USDA and Non GMO Products Offer Healthier Options for Drake’s Organic Spirits

March 17, 2019 by evebushman

MINNEAPOLIS (PRWEB) – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that it has introduced new handcrafted Mojito, Moscow Mule and Vodkarita organic mixes created specifically to be blended with Drake’s award-winning Organic White Rum and Drake’s Premium Organic Vodka. The mixes provide consumers, restaurants, bars and venues with turn-key delicious and healthier cocktails. Drake’s is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA Organic, Vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free and Kosher.

Drake’s Organic Mixes will soon be available nationally at select retail locations and by visiting http://www.drakesorganicspirits.com.

“The right mix makes a good cocktail great,” said Drake’s founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “Drake’s Organic Mixes are convenient, healthier and delicious. Organic products taste better and are better for our planet and bodies. Our spirits and mixes are no exception.”

Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits and Drake’s Organic Mixes help support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.

About Drake’s Organic Spirits
Minneapolis-based Drake’s Organic Spirits was launched in 2017. Drake’s uses the highest quality USDA organic and non-GMO Project Verified ingredients to create a line of ultra- premium spirits. Drake’s Organic Vodka, Drake’s Organic White Rum and Drakes Organic Spiced Rum offer a no grain, no gluten, no gmo, ultra-premium, 12 times distilled handcrafted spirits at a better price than the leading premium brands.

For more information, please visit http://www.drakesorganicspirits.com, facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drakesorganic/, Instagram: @drakesorganic

Pairing Cheese and Spirits

January 13, 2019 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Move over beer and wine, there’s something else to enjoy with cheese. Complex and nuanced spirits pair beautifully with many cheeses. Whisky Advocate magazine points out that “whisky really is an ideal accompaniment to many cheeses, in some cases superior, even, to wine or beer.” According to Charles Duque, Director, The French Dairy Board for the Americas, “Pairing cheese and spirits is a way to surprise and delight guests, allowing them to experience even familiar cheeses in a new way,” noting that the right Bourbon or Cognac make excellent cheese partners.
Here are some top spirits and cheese pairings:

Bleu d’Auvergne & Pear Brandy
Some cheeses are washed in brandy, so it should come as no surprise that they also pair well with it. The pungent flavor and luscious creaminess of Bleu d’Auvergne marries well with fresh pears as well as a smooth and fruity pear brandy. A good option is one from Clear Creek, which is based on the French style Eau de Vie de Poire William.

Camembert & Single Malt Whisky
Camembert is buttery with notes of mushroom on the back end that Duque notes complement Ardbeg 10, a single malt whisky that beautifully balances the sweetness of malt and the smokiness of peat. The creaminess of the cheese is a great foil to the whisky, especially when a small amount of water is added to the single malt to open it up.

Époisses & Cognac
Cognac native Benedicte Hardy recommends Époisses as a perfect companion to Hardy Legend 1863 Cognac, noting, “Époisses is for the bold cheese lovers as its nose can be a little strong, but the creamy texture is absolutely exceptional. Legend Cognac with its mocha and coffee flavors completes the experience adding the right spices to the cheese. The marriage of both will leave an unforgettable memory on the lucky connoisseur’s palate who dares to experiment.”

Aged Mimolette & Bourbon
According to Duque, “Possessed of a nutty, buttery, almost caramel flavor and a texture softer than parmesan but harder than, say, a cheddar, Mimolette pairs very nicely with Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon which is fruity with hints of pear and apple that softens the saltiness of the cheese.”

Pont L’Evêque & Pommeau de Normandie
Pont L’Evêque is a washed rind that is soft and very rich, making it a full-bodied creamy cheese. Since Pont L’Evêque is originally from Normandy, a natural pairing is with Christian Drouin Pommeau de Normandie, a blend of Calvados and non-fermented apple cider. This is due to the regional connection between the two, and also because the sweet and tartness of the apples contrasts nicely with the savory quality of the cheese.

Cheddar & Rum
Caramel pairs well with itself! Aged cheddar, with its rich caramel notes, complements the caramel notes of spiced dark rum such as Myer’s Dark Rum. The richness of the rum also has other flavors including tropical fruits, smoky oak, vanilla and spice. This allows it to pair well with strong flavored cheeses like cheddar, which develops many of the same flavors as it ages.

About the Cheeses of Europe
The Cheeses of Europe Marketing Campaign, orchestrated by CNIEL (The French Dairy Inter-Branch Organization) and funded in part by the European Union, was designed to create awareness for the variety of European cheeses available in the US market and to suggest ways that American consumers can incorporate those cheeses into their diets, recipes and lifestyles. The campaign’s goal is to increase the appeal of European cheeses and strengthen their competitive position in the growing specialty cheese category.

