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Party Seltzer Becky Personality Juice Takes Home Silver Medal From Largest World Spirits Competition After Only 15 Months on the Market

May 14, 2022 by evebushman

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. (PRWEB) – Becky Personality Juice, one of the newest hard seltzer brands on the market, announced that it was awarded the prestigious silver medal for each of its four flavors from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 22nd annual judging of spirits.

This competition, hosted by parent company Tasting Alliance, is the oldest, biggest and most influential competition in North America. This year, approximately 5,000 spirits were evaluated over two weeks in April 2022 by a panel of 70 judges from around the world. This represented the largest number of entrants that the competition has ever received.

Becky Personality Juice comes in four flashy flavors: pink lemonade, passion fruit, mango and tropical cherry. It was founded in January 2021 when Eric Burdick and Sheldon Wiley, both veterans in the nightlife and hospitality space, recognized a gap in the market for a seltzer that had a bold flavor and an equally bold marketing spin. Becky was conceived specifically to appeal to Gen Z, and the brand’s plan for national distribution is to follow the bachelorette party crowd.

SWFSC medal winners represent some of the most renowned international distillers to small-batch producers, both established beverages and brand new products alike. An award from the SWFSC is a universally recognized indicator of exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The silver medal specifically recognizes outstanding spirits that show refinement, finesse and complexity.

“We’ve always been confident that Becky Personality Juice is an award-winning seltzer, but the fact that it was honored with the prestigious recognition of silver medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition less than two years after we launched the product just blows our minds,” said Eric Burdick, cofounder & CMO of Becky Personality Juice. “This is a huge deal in our industry and will undoubtedly help us bring Becky to more markets across the U.S. quickly.”

Currently, Becky Personality Juice is available in all BevMo and Total Wine stores in Arizona and the Nashville and greater Tennessee area through its distribution partner, Lipman Brothers.

The brand is also working with Southern Wine & Spirits, the world’s pre-eminent alcohol distributor, to take the product nationwide. The brand is specifically eyeing an immediate expansion into California, Florida, Texas, Illinois and South Carolina.

Since the launch, the product has exceeded initial projections.

“It has been amazing to watch the demand continue to accelerate for Becky,” said Sheldon Wiley, co-founder and COO of Becky Personality Juice. “We are working hard on identifying additional distribution partners to continue to expand our reach. We’re fully loaded with inventory and ready to keep bringing our award-winning seltzer to the masses.”

Sales of hard seltzers skyrocketed in 2020 by 130%, pushing the ready-to-drink sector ahead of total spirits. According to a recent report by IMARC Group, the hard seltzer market is expected to grow at around 11% per year through 2026.

For more information about Becky Personality Juice, please visit http://www.tastebecky.com.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: alcohol, arizona, award, bevmo, competition, distiller, distributor, flavor, hard seltzer, judge, san francisco, silver medal, Southern Wine and Spirits, spirits, tasting, total wine

Arizona’s Female Winemakers

March 31, 2022 by evebushman

Did you know that many of Arizona’s wineries are female owned and/or operated? The state’s governor recently recognized the flourishing wine region as an important sector in agribusiness, employment, and tourism by designating this past March 2022 as Arizona’s first official Wine Month. Here is a list of some of the women helping create Arizona’s award winning wines:

Julia Dixon, Winemaker, 1764 Vineyards

 Julia Dixon’s passion for winemaking didn’t begin until her 24th wedding anniversary in October 2012 during a visit to the Verde Valley. Two years later she moved from Phoenix to Cottonwood and began her studies in viticulture and enology at Yavapai College. After her graduation in 2016, Julia and her husband purchased their own land in Pearce,  founded 1764 Vineyards, and she began interning at Four Tails Vineyard. Today, Julia is the head winemaker at their 30-acre property working with Petit Verdot, Picpoul Blanc, and Vermentino varieties.  

Brooke Lowry Ide, Winemaker, Vino Stache Winery

Brooke’s winemaking journey began in 2014 when she enrolled at Yavapai College studying viticulture and enology. She has interned at Four Eight Wineworks, Caduceus Cellars, Merkin Vineyards, and Callaghan Vineyards. In 2019, she began her one-woman operation at her own winery, Vino Stache Winery. She has delayed planting on her 54-acre property, but is building her brand with fruit sourced from several Arizona growers. Her first wines were bottled in 2021. 

Megan Stranik, Co-Owner, AZ Hops & Vines

Megan was introduced to the world of winemaking at Sonoita Vineyard where she spent a year as a volunteer, helping tend the farm. For many years after, she worked at various wineries learning the process of winemaking, but owning her own winery was always her goal. Today, she co-owns AZ Hops & Vines with her sister, Shannon, where you can almost always find her tending to the vineyards.

Shannon Austin Zouzoulas, Co-Owner, AZ Hops & Vines

Shannon grew up in Southern California and attended the University of Maryland. After returning to California, she began volunteering at wineries and festivals and began conspiring with her sister on how to get into the industry themselves. While her sister handles viticulture and oenology, Shannon was inspired in the marketing, hospitality and agro-tourism side of the business. She spends her days creating fun events, meeting great people, trying new wines, and marketing their winery.

Monica Preston, Owner, Birds & Barrels Vineyards

Monica Preston founded Birds & Barrels Vineyards on 50-acres of land with her husband Chad in 2015 with the goal of crafting ultra-premium Arizona wines. Though she does not have a background in viticulture, her passion and drive to learn has been helpful on this adventure. Monica handles water management, herbicide and pesticide management, fertilizer regiments in the vineyard, vine assessments, petiole, and fruit sampling prior to harvest. She also handles the wine club and Founders program planning and coordination. Though they have been called crazy many times along this journey, they remain ambitious and plan to expand while planting in 2023.

Gayle Glomski, Bree Nation, Lauren Maldonado, Page Springs Cellars 

Gayle, Bree, and Lauren all work at Page Springs Cellars in Cornville, Arizona where most of the workers are women. The three came together and collaborated on Vin de Filles (Girls’ wine in French), a wine produced by women to highlight feminine strength within the world of wine. The women care for specific rows of vines for their entire growing cycle, then bring their harvest to the cellar to ferment, press, and bottle their wine. The majority of profits from the sales of these wines benefit The Verde Valley Sanctuary, a local nonprofit that supports women who are victims of domestic abuse, assault, and human trafficking. This project not only empowers women in wine, but also in the community.

Valerie Wood, Heart Wood Cellars 

Valerie Wood moved to Arizona with her husband Daniel in 2009 for a new lifestyle and plans to contribute and participate in the growing sector of the Arizona wine industry. In 2013, she began studying viticulture and enology at Yavapai College in the Verde Valley while working part time at the Yavapai College Southwest Wine Center planting the college’s new vineyard. In 2015 she graduated with honors and her degree and was invited to join the Four Eight Wineworks-Caduceus Cellars winery family. In 2016 Heart Wood Cellars released its first vintage following the guidelines of their business model – to craft wines they love and want to share with others. 

Desiree Gerth, Owner and Winemaker, Strive Vineyards 

Desiree Gerth moved to Arizona with her husband shortly after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. While on a weekend vacation to Arizona wine country, they decided to try to make their own wine with a home winemaking kit purchased from a local brew shop. Though the first batch was undrinkable, they persisted, first creating an in-home winery and then looking for their own land in Willcox. She and her husband with the help of family and friends have built everything themselves from the ground up – fencing, gates, irrigation systems, trellis systems, utility shed and more. They are completely off-grid utilizing solar power for their well pump and green, sustainable farming practices. In 2018 she began her professional winery career at Golden Rule Vineyards, and today oversees administration and operations for Strive Vineyards and works in all areas of wine production, winery management, and operations at Cochise Wine Co.

Peggy Fiandaca, Owner/Brand Manager, LDV Winery

After an incredibly successful career in Urban Planning, Peggy and her husband set out on their “second act” – wine. Wine was always a passion they shared; they traveled the world drinking, collecting, and absorbing everything they could about wine. They are often asked if owning a winery was their lifelong dream, but it was purely serendipitous (or a mid-life crisis). LDV winery sits on a 40-acre property, grows Rhone grape varieties, and produces about 2,500-3,000 cases per year. On a day to day basis, Peggy is responsible for strategic planning and analytics, wine marketing, public relations, sales, tasting room operations, contracts, regulations, trademarks, website, social media and all staffing. Peggy has served on the Arizona Wine Growers Association board as Secretary and President for two terms. She is a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International and Women at the Top, a female business owner networking group.

Carla Milić, Wineworker, Los Milics Vineyard

Carla was born and raised in Chile, but the bulk of her training has been in Sonoita with local winemakers. She took a few courses at the University of California, Davis and also assisted during a harvest in Chile. Los Milics Vineyard is located in Elgin; it sits on 20 acres with 12.5 acres being under vine. Since the winery opened for tastings, Carla is responsible for greeting guests and guiding them through their tasting and providing tours of the construction site where the new tasting room and casitas will be located. Once harvest peaks, Carla will be receiving fruit, processing, cleaning, and monitoring fermentations. Her favorite part of the job is nurturing vines from infancy through their entire growth cycle. Carla continues to be inspired by other independent and hardworking women in the wine industry.

Ann Roncone, Owner/Winemaker, Lightning Ridge Cellars

Ann was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay area. She worked an office job and winemaking was her hobby. For about five years, she read books on winemaking and viticulture, planted vines at home, took courses at the University of California, Davis, and worked harvests at local wineries. When she and her husband decided to pursue a career in wine, they couldn’t afford land in California, and decided to visit the Arizona viticulture area as her husband had gone to college in Tucson. In 2003, they purchased land in the Sonoita/Elgin AVA and in 2004 they began the process of starting a vineyard and winery from scratch. Lightning Ridge Cellars is located in Elgin and specializes in Italian varietals. It is hard to say what she enjoys most about winemaking, but the amount of time she spends outside is definitely among the top things.  

Kim Reed, Assistant Manager/Wine Club Coordinator, Javelina Leap Vineyard, Winery & Bistro

Kim came into the wine industry somewhat by accident after working in a community care and hospital as a Registered Dietitian for 10 years. Her in-laws, Rod and Cynthia Snapp own Javelina Leap, and when her husband Lucas took over as GM and head winemaker, it was quickly apparent that he was going to need help. In March 2020, Kim joined the family business, initially as the Wine Club and Event Coordinator. Since then, her role has grown to include helping the tasting room manager, serving as office manager, booking bands, shipping wine, answering emails and filling in the gaps wherever needed. Most of her wine knowledge comes from being around the business and family the last seven years, however she will be pursuing a Level 1 Sommelier certification in the future.  

Lori Dutt Reynolds, Winemaker, Sonoita Vineyards 

Lori is a third generation winemaker in Arizona with a Certificate in Enology and Viticulture from the University of California, Davis. She was inspired to join the wine industry by her grandfather, Dr. Gordon Dutt – the founder of the Arizona Wine Industry. Lori loves the art and science behind creating wine and her favorite parts of the job are blending wine and working in the vineyards with her family. It is important to her to have her children involved in Sonoita Vineyards to work and learn the wine industry first hand like she did.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: arizona, ava, cellar, enology, fruit, harvest, petit verdot, picpoul, Rhone, sustainable, UC Davis, variety, vermentino, vines, vineyards, viticulture, wine club, Wine tasting, wine tour, winemaking, winery

Arizona Wines Score Big in San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

March 7, 2022 by evebushman

San Francisco, CA. – The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC) is one of the world’s most highly publicized and well-respected wine competitions of both local and large-scale wineries. A testament to the quality of wines being grown in the state, several of Arizona’s wineries have been chosen as winners in this year’s SFCWC competition.

Photo from Phoenix.org

Arizona has three wine growing regions (Verde Valley, Willcox and Sonoita/Elgin), all of which are designated American Viticultural Areas. In total, there are more than 120 wineries and tasting rooms, many of which grow varietals native to Italy and Southern France. The following wineries placed in the categories below:

  • 1764 Vineyards:
    • Orange Wine/Skin Fermented White
  • Arizona Hops and Vines:
    • Distilled/Fortified
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Grenache – Up to – $34.99.
  • Birds and Barrels Vineyards:
    • Dry Rosé/Blush – RS 0
    • Malbec – Up to – $36.99
    • Tempranillo – Up to – $34.99
    • Petit Verdot – Up to – $39.99
  • Bitter Creek Winery:
    • Montepulciano
  • Callaghan Vineyards:
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – Up to – $29.99
    • Port – Up to – $32.99
    • White Blends – $28.00 and over
    • Cabernet Franc – $30.00 – $39.99
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend.
  • Copper Horse Vineyard:
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $35.00 – $38.99
  • Four Tails Vineyard:
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $35.00 – $38.99
    • Petite Sirah – $28.00 – $34.99
    • Viognier – Up to – $26.99
    • Petit Verdot – Up to – $39.99
    • Tempranillo – Up to – $34.99
    • Dry Rosé/Blush Blend – RS 0
  • Golden Rule Vineyards:
    • Red Blend: Sangiovese leading blend
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend
    • Aglianico
    • Mourvedre
  • Heart Wood Cellars:
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $39.00 – $41.99
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – $36.00 and over
    • Tannat
    • All Other Red Varietals
    • Port – $33.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend
    • Sangiovese – $35.00 and over
    • Tempranillo – $35 and over
    • Dry Rosé/Blush – RS .1 – .299
    • Mourvedre
    • Petite Sirah – $46.00 and over
    • Pinot Noir – $44.00 – $47.99.
  • High Lonesome Vineyard:
    • Malbec – $37.00 and over
    • Tannat
    • All Other Red Varietals
    • Other White Varietals
  • Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery:
    • Rosé Sparkling
    • Merlot – $27.00-$30.99
    • Petite Sirah – $35.00-$39.99
    • Petite Sirah – $40.00-$45.99
    • Red Blend: Zinfandel leading blend – $25.00 and over
    • Riesling – Dry <.99 RS
    • Sangiovese – Up to $34.99
    • Sauvignon Blanc/Fume – $20.00-$25.99
    • Syrah/Shiraz – $31.00-$34.99
    • Tempranillo – $35 and over
    • Zinfandel – $42.00-$47.99
    • Barbera – Up to $34.99
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $35.00 – $38.99
    • Dry Rosé/Blush Blend – RS 0
    • Red Blend: Merlot leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Zinfandel – $32.00-$34.99
  • Jerome Winery:
    • All Other Red Varietals
  • LDV Winery:
    • Petite Sirah – $46.00 and over
    • Petite Sirah – $40.00-$45.99
  • Mogollon Vineyards:
    • Chardonnay – $23.00 – $25.99
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – Up to – $35.99
    • White Blends – $28.00 and over
    • Grenache – Up to – $34.99.
  • Pillsbury Wine Company:
    • Petite Sirah – $46.00 and over
    • Syrah/Shiraz – $44.00 and over
    • Dry/Sweet Rosé/Blush – RS 1.00 and over
    • Grenache – $35.00 and over
    • Malvasia Bianca
    • Red Blend: Mourvedre leading blend
    • White Blends – $22.00 – $27.99
    • Mourvedre
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – $36.00 and over
    • White Blends – $28.00 and over
    • White Blends – Up to – $21.99
  • Strive Vineyards:
    • Aglianico
    • Cabernet Franc – $30.00-$39.99
    • Dry Rosé/Blush – RS 0
    • Petite Verdot – Up to $39.99
    • Port – $33.00 and over
  • Sultry Cellars:
    • All Other Red Blends: $35.00 and over
  • Tantrum Wines:
    • Chardonnay – $20.00-$22.99
    • Dry/Sweet Rosé/Blush – RS 1.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend
    • Pinot Noir – $32.00-$35.99
  • Winery 1912:
    • Grenache – Up to – $34.99
    • Albariño
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Verdelho
  • Zarpara:
    • All Other Red Varietals
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – Up to – $35.99.

Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s competition! Find out more about Arizona Wines with Arizona’s Wine Trail Passport.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: arizona, ava, award, barbera, Cabernet Franc, cabernet sauvignon, Chardonnay, fermentation, Grenache, Malbec, montepulciano, Mourvedre, petit verdot, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Port, red blend, Riesling, Rose, san francisco, Sangiovese, sparkling, Tannat, Tempranillo, varietal, Viognier, viticulture, white wine, wine competition, Zinfandel

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort and Spa, elevates two rising stars to the head of its culinary team

February 9, 2022 by evebushman

Landon Post and Samantha Sanz step into the spotlight

as former executive chef Beau MacMillan transitions to an advisory role

Scottsdale, Ariz. –Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort and Spa has entered the new year with new leadership in its critically acclaimed kitchen. Stepping into the executive chef role is former catering chef Landon Post, a fixture in the Sanctuary dining experience since 2014, while chef de cuisine Samantha Sanz has become the new face of the resort’s signature restaurant, elements. After 23 years as executive chef, Beau MacMillan has transitioned his role at the resort to culinary advisor. He will continue to spearhead culinary events for Sanctuary, including the upcoming Robert Irvine Dinner and the Nirvana Food and Wine Festival.

Post has taken on responsibility for the resort’s day-to-day culinary operations in his new role as executive chef.

Over his eight years as catering chef, he succeeded in elevating Sanctuary’s catering dining experience to equal that of elements—one of the top-rated restaurants in Scottsdale.

Sanz continues to serve as chef de cuisine, a position she has held for more than a year, while taking on a more public profile at elements with MacMillan’s departure. The two-time James Beard award nominee launched her career as one of elements’ first female cooks, then continued to develop her talent as chef de cuisine at Virtu Honest Craft and Talavera before returning to elements in October 2020.

About Gurney’s Resorts

Gurney’s Resorts are luxury, full-service resorts found in premier U.S. travel destinations. The all-encompassing havens provide luxury lodging in Montauk, New York, Newport, Rhode Island and Scottsdale, Arizona. All properties feature well-appointed accommodations, elevated dining, sumptuous spas, sparkling pools, expansive grounds and thousands of square feet of indoor and outdoor space for weddings and events. Gurney’s Memberships offer exclusive access to world class amenities, concierge services and North America’s only Seawater Spa at Gurney’s Montauk while The Residences at Gurney’s deliver the most unique ownership opportunity in the Hamptons. Under ownership led by George Filopoulos (Metrovest Equities, Inc) and Lloyd Goldman (BLDG Management Co, Inc.), the brand has defined itself as both market leaders and year-round destinations.

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: arizona, caterer, chef, cook, cuisine, culinary, dining, food event, james beard, kitchen, resort, restaurants, u.s., wine festival

Ember Restaurant at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort Receives Wine Spectator “Best of Award of Excellence” for 2021

August 14, 2021 by evebushman

FORT MCDOWELL, Ariz. /PRNewswire/ — Today, the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort is thrilled to announce that Ember, its fine dining restaurant, has received Wine Spectator‘s esteemed “Best of Award of Excellence.”  The honor recognizes recipients that offer extensive selections with excellent breadth across multiple regions and significant vertical depth, and Ember is now one of 19 restaurants (out of nearly 9,000) in Arizona – and one of approximately 1,000 around the world – to receive this award.

This is the second time that the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation has been lauded by this highly regarded industry publication.  In 2006, the Ahnala Mesquite Room received the “Award of Excellence,” recognizing the restaurant’s wine list that featured a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.  The fact that the tribal nation has now been granted two Wine Spectator awards for excellence – an achievement rare among tribal casinos – affirms their commitment to delivering an exceptional culinary experience.

“American restaurants are back in business, as patrons are eagerly returning to dining rooms across the nation,” said Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher, Wine Spectator. “In this year’s Restaurant Awards issue, we reflect on how restaurateurs navigated this incredibly difficult period, and look ahead, with every indication that the coming year will be one of the most promising in decades for an industry we all love. It’s been a long road back, and it feels wonderful to celebrate restaurants and all they bring to the world of wine.”

“The ‘Best of Award of Excellence’ really belongs to our advanced sommelier Dennis Payne, whose 31 years of experience and painstaking efforts over the past year have resulted in this impeccable award-winning wine list,” added Zac Gallo, Executive Director of Food and Beverage for the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort.  “Not only has Dennis cultivated an extensive  wine and spirit program, but he ensures the proper care, storage and handling of our collection to maximize our guests’ dining experiences.”

Ember’s wine program covers seventeen countries, focusing on each country’s top wine-producing regions and most highly acclaimed vineyards.  It includes 517 wines by the bottle and 26 wines by the glass – ranging from a strong California presence to Barbaresco, Rioja, New Zealand, Argentina and Germany – along with 30 Dessert Wines from across the globe as well as 15 Ports and Madeiras.

In addition, Ember has a special page in their 37-page wine list titled “The Century Club,” dedicated to the world’s top 100-point wines.  Curated for fine wine collectors, this list contains 32 critically acclaimed wines spanning more than two decades that have scored a perfect 100 points.

Wine Spectator began its program to recognize the world’s best wine lists in 1981. There are three levels: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence and the Grand Award—with 1,673; 1,141; and 103 winners this year in each respective category.

All award winners will be featured in Wine Spectator‘s special 40th Anniversary Restaurant Awards issue, available to readers today.

For more information on Ember, visit www.wekopacasinoresort.com/dining/ember.

About Ember

A destination dining experience at the new We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, Ember is run by critically acclaimed Chef de Cuisine Richard Pelz.  In addition to an exhaustive wine and spirit library, the restaurant features the highest quality USDA Prime and Angus Wagyu beef, game and seafood from around the world, carefully prepared over a custom wood burning grill. Signature items include their Ujih Hot Stone appetizer, Seafood Tower, Snake River Farms Wagyu Striploin, Braised Buffalo Short Rib, and Ember Flaming Liquid Chocolate Truffle.
https://www.parkviewortho.com/wp-content/languages/new/propecia.html

The energetic dining space overlooks the all-scratch kitchen with views of the culinary team, and seasonal outdoor dining by the fireplace is also available. A separate piano lounge with live entertainment five nights a week adds to the dynamic vibe.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: advanced sommelier, argentina, arizona, award, barbaresco, beverage, California, casino, collector, culinary, dessert wine, food, Germany, kitchen, library wines, madeira, New Zealand, points, Port, resort, restaurant, Rioja, spirits, storage, vertical, vineyards, wine glass, wine list, wine spectator

Experience Scottsdale Announces What’s New in Scottsdale, Ariz. for Spring 2021

March 11, 2021 by evebushman

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. (PRWEB) – Springtime in Scottsdale blooms with thrilling outdoor activities, fresh resort experiences, wellness retreats and new additions to the first-rate food scene. Though things will look a bit different this spring – when this Sonoran Desert destination is typically known for its large-scale sporting events, flurry of activity and bustling energy downtown – Scottsdale still boasts plenty of sunshine and excitement for locals and visitors alike.

SPA ESCAPES

  • This season, the 33,000-square-foot Spa at The Boulders Resort Scottsdale will reopen. Relax in a sanctuary for well-being which includes a Labyrinth for quiet contemplation, an authentic Tipi used for traditional Native American rituals and private meditation in the Organic Garden. Recharge with outdoor activities around the 1,300-acre property, including moonlight bike rides, desert hikes and the Sonoran Explorin’ Tour.
  • For the jetsetters looking to experience the world without crossing the seas, look no further than VH Spa’s Jet Set Crowd menu at Hotel Valley Ho. This exclusive spa program showcases 90-minute indulgent treatments inspired by international spots such as Istanbul, Helsinki and Reykjavik.
  • The NOW Massage, a boutique massage concept based in LA, kicked off the new year by opening its doors in Scottsdale on Jan. 2. The serene and approachable atmosphere is designed for clients to easily reset and revive the mind, body and soul. Described as, “a reimagined neighborhood spa experience,” The NOW Massage offers treatments specifically created for stress relief, relaxation, muscle recovery and optimum healing.
  • The Spa at JW Marriott Camelback Inn has debuted a brand-new Mindful Meditation Room administering contactless treatments. Try Himalayan Salt Lamp Therapy to boost mood and ease allergies and stress, or become immersed in traditions of Chinese medicine with the Gemstone Water treatment, created with wood, water, earth, metal and fire.

RESORT SCENE
THE BIG NEWS: Scottsdale welcomed the area’s first-ever Dark Sky Zone resort on Oct. 20, ADERO. The six-story, 177-room property perched high in the desert features signature restaurant, CIELO, and grab ‘n go Spa café, Revive. Debuting on property on Feb. 11 is Skytop Lounge, an al fresco dining experience placed on the lawn overlooking the canyon and below the stars. The outdoor cocktail lounge will offer delectable bites and astro-inspired cocktails, such as the “Dark Sky.”

FIVE MORE STAYS:

  • On Dec. 29, the W Scottsdale introduced the new Cottontail Lounge, with a sophisticated environment while still retaining the bold and flirty style for which W Hotels are known. Cottontail Lounge replaces the former Shade Lounge and serves breakfast, craft cocktails derived from an extensive mixology program, and inventive bites.
  • The star-studded culinary team at Sanctuary just got hotter with the addition of industry powerhouses, Chef de Cuisine Samantha Sanz and Bar Chef Christiaan Röllich in Nov. 2020. The two will lead the advancement of the resort’s fine dining experiences at elements and jade bar. This is a homecoming for Sanz, a two-time James Beard Award nominee, who began her career at elements, under the direction of Chef Beau MacMillan. Röllich began at Les Deux Café in LA, where Forbes dubbed him, “one of LA’s most innovative mixologists.”
  • After a nine-month closure, Talavera at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale has just reopened its doors with new Chef de cuisine, Nino La Spina. A native of Sicily, Chef Nino began his career when he moved to Pisa for his studies and landed at renowned restaurants like Paris’ Michelin-starred Mirazur on the French Riviera, before moving stateside to work at Four Seasons Palm Beach. His Mediterranean style of cooking fused with Chef Victor Davila’s Latin and Mexican flare brings an adventurous new cuisine to Talavera’s Spanish steakhouse menu.
  • Canopy by Hilton joined the Old Town Scottsdale arts district on Oct. 1. This 177-room resort – the first new-build hotel in Old Town in over a decade – delivers a modern elegance, with two dining experiences and a rooftop pool.
  • Ritz-Carlton, Paradise Valley – a 215-room, 20-acre new-build opening in 2021 – will have it all; exemplary service, views of Camelback Mountain, modern and sleek interiors, a 16,000-square-foot spa and a location minutes from downtown Scottsdale. The resort has pivoted amid construction to incorporate new safety measures and features, such as the installation of Plasma Air in every guestroom and common space, to reduce airborne viruses and bacteria.

EVENTS + PRIVATE EXPERIENCES
THE BIG NEWS: Golf fanatics rejoice; the Waste Management Phoenix Open returns Feb. 1-7 at TPC Scottsdale. The legendary 16th hole will also live on at the 86th edition of “The People’s Open,” though modified from previous years. With limited fans in attendance, the scaled-down, one-level, open-air venue will offer limited ticket packages for fans who want to stay seated at the 16th hole. COVID safety protocols will be enforced throughout the entire tournament.

MORE THINGS TO DO:

  • Barrett-Jackson’s 50th annual Scottsdale Collector Car Auction, typically hosted in January, will take place March 20-27 and include the Barrett-Jackson Cup Competition, featuring 50 vehicles from the nation’s top custom car builders.
  • Grab your mitts and sunscreen, Spring Training is back in Scottsdale. Beginning Feb. 27, catch the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium or the Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. At this time, it has not been confirmed if fans will be permitted to watch from the stands.
  • Desert Botanical Garden’s newest art exhibition, “Wind, Water, Earth” features three large-scale living sculptures by artists Natasha Lisita and Daniel Schultz, using florals and plant materials as a medium and desert elements as inspiration. The sculptures will be available for viewing select dates from Jan. 19-April 25, 2021.
  • Travelers can now dive deep into the wonder of the sea at OdySea Aquarium without leaving the “personal bubble” with new private aquarium rentals. The buyout provides exclusive access to the entire aquarium, including the 3D movie and OdySea Voyager, and breakfast in OdySea’s posh VIP room with views of sharks, stingrays and more.
  • The Musical Instrument Museum has launched a spring virtual education program analyzing the relationship between music and science. Using STEM-based learning for students K-8, the courses cover how musical instruments are made and include hands-on activities for critical thinking.
  • With prime weather, plenty of space and many expert-led outdoor experiences now offered privately, the time is right for opting outside in Scottsdale. Soar in a hot air balloon with Rainbow Ryders or Hot Air Expeditions, horseback ride at Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch or with Wandering Heart Adventures, or kick it into high gear on an ATV tour with Stellar Adventures.

FRESH BITES
THE BIG NEWS: Amid the pandemic, Scottsdale has continued to defy the odds with the opening and sustaining of myriad new restaurants since spring 2020 – including Pizzeria Virtú, FRANCINE and Benjamin’s Upstairs to name a few, just in the downtown area alone. The city’s business owners have also found new ways to dine safely and make up for lost revenue during temporary shutdowns with new allowances from the Governor’s office as of Dec. 2, 2020, for restaurants to expand outdoor seating into parking lots and sidewalks, as seen in many major US cities.

Photo from Z’Tejas Facebook page

FIVE NEW WAYS TO SIP + SAVOR:

  • Cold Beers & Pizza, a spin-off of its neighbor and local favorite, Cold Beers& Cheeseburgers, opened in Old Town Scottsdale this month. Highlights include Cowboy Pizza and gluten-free crusts, as well as a wide selection of brews.
  • Southern charm, a lively atmosphere and a taste of Nashville await at Belle’s Nashville Kitchen. Belle’s debuted in Old Town Scottsdale in December, serving up a Honky Tonk brunch, Nashville Hot Chicken and whiskey tastings.
  • Local breakfast joint, Hash Kitchen, introduced a new spin on brunch, “Hash at Night,” on Oct. 2. Available at select locations on Fridays and Saturdays, late-night noshers can expect all the Hash Kitchen staples, including the build-your-own bloody mary bar, bubbly Boba mimosas and cereal shooter flights.
  • Trendy Fox Restaurant Concept, Culinary Dropout, opened a location at Scottsdale Quarter in Oct. 2020. The new, spacious restaurant brings a lively, open-air atmosphere for enjoying a casual meal and delighting in lawn games.
  • Z’Tejas, with restaurants only in Arizona and Texas, is scheduled to open a new restaurant in Scottsdale in Feb. 2021. Classic Z’Tejas dishes like sizzling Santa Fe Enchiladas and Diablo Pasta appear on the menu, along with seasonal southwestern offerings, and its signature margaritas and tequila flights.

For more Scottsdale travel news and story ideas, visit http://www.scottsdalepressroom.com. For more information about Scottsdale’s commitment to keeping residents and visitors safe, visit the “Be Safe Scottsdale” page.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: arizona, beer, chef, culinary, food, margarita, restaurants, tequila

Welcome to Arizona’s Wine Region!

August 31, 2020 by evebushman

When you think about your favorite wine regions, Arizona might not be the first state to come to mind! However, Arizona boasts a thriving wine industry dating back to the Spanish missionaries of the 16th century and features three prominent wine regions: Sonoita, Willcox, and Verde Valley. Not only have these regions produced award-winning wines receiving international acclaim, but some of their wines have also even been served in the White House.

●      Sonoita, Willcox, and the Verde Valley have soil and climate conditions similar to those in parts of the South of France, Spain, and Southeastern Australia. Oenophiles can delight their senses with grape varieties native to Spain, Italy and the Rhone River Valley in France. 

●      Arizona is often associated with arid temperatures and cactus-spotted deserts; however, weather conditions are temperate, and the high elevations lend to near-perfect conditions for growing grapes. In the Willcox Region, vineyards are located high above the desert terrain and heat, surrounded by area mountain ranges.
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Here, 74% of Arizona’s wine grapes are harvested. In the Verde Valley Region, the ideal combination of elevation, volcanic soil, and diurnal swings (hot days and cooler nights) lend to more flavorful, full-bodied wines. The Sonoita region is Arizona’s first American Viticultural Area (AVA). This region boasts many similarities to the Italian “Super Tuscan” region, with unique climate and soil characteristics, and its distinctive ability to retain natural water.


●      Wine grapes are considered a low-impact, specialty crop, which is defined as low acreage and high-density agriculture. Here, grapes are drought-tolerant and are predominantly grown using drip irrigation. For comparison, an acre of mature vines can use around 1.5 acre-feet of water per acre each year. Corn and alfalfa both use more than 4 acre-feet of water per acre each year, even up to as much as 6 acre-feet per year. As a result, wine grape crops offer an “added value” with economic benefits and sustainability techniques which save water and nutrients, thus minimizing the impact on natural resources. Some areas also use managing techniques such as mowing native grasses, which can help control weeds and tree/brush.
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●      Arizona’s native grapevine, Vitis arizonica, can be spotted growing in and around many wineries in Arizona. Vitis arizonica is one of approximately 60 grape species that are being studied extensively to improve wine grapes. Recent research has shown Arizona grapes are more resistant to Pierce’s disease than cultivated forms. UC Davis California, for instance, has created new grape varieties bred by Vitis arizonica that carry a single dominant gene for resistance to Pierce’s disease, (a disease caused by a bacterium spread by a group of insects called sharpshooters). Scientists hope that hybrids between Arizona and wine grapes will reduce the incidence of the disease.

●      With road-tripping on the rise, Harvest Hosts offers an impressive and timely network of wineries, breweries, distilleries, farms, and attractions that invite RVers to stay in stunning campsites! Harvest Hosts offer a different way for RVers to meet other travelers, stay overnight in gorgeous settings, and create long-lasting memories. For a small annual membership price, members can stay overnight at any Harvest Hosts site, all of which are pet and family friendly. Please note that members are kindly invited to support their hosts by purchasing one of their local products with each stay. 

In addition, local wineries have been holding virtual tastings and have recently released new varietals, more award-winning wine, including the 2018 Viognier from the SouthWest Wine Center (SWC) at Yavapai College. The SWC was established to fulfill the education and workforce development needs of a thriving Arizona wine industry and offers the only program of its kind. The academic program provides hands-on Viticulture experience in the vineyard and cellar, an experience that cannot be duplicated solely in a classroom setting!

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: arizona, award, cellar, climate, flavor, grape, harvest, hybrid, oenology, Super Tuscan, UC Davis, variety, vine, Viognier, viticulture, weather

Napa Valley’s HALL Wines Heads to Nashville and Phoenix to Celebrate 2016 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Vintage

August 8, 2019 by evebushman

(ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA – HALL Napa Valley, one of the leading luxury Cabernet Sauvignon producers in the world, has announced details about two regional events celebrating the release of its flagship wine, Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon. The events will take place in both Nashville, TN on September 10 and Phoenix, AZ on September 12, and will serve as the regional release parties for the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon. The national Kathryn Hall Release Party will take place prior to the two regional events on September 7 at the HALL St. Helena Winery located in Napa Valley.“We are always looking for new, wine-loving cities where we can make new friends and see again our wonderful club members,” says Vintner Kathryn Hall. “We heard you calling, Nashville and Phoenix, and are thrilled to be heading your way to celebrate the incredible 2016 vintage.”

Hall by Los Angeles and San Francisco Advertising Portrait Photographer Marc Olivier Le Blanc

Both events include two ticket offerings; a VIP Ticket for $200 per person that includes a six-year Vertical Tasting of Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon wines led by HALL President Mike Reynolds and Vintner Kathryn Hall herself, as well as the Main Event Ticket for $125pp. The VIP Ticket includes access to the Main Event. Additionally, each city will include an acoustic performance by two notable artists during the Main Event including American Soul singer Maggie Rose in Nashville, and pop-rock singer/songwriter Jon McLaughlin in Phoenix. Guests will also receive a copy of A Perfect Score as part of the ticket price, a New York Times Bestseller written by both Craig and Kathryn Hall. Guests will also have the chance to meet Kathryn and have their books signed during the event.

Historically, the Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon is defined by its core of dark, succulent Sacrashe Vineyard fruit from the Rutherford Appellation at the top eastern ridge of the Vaca Mountain range in Napa Valley. The wine is characterized by an interplay of elegance and concentration and displays voluptuous, dark berry fruit aromas with notes of crushed lavender. Kathryn Hall Cabernet fans throughout the country have been purchasing the flagship wine as an entertaining staple when hosting friends and family for the past 25 vintages.

KATHRYN HALL RELEASE: NASHVILLE, TN
Tuesday, September 10
• 5:00pm-6:30pm VIP Vertical Tasting with HALL President Mike Reynolds & Kathryn Hall, $200pp
• 6:30pm-9:00pm Main Event + Performance by American Soul singer, Maggie Rose, $125pp
The Bridge Building
2 Victory Avenue #100
Nashville, TN 37212
(615) 369-6474
TICKETS: https://www.hallwines.com/kathryn-hall-nashville

KATHRYN HALL RELEASE: PHOENIX, AZ
Thursday, September 12
• 5:00pm-6:30pm VIP Vertical Tasting with HALL President Mike Reynolds & Kathryn Hall, $200pp
• 6:30pm-9:00pm Main Event + Performance by pop-rock singer, Jon McLaughlin, $125pp
The FOUND:RE
1100 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
(602) 875-8000

TICKETS: https://www.hallwines.com/kathryn-hall-phoenix

Additionally, the annual Kathryn Hall Release Party and official public release will take place on Saturday, September 7 at HALL St. Helena. Tickets are available for purchase here.
Since the first vintage was produced in 1992, this wine has been one of the highest rated in HALL’s portfolio, earning 90 scores rated 90 points and above from the industry’s top critics including The Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, and Vinous. Most notably, the 2008 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon earned the #2 spot in Wine Spectator’s “Top 100” list in 2011. The wine is named after Kathryn Hall who is most known globally as the former United States Ambassador to Austria, and as a philanthropist who has helped raise awareness and funds for numerous non-profit organizations. Hall is also a New York Times Bestselling author.
For more information, please visit www.hallwines.com, follow on social @hallwines, or by calling 707-967-2626.

# # #

HALL Wines: The Art of Cabernet
HALL produces award-winning Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, available to taste and purchase at two properties in Napa Valley as well as at hallwines.com. Owned by Craig and Kathryn Hall, its vineyard collection features eight Estate vineyards, of which five are Certified Organic (CCOF). Led by Vice President and head winemaker Steve Leveque, HALL’s portfolio includes 19 distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon bottlings highlighting the finest vineyards and sub-appellations of the Napa Valley. The HALL St. Helena winery was the first LEED® Gold Certified Winery in the State of California in 2009 and earned another LEED® Gold certification for its high tech production facility and Tasting Room in 2014, making HALL a leader in green efficiencies. HALL’s 2008 ‘Kathryn Hall’ Cabernet earned the #2 spot in Wine Spectator’s “Top 100.” Two other bottlings, the ‘Exzellenz’ and ‘Rainin Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignons have garnered multiple 100 point ratings in recent years. For more information about HALL, please visit www.hallwines.com or by calling 707.967.2626. @hallwines #artofcabernet.

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: arizona, aroma, cabernet sauvignon, California, fruit, Napa, st. helena, vertical, vineyard, wine event

Free Flow Wines Announces the Winners of the 2017 KEGGY Awards

November 13, 2017 by evebushman

NAPA, Calif. (PRWEB) – Free Flow Wines announced the winners of the 4th annual KEGGY Awards to honor wineries, distributors, equipment providers and restaurant operators for their exceptional and sustainable contributions to the wine on tap category. The award ceremony, intended to be hosted at Luna Vineyards on October 19th, 2017 was cancelled due to the Napa and Sonoma wildfires. In lieu of the celebration, both Free Flow Wines and Luna Vineyards will be collaborating to host a fire relief benefit on Sunday, December 3rd at Luna Vineyards.

13133126_1079591915430182_8157528316882523162_nTo date, more than 13.6 million bottles, or approximately 20.3 million pounds of waste, have been diverted from the landfill through the use of Free Flow’s reusable stainless steel kegs. Each Free Flow keg holds the equivalent of 26 bottles of wine and will save 1,560 bottles from the landfill over its lifetime. Free Flow currently has more than 149,000 stainless steel kegs in their fleet.

“One of our most important metrics of success is how much we reduce the wine industry’s impact on the environment. As sustainability is one of our four core values, we ensure it guides our decision making – from opening an East Coast kegging facility that reduces the carbon footprint of our logistics, to offering wine canning as a sustainable alternative packaging option,” said Jordan Kivelstadt, Co-Founder & CEO of Free Flow Wines. “We’d like to thank all of our partners for their contributions. Together we build categories that make a meaningful difference.”

WINERY – AWARD RECIPIENTS
Saved more than 1,000,000 bottles from the landfill:
Gotham Project

Saved more than 500,000 bottles from the landfill:
Hahn Family Wines
The Wine Group

Saved more than 100,000 bottles from the landfill:
Clemenza Vini Imports, LLC
Dry Creek Vineyard
Foley Family Wines
Luna Vineyards
MacRostie Winery & Vineyards
Matchbook Wine Company
Peregrine Ranch / VTPR Wine
St. Mayhem & the girls in the vineyard

DISTRIBUTOR – AWARD RECIPIENTS
Saved more than 500,000 bottles from the landfill:
Republic National Distributing Company of Texas

Saved more than 100,000 bottles from the landfill:
Breakthru Beverage Arizona
Breakthru Beverage Florida
Republic National Distributing Company of Maryland
Skurnik Wines of New York
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Colorado
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Illinois
The Winebow Group of California
The Winebow Group of Virginia
Young’s Market Company of Washington

AMBASSADOR – AWARD RECIPIENTS
David Whitney of Draft Doctor, LLC
Jon Schlegel of Snooze Eatery
Kent Bearden of Saint Marc Pub-Cafe

“PEOPLE’S CHOICE” – AWARD RECIPIENT
Bar Viñedo of Queen Creek, Arizona

About the KEGGY Awards
Free Flow Wines created the KEGGY Awards in 2014 to recognize winery partners for their commitment to sustainability by choosing reusable stainless steel kegs – a truly zero-waste package. Since then, the awards have been expanded to include distributors, restaurants and category ambassadors throughout the US who have helped reduce the carbon footprint of the wine industry.

About Free Flow Wines
Free Flow Wines is the pioneer of premium wine on tap, delivering the world’s leading wine brands to the taps of restaurants and venues nationwide. Free Flow’s keg leasing, filling, logistics and canning services have allowed the wine and hospitality industries to move to a more sustainable way of offering consumers the freshest, best tasting glass of wine. Founded in 2009, Free Flow has more than 250 wine brands in keg, from wineries throughout the U.S., New Zealand, Argentina and Europe. Their customers’ wines are offered in keg and can formats at a variety of restaurants, premium hotels, retail stores, sports and entertainment venues across the U.S. Free Flow Wines has locations in Napa, California, and Bayonne, New Jersey. You can find them online at FreeFlowWines.com, on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Flickr @FreeFlowWine.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: argentina, arizona, bottles, California, colorado, distributor, europe, Napa, Napa Valley, New Zealand, restaurants, Sonoma, sustainable, u.s., virginia, winery

Smokin’ Mary beats most of the pros in a renowned Bloody Mary competition

March 18, 2017 by evebushman

Not a professional mixologist—Smokin’ Mary beats most of the pros in a renowned Bloody Mary competition. Not a professional chef—she snags silver in a classic California chili cook-off. Not a professional retailer—she defies the odds by roaring into one of the nation’s most exclusive Christmas retail shows. Besides moving caseloads of product at that show, she unofficially wins Best Distraction On The Show Floor: “We are great entertainment. People love us. Two shows daily!”

11164834_391092831075664_3274934959719754089_nIt’s all in advancing the cause for possibly the world’s finest bottled Bloody Mary mix.

Laurie Nadeau is the beauty and the brains behind Smokin’ Mary Smoked Bloody Mary Mix. All through 2016, she was pouring her way to the top. With last year’s triumphs in the rear view, Smokin’ Mary Smoked Bloody Mary Mix is rocketing forward, storming towards the Nightclub & Bar Convention in Las Vegas, and the notorious Firey Foods show in Albuquerque.

With the award-winning cocktail mix on retail shelves all over California, and 23 food-show appearances in six months, Laurie must be the hardest-working woman in the food-show business. Appearing seemingly everywhere, she sings a siren song to the cocktail curious, inviting them to taste the smoky, whole-tomato goodness of this distinctive Bloody Mary mix.

The pro-mixologist upheaval? That was at the Stolichnaya Vodka-sponsored Bloody Mary Mix Down during in Arizona. Beating 8 of 10 pros in her first cocktail competition, Laurie says the bronze-medal finish is proof: “If I can build a prize-winning cocktail alongside the pros, so can you.”

Another notch in Mary’s belt: second place at the renowned Sutter Creek Chili Cook Off, using a chili recipe containing the Smokin’ Mary product. Her fans are using the zingy, zesty, tomato rich mix in all kinds of recipes (many online at http://www.SmokinMary.com).

And Laurie just keeps working it. She wrangled a vendor slot in Vegas at the exclusive Cowboy Christmas Gift Show in Vegas. An annual, one-of-a-kind show for western gifts, it runs concurrently with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. With over 400 vendors, it’s a prestigious and sought-after venue one rarely qualifies for on the first try—and Smokin’ Mary Smoked Bloody Mary Mix made it.

Time now to wow them at the Nightclub & Bar Convention and the fiery Foods Show in March.

Check out our New Years video here.

Cheers!

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: arizona, award, California, chef, cocktail, cooking, mixologist, vodka, wine competition

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Eve Bushman

Eve Bushman, owner Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting.

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