida

Tequila Partida is an authentic, all-natural, estate-grown premium tequila, made from 100% blue agave in the heart of Mexico’s historic Tequila Valley region. From cultivation and harvest to cooking, distillation and aging, Partida maintains exceptional standards of quality and consistency, making Partida “the finest tequila that money can buy,” according to F. Paul Pacult, the leading spirits authority in America. Partida Reposado was recently ranked as one of the top ten spirits of 2019 by the Spirit Journal, the industry’s most respected publication for spirits reviews.

About Edrington

Edrington’s vision is to give more by building the world’s leading portfolio of exceptional super premium spirits. Edrington owns some of the leading Scotch whisky and rum brands in the world, including The Macallan, The Famous Grouse, Highland Park, The Glenrothes and Brugal. Edrington Americas added Tequila Partida to its portfolio in 2017 and Wyoming Whiskey in 2018.

Edrington Americas is headquartered in New York, NY with regional offices in Chicago, Miami and Orange County. To learn more visit https://www.edrington.com, and to find our brands visit https://www.findourspirits.com.

Sampling Single Estate El Sativo Tequila Blanco

November 20, 2020 by evebushman

I have two go-to Tequilas: Cazadores and Asombroso, the former was a gift from my daughter’s fiancé and the latter was one I reviewed that I have since purchased for my liquor cabinet. I’m not much of a tequila-cocktail lover and prefer to sip alone or on ice, and was happy to receive another tequila for review that I could add into my “sipper” category of spirits.

After reading the press release for El Sativo below, I was intrigued by several points it made including the idea that the “terpenes, found in the agave, have a myriad of health benefits, including mood-lifting and energy-boosting attributes”, that they give back to ocean conservancy and are a triple time double gold medal winner. Definitely made me ready to sample.

Tasting Notes

Notes of vanilla bean, heavy sweet cream and toasted popcorn kernel – with no burn whatsoever – on the nose. The taste was smooth yet peppery – so interesting – and flavors reminiscent of buttered popcorn, and that same cream, ending with a spicy finish. Really liked having it both smooth and spicy! Then tried it with a little bit of squeezed lemon and it was like a lo-cal Margarita. This is not a Tequila to shoot! Not so sure about added energy, may have to do further study = drink more!

News Release

EL SATIVO, THE FIRST TEQUILA TO INNOVATE A “ONE OF A KIND” COMPOUND FOCUSED DISTILLATION, MAINTAINING THE BENEFICIAL ELEMENTS IN THE AGAVE

100% Blue Agave – Single Estate – 100% USDA Organic – 100% NON-GMO – Certified OK Kosher

El Sativo, the 2020 Tequila of the Year at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, launched this summer. Bottles will be available for purchase at Whole Foods and Total Wine in California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Illinois along with retail stores throughout Texas, more states will be added shortly. El Sativo will debut their offerings with the award-winning Tequila Blanco, with plans to offer a reposado and anejo in 2021. Tequila Blanco will retail between $39.99 – $45.99 for a 750ml.

El Sativo’s co-creators and fourth-generation family of distillers use an innovative distillation process that captures and accentuates the agave plant’s own natural benefits. “These terpenes, found in the agave, have a myriad of health benefits, including mood-lifting and energy-boosting attributes, which is why we transformed our distillation process in order to help maintain their properties,” states co-founder Dr. Robert Summers.

The El Sativo team is committed to improving the environment, helping to build awareness, and pushing to find remedies to help preserve the precious resources of our planet. Translated from Spanish, El Sativo means “Sown in Seeds,” as anything planted, nurtured, and grown is life. Every bottle sold gives back to ocean conservancy. The bottle is made of 100% recycled smart non-combustible glass and has an organic soluble label that is pesticide free.

El Sativo Tequila is certified USDA organic, 100% Non–GMO, Kosher and Eco-friendly.

THE PROCESS

“Our distillery is located in the lowlands of Amatitán, Jalisco; we’re single estate, our agaves are planted, nurtured, and harvested solely in our fields and never sourced. It was important for us to be completely organic, so our cultivation is carried out without pesticides or fungicides, and we only use organic fertilizers. The organic certification process is far more complex and time consuming than the process for common tequila.” says co-founder and singer-songwriter Jaime Whitton.

Using small batch stone ovens, the blue agaves are slowly steamed for 24-48 hours, using no diffusers nor autoclaves. The process pays homage to the art of tequila making by using the traditional technique. Fermenting with its own natural yeast, the team uses reverse osmosis water filtered through 135 feet of volcanic rock for a pure filtration process.

40% ABV, 750ml, NOM 1480

TASTING NOTES: EL SATIVO TEQUILA BLANCO

Bouquet: Opulent bright citrus with sweet agave
Palate: Lift of white pepper and sweet agave with a waterfall of stone fruit savoring on the taste buds Finish: Long, seductive rollercoaster finish.

ABOUT EL SATIVO

Originated by a spirited family with over 25 years in the tequila industry. El Sativo is an innovative tequila that lifts the spirits and stands apart from the crowd. Our sweet agave dances in waterfalls of stone fruit soaking in memorable days and fun-filled nights. El Sativo sets itself apart by utilizing a special distillation method that naturally highlights the agave plant’s precious resources known to have mood lifting and energy boosting attributes that exemplify #SoSativo. A Single Estate masterpiece and the winner of 3 double gold awards, including 2020 Tequila of the Year (San Francisco World Spirits Competition).

El Sativo Tequila is Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO, OK Kosher and each bottle is 100% smart combustible recycled glass with organic soluble labels. Every bottle sold gives back to ocean conservancy. Truly “A Better Tequila for a Better World.”

…

Website: http://www.elsativo.com/
Instagram: @elsativotequila

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Tolago Hard Seltzer Enters California

October 31, 2020 by evebushman

Los Angeles, CA: It is not news that the hard seltzer category is on fire, nor that many major beverage brands are adding their logo to a version of the same liquid that made the category explode two years ago. Conversely, Tolago – which has broad and deep roots in The Golden State – is “building from within our communities’ culture,” explains Tolago Hard Seltzer CEO, Nicholas Greeninger. “We took a page out of the hard kombucha playbook when creating the product by using the highest quality, real ingredients,” he says. “To us, every 50-year-old corporate beverage logo on a hard seltzer can is lazy and a bit opportunistic. Until now, not one hard seltzer brand had listened to consumers to push the category in the right direction.”

Tolago is based on all-natural ingredients, including ethically sourced fresh fruit juices, purées, and natural botanicals from Southern California, as well as fair-trade certified 100% organic agave nectar from Mexico. Clean of chemical taste, gluten-free, and 5% ABV, the flavors include Ginger Pear, Guava Mango, Cherry Rose, and Agave Lime. Available only in fully-recyclable printed standard cans from Ball, the seltzers are premium priced and come in 6- and 12-can cartons, with SRPs of $12.99 and $24.99, respectively.

The entire founding group grew up in California and the business is headquartered in Los Angeles. All founders surf regularly and have a strong commitment to sustainability, thus the fully recyclable, 100% plastic-free packaging and alignment with 1% For the Planet.

LA-based co-founder and fine artist Matt McCormick, who developed the packaging, draws inspiration from the gritty reality of downtown LA, as well as the homestead towns, gold rush bonanzas, and 1920s Hollywood glamour that captivate popular imagination. Tolago Board members include Circe Wallace, EVP at Wasserman, and Henny Yegezu, co-CEO and founder of EQT (Equative Thinking), an LA-based music label and management company. The collective of 32 owner advocates behind the brand include LA-based photographer Sandy Kim; Ventura-based pro-skateboarder Curren Caples; and two-time Olympian and X Games Gold Medalist, Encinitas-based snowboarder Elena Hight.

Greeninger, the former branding and marketing power behind Saint Archer Brewing Company, which was acquired by MillerCoors, is the bridge from lifestyle to beverage. Other beverage sales and distribution experts include Doug Gudmundson (36 years in beer, most recently with Karl Strauss Brewing Company); Jason Schwenck (13 years with Red Bull America, and 12 years building numerous successful startup beverage companies); and Matthew Mitchell (25 years in wine & spirits, most recently with Jackson Family Wine Company).

In California, Tolago Hard Seltzer will be distributed by Young’s Market and reach retail shelves late September. Initial retail response has been positive – with particular enthusiasm for the better-for-you brand proposition, industry veterans, and high-profile advocates – and pre-orders from chain and independent accounts are underway. Tolago will also be sold via Amazon.com, Drizly, Postmates, Uber Eats, and Cloud retail.

The brand’s robust marketing campaign includes in-store retail programming, point of sale materials, digital and out-of-home advertising, as well as an annual commitment to 1% for the Planet. Bryan Boeck, Senior Vice President of Young’s Market, enthuses: “We can’t wait to launch Tolago. The hard seltzer category is on fire, and we want only the best for our book of business. We don’t see many wine and spirits distributors going into the category, which excites us.” The Tolago executive team is in talks with other select distributors nationwide.

“Tolago is the only drink I keep at my house AND the studio. It’s a secret weapon for a pool day or late night recording. I never get caught without a case!” says co-owner and music producer Kenny Beats. Greeninger concludes: “When others settled, we simply would not. Taking real ingredients to create a better-tasting, better-for-you hard seltzer captures the spirit of this business and all those involved.”

#OasisBound

Enjoy Responsibly

Why Every Quarantine-R Should Own a Bottle of Mezcal, By Gaston Martinez Founder of IZO Mezcal

May 13, 2020 by evebushman

Mezcal, named the ‘worlds’ most artisanal spirit by Maxim

“In my family and culture, Mezcal was always a symbol of celebration and the pure enjoyment of life,” owner or IZO Mezcal, Gaston Martinez. “Today, I am proud to share the clean, smooth flavor of this naturally-smoked agave – part of the long-standing heritage of my beloved hometown – with the world.”

Every sip tells a story, Tasting History

Each sip of Mezcal is a joyful celebration of both old and new: the centuries of local tradition behind it and the establishment of an environmentally-focused and community-centered legacy. Every batch of wild agave is hand-harvested from Durango ranches, slow-roasted in volcanic ovens, then fermented and distilled onsite for a locally-crafted product from start to finish. To ensure a lasting heritage and renewable resource for future generations, the IZO distillery relies on a solar-paneled water treatment system and a bee colony to help propagate the plants, tended for a full decade before reaching maturity.

Perfectly Balanced

Production process is meticulously controlled “from ground to glass,” ensuring a perfectly-balanced, passionately produced spirit that serves as a delicious sipping liquor or cocktail base. Discover the rich history behind the full-bodied IZO Agave Spirits collection, along with refreshing cocktail recipes, at www.IZOMezcal.com.

Health Benefits of Sipping Mezcal

Stimulating appetite
Promoting better digestion
Regulating blood sugar
Lowering cholesterol level
Gluten free
According to Organic Facts

Every step of the IZO Mezcal production process is meticulously controlled “from ground to glass,” ensuring a perfectly-balanced, passionately produced spirit that serves as a delicious sipping liquor or cocktail base. Discover the rich history behind the full-bodied IZO Agave Spirits collection at www.IZOMezcal.com.

IZO Mezcal offers:

Made from 100% hand-harvested, slow-roasted agave, every sip of IZO Mezcal Joven speaks to centuries of Mexican tradition
Produced sustainably right in the heart of rural Durango, according to centuries of tradition
Each sip of IZO Mezcal Joven is a joyful celebration of both old and new: the centuries of local tradition behind it and the establishment of an environmentally-focused and community-centered legacy
Every batch of wild agave is hand-harvested from Durango ranches, slow-roasted in volcanic ovens, then fermented and distilled onsite for a locally-crafted product from start to finish.
IZO pays respect to its point of origin, from the locally-sourced Onyx cap featured atop the bottle, to the elegant, minimalist design that allows the artisanal spirit within to shine. The entire production process from ground to glass is meticulously controlled to ensure a perfectly-balanced, slightly smoky Mezcal Joven, delicious alone or in cocktails

Toast every moment with the smooth, all-natural flavor of IZO Mezcal Joven, available at select Costco stores, liquor stores and online at IZOMezcal.com along with refreshing cocktail recipes.

Tequila Partida Introduces First Nationally Available Limited-Release Single Barrel Reserve Reposado

February 22, 2020 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Tequila Partida is excited to announce the limited release of their first nationally available Single Barrel Reserve bottling, showcasing 30 unique barrels of the world’s highest-rated Tequila Reposado. In December 2019, Tequila Partida Reposado was awarded the highest score for all Reposados in Ultimate Spirits Challenge’s “Top 100 Spirits of 2019,” claiming ninth overall spirit in the world. Available on the market beginning January 2020, the Single Barrel exemplifies Partida’s commitment to honor 100% Blue Weber Agave and crafting an award-winning agave-forward Tequila. Tequila Partida is one of the few remaining authentic estate-bottled premium Tequilas made in the heart of Mexico’s historic Tequila region.

Tequila Partida’s Maestro Tequilero José Valdez nosed over one hundred maturing barrels to identify 30 barrels that featured the most complexity and depth. Aged a minimum of six months in white American oak with medium char, Valdez created three separate tasting profiles for each barrel: Ligero, Medio and Intenso. Each profile offers different levels of color intensity, flavors and aromas while staying true to the agave.

“The Single Barrel is a unique expression of our Reposado and meets the high standards of Tequila Partida our consumers expect,” said Maestro Tequilero José Valdez. “We sampled 108 barrels twice—at three months and again at five months—and the results were 30 exceptionally unique barrels, separated into three agave-forward and delicious tasting profiles.” Valdez then numbers and signs each bottle for the final touch.

All three flavor profiles explore the versatility of the award-winning Reposado: Ligero offers notes of fresh agave, maple syrup, toasted oak and caramel; Medio provides flavors of cooked agave, vanilla and butter; and Intenso, dried fruit, nuts and coffee.

The Single Barrel Reserve will have a limited nationwide availability at a suggested retail price of $54.99 per bottle. There are currently only 30 barrels available. Edrington handles sales, marketing and distribution for Tequila Partida.

For more information on Tequila Partida, please contact Andrew Quinzi at Colangelo & Partners (Aquinzi@ColangeloPR.com) and visit: http://www.partidatequila.com/.

About Tequila Partida
Tequila Partida is an authentic, all-natural, estate-grown premium Tequila, made from 100% blue agave in the heart of Mexico’s historic Tequila Valley region. From cultivation and harvest to cooking, distillation and aging, Partida maintains exceptional standards of quality and consistency, making Partida “the finest tequila that money can buy,” according to F. Paul Pacult, the leading spirits authority in America. Partida Reposado was recently ranked as one of the top ten spirits of 2019 by the Spirit Journal, the industry’s most respected publication for spirits reviews.

About Edrington
Edrington’s ambition is to become the world’s leading premium spirits company. Edrington owns some of the leading Scotch whisky and rum brands in the world, including The Macallan, The Famous Grouse, Highland Park, The Glenrothes, Brugal and Snow Leopard vodka. Edrington Americas added Tequila Partida to its portfolio in 2017 and Wyoming Whiskey in 2018.

The 1st Annual Tequila Mezcal Challenge

September 26, 2019 by evebushman

DENVER (PRWEB) – Wine Country Network, publishers of Wine Country International magazine and producers of professional beverage competitions have announced the annual Tequila Mezcal Challenge (TMC) is now accepting entries in more than sixty categories of Tequila, Mezcal and Agave spirits.

View of the process of mezcal distillation in Oaxaca, Mexico

The company is organizing the TMC and selecting a prestigious panel of Tequila & Mezcal professionals consisting of Master Sommeliers, F&B Directors, Journalists, and Retailers Buyers. Several recognized Tequila Mezcal experts from around the US will participate as guest judges.

Christopher J. Davies, Wine Country Network, CEO and Co-Founder stated, “Our goal is to create a well-rounded panel of experts that will taste the Tequilas, Mezcal & Agave Spirits “double-blind” and achieve the fairest scoring results possible. For our popular categories, we plan to separate spirits in different price points to maintain an even playing field. We are looking to identify the absolute best products in this exciting category!”

There are currently around 150 distilleries in Mexico, making Tequila, Mezcal and Agave products. There are now over 1,500 Tequila brands with more coming online every week.

The 1st Annual Tequila Mezcal Challenge will take place on October 19-20, 2019 at the Omni Interlocken Resort in Broomfield, Colorado. The competition is now open to Craft Distillers, Merchant Bottlers, Brand Marketers, Commercial Distilleries and Duty-Free Spirits Producers. Producers, Importers, and Distributors are now encouraged to enter their products online before October 10, 2019. For details visit: TEQMEZCHALLENGE.COM

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2015: California Pizza Kitchen – Reboot!

August 7, 2018 by evebushman

Kind of excited…the restaurant I grew up with, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) has had a remodel…well…not exactly just a remodel.

Met by Susan Halstead, the General Manager of our local Valencia CPK, the first thing she told me was that people that now walk in the door don’t recognize that they’re in a CPK if they haven’t been to the Valencia location in the last two months.

Susan turned me over to Cole Brocato, bartender and trainer, who has been here at our local CPK for 9 years. Cole said that they were focusing more on California inspired fare and less on pizza alone. Fresh ingredients, like California fruits and vegetables, are now more emphasized.

Full Cocktail Program

In providing “unique spirited cocktails” we had to try the Blueberry Ginger Smash – refreshing, tangy, reminded me of a whiskey Buck plus fruit – and the California Roots – avocado colors the drink, while mint and agave sour takes center stage in this unique cocktail.

The California Crush reminded Cole of traditional Valencia flavors, and we enjoyed the citrus and mint flavors that made me think of a white wine Sangria – only better. Our teen had the Fresh Strawberry Mango Cooler – a nice virgin drink that was both sweet and light.

These cocktails are new at CPK Valencia and are only available in the remodeled stores. Cole said that eventually all of the restaurants will be re-done. And you can get all the classic cocktails, just like the BBQ chicken pizza, too.

The cocktail recipes, Cole said, are unique to CPK. Yes, they can make a Lemon Drop but they can also make a cocktail with Domaine de Canton Ginger liqueur or St. Germain Elderflower.

Cole said, “Local citrus in cocktails, California wines; we make it fresh, trendy, and organic when we can.”

Taste the Unique

With the new rollout, and as they have locations all over U.S., they “want visitors to be wowed on what California Pizza Kitchen is about.”

Don’t be concerned that the pizzas are now listed on a long “side bar” of the menu, your favorites, like BBQ Chicken, Thai Chicken, Hawaiian, etc., are still there. But you will also find, under “seasonally inspired” menu items, a Maine Lobster Flatbread (cool lobster, loved the dill, great with the California Roots cocktail) Roasted Garlic Chicken (super mist and flavorful) with Seasonal Vegetables, Ribeye (Another moist and “never frozen” with great marbling to give great flavor, liked the peppery spice and butter topped on this one, and Pinot Noir salt), California Fields Salad and Tricolore Salad Pizza.

Under “main plates” – this is the “middle section and where it’s really at” Cole said – the “Halibut is never farmed, always line caught, cooked on a cedar plank and that keeps it moist.” And it WAS! Delicious, great medley of spices, definitely would order again. And though we were stuffed, Ed couldn’t resist having one more bite before we wrapped up our leftovers.

Lunch Duos on the menu are geared to foodies that want quality and watch how much they are eating. Small Cravers fit that bill too, and have more a gastro pub like items. All the cheese, goat and cow, is pasteurized, Cole added. Originally guests had several menus, now it’s all in one plus a beverage menu, which is more standard.

“You’re a pizza place, why do you have this steak on the menu?” Cole says people sometimes ask and he tells them to go ahead, “have the steak”, and then they get it.

Final Touches

We sampled the seasonal-only-always-sells-out Strawberry Shortcake made with sweet biscuit, with a surprise touch of candied lemon zest glaze sprinkled over homemade whipped cream. The decadently rich Butter Cake is made with a sliver of cheesecake, warm and covered in ice cream and whipped cream; something Cole says people skip appetizers to save room for. The S’mores dessert is served with a jumbo graham, dark chocolate chunks, milk chocolate pudding and torched marshmallows – a sticky gooey all-consuming delightful mess.

Some of the restaurants build the bar around the kitchen as a showcase. We did enjoy sitting at the bar, it was definitely the center of the action.

All menus have different pizzas pictured on the cover, and according to Cole, the servers try to hand guests at the same table different ones – nice touch!

Cole added that they hire their staff based on them being the right person and not on having to have the two years of service experience. Our teen thought that was great.

Finally, when we glanced around the room completely sated and packed up leftovers we noticed both managers serving guests, people looking happy, and maybe some room for more.

Facebook album: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205601315099626.1073741918.1455706632&type=1&l=89fce8e12e

CPK-Bridgeport Marketplace

24061 Newhall Ranch Road

Valencia, CA 91354

661-259-2082

www.cpk.com/locations/bridgeport-marketplace

For the complete menu, visit www.cpk.com/reimagined.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com