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THE CONTENT OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT REPRESENTS THE AUTHOR’S POINT OF VIEW ONLY AND IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE AUTHOR. THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY USE THAT MAY BE MADE OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED THEREIN.

Five-Star Hotel on Historic Via Giulia Offers Private ‘Liquor Room’ with Rare Collection of Distilled Spirits

November 29, 2018 by evebushman

Rome, Italy – Inside the D.O.M Hotel Roma, an elegantly modern hotel in a 17^th century palazzo near the Tiber River with 18 guest rooms and suites and restaurant, another surprise awaits: the exclusive Liquor Room, with a far-ranging private collection of distilled spirits from around the world and the first of its kind in Italy.

The refined interior of the spirited space, curated by Italian architect Antonio Girardi, reflects a “modern meets classic” interpretation of Rome’s finest aristocratic homes. Hand-crafted furniture and original artworks create a comfortably elegant space in which to peruse the 33-page menu of the Liquor Room’s Distilleries Collection and then suitably appreciate the selected spirits.

“We are pleased to offer our guests one of the world’s finest private collections of distilled spirits in an inviting space designed to enhance tasting and convivial relaxation. Our Liquor Room menu features hand-selected Whiskys, Rums, Tequila, Mescal and Cachaça, Cognac, Bas-Armagnac and Calvados, Porto and Brandy, Grappa, Fruit Distilles, Vodka, Gin, Genever, Vermouth, Saké and Schochu,” said Matteo Fornasier, Hotel Manager.

“The collection was curated by the owners of Rome’s Enoteca Achilli al Parlamento who are highly respected as experts in wine and gastronomy. Research for unique and rare liquors for the Liquor Room is ongoing, with the menu updated based on findings. Sommeliers of Achilli al DOM oversee the Liquor Room along with Patrizio Boschetto, a world champion bartender.”

Whiskys include a selection of Single and Blended Irish and Scottish Malts, Irish Whiskey, Bourbon Whiskey, Rye Whiskey and New World Whisky from Japan. One of the most prestigious is the Banff Rare Malt Collection Cask Strength 21 Years that was distilled in 1982, with water sourced from Fiskaidly Farms springs. The celebrated Banff Distillery, opened in 1824 on Banff Bay in Inverboyndie, Scotland, ceased operations in 1983.

Rums are sourced from Martinique, including the Vieux Agricole – Carbat 1975, as well as selections from Cuba, Trinidad, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Marie Galante, Haiti, Venezuela, Guatemala, Panama and Nicaragua.

Tequilas from Mexico are offered in Anejo, Blanco, Plata, Silver and Gran Patron Burdeos styles by eight different brands, including Casamigos, Don Julio, Espolon and Patron. There are seven Mescal selections from Mexico and two Cachaça options from Brazil made from fermented sugarcane juice.

There are 10 selections of Cognac du Grande Champagne, including Lherand Vintage 1971, and two choices of Cognac du Petite Champagne.

Aged Brandy from Malaga is offered in three vintages, 1780, 1857 and 1866. Jerez Brandy is a Gran Solera Reserva from Carlos I.

From Italy, the Liquor Room features an inspired selection of Grappa, including a Marolo Grappa di Barolo-15 anni, and a Poli Pavillac 2007, Bottle 2673/5000. Fruit Distillates from Caponella, known for the distilling artistry of Gianni Caponella, includes an Amarena di Montagna, made from sour mountain cherries, and Albiocche de Vesuvio, produced from apricots from Mount Vesuvius.

Eighteen different vodka options are sourced from Poland, Russia, Holland, France, Italy and Japan.

Gin selections include 14 choices from the United Kingdom, United States, France, Germany and Spain, as well as Coffey Gin by Japanese distiller Nikka, and two gins from Italy.

There are thirteen selections of Vermouth from distillers in Italy, Spain and France, ranging from Extra Dry, Rosso and Bianco to Vanilla from Italy’s Martini, Mulassano, Carpano, Martelletti, Cocchi and Galliano; Spain’s Sarti and Lustao, and France’s Lillet.

Six different choices of Sakè and Schochu from Japan by producers Sakè Company and Asahi round out the extensive Distilleries Collection offered to guests at D.O.M. Hotel Roma by Liquor Room.

The Liquor Room Distilled Spirits pricing ranges from €10 to €800 per pour depending on the spirit selected. Advance reservations are required to experience the collection. The Liquor Room is also available to host private events or intimate dinners for up to six people.

About D.O.M Hotel Roma

D.O.M. Hotel Roma is an intimate five-star hotel in a 17^th century palazzo near the Tiber River with 18 luxurious guestrooms and suites. Set in the heart of Rome on historic Via Giulia, the richly textured interiors were restored and curated by Italian architect Antonio Girardi to reflect a “modern meets classic” interpretation of Rome’s finest aristocratic homes. Handcrafted furniture and artworks include original photographic works by Man Ray and Bert Stein and Andy Warhol silkscreen designs. Achilli al D.O.M. serves an inspired menu year-round, with service in season on the rooftop terrace noted for stunning views and an aromatic herb garden. The Liquor Room, home to one of the world’s largest private collections of distilled spirits that date from the 1780s to today, was designed to enhance tasting and convivial relaxation. D.O.M Hotel Roma, Via Giulia 131, Rome, Italy, derives its name from the initials of a Latin inscription, “Deo Optimo Maximo,” found on the original palazzo turned Claretian monastery. For more information, please visit https://www.domhotelroma.com/en/ and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Diplomático Rum Named Wine Enthusiast’s “Spirit Brand of the Year”

November 25, 2018 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Diplomático – a super-premium rum brand renowned for its superior taste, quality and mixability – is honored to announce its win as the Wine Star’s “Spirit Brand of the Year.” Each year, Wine Enthusiast’s distinguished Wine Star Awards recognizes companies and individuals whose vision has impacted the wine and spirits industry. Diplomático is thrilled to be a part of such an esteemed group as the first-ever rum to win this category. Produced by Destilerías Unidas S.A. (DUSA) in Venezuela, Diplomático is an independent, family-owned brand recognized as one of the finest rums in the world.

Jose Rafael Ballesteros, Diplomático’s CEO says, “We are truly humbled by this award as it recognizes our contribution to elevate the rum category and make consumers re-evaluate their perception of rum. This is an ongoing goal as we work toward being not just the best premium rum globally, but also one of the greatest spirits in the world.”

Diplomático’s delicious and distinctive taste profile is the result of a unique rum-making process. The rums are distilled using a rich variety of methods, which allows its award-winning Master Blenders to create exquisite blends, including Reserva Exclusiva, the brand’s flagship sipping rum.

The high quality of Diplomático is upheld by its most valuable resource, its people. The company’s growth has always been alongside its employees and their families, supported by a long-standing commitment to protect the community and ecosystem surrounding the distillery. The company provides sustainable jobs for over 700 workers in Venezuela and has developed strong social programs to improve the quality of life and growth of its human talents while minimizing environmental impact.

“We’re in the midst of a rum revolution,” says Adam Strum, Editor and Publisher, Wine Enthusiast Magazine. “We chose Diplomático Rum for the Wine Star award, not only for its supreme quality but also because we admire their leadership in educating spirits lovers about the ways in which we can mix premium rum, and sip it too. Being a family-owned business ourselves, Diplomático’s commitment to family and work mirrors our philosophy, and we’re excited to welcome Diplomático to the Wine Star Awards family as the first-ever rum to win this award.”

Earlier this year, Diplomático announced E. & J. Gallo Winery as its exclusive U.S. distributor. As both companies embrace the same family and community values, they are excited to continue to grow and leverage each other’s expertise to expand Diplomático’s presence in the U.S. market.

“As their U.S. import partner, we congratulate Diplomático on this well-deserved recognition,” says Ernest Gallo, COO of E. & J. Gallo Winery. “Diplomático represents an important part of our growing luxury spirits portfolio as it transcends the rum category and introduces more premium spirits consumers to all that rum has to offer.”

Wine Enthusiast will officially award Diplomático Rum at the Wine Star Awards Gala on January 29th, 2019 in Miami at the Nobu Eden Roc Hotel.

About Rum Diplomático (http://www.ronDiplomático.com)

Diplomático, a family-owned brand inspired by the character of Don Juan Nieto Melendez, whose portrait is illustrated on its labels, is a premium-and-above rum from Venezuela. Located at the foot of the Andes Mountains, the Diplomático Distillery (producing top-quality spirits since 1959) combines traditional methods with modern technology to produce the finest of rums. The production area boasts great conditions for sugar cane and rum production including fertile lands, abundant water and a tropical weather. The team of award-winning Master Blenders works diligently to create unique and complex rums. The product range consists of the Tradition Range: Planas (aged up to 6 years), Mantuano (aged up to 8 years) and Reserva Exclusiva (aged up to 12 years), and the Prestige Line: Single Vintage and Ambassador, both aged 12 years and finished in Spanish sherry casks for one and two years respectively, and a Special Edition: The Distillery Collection featuring a Single Batch Kettle rum and a Single Barbet column rum.

About E. & J. Gallo Winery

Founded by brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo in 1933 in Modesto, California, E. & J. Gallo Winery is the world’s largest family-owned winery and the acclaimed producer of award-winning wines and spirits featured in more than 110 countries around the globe. A pioneer in the art of grape growing, winemaking, sustainable practices, marketing and worldwide distribution, Gallo crafts and imports wines and spirits to suit a diverse range of tastes and occasions, from everyday offerings to boutique, luxury bottlings.

The Gallo portfolio is comprised of more than 100 unique brands, including New Amsterdam Vodka and Gin, Familia Camarena Tequila, RumHaven, Lo-Fi Aperitifs and E&J Brandy and luxury spirits offerings which include California Premium Brandies Argonaut and Germain-Robin, imported Scotch whiskies from Whyte & Mackay, including The Dalmore and Jura Single Malts, Shackleton Blended Malt and John Barr Reserve Blended Scotch and Diplomático Rum. Premium wine offerings include Apothic, Carnivor, Columbia Winery, Ecco Domani, Edna Valley Vineyard, J Vineyards & Winery, Louis M. Martini, MacMurray Estate Vineyards, Orin Swift, Chateau Souverain, Talbott Vineyards, and William Hill Estate, along with highly acclaimed imports, such as Alamos, Brancaia, La Marca, Las Rocas, Martín Códax, Whitehaven, and LUX Wines, importers of Allegrini, Argiano, Jermann, Pieropan and Renato Ratti.

About Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Wine Enthusiast’s approach to wine and spirits is accessible and unpretentious, and enjoyed by novices and experts alike. Published 13 times per year, the magazine’s audience is at nearly one million strong. The magazine and its Buying Guide with more than 200,000 ratings and reviews make up the most comprehensive database in the industry available for free online at http://www.WineMag.com.

Hengshui Laobaigan is the First Chinese Liquor to Win the Global Spirit Awards

September 17, 2018 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The Chinese baijiu, Hengshui Laobaigan received top honors at the recent Global Spirit Awards Competition held in Las Vegas, Nevada. Judges for the competition sampled the world’s best liquors from several categories including vodka, tequila, rum, bourbon, scotch whisky, liqueur and Chinese liquor. The Laobaigan 1915 was awarded the prestigious Best in Category award. In addition, The Laobaigan 5 Star and Laobaigan 1915 were each named Double Gold Winners by the panel of judges.

The jury for the 2018 Global Spirit Awards Competition was comprised of 18 experienced spirits masters with a strong background in spirits production and bartending. They included Steve Beal, founder of the San Francisco world spirits contest and one of America’s top distilling experts. The judging process for the specialty spirit categories began with a double-blind tasting preliminary round, with the best spirits advancing to the Sweepstakes Rounds, where the Double Gold and The Best of Show Categories were awarded.

Americans can be hesitant to try Chinese baijiu (the term, “baijiu” means “clear liquor”) due to its exotic taste. As far back as 1915, Hengshui Laobaigan won the Panama World Exposition top prize and marked the product’s entrance into the US market. Today’s multiple prizes from the Global Spirits Awards continues the tradition of Hengshui Laobaigan’s baijiu earning recognition and respect from western judges.

The Secret of Hengshui Laobaigan’s Brewing: The Mysterious Underground Urn
There are many types of Chinese liquor, which can be challenging for the uninitiated. In China, baijiu is often used to accompany meals and is paired to match the taste of Chinese food. Most Chinese baijiu have a strong and distinct flavor, which can cause many American drinkers to choose more familiar liquors.

But the fact that Hengshui Laobaigan 1915 was recognized by the Global Spirit Awards suggests that not all Chinese spirits are the same. The liquor’s distinct taste is known as “Lao Bai Gan Xiang Xing,” which comes from its unique underground Urn brewing method.

Unlike the western custom of using oak barrels or sherry barrels for storage, Hengshui Laobaigan produces their liquors in ceramic tanks buried in the ground.

A study from the China Academy of Food and Fermentation showed that Hengshui Laobaigan’s dry ground cylinder fermentation process can effectively isolate impurities and harmful microbial pollution, the impurity content is less than one-tenth of China’s national standard, creating a more mellow and clean flavor.

The process, which has been used for thousands of years, produces a great tasting liquor without a needlessly high alