Perlis and Haig Pick: South Bay Beer & Wine Festival

July 1, 2017 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

Recently, thanks mainly to the efforts of my sister-in-law Elizabeth (Liz) Haig, we attended the 4^th Annual South Bay Beer & Wine Festival. Our spouses Karen and Brian tagged along.

Since Liz went to all this trouble. I’d like to share her thoughts on the event and introduce you all to the person who has really been like my sister for about half [geez!] of my life.

Here’s Liz…

The South Bay Beer and Wine Festival in Rolling Hills Estates is a fundraiser for the El Segundo, Palos Verdes Peninsula and South Bay Sunrise Rotary clubs who volunteer and contribute to many worthwhile charities in our community.

It was a sold out event with nearly 1,300 guests. There were about 30 breweries and almost 20 wineries scheduled to pour and many local restaurants and other vendors serving up great food. I enjoyed several tastings that I thought I’d comment on a few that I really liked. I couldn’t get to all of them.

Kinship Winery in Paso Robles had a very nice Pinot Noir, it was light and refreshing and not too sweet. The Chardonnay was mild and had a fruity after taste. A portion of their proceeds goes towards helping children in Guatemala.

I tasted a flavored cognac, vodka and fruit juice blend called Mascarade with club soda and a mint leaf. It was very good and reminded me of a Mai Tai. And I really like Mai Tais.

Common Cider Company had several interesting flavors and their drinks were about 8% alcohol. We tried the Hibiscus Saison and Blackberry Sangria. Hibiscus Saison tasted like a mild cranberry drink without the tartness. The Blackberry Sangria was fruity and smooth.

Tito’s Vodka was serving up cool, refreshing cocktails and since it was extremely hot, it helped cool things down.

As for the beers, there were so many to choose from with a wide variety to sample. Absolution, Arts District, Knee Deep, RIPP Beer, Ironfire, Mother Earth Breweries and Scholb Premium Ales had some interesting new beers.

Red Car Brewery, Rock & Brews and Truxton’s had delicious sliders. Wa Dining, Pei Wei Asian, Silvio’s Brazilian BBQ, Tamiza’s Treats and Luna Grill had very tasting offers and it was nice to have a variety of different food choices.

Live music from the band, Detour, who played pop rock classics made us feel like dancing and really added to the atmosphere. I would definitely go again next year!

Thanks Liz.

I have a few more things to add.

On the day of the event [May 21^st] we were experiencing unseasonably warm weather, which made it a perfect day to get out of the Santa Clarita Valley and head down to the South Bay. It was somewhat warm down there too [although not like here] so it was a perfect day to focus on beer, which is what I did.

I had no idea there was such a craft beer movement going on in the South Bay. That area was well represented as well as other parts of LA and beyond.

Here were some of my favorites…

Arts District Brewing Company

Avery Brewing

Brouwerij West

Eagle Rock Brewery

House Beer

Iron Triangle

Phantom Carriage

Smog City Brewing Company

Three Weavers Brewing Company

Iron Triangle’s Dark Ale got my nod a second time [see my Masters of Taste article] for my favorite beer.

Also, Phantom Carriage gave me a good education on the purposeful use of brettanomyces in beer, which is usually a no-no for wine. They are definitely worth a trip to Carson to check out.

All in all, a nice way to spend a warm day out of the SCV.

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also Vice President of Eve Bushman Consulting (fka Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting) http://evebushmanconsulting.com/ and President of MCP Financial. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or michael@evebushmanconsulting.com.

Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza Unites the Best in Craft Beer and Legendary Blues

May 24, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Mammoth Lakes, CA (PRWEB) – The 22nd Annual Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza in Mammoth Lakes, California is gearing up for its High Sierra summer party with four days of music and two days of craft beer tasting. It’s Mammoth’s strongest rockin’ blues lineup yet, August 3rd-6th, outdoors among the pines at The Woodsite.

More than 20 internationally known bands will perform on two stages. On the Bluesapalooza Main stage, the Beyond Blues Thursday Night (5:15pm-10:00pm) kicks off with Robert Randolph and The Family Band with special guests Flow Tribe and Dreddie Poppins and The Professionals. Friday Night Rock ‘N Blues (3:00pm-10:00pm) features headlining performances from Mavis Staples, Valerie June, Eric Sardinas & Big Motor, Jason Ricci & The Bad Kind, and Saturday’s Bluesapalooza (11:30am-9:30pm) features Walter Trout, Sonny Landreth, Malina Moye, Samantha Fish, Dirty Revival, and Anthony Gomes. Festivalgoers can unwind, kick back and relax on Soulful Sunday (11:00am-5:30pm) with Vintage Trouble, Janiva Magness, Cedric Burnside Project, and Griff Hamlin & The Circle City Horns. On the Minaret Stage, RJ Mischo & Paris Slim, Brother Yusef, The Bald Eagles and additional special guests will have scheduled performances throughout the weekend.

“At 8,000 feet, we’re the highest elevation beer and music festival on the West Coast,” says Sean Turner of Mammoth Brewing Company, host brewery of the event. “And it takes place under the pines in one of the most beautiful venues in the West! It’s a great place to come find your new favorite band and your new favorite beer and meet some of the brewers.”

And when it comes to craft beer, attendees have a mammoth supply to choose from and taste. The Mammoth Festival of Beers features two days of beer tasting, both Saturday (12pm-5:00pm) and Sunday (12pm-4:00pm), showcasing more than 90 breweries pouring over 200 craft beers, such as Mammoth Brewing Company, Bear Republic, Figueroa Mountain Brewing, Firestone Walker, Green Flash, Hangar 24, Russian River Brewing, Santa Cruz Mountain, San Diego, Sierra Nevada, Stone, and many more. And for the progressive taster, this year’s new-dedicated Barrel-Aged Sour Beer Bar will serve specialty beers all four days of the festival. The event benefits the California Craft Brewers Association, The Infinite Music Foundation and many local nonprofit organizations. Along with the beer and blues, plenty of tasty food from some of Mammoth’s best restaurants will be served in the Blues Food Court satisfying the heartiest of appetites. The popular Cigar Bar returns. And for those that prefer grapes over hops, returning winery J. Lohr will offer their signature wines.

Multi-day tickets are the festival’s best buy and very important ticket holders, aka VIP ticket holders, receive early festival entry each day; special VIP bar lines with complimentary Sour Bar Beer tastings; a Lair of the Bear lounge access with special amenities; VIP porta-potties, and more.

Advance tickets are on sale now and this year’s event is again expected to sell out. Tickets are available online at http://www.vallitix.com or http://www.MammothBluesBrewsFest.com or phone at 888-825-5484; and locally at the Mammoth Brewing Company Tasting Room. For festival updates and additional information, visit the event’s responsive website, http://www.MammothBluesBrewsFest.com which features music videos; links to bands, breweries and ticketing; a photo gallery; email signup; live social media updates; FAQ section; an informative blog on festival happenings; and more. According to the event producers, this is the best place to obtain up-to-the-minute information about the festival. Or, contact the event hotline, 888-99-BREWS (992-7397).

The event venue, The Woodsite, is located at 5701 Minaret Road between Main Street and Meridian Boulevard. Mammoth Lakes is a mountain resort located near Yosemite National Park in the Eastern High Sierra off Highway 395, offering world-class golf courses, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and resort facilities. For additional information about camping or local accommodations, call 800-GO MAMMOTH or visit http://www.visitmammoth.com or http://www.mammothbluesbrewsfest.com/lodging.

South Bay Beer & Wine Festival

May 11, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

South Bay Beer & Wine Festival

May 21^st 2017 at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates

1 PM to 5 PM

VIP – 12 NOON to 5 PM

The South Bay Beer & Wine Festival invites you to enjoy the wares of approximately 70 Craft Beer, Wine & Restaurant exhibitors this May. The best of Southern California’s regional breweries, wineries and restaurants are featured, yet the Festival in its fourth year is a mecca for craft brewers from throughout the west. Tasting of all beer, wine and food is unlimited, and each festival attendee receives a great souvenir glass to take home.

The VIP upgrade adds tastings of assorted spirits, preferred parking, and entry to the Festival one hour before general admission. We applaud the generosity of all our exhibitors who energetically participate each year to raise money for our charitable beneficiaries. Treat your palate and have a blast with your friends this Spring on the beautiful Palos Verdes Peninsula.

All proceeds fund the community outreach programs of Rotary Clubs within the South Bay and Harbor cities of Los Angeles. It’s a Springtime event that can’t be missed.

Tickets Prices

Tickets for the South Bay Beer & Wine Festival includes unlimited tasting of craft beers, fine wines, delicious food, live music, and silent auction.

General Admission $75.00 online; Day of the event, if any are still available, $75.00 at the gate.
Your Ticket includes:

Festival Access from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Souvenir Tasting Glass
Unlimited Tastings of Craft Beer, Fine Wines, and Foods from ~70 Great Exhibitors
Live Music
Art Exhibition
Free Parking

Unlike many festivals, your ticket price provides an “all-inclusive” experience. No hidden costs (like food trucks or parking). It’s a great value!

VIP Upgrade $30; Limited; advanced online purchase only. Day of the event: Not available.

Access to VIP Tent with seating and shade for relaxing
Premium distilled spirits tastings
Preferred parking next to event field
Early entry to event. Access at 12 noon — 1 hour before General Admission
To be used with a General Admission ticket

Fine Print: You must be at least 21 years old to enter the Festival. No smoking in the Festival. And, please, no pets.

Sunset Announces Sunset Celebration Weekend

April 24, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Oakland and Sonoma, CA (PRWEB) – Tickets are now on sale for the 19th annual Sunset Celebration Weekend, May 20 and 21, 2017, at Cornerstone Sonoma, Sunset’s wine country location. Sunset fans join editors, celebrity chefs, vintners, craft beer brewers and renowned lifestyle experts for this two-day series of culinary, wine, garden and lifestyle experiences. To purchase tickets and find more information, go to http://www.sunset.com/cw.

Airstream from the 2016 event.

For the second year, Time Inc.’s Sunset, the leading lifestyle brand in the West, will host Celebration Weekend at Cornerstone, a marketplace with food, wine and spirits, shops, gardens and event spaces that serves as Sunset’s beautiful wine country location year-round.

Featured Exhibits, Seminars and Experiences

Sunset “Smart Cottage”
Feeling outsmarted by smart home technology? The Sunset “Smart Cottage” at Celebration Weekend will prove that a high-tech home can be both attainable and beautiful. Sunset has partnered with leaders in smart technology and design, including Mosaic, Decorist, California Closets and Thumbtack, to reimagine a classic 900-square-foot cottage on the Cornerstone property into a permanent showcase for function, technology and style. From Nest and Amazon Echo to the August Smart Lock and Phillips Hue lightbulbs, Sunset editors are curating the most powerful technology to up your home’s IQ.

Visit the “Smart Trailer,” a special-edition Tommy Bahama Airstream parked adjacent to the Smart Cottage, and discover a world of portable and easy-to-install smart devices that run on batteries but pack a big tech punch.

Can’t visit the Smart Cottage in person? No problem. Visit Sunset.com to view a preview of the “Smart Cottage.” The “Smart Cottage” will also be featured in the September issue of Sunset magazine, accompanied by an immersive 3D experience, using a Matterport Pro Camera, providing a view of the Smart Cottage from every angle on Sunset.com.

Camp Sunset
This year, Sunset is creating the ultimate glamping experience at “Camp Sunset.” Under three white canvas teepees, courtesy of Under Canvas, attendees can enjoy summer camp-style activities, a photo booth and gourmet s’mores while learning about the latest products essential for any glamping trip. Want more inspiration for cooking under the stars? Head over to the Live Fire cooking stage to check out the chefs from “Dirty Gourmet,” which was founded to rethink food in the outdoors.

From the Pacific Northwest to SoCal, the West’s Best Chefs Headline Two Days of Cooking Demos on Two Stages: The Sunset Outdoor Kitchen and the Live Fire cooking stage

Los Angeles
Alvin Cailan—Chef/Owner, Eggslut, Amboy and Unit 120

Portland
Tyler Malek—Head Ice Cream Maker, Salt & Straw (PDX, LA, SF), Wiz Bang Bar
Gabriel Rucker—Chef/Co-owner, Le Pigeon and Little Bird Bistro
Matthew Domingo—Culinary Director, Traeger Pellet Grills

Northern California
Ryan Scott—Chef/Proprietor, Finn Town; host, nationally syndicated “The Ryan Scott Show”; author ONE TO FIVE: One Shortcut Recipe Transformed into Five Easy Dishes (Oxmoor House/Time Books) (San Francisco)
Chris Cosentino—Chef, Cockscomb (San Francisco)
Perry Hoffman—SHED, Culinary Director (Healdsburg)
Douglas Keane—Healdsburg Bar and Grill; Two Birds, One Stone (Healdsburg, St. Helena)
Ari Weisswasser—Chef, Glen Ellen Star (Glen Ellen, Sonoma County)
Robert Masullo—Chef/Owner, Masullo’s (Sacramento)
Michelle Tam—Nom Nom Paleo (San Francisco)
Samin Nosrat—Author, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: The Four Elements of Good Cooking (Simon & Schuster) (San Francisco)

Wine Seminars
Join Sunset Wine Editor Sara Schneider and some of the West’s most revered winemakers and spirits experts for educational sessions that range from “Wine List Secrets from the Sommeliers” to “Zinfandel: Back to the Future with California’s Wine”.

Cost per seminar: $20 per person. Wine seminars have limited seating and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Purchase advance tickets while supplies last at http://www.sunset.com/cw. Tastings are included in the cost of each seminar. Must be 21+ years old to attend.

Tour the Sunset Test Garden
Designed by Homestead Design Collective, the Sunset Test Garden is divided into distinct garden “rooms,” including the Cocktail Garden, the Farm, the Backyard Orchard, the Flower Room and The Gathering Space, the outdoor living room of Sunset’s dreams.

Celebration Weekend 2017 Event Information:
A complete schedule of presenters and events, event information and online tickets are available at http://www.sunset.com/cw.

Stay up to date on Sunset Celebration Weekend 2017 by liking Sunset on Facebook and following Sunset on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest, #sunsetcw.

Sunset Celebration Weekend sponsors include Belgard, Delta Faucets, Toyota Mirai, Sunbrella, and Pure Leaf.

***Event activities, participants and schedules are subject to change.

###

ABOUT SUNSET
Time Inc.’s Sunset (http://www.sunset.com) is the leading lifestyle brand in the West. Through magazines and books, events and experiences and digital and social media, Sunset covers the West’s best flavors, destinations, design trends and innovations. Sunset engages and inspires an audience of over 5 million educated, active and affluent consumers every month through its five regional print editions—Pacific Northwest, Northern California, Southern California, Southwest and Mountain—as well as via all tablet devices and its website. In addition to its print and digital publications, Sunset showcases the region’s unique lifestyle and noteworthy destinations through its flagship events, established home programs, licensing partnerships, books and International Wine Competition.

Perlis Picks: The Blaq Square

April 15, 2017 by Michael Perlis 2 Comments

So is it worse to be forgetful or ignorant?

When I knew I was going to be meeting with Brad Slaughter, General Manager and part owner of The Blaq Square, the first question I wanted to ask him was the origin of the name of the restaurant.

[The second question was going to be if he was related to pro wrestler Sgt. Slaughter, but that would have been just silly, right?]

But, I forgot to ask. So, I emailed Brad right after our interview asking him to explain the name, and he immediately responded:

Photo from Facebook

“The name is inspired by the famous painting called “The Black Square” by Kazimir Malevich. It’s very unique, eclectic, rustic and inspires thought. That’s exactly what we wanted for our restaurant. The spelling Blaq is to give a chic name to match our brand and creativity.”

Well, dear reader, I hope you are a little better versed in art than I am. In retrospect, yes, I had heard of the painting [I’m gonna stick with that], but that’s about it. Some internet research led to some fascinating stuff, but I will leave that to you to do on your own. This article is supposed to be about The Blaq Square restaurant.

But, the name does make sense in the context in which Brad explained it. The restaurant, Brad said, is a fusion gastropub, but the fusion is not of cuisines, but “of preferences.” While the menu is 50% vegan, and there are many gluten-free choices, there are also lots of items that would satisfy a carnivore such as myself.

When Karen and I ate there the first time, I ordered The Sober Irishman sandwich, described as Corned Beef, Beer Mustard, Whiskey Onions, Red Cabbage and Carrot Pepper Slaw on a Brioche Bun. While these days I am trying to really only eat half portions, gosh darn if I couldn’t help myself with this sandwich. So good.

The selection of burgers and other items look just as enticing. [Speaking of burgers, Brad heavily suggests trying a burger made from Beyond Meat plant protein. While I admit the idea initially held little appeal, Brad’s description makes me want to give it a shot.] The rest of the menu is a selection of small bites and sandwiches, in keeping with the gastropub motif, along with several different pizzas made in the pizza oven that the predecessor occupant of the premises left behind.

The availability of the pizza oven was a major influence on Brad and his partners’ [including Owner/Partner/Executive Chef Nate Malonson] ability to effect the transition from the previous tenant to The Blaq Square in what has to be record time. Even then, getting things ready in only three weeks for their opening on December 8^th last year seems pretty amazing, given all the work that was done to the interior of the restaurant. Brad said that they have really focused on a philosophy of doing things to “provoke thought” and “increase creativity”. This attitude shows not only with the interior of The Blaq Square and the food items but also carries over into the drink selection, both alcohol and non. Having high quality choices, sourced organic and locally whenever possible [they even grow they own herbs] and with input from what customers are asking for, with an assortment of shakes, juices and teas, along with lots of craft beers, many of them local. And the wines…local favorites including Pulchella and Reyes highlight the list, along with some standouts from Paso Robles and beyond are sure to appeal to a wide range of wine lovers.

Brad says the community has really embraced The Blaq Square, which is great to hear. Online comments bear this out. It’s good to see a place like this in the Santa Clarita Valley, to join the small but growing group of independently owned restaurants – definitely worth checking out.

The Blaq Square

23460 Cinema Dr Suite A

Valencia, CA 91355

Blues, Brews and BBQ to Kick Off Summer at BBQ & Beer Festival May 5-7

April 9, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

3-day festival kicks off the Southern California summer season by celebrating the best of BBQ and craft beer

(Santa Clarita, CA) – Celebrate the most refreshing craft beers and mouthwatering BBQ in the state at the BBQ & Beer Festival, California Beer Festival’s 2^nd annual end-of-spring celebration in Santa Clarita on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 5-7. This three-day event features the very best in BBQ and beer, served alongside some groovy beats from live, celebrated bands and musicians.

Friday evening at the BBQ & Beer Festival is a celebration of craft beer, bringing in a fresh wave of brews on tap and offering attendees the ultimate craft beer experience. With a multitude of microbreweries pouring over 50 different handcrafted beers and ciders on tap, beer enthusiasts are invited to discover new favorites and to enjoy established and well-loved choices.

Participating breweries include some California favorites such as House Beer, Santa Maria Brewing Company, MadeWest, Rincon Brewery, Poseidon Brewing Co., The Dudes Brewing Co., St. Killian Importing, The Bloody Cure, Angel City Brewery, Golden Road Brewing, Goose Island Beer Co., Sierra Nevada, Stella Artois, Wolf Creek Brewing, Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits, Pocock Brewing Co., Lagunitas Brewing Company, Island Brewing Company, Elysian Brewing, Coronado Brewing Co., Firestone Walker and more. Friday attendees must be at least 21 years of age to enter the festival, and will receive an exclusive souvenir tasting cup for sampling with entry.

Saturday at the BBQ & Beer Festival is a family friendly BBQ extravaganza, designed with chowing down on the best hot, delicious BBQ and BBQ sauces from around the state in mind – and, of course, refreshing craft beer pairings for interested adults. A perfect family outing, Saturday’s event will feature live entertainment and a fun Kid Zone to keep everyone in the family entertained to their hearts content. Saturday’s BBQ participants include Black Sugar Rib Company, Carter’s Smoked BBQ, BBQ Smokehouse, Cowboy John’s Smoken BBQ and It’s in the Sauce BBQ, among others to be announced. (Note: there is no craft beer sampling on Saturday.)

New this year, the BBQ & Beer Festival has added a 3^rd day of festivities. Sunday’s Blues, Brew & BBQ Festival will feature live bands including renowned blues band Tommy Castro & the Painkillers alongside its delicious and expansive BBQ and craft beer fare. (Note: there is no craft beer sampling on Sunday.)

Tickets are available for purchase online now. Tickets will also be sold at the door. Friday beer festival tickets range from $20 to $40 and BBQ Festival/Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival tickets are $10 (entry must be purchased per person for each day), with free entry for children 12 and under. Both days will feature a variety of live music and entertainment. Individuals must be 21 years of age or older with a valid ID to enter the Beer Festival on Friday and to consume alcohol for the duration of the festival. For more information, please visit www.BBQandBeerFestival.com.

About California Beer Festival
Since 2009, California Beer Festival has been hosting a variety of California’s favorite food and brew events. Though events such as California Beer Festival in Ventura, Marin, Santa Cruz and San Dimas, the Tequila and Taco Festival in San Diego, Santa Cruz and Ventura, the Winter Wine Walk in Ventura and Burbank, the Burbank Beer Festival, the BBQ & Beer Festival and the Champagne on Main Wine Walk & Spring Street fair, California Beer Festival shines a light on the craft beer movement and gets people together to celebrate and enjoy the best in craft brewing. California Beer Festival offers a chance for guests to expand their minds and educate themselves on new and old styles of craft beer. Individuals must be 21 years of age or older with a valid ID to sample beer.

L.A. Weekly Announces The Return of Burgers and Beer

April 5, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

L.A. Weekly is excited to announce the return of their signature event, Burgers & Beer, to their 2017 food festival calendar! Taking place on Saturday, April 29th, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in DTLA, this event is a slider and craft beer lovers dream!

Curated by L.A. Weekly’s editorial staff, this event will feature Los Angeles’ best burger restaurants serving their signature sliders and California’s best craft breweries sampling the brews that have made them famous!

As of press time, the following restaurants have confirmed attendance at this year’s event: Baldoria, Belcampo Meat Co., Burger City Grill, Button Mash, byCHLOE, Grill ‘Em All, Hinoki and the Bird, Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Mascarpone Cheesecake by Chef Turok, Myke’s Café, Simmzy’s, Slater’s 50/50, The Pikey, The Upper West, Venice Whaler and WOLF with more to be confirmed.

As of press time, the following breweries have confirmed attendance at this year’s event: 101 Cider House, Absolution Brewing Company, Angel City Brewery, Arts District Brewing Company, Baja Brewing Company, Beachwood BBQ & Brewing, Boomtown Brewery, Brewyard Beer Company, Claremont Craft Ales, Coronado Brewing Company, Dry River Brewing, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company, Fireman’s Brew, Inc., Golden Road Brewing, High Water Brewing Company, Homage Brewing, Indie Brewing Company, Iron Triangle Brewing, Kona Brewing Co., Ladyface Ale Companie, Lagunitas Brewing Co., MacLeod Ale Brewing Co., Noble Ale Works, Pizza Port Brewing Co., Scholb Premium Ales, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Simmzy’s, St. Killian Importing, Strand Brewing Co., The Bruery, The Dudes’ Brewing Co., The Lost Abbey, Transplants Brewing Company and Wolf Creek Brewery with more to be confirmed.

Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1429993

A portion of this year’s event proceeds will benefit Food Forward. Food Forward rescues fresh local produce that would otherwise go to waste, connecting this abundance with people in need, and inspiring others to do the same.

General Admission tickets will be available starting at $50 and include entry into the event, unlimited food samples from 20+ restaurants, craft beer samples from 40+ breweries, access to entertainment and vendor village. A limited number of VIP admission tickets will be available starting at $70. VIP Admission tickets include all general admission perks plus hour early entry into the event and a VIP gift bag.

Follow L.A. Weekly on Facebook facebook.com/LAWeekly, Twitter @laweeklystreet, Instagram @laweekly and foursquare for updates as they unfold.

Don’t miss out on L.A. Weekly’s third annual Burgers & Beer celebration!

About L.A. Weekly:

L.A. Weekly, and more recently laweekly.com, has Los Angeles covered, with investigative reporting, comprehensive calendar listings and forward-thinking cultural coverage, including daily blogs like the highly regarded Squid Ink, which covers the city’s food scene. We keep our readers loyal with stories by some of the country’s finest writers—now accessible through our mobile platforms. L.A. Weekly has won more awards from the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies than any other paper in the country, and in 2007 was the first newspaper to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize for its food criticism.

Tickets Now on Sale for Florida’s South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival

February 2, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Tickets are on sale now for South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, taking place April 27 – April 30, 2017, with another prestigious lineup of celebrity winemaker appearances. Among the headliners are renowned winemaker and CEO of Jackson Family Wines, Don Hartford, and Glenn C. Salva, longtime Napa winemaker with Antica Napa Valley. Salva also works with other Antinori and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates joint wine ventures in the Red Mountain region of Washington State, as well as the iconic Stag’s Leap Winery Cellars.

The festival weekend takes place in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, located within the beach communities of idyllic South Walton in Northwest Florida.

Tickets can be purchased at http://www.sowalwine.com.

“This festival celebrates diversity and we will have something for everyone,” said Chan Cox, festival founder and owner of Wine World. “The best wines, an amazing culinary village, celebrity winemakers and chefs, craft beer and spirits, not to mention many experts in their field will join us at a beautiful location in Grand Boulevard.”

The festival offers more than 800 wines, on-going wine tastings with dozens of celebrity winemakers on hand to talk about their wines, food tastings, tasting seminars, live entertainment and special features including Spirits Row and a Champagne Lane tasting.

“For those who appreciate a fine and fun wine experience, South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival and Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation join forces to create The Northwest Florida Beaches Ultimate Wine Week, a wine lover’s dream, the last weekend in April every year,” said Festival Executive Director, Stacey Brady.

Destin Charity Wine Auction takes place on Saturday during the festival with more than 500 patrons bidding on luxury travel packages, collectable wines and other fine living lots. Monies raised at the auction as well as proceeds from the festival go to support more than a dozen children’s charities in Northwest Florida.

Presented by Visit South Walton and Wine Enthusiast Media, the festival offers the ideal backdrop for a beach getaway. South Walton beaches are consistently named among the best beaches in the country.

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is made possible by the generous support of the following Founding Partners: Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, Visit South Walton Tourist Development Council, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Wine World of Northwest Florida and Grand Boulevard at Sandestin®. Resortquest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is the Official Lodging Partner.

About South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival
South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is an annual charity event held the last weekend of April. The festival features a stunning showcase of the best wines the world has to offer. Celebrity wine producers and chefs present fine wine and food pairings from the world’s most famous appellations. The Savor South Walton Culinary Village offers a sumptuous array of foods to taste, wines to pair, as well as wine and food tasting seminars and live entertainment. The event is a major fundraiser for Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, which benefits children in need in Northwest Florida. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.SoWalWine.com.

Temecula Valley Celebrates California Restaurant Month Jan. 2017

December 29, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

TEMECULA VALLEY, CA (PRWEB) – Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country will celebrate Temecula Valley Restaurant Month this coming January with “Temeculafied” specialty burgers made from local farm-fresh ingredients at restaurants in Old Town Temecula, Temecula Valley Wine Country, Pechanga Resort & Casino, Promenade Temecula, and throughout the destination. The month-long culinary event takes place at the start of the new year, from January 1 to January 31, 2017. For the event, local chefs have been invited to participate in a signature “Burgers” theme, a popular meal option for travelers.

Temecula Valley Restaurant Month is an extension of California Restaurant Month; Visit Temecula Valley and the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce have proudly participated in the statewide event for the past seven years.

Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is uniquely situated for premier culinary experiences from fine dining to gastro pubs to artisan farm-to-table quick-service restaurants to ethnic specialties. The agricultural surroundings of the region give restaurants convenient access to locally-sourced pork, beef, vegetables, citrus, apples, berries, cheese, olive oil, craft beer, wine – it’s a chef’s dream. Visitors are attracted to the fresh, real food found at Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country restaurants and this year’s focus on fresh and local mouthwatering hamburgers will be something every guest will want to sink their teeth into.

During Restaurant Month, visitors can immerse themselves in all things culinary throughout Temecula Valley, such as farmers’ markets, special chef events, Restaurant Month specialty burgers, and wine tours. Temecula Valley’s wealth of fresh, local ingredients, paired with innovative chefs, farmers and culinary artisans means visitors can enjoy cuisine as diverse and robust as the destination.

The month-long event will give visitors an excellent chance to explore all there is to see and do in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country. Weekday visits offer the best value to guests as visitors will receive exceptional hotel rates on overnight accommodations, personalized attention, and even conversations with local chefs, winemakers, and winery owners themselves.

Visitors can follow along with the culinary adventure on social media: #DineTemecula will feature updates throughout the month-long campaign. “Temecula Taste Bud,” the wildly popular video restaurant reviewer, will again be joining in the fun. Follow his tastebuds on YouTube or Facebook with #TemeculaTasteBud to get a sampling of the best Temecula Valley Restaurant Month has to offer.

To learn about all the participating restaurants, special events and activities, and Temecula Valley Restaurant Month’s specialty burgers, beers, and bites offered throughout January 2017, please visit RestaurantMonth.org.

About Visit Temecula Valley
With natural gifts of climate and geography Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is recognized for scenic vineyards, award-winning wines, and 40+ wineries. The popular, boutique destination includes the Temecula Valley A.V.A. (American Viticulture Area) as well as Historic Downtown Old Town Temecula, Pechanga Resort & Casino, and Temecula Wine Country Golf Trail.

Visit Temecula Valley is the region’s official tourism marketing organization and an online resource for visitors at VisitTemeculaValley.com. Temecula Valley Visitors Center is located in Old Town Temecula (Third Street and Mercedes). For visitor information and assistance, call (888) 363-2852 or (951) 491-6085.

GiveThemBeer.com introduces Santa’s Private Reserve Beer Briefcase

December 5, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The Gift of Beer Delivered in a Top Secret Briefcase

Pinellas Park, FL – Online beer gift basket retailer GiveThemBeer.com has launched their latest holiday collection featuring Santa’s Private Reserve Beer Briefcase. The James Bond inspired case includes 6 holiday craft beers expertly chosen based on their quality rating and popularity among beer enthusiasts around the U.S. A stainless steel bottle opener is also included to complete the gift. The contents are highlighted with a foil-printed hang tag offering the name of the product and an image of a very jolly Santa.

“We wanted to create a holiday-themed beer gift that builds excitement from the moment it is delivered. Imagine the intrigue of receiving a 007-esque briefcase and wondering what is in the case.” states Kym Toner, Co-Founder of the site. “This is truly a one-of-a-kind gift for someone who love craft beer. From the suspense of receiving the briefcase to relaxing with a craft beer that represents the flavors of the season, this is a gift that is sure to leave a lasting impression.”

The launch of the Santa’s Private Reserve Beer Briefcase has been much anticipated after a four-day sellout of the classic Business Casual Craft Beer Briefcase last holiday season. With holiday craft beers in limited supply, this product is expected to sell-out before the gift-giving season ends.

Other highlights of the holiday collection include: Best CASE Scenario – a case of top-rated craft beer delivered in a rustic wooden crate, The 12 Beers of Christmas and the Top-Rated Holiday Beer Gift Basket. The IPA Holiday and Santa’s Private Reserve Beer Gift Basket are also making a return to the holiday collection this season.

Santa’s Private Reserve Beer Briefcase can be purchased online at https://www.givethembeer.com/products/santas-private-reserve-craft-beer-briefcase

About Give Them Beer – In February, 2014, entrepreneurs Joe and Kym Toner launched GiveThemBeer.com as they discovered a need in the marketplace for beer gifts that featured the popularity of the craft beer boom.

“All of our beer gifts create a true craft beer experience. With over 150 microbrews from new and existing breweries across the US, beer lovers are able to receive a gift filled with both classic and unique flavors that can be enjoyed in the comfort of their home,” states Joe Toner, Co-founder of the business. Since the launching of the site, GiveThemBeer.com has delivered more than 10,000 beer gift baskets, crates, and briefcases full of craft beer from coast to coast. With features on MensJournal.com, The Today Show and Forbes.com, Give Them Beer is the leader of premium craft beer gifts and beer gift baskets online.