Eve's Wine 101

Broken Shed Vodka: Fastest Growing Imported Vodka Brand in the U.S.

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Broken Shed Vodka (http://www.brokenshed.com), New Zealand’s award-winning, super-premium vodka, is now the fastest growing imported vodka brand selling over 10,000 9 liter cases in the U.S. Its 4 year growth rate surpassing all others in the class.

For the fiscal year from March 31, 2021 to March 31, 2022, Broken Shed sold 13,139 9 Liter cases, which is a 59% growth in overall case depletion within the country over last fiscal year. Broken Shed recently reported an impressive compound annual growth rate of 132% over the course of the last 4 years. The top 3 markets in the U.S. are North Carolina, Connecticut and Tennessee.

“All of us at Broken Shed are pleased to see such impressive sales growth in the United States within the last few years,” says Steve Bellini, President of Broken Shed Vodka, “We look forward to continuing to expand our footprint across the country and introducing new consumers to a crisp, modern vodka made without any additives, sweeteners or GMOs.”

Broken Shed is currently available in the 27 states of Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, California, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, Washington D.C. Broken Shed will be expanding its distribution soon within the U.S., with the three new markets of Nebraska, West Virginia and Florida, increasing total availability to 30 states. Globally, you can find Broken Shed in New Zealand, Australia and Canada.

Broken Shed’s ‘Vodka of Tomorrow’ Campaign, which launched last summer and will continue through 2022, was developed by Broken Shed Vodka’s Chicago and New Zealand based creative agency family of record, Schafer Condon Carter (SCC) and TimeZoneOne (TZO), resulted in over 16.6 million impressions. The campaign demonstrates that Broken Shed is what vodka can be, made sustainably without additives and pays tribute to the vodka’s home country by highlighting that, thanks to being in the time zone where each day begins, it’s already tomorrow in New Zealand.

To learn more about what makes Broken Shed Vodka the ‘world’s most unique vodka,’ visit the website Brokenshed.com

About Broken Shed Vodka: Broken Shed Vodka © 2022 is based in Wanaka, New Zealand. Distilled, crafted and bottled in New Zealand ever since its inception in 2009, its vodka draws upon the country’s pristine natural aquifers and spring waters, made without any hint of gluten, additives, sugars or GMOs. Since entering the U.S. market in June 2012, Broken Shed Vodka has won a legion of loyal fans, and an impressive collection of awards. Broken Shed Vodka started in a ‘broken’ down old shed on Lake Wanaka where the formula was originally crafted and produced.

Broken Shed Vodka, 40% ABV, Distilled from Whey, imported to the USA by Broken Shed Imports, Manhasset, NY. Broken Shed Vodka is produced by Broken Shed Limited., Wanaka, New Zealand.

Broken Shed Limited is a private limited company based in Wanaka, New Zealand and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Yes Whey LLC. Yes Whey LLC is a limited liability company based in Glenview, Illinois. Drink Responsibly.

Knox and Dobson Introduces Superior Ready-To-Drink Bottled Cocktails 

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(Los Angeles, CA) – Knox & Dobson toasts to their new collection of premium ready-to-drink bottled cocktails that are expertly designed to be shared with friends, so simply Open, Pour, and Enjoy!

Knox & Dobson’s new bottled cocktail collection was meticulously curated with an uncompromising commitment to excellence in quality, craftsmanship, and taste by Knox & Dobson President Rob Levy and Creative Director Peter Lloyd Jones (The Raymond 1886, Everson Royce Bar) who heads Knox & Dobson’s formulation and product development. Featuring a gin Martini, classic Old Fashioned, Improved Whiskey Cocktail with Maraska Maraschino Liqueur, and Rye Manhattan, Knox & Dobson uses the highest quality ingredients including hand-selected barrel aged whiskey, distilled gin, natural cane sugar, and authentic Angostura Bitters. From the award-winning design of the bottle, these superior bottled cocktails were solely created so expertly handcrafted cocktails could be shared and effortlessly enjoyed anywhere.

“Our mission was to create a collection of cocktails that were equal in taste and quality to those freshly crafted by a skilled bartender. Peter Lloyd Jones was the best choice, and I can’t imagine working with anyone better, “ says Levy. “Pete was Head Barman at 1886 Bar at The Raymond and he was also behind the stick at Everson Royce Bar for several years, so his experience is invaluable, and his passion and creativity make him the perfect partner at Knox & Dobson.”

Levy’s upbringing in Skokie, Illinois, at Knox Avenue and Dobson Street is where Levy spent most of his adolescence in the ‘60s and 70’s hanging out “on the corner” with neighborhood kids who remain lifelong friends. Knox & Dobson is as much an elevated on-the-go craft beverage experience as it is a distillation of hometown pride and a love of bringing people together.

Each Knox & Dobson bottled cocktail is 200 milliliters and features two servings. Whether you are a classic Martini drinker (34% ABV), this is a take on the classic combining gin with dry vermouth to create a flavor profile of an aromatic gin martini that is slightly earthy and refreshing to drink. Lloyd Jones recommends serving this cocktail up or over ice, garnished with olives. Old Fashioned aficionados (38% ABV) can savor this cocktail which consists of straight aged bourbon, natural cane sugar, orange oil and Angostura Bitters with tastes of aged bourbon with bright citrus flavors, bitters, raw cinnamon, clove, and American oak. The Improved Whiskey Cocktail (35.42% ABV) – made with straight aged rye whiskey, Maraska Maraschino Liqueur and Angostura bitters – has a spiced flavor profile combined with American oak, citrus, along with bright and deep cherry notes. This is a whiskey cocktail that is meant to be sipped and savored. Finally, the Rye Manhattan (36% ABV) is made with straight aged rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. The tantalizing pairing of the aged whiskey combined with the aromatic Italian-style vermouth creates a spice, citrus and charred oakwood profile that will have anyone asking for another round.

Who’s ready for happy hour? And, if your go-to cocktail isn’t on the menu just yet, don’t worry. The Knox & Dobson bar cart will be rolling this Summer with more cocktails on the way and no shortage of inspiration. Knox & Dobson’s new collection of superior bottled cocktails are best served chilled or over ice and each cocktail features two servings, perfect for sharing, so simply chill, Open, Pour, and Enjoy!

Knox & Dobson is available for delivery anywhere Nationwide, so visit www.KnoxandDobson to order your new favorite bottled cocktails today. Knox & Dobson is now available at 15 Total Wine & More California stores – Brea, Daly City, Long Beach, Northridge, Pasadena, Rancho Cucamonga, Redondo Beach, Roseville, San Diego, San Jose, San Mateo, San Ramon, Temecula, Thousand Oaks, Tustin and soon to be in all 28 Total Wine & More California stores; Bristol Farms South Pasadena and soon to be in all 14 Bristol Farms California stores; Bar Keeper Los Angeles; Cypress Liquor Los Angeles; Everson Royce Bar Pasadena; Gerlach’s Pasadena; Highland Park Wine; K&L Wine Merchants in Los Angeles and San Francisco; and The Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles. To see the full list of locations, please visit Knox & Dobson’s Find a Stockist.

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About Knox & Dobson:

Knox & Dobson crafts premium, ready-to-drink cocktails expertly designed to be shared and enjoyed anywhere. Our multi-award-winning bottled cocktails are made with an uncompromising commitment to excellence in quality, craftsmanship, and taste, featuring the highest quality ingredients including premium barrel-aged whiskies, Maraska Maraschino Liqueur, and authentic Angostura Bitters. Whether you’re a classic Martini drinker, Old Fashioned aficionado, Rye Manhattan enthusiast, or searching for the perfect Improved Whiskey Cocktail, serve Knox & Dobson’s bottled cocktails chilled or over ice and discover the pleasure of true craft cocktails created to simply open, pour, and enjoy. That’s something we can all toast to!

Knox & Dobson Awards:

Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) Gold Medal – Knox & Dobson Old Fashioned 2022

Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Improved Whiskey Cocktail 2022

Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) Bronze Medal – Knox & Dobson Martini 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Old Fashioned 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Improved Whiskey Cocktail 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Gin Martini 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Bronze Medal – Knox & Dobson Rye Manhattan 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Bottled Craft Cocktails. Designer: Knox & Dobson 2022

Photo Credit:  Jakob N. Layman

Social Media:  Follow Knox & Dobson on Facebook @KnoxandDobson and Instagram @knoxanddobson

Knox & Dobson

www.KnoxandDobson

SOUTH COAST WINERY NAMED “GOLDEN STATE WINERY OF THE YEAR” BY CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR

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TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery announces with great pride it has been designated as the esteemed Golden State Winery of the Year by the California State Fair in the California Commercial Wine Competition, which recently took place at Cal Expo in Sacramento. This is an unprecedented fifth win of this title by any California winery with South Coast also winning this designation in 2008, 2009, 2013 and 2016.

This year, a panel of 44 official judges led by Chief Judge Mark Chandler tasted and evaluated 1,953 California wines from 443 California wineries. The competition is open only to wines made with fruit grown and produced in the 11 growing regions across California. Wines are evaluated by class, varietal, style and region based upon the source of the grapes. The expert judging panel includes respected winemakers, wine merchants, writers, promoters and educators.

“The California State Fair Wine Competition, which dates back to 1854, along with its pronouncement of South Coast Winery as Golden State Winery of the Year 2022 is so important and meaningful to us,” said Jeff Carter, president of South Coast Winery. “We owe this amazing kudo and the award recognition of the 29 wines we entered in the competition to the incredible Temecula Valley terroir, to our dedicated team and highly valued winemakers – Jon McPherson and Javier Flores – and to over 20 years of successful viticulture production.”

The 2022 California State Fair Wine Competition results included awards bestowed on all the 29 wines entered by South Coast Winery. They include Double Gold Awards for the vineyard’s 2020 Pinot Blanc, Best of Region White with a score of 100 and NV Daybreak with a score of 99. Gold Awards were given to 2018 Meritage Best of Appellation, 2018 Viognier Best of Class Appellation, 2021 Dry Gewurztraminer Best of Appellation, NV Brut, 2020 Riesling and NV Vineyard Rose. South Coast Winery also accrued 13 Silver Awards and eight Bronze.

About the California State Fair

The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future. The 2022 State Fair will include a comprehensive list of competitions, including California’s best commercial wines, cheeses, craft beers, cannabis, olive oils and fine arts, among others.

About South Coast Winery

The only state winery to claim the title of California Winery of the Year five times at the California State Fair Wine Competition, South Coast Winery sets the gold standard for excellence amongst California wineries, earning more than 3,000 awards since its inception in 2003. Situated on 63 lush acres, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa offers a breathtaking retreat for wine tours, romantic getaways and group events with 132 rooms and villas, a working winery and tasting room, gift shop, full-service spa and restaurant.

South Coast Winery is a family-owned and offers a broad portfolio of 45 wine labels, the majority of which are available for sampling in its main tasting room – from robust reds such as Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir to whites including Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Riesling. Also available are sparkling wines, dessert wines and other specialty offerings. The winery employs a staff of skilled winemakers, including master winemaker Jon McPherson and winemaker Javier Flores, both with decades of experience in the wine industry.

For more information, visit www.southcoastwinery.com.

Abadía Retuerta now holds the maximum distinction in Spanish Wine Law: the Protected Designation of Origin of Vino de Pago

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The new classification, Vino de Pago Abadía Retuerta (PDO), is a further endorsement of the winery’s outstanding achievements, following over eight centuries of winemaking on the estate

·       This recognition is a credit to the forward thinking, excellence and profound knowledge of this pioneering winery in the Duero Valley

·       Enrique Valero, CEO at Abadía Retuerta: “We are incredibly proud of this achievement, because it is a testament to our working philosophy, our know-how and determination. We have a unique approach to winemaking: our wine enhances and reflects all the personality of the surrounding lands, right here at the heart of the Duero Valley”

Sardón de Duero – Abadía Retuerta has been awarded the maximum distinction in Spanish Wine Law: it now holds the Denominación de Origen Protegida (Protected Designation of Origin, or PDO) of Vino de Pago. Following a very long registration process, this classification has now been ratified in the European Union’s Official Journal.

In the term Vino de Pago, a “pago” refers to a plot of land with its own particular soil and microclimate characteristics, setting it apart from other neighbouring plots. This prestigious recognition is therefore an endorsement of the estate’s soils: Abadía Retuerta’s wine is an authentic expression of the terroir, i.e. the local climatic and geographical traits that give rise to vines and grapes with truly unique qualities. In Spain, this label is at the very top of the wine classification scale, which goes up from Table Wine, Regional Wine, Quality Wine with Geographic Indication, Protected Designation of Origin, Qualified Designation of Origin, and finally Vino de Pago as the uppermost category.

Enrique Valero, CEO of Abadía Retuerta, notes that “we are incredibly proud of this achievement, because it is a testament to our working philosophy, our know-how and our determination. We do not mindlessly follow the latest trends: our sole aim has always been to revive this noble and historic winery, while maintaining a unique approach to winemaking that really does enhance and reflect all the personality of the Duero Valley”. This leading winery, in the municipality of Sardón de Duero (in Spain’s Golden Mile of Wine), is defined by excellence and a devotion to the craft: “It was Saint Norbert of Xanten, founder of the Premonstratensian order of canons regular, who said ‘Seek peace and pursue it’. This phrase has been a great inspiration to us, encouraging us to respect the rhythms of nature and history, and to adhere to this age-old philosophy. Our priority is to uphold the legacy passed down to us: we strive to maintain the estate’s unique winemaking tradition”, adds Valero.

A unique winemaking tradition

This recognition is an endorsement of Abadía Retuerta and its long history of winemaking, right at the heart of the Duero Valley. As historians have established, this is a deeply-rooted tradition that dates back to the early Christian era. The grapevine was brought to Spain by the Romans, and they planted it all over the north of the peninsula, including the lands around the Duero and what would become Abadía Retuerta. Ten centuries later, the Christians founded their monasteries, including the Monastery of Santa María de Retuerta, which was established in 1146 following a substantial donation of lands and vineyards. In the Duero region, the monks persisted with their cultivation of grapevines and, gradually, they mastered the art of winemaking. They learnt how to get the most out of the region’s lands, which were sunny yet cold in winter, and hot and dry in summer. Thanks to the vines’ adaptability and strength, the resulting wine would become one of the region’s best products.

These are the foundations upon which the pillars of Abadía Retuerta are built. Their team’s guiding philosophy is to revive an ancient winery, uphold a rich local winemaking tradition and help the surrounding lands reach their full potential. This striking estate, in the Duero Valley, is home to eight long centuries of winemaking heritage. Just over thirty years ago, it was revived by an experienced team under the guidance of wine expert Ángel Anocíbar, aided by renowned vigneron and former director of Château Ausone and Château Belair, Pascal Delbeck. Today’s final confirmation of the PDO Vino de Pago is a testament to their many years of effort: they have tirelessly worked to create unique and imitable wines, striving for excellence at each and every step in the winemaking process.

A long line of prestigious awards

This new achievement, the PDO Vino de Pago classification, is the latest in a long line of awards and prizes that certify Abadía Retuerta as one of the world’s greatest winemakers. One such highlight was the Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial 2001 winning the award for the World’s Best Red Wine (Red Wine Trophy) at the 2005 International Wine Challenge in London (Wine Magazine, UK). It was also the first Spanish winery to feature for three consecutive years in the Top 100 Wines in the World, published since 1988 by the accredited American magazine Wine Spectator, with the Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial. In particular, the 2012 vintage reached number 12 on this list.

Year after year, the Pago and Petit Verdot wines have been rated very highly in renowned publications such as the Robert Parker Wine Advocate, the aforementioned Wine Spectator, Guía Peñín and Guía Gourmets. Pago Valdebellón 2014 won the Top Medal Master in the Global Cabernet Sauvignon Masters (as awarded by The Drinks Business), and Pago Negralada 2014 was awarded Platinum Best in the Best Northwest Spanish Red Category at the 2017 International Wine Challenge, in addition to the Great Gold Medal in the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. Pago Garduña 2013 was considered by Robert Parker’s taster, Luis Gutiérrez, to be the Best Syrah in Spain.

As regards the Blanco LeDomaine, the British wine critic Jancis Robinson has given it a superb review, and its second vintage on sale was chosen as the best white wine in Spain by Verema.com.

The vineyard plots at Abadía Retuerta

Abadía Retuerta is a unique place where the past lives on in the present, and where centuries of tradition and culture remain intact. The River Duero defines the surrounding landscape, creating unique conditions for winemaking. An expert team with great dedication, know-how and patience really get the best out of this terrain: they respect the natural cycles and help the vines adapt to the harsh climate of the region, in order to produce one of the estate’s prized assets: its world-class wine.

Abadía Retuerta creates wines that express all the personality of each individual plot in the vineyard. Only the very best wines are released for sale, as and when the vintage is of a high enough standard. The estate spans 700 hectares, 180 of which are set aside for vine growing. These vineyards are split into 54 small plots, divided according to their soil composition, and each one is planted with a single grape variety. Syrah takes up 10%, Tempranillo 70%, and Cabernet Sauvignon 10%. The remaining 10% is divided between Merlot, Petit Verdot and a number of white varieties.

Iris Vineyards opens first tasting room in historic Springfield, Oregon

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Eugene, Ore – Open June 2nd, Iris Vineyards’ new Wine Bar in downtown Springfield Oregon. Locally owned by Pamela Frye, Iris Vineyards produced their first wines in 2001. They have become one of Oregon’s fastest growing premium wineries. Their 36 acre vineyard provides the fruit for the production of their highly acclaimed Areté sparkling wines such as their 2019 Brut Blanc de Blancs and 2019 Brut Blanc de Noirs. The tradition of award winning wines continues, with the 2020 Pinot Gris receiving Best of Show in the recent McMinnville Wine & Food Classic, a first for any Pinot Gris in the competition’s 29 years.

The pandemic prompted the closing of the winery’s original tasting room in the hills above Territorial Highway in the Lorane Valley. During this time, the winery in downtown Cottage Grove continued to offer curbside pick-up to their club members and longtime customers.

Club members and Oregon wine enthusiasts have been awaiting the time an Iris Tasting Room would reopen – David Cordtz, General Manager of Iris Vineyards says, “We are very excited to be opening our new location in the heart of downtown Springfield. We will serve a wide assortment of our critically acclaimed wines, along with inhouse wine-based cocktails developed by winemaker Aaron Lieberman, David Cordtz and the Iris Vineyards team. There will also be locally inspired charcuterie and gourmet cheeses. We truly look forward to great experiences in a great space with our customers again.”

The new Iris Vineyards Wine Bar can be found at 322 Main Street Springfield, Oregon 97477 in an area of recent rejuvenation that includes Plank Town Brewing and Tavern on the Main, making the wine bar an ideal stop for those on their way to and from area dining options.

Hours are 11:30am – 8pm, Thursdays – Sundays. Walk ins accepted. About Iris Vineyards The owner’s private estate is home to the 36-acre vineyard, nestled in the Southern Willamette Valley, twenty minutes southwest of Eugene, Oregon. The Iris Vineyards brand produces wine from grapes grown at the estate vineyard and carefully selected vineyards throughout Oregon. The cool climate in the foothills of the Oregon Coast Range allows the grapes to mature slowly while maintaining the proper acid balance that is essential for producing the finest wines in the southern Willamette Valley.

La Raia in Gavi, Italy Launches Experiential “Summer Stay” Package

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Gavi, Italy: La Raia, home to the 12-room boutique hotel “Locanda La Raia,” introduces a new experiential “summer stay” package that showcases the best of the 180-hectare estate, from meals at the in-house fine dining restaurant by Chef Tommasso Arrigoni, to tours of the biodynamic farm, Fondazione La Raia, as well as wine tastings led by the property’s sommelier.

Perfectly situated in the pastoral region of Gavi, located conveniently between Milan and Genoa, La Raia is a labor of love of the Milanese Rossi Cairo family, who transformed the lush and verdant estate and mansion into a “slow hospitality” ecosystem where sustainability, biodiversity, contemporary art, elevated regional cuisine and heartfelt hospitality meet. 

The Rossi Cairo family bought La Raia in 2003 with the aim of recovering and rejuvenating the original ecosystem through an ambitious rehabilitation project inspired by biodynamic principles. The estate includes vineyards, pastures, and chestnut, elderflower and acacia woodlands protecting numerous species of wild animals.

As part of its commitment to the surrounding environment, the biodynamic La Raia Winery produces three kinds of multi-awarded Gavi D.O.C.G. – Gavi, Gavi Riserva Vigna della Madonnina and Gavi Pisé – and two kinds of Piemonte D.O.C. Barbera. 

“The launch of the new experiential summer-stay package is rooted in our committment to offering our guests authentic experiences that get under the skin of Gavi’s local culture”, says Piero Rossi Cairo, owner of La Raia. 

The Experiential Stay Package starts at 395 euros per person, and includes:

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Two nights with breakfast at Locanda La Raia (Guests may reserve a room category of their choosing)

Luxurious country boutique hotel with 12 rooms, each unique, furnished with 17th-19th century Piedmont pieces paired with contemporary design furniture.

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Two tasting dinner menus at the in-house restaurant (beverages excluded)

Locanda La Raia, Gavi also has a restaurant, curated by chef Tommaso Arrigoni, who created a menu that combines Piedmontese tradition with Ligurian influences, all made with local produce from the estate’s garden, such as wines, honey, garden herbs, and Fassona meat.

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A guided tour of the unique artworks in the permanent collection of Fondazione La Raia

For almost a decade, Fondazione La Raia has invited artists of different disciplines to take a critical look at the Gavi landscape. The artworks created on the property are permanently placed in La Raia’s vineyards and fields, examining the relationship between the land, nature, and art. 

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Wine Tasting at La Raia winery

La Raia Winery produces three kinds of multi-awarded Gavi D.O.C.G. – Gavi, Gavi Riserva Vigna della Madonnina and Gavi Pisé – and two kinds of Piemonte D.O.C. Barbera. 

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Additional additional benefits include afternoon tea and aperitivo, as well as access to the property’s sauna, steam bath, and heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

For more information about La Raia, visit www.la-raia.it/en/locanda

About La Raia: La Raia is a Demeter certified biodynamic farm located in the Piedmont region’s Gavi hills. The Rossi Cairo family bought La Raia in 2002 with the intention of restoring and valuing the original ecosystem through a massive biodynamic intervention and project. The farm and winery currently span 180 hectares of vineyards, pastures, and forest, and include a 12-room boutique hotel “Locanda La Raia,” an art foundation, and a winery where sustainability, biodiversity, locavore cuisine, and homey hospitality collide. La Raia now produces three types of multi-awarded Gavi D.O.C.G. – Gavi, Gavi Riserva Vigna della Madonnina, and Gavi Pisé – as well as two types of Piemonte D.O.C. Barbera.  

About Locanda La Raia In 2017, the Rossi Cairo Family transformed a former post station on the estate into a chic countryside retreat for the luxury traveler. The space was reimagined as a 12-room luxury boutique hotel, including ten unique guest rooms, two apartments, an estate-to-table restaurant, an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa, and a tennis court. The ‘green mansion in the Gavi hills’ was restored by the Milanese firm, demicisarchitetti, driven by the vision to create a dialogue between the inside and the outside world.

Milam And Greene Releases The Castle Hill Series Batch Two, a Limited-Edition Batch of 13-Year-Old Casks

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BLANCO, TEXAS (PRWEB) – Milam & Greene Whiskey is introducing The Castle Hill Series Batch Two, the second release of its limited-edition batch of 13-year-old hand-selected straight bourbon whiskies bottled at barrel proof. The Castle Hill Series celebrates the art of batching well-aged casks, one of the many methods Milam & Greene enlists to create its award-winning range of whiskies. Just 26 vintage barrels were married to create this superb whiskey, making it the most limited release from the acclaimed distillery that was recently lauded for its “Best in Show” whiskey at The American Craft Spirits Association competition.

The Castle Hill Series carries the oldest age statement in the Milam & Greene family of whiskies, and each batch includes the distillery’s most exclusive casks. The series is named for the historic Texas Military Institute, also known as “The Castle,” in Austin, Texas. While the Milam & Greene distillery operations and warehousing are in Blanco, Texas, The Castle is home to Heather Greene’s blending lab, and its old-world elegance serves as an inspiration for the Milam & Greene CEO and master blender.

Greene is renowned for her exceptional whiskey blending skills, and The Castle Hill Series showcases her ability to select the right casks to blend to develop complex flavors. Greene honed her tremendous whiskey blending skills while evaluating Scotch whisky for the Scotch Malt Whisky Society in Scotland, as well as while working with numerous distilleries around the globe before bringing her talent to Milam & Greene in 2018. Under Greene’s direction, whiskey blending is essential to creating core Milam & Greene whiskies including the Triple Cask Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Port Finished Straight Rye Whiskey.

“The guiding principle in blending The Castle Hill Series is to create a traditional bourbon that whiskey drinkers will love,” says Heather Greene, Milam & Greene CEO and master blender. “Each cask used to create The Castle Hill Series has a different personality. Those personality traits are developed through aging over a long period of time with influences from the environment. We hand-selected each barrel aged between 13 years, 10 months, and 17 days at the youngest, and 14 years, two months, and 13 days at the oldest, to identify specific characteristics that we want in the finished product. The result is a multifaceted bourbon with layers of nutty, spicy, fruity, and oak flavors.”

Milam & Greene The Castle Hill Series, Batch Two Tasting Notes
Milam & Greene The Castle Hill Series Batch Two shines in the glass with a deep burnt amber color. On the nose it is a dichotomy of youthful vigor and aged splendor with scents of warm peach cobbler, brown sugar, and vanillas with hints of almond and milk chocolate. Bottled at cask strength of 111 proof (55.5 % ABV), this potent straight bourbon whiskey features velvety, opulent flavors of caramel, cinnamon, cherry, vanilla, and tobacco with a warming and long finish.

The Castle Hill Series Batch Two Barrel Information
Twenty-six barrels were used to create The Castle Hill Series Batch Two. The ages of each barrel are detailed below:
4 barrels aged 13 years, 10 months, 17 days
8 barrels aged 13 years, 10 months, 18 days
4 barrels aged 13 years, 10 months, 19 days
4 barrels aged 13 years, 11 months, 6 days
2 barrels aged 14 years, 1 month, 20 days
2 barrels aged 14 years, 2 months, 13 days
1 barrel aged 14 years, 2 months, 16 days
1 barrel aged 14 years, 3 months, 6 days

Pricing and Availability
The Castle Hill Series Batch Two is available for a suggested retail price of $149.99 at select retailers that can be found on Milamandgreenewhiskey.com. This whiskey is extremely limited with only 3,000 bottles released around the country. Please call your local retailer to determine local availability. Milam & Greene whiskey is distributed by Southern Wine and Spirits, Empire Merchants, Heidelberg Distributing, Brescome Barton, and Winebow Fine Wine and Spirits.

About Milam & Greene
Milam & Greene Whiskey is made by some of the world’s most experienced whiskey professionals, including CEO, master blender, and author, Heather Greene and 30-year veteran and master distiller, Marlene Holmes. The Milam & Greene team distills in Blanco, Texas on small 300- and 1,000-gallon pot stills as well as in Kentucky on classic column stills, using its proprietary yeast and grain recipes. Aging takes place in rickhouses located in four states in different casks for a variety of flavors resulting in the most thorough array of casks made and collected by any craft distiller. These casks become the ingredients from which its award-winning American whiskey range is batched to create perfection. Milam & Greene Whiskey believes in using the best people and ingredients to create delicious, award-winning whiskey for whiskey lovers. For more information visit: http://www.milamandgreenewhiskey.com. Connect with Milam & Greene Whiskey on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

ABADÍA RETUERTA LEDOMAINE CELEBRATES ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY

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5th June 2022, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine brought together friends and other esteemed guests for a special dinner to commemorate the hotel’s tenth anniversary.

It was a perfect moment to reflect on some of the highlights of their first decade in business.

RENOWNED HOSPITALITY

From the outset, the aim of Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine was to be able to invite guests to its striking enclave. Today, it is synonymous with unrivalled hospitality, authenticity and excellence in its treatment of guests and visitors, thanks to its butler service.

Amid an estate that spans 700 hectares, with a breathtaking 12th-century monastery, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine has become a must-visit for all those longing to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is ideal for those who wish to reconnect with nature, in a place where they can enjoy local and avant-garde cuisine, unwind in the Santuario Wellness&Spa, and revel in the estate’s exclusive, world-class wines.

This five-star hotel measures 8000 m2, and it has thirty luxurious bedrooms, three of which are suites. The rooms are all exquisitely decorated, and they overlook a rippling sea of vineyards, providing the tranquillity and privacy that guests need.

Since 2020, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine has been included in the exclusive list of Leading Hotels of the World.

IMPECCABLE, PRIZEWINNING GASTRONOMY

The cuisine offered by Abadía Retuerta is a true spectacle for the senses, and is sure to impress all those who visit. Its gastronomy has garnered numerous awards, most notably from the Michelin Guide and the Repsol Guide. The estate has four distinct eateries, each with a unique and surprising menu.

The estate’s flagship restaurant is Refectorio, which has held a Michelin Star since 2014, a Green Star since 2020, as well as two Repsol Suns. Under the guidance of head chef Marc Segarra, its menu is deeply rooted in the surrounding lands: Segarra uses locally sourced produce to capture the essence of the region and pay tribute to its people. He proudly showcases produce from over 50 local suppliers and 30 towns and villages, from all nine provinces of Castilla y León.

Vinoteca, Calicata Terroir Bar, Jardín del Claustro (the Cloister Garden) and Pool Bar (the latter two of which only open in summer) round off the resort’s offering for foodies. In all of them, the guiding philosophy is a focus on high-quality local and seasonal food.

AN ETHICAL, SUSTAINABLE ATMOSPHERE

All those who choose Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine can feel safe in the knowledge that they are supporting a business that believes in sustainability, that looks after the environment, makes use of natural resources in an ethical way, and seeks to boost the local economy. This haven of experiences was awarded Green Globe certification in late 2021, proving its credentials as one of the most sustainable resorts in the world. A mere 650 hotels have been granted this endorsement, only four of which are in Spain.

One of its key projects with regards to sustainability is the Monks’ Vegetable Garden. This allotment spans 1200 m2 and sits on the banks of the River Duero, exactly where the monks used to grow their own produce centuries ago. The crops are cultivated with traditional methods, under the philosophy of biodynamics. This garden has become the natural pantry for all of the hotel’s restaurants, providing them with superb seasonal produce. With this project, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine once again proves its commitment to the local, as well as respecting nature and its seasons.

A LONG TRADITION OF WINEMAKING

With over 30 years of history and a winemaking tradition dating back more than eight centuries, Abadía Retuerta finds its true essence and raison d’être in its single-plot Pago wine, which reflects all the personality and uniqueness of the local terroir. The abbey’s monks were the first to grow grapes and make wine on this site, right on the banks of the Duero, with its long tradition of winemaking. Today, the winery is perfectly integrated into the stunning surroundings, and Abadía Retuerta is one of the most renowned wine producers in the area.

The estate spans 700 hectares, and its vineyards are divided into distinct plots or “pagos”: there is the Pago Negralada (100% Tempranillo); Pago Valdebellón (100% Cabernet Sauvingnon); Pago Garduña (100% Syrah) and Petit Verdot (100% Petit Verdot).

Abadía Retuerta is one of the most innovative and technologically advanced wineries in Europe. Designed by French wine expert Pascal Delbeck, its current consultant, and aided by the viticulturist and wine expert Ángel Anocíbar, it was one of the first facilities in Spain to move wine using gravity alone. Its system for lifting tanks with cranes, as well as its own patented system for transferring wine, are particularly noteworthy.

The estate’s unique wines have won numerous prizes and awards. For instance, Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial 2001 won the prize for Best Red Wine in the World – Red Wine Trophy, at the 2005 International Wine Challenge in London (Wine Magazine, UK).

UNWIND AT SANTUARIO WELLNESS & SPA

A true oasis, right at the heart of nature. Santuario Wellness & Spa was opened in 2015, as a haven of wellbeing. It is built into an underground space where the abbey’s stables used to be, while several openings ensure 80% natural light, making a warm and cosy environment. It measures over 1000 m2, and its water is extracted from a well at a depth of 120 metres, before being decalcified and, after undergoing reverse osmosis, stored in a 120,000-litre tank, thereby providing a quality of drinking water similar to natural mineral water.

Santuario Wellness & Spa strives to innovate: it has its own Spa Sommelier, who designs a tailor-made experience that matches guests’ physical and emotional needs and expectations. The philosophy is based on traditional Tibetan medicine and its key elements, namely wind, fire, earth and air.

One of the exclusive holistic experiences, as offered by Santuario LeDomaine Wellness & Spa since 2020, is the session with Tibetan Singing Bowls, as part of the Balancing Ritual VibraHealing®. This rounded experience focuses on relaxation and reaching a state of balance in both body and mind.

A TASTE FOR ART

Fine art is important to Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine. The estate has its own open-air museum, by the German sculptor Ulrich Rückriem, as well as a private collection with over 170 works. These pieces range from the 12th to the 21st century, by artists including Palma il Giovane, Guardi, Panini, Joan Miró and Rückriem. There are also French tapestries, antique Spanish furniture, paintings, sculptures, reliefs and rugs. One of the latest additions to the collection is ‘Rumor de Límites V’ (1959) by Eduardo Chillida, a unique piece sculpted in steel, which is currently on loan to the Museo San Telmo in San Sebastián. In its place, guests can contemplate ‘Lotura’ in the Jardín de Hospedería, also by Chillida. Furthermore, in 2021, a new artists’ residency project was launched, in which national and international artists are invited to live and work at the resort. The first guest artist was Abderrahim Yamou (Casablanca, 1959).

The ancient Abbey of Santa María de Retuerta has become much more than a hotel and winery. It is a project that strives to uphold and enhance a legacy that goes back over nine centuries, with a sense of responsibility and generosity. This commitment to sharing the estate’s heritage with today’s generations, and ensuring that it lives on into the future, is the reason why Abadía Retuerta seeks to add ever more value to its own history. This is done by fostering creativity right now, in the 21st century, and this can be seen in its gastronomy, winemaking and genuine engagement with art. A year ago, a new art project was launched with the aim of getting more out of the existing collection, and further expanding it. A fundamental aspect of this project is to collaborate with other cultural agents, understanding culture here as a vital social driving force that can lead to brighter futures.

AWARDS

Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine has received multiple accolades in the field of luxury and sustainable experiences. The most recent one is the Green Globe certification, which endorses this resort as one of the most sustainable in the world, thanks to the environmentally-friendly policies brought in over the years. Abadía Retuerta also featured in Travellers’ Choice 2021, by Trip Advisor, based on the exceptional reviews and opinions submitted to the travel platform over the past year. With this honour, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is deemed to be one of the best hotels in the world.

The hotel also won the 2021 “Best Wine Tourism Experience” from the International Wine Challenge, as well as the LHW Membership Award 2021 as “Best Hotel for Remarkable Experiences”, according to Leading Hotels of The World, the exclusive list of over 400 luxury destinations in 80 countries. Other awards include the Trip Advisor certificate of excellence, granted for the fifth year running; the Best Wine Tourism Management Award, presented at the 12th Edition of the Wine Markets and Distribution Business Awards in 2018; and the 2018 CN Traveler Award in the category of Best Hotel for Getaways in Spain. In 2019, the CN Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards voted Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine as Best Hotel #2 in Spain and Portugal. It was also chosen, in 2019, as the Best Luxury Hotel in Spain by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards.

The New York Times commended Abadía Retuerta as a must-visit destination, naming it one of its 52 places to go in 2018. Furthermore, TripAdvisor users chose it as the Best Hotel in Spain, 2018. In 2017, it was named Hideaway of the Year in the distinguished annual Andrew Harper awards and Best Hotel in Spain and Portugal at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. Tatler Travel Guide selected it as one of the 101 best hotels in the world, and The Telegraph 50 as one of the best hotels in Spain for spring and summer.

Another noteworthy recognition was the Equality between Women and Men in the Workplace award by Óptima Castilla y León. Similarly, the Valladolid Provincial Council granted Abadía Retuerta the Equality between Women and Men in the Workplace, business category award.

In late 2019, the Spanish Wine Federation (FEV) awarded Abadía Retuerta the certification of Wineries for Climate Protection (WfCP), which has since been renewed in 2020. This recognises Abadía Retuerta’s commitment to sustainable development and the environment, with only 31 wineries having been awarded this certification in Spain.

ABOUT ABADÍA RETUERTA

Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is located less than a two-hours’ drive from the Spanish capital, Madrid, in the heart of the Duero Valley, on the outskirts of Sardón de Duero (Valladolid). It is home to a 5-star hotel and a world-class winery, set in the grounds of a 12th-century monastery originally founded by the Premonstratensian Order in Spain. The estate spans 700 hectares (including 200 hectares of vineyards), while the hotel itself is 8000 m2, with 30 exclusive rooms (27 double rooms and three suites), eight of which are located in the old stables. It also offers a full butler service.

The resort offers a wide range of experiences, related to wine, gastronomy, nature, art and wellbeing. Its flagship restaurant, Refectorio, holds a Michelin Star, a Green Star and two Repsol Suns, and the estate now also has Green Globe certification, proving its credentials as one of the most sustainable resorts in the world. Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is the ideal destination for unwinding in the name of wellness, or where business and pleasure can come together. The estate’s winery is one of the most innovative in Europe, and its wine has won international accolades, even being featured in Wine Spectator’s list of the “100 Best Wines in the World”.

Wine Country Resorts to Visit This Summer

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ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. – When planning summer vacation time, travelers from far and near seeking natural beauty, exquisite food and wine experiences, unique-to-the-location adventures and attractions and luxurious getaway amenities and hospitality should consider one or more of these wine country resorts – all with special programming and easy access to the country’s finest wineries.

Silverado Resort and Spa – Napa Valley

Tucked into the rolling hills of legendary Napa Valley, Silverado Resort and Spa offers wine aficionados proximity to over 400 wineries, and the resort’s Best of the Valley wine tastings on Saturdays feature sommelier-led tastings of selections from highly respected local wineries. Outdoor activity enthusiasts will love the two championship golf courses, 10 tennis courts, bike and hiking trails and three swimming pools at the resort. Other customized features for Wellness guests to enjoy are the spa’s 30 fitness classes offered weekly and over 30 spa treatments available.

New This Summer: Daily yoga classes in the historic, tranquil Mansion Garden

Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa – Texas Hill Country

Located along 290 Wine Road between Johnson City and Fredericksburg in rugged, naturally beautiful Texas Hill Country, Carter Creek is the only winery resort in this wine country –which is home to over 50 wineries – that also houses a brewery, producing seasonal craft beers that beer lovers will want to savor. The winery’s award-winning wines include blended Plateau Red and white blended Gloriosa, and for music lovers, there’s live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night. Vacationers will want to be outdoors for all the nearby recreational offerings: hiking, biking, bird watching, kayaking, boating, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, caving and more.

New This Summer: Full-service Spa opening with five treatment rooms featuring organic ingredients

Carter Estate Winery and Resort – Temecula Valley

The resort is situated on 109 pristine acres, near more than 40 other esteemed Temecula wineries and many visitor attractions, including Harveston Lake Park for walking, jogging and summer boating, and the location is known for hot air ballooning adventures and horse-drawn carriage rides through the vineyards. Wine lovers appreciate that Carter Estate has a roster of award-winning wines and is especially known for its delicious méthode champenoise sparklings. For comfort and pampering, there are 60 luxurious villas with private patios steps away from the winery vineyards.

New This Summer: Exclusive Méthode Champenoise Tasting Experience in collaboration with Grazing Theory Cheese, available on Saturdays and Sundays

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa – Temecula Valley

Beautifully situated on 63 lush acres of rolling vineyards, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and is the only full-service resort and spa in the valley. For oenophiles and new wine appreciators, this multi-award-winning winery has been distinguished as a four-time winner of California Winery of the Year and offers over 45 wines to taste. Gourmet dining attracts food lovers to The Vineyard Rose Restaurant with appealing summer al fresco dining on the landscaped patio. For vacation pampering, GrapeSeed Spa touts 22 treatment rooms with patios with fountains and features a yoga studio.

Happening This Summer: Rhythm on the Vine® Concert Series featuring jazz, pop and country performers

Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach – Central Coast

An idyllic beachfront boutique resort along the Pacific with near proximity to Central Coast’s famed wine regions of Arroyo Grande, Edna Valley, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo and Cambria, this noted region for wine lovers includes more than 250 wineries. Vespera Resort hosts regular wine dinners with outstanding wine partner participation. After a day of wine tasting, guests can enjoy Vespera Resort’s beachfront location and, at night, its Stargazing Program with in-room collapsible telescopes to take outside to the Starlight Lawn. Special attraction for dog owners is the Pismo Pub Club that welcomes best furry friends to the resort with all kinds of amenities.

New This Summer: Tacos & Beer Menu offered along with live entertainment on Starlight Lawn on Saturday afternoons overlooking the Pacific

The Argentina Wine Oasis: The Piattelli Wine Resort Opens in Cafayate, Salta

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CAFAYATE, ARGENTINA (PRWEB) – Northern Argentina’s newest luxury wine resort is now open. Piattelli Wine Resort has the finest views of the Calchaqui Valley. Located in Cafayate Salta, it features world-class accommodations, relaxing pools and spas, and is paired with Piattelli’s highly rated dining experiences.

  • Piattelli Wine Resort open in April 2022
  • Concierge experiences, including guided adventure tours
  • First-class Piattelli spa
  • Multiple onsite dining experiences
  • Luxury casitas with private rooftop patios

Piattelli, a leading producer of award-winning wines from Argentina, announced the completion of their world-class wine resort in Cafayate Argentina. The Piattelli Wine Resort offers guests a piece of paradise. The Casitas provide the ultimate luxury with fireplaces, private rooftop patios and appointed with the finest furnishings from skilled Argentina craftsmen.

After an active day of hiking, horseback riding or many other guided tours options, you can relax and experience a peaceful visit in the Piattelli Spa. Enjoy dining in any of three on-sites restaurants, each producing critically acclaimed and exquisitely prepared dishes including asados, seafoods and other Argentina local cuisine.

It took over 150 Argentinean craftsmen three years to complete this amazing wine resort. The resort is perfectly positioned to overlook the beautiful Calchaqui Valley in Cafayate, Salta. Each individual casita is nestled in the mature vineyards, with unobstructed views to the mountains, sunrises, and sunsets. The club house has three restaurants, a spa, and two swimming pools. This masterpiece was constructed to complement the adjacent Piattelli winery, restaurant and hospitality center completed in 2013.

Founder Jon Malinski says, “This project will offer adventurous couples a shelter to relax, reflect, reconnect, and of course enjoy great wines. We want your travels to Argentina to be memorable and your visit to the Piattelli Wine Resort be unforgettable.”

Piattelli produces award winning wines from the best wine regions of Argentina, with wineries in Cafayate, Salta (elev. 5,740 feet), Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza (elev. 3,300 feet), and our newest in Animana, Salta (elev. 5,810 feet). In 2021 Piattelli constructed their latest Animana winery on 200 hectares of vineyards planted in special calcareous soils, featuring ultra-premium Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. In July 2022, we will begin a second facility in Animana, which will be completed prior to the 2023 harvest. For more information go to our website http://www.piattelliwineresort.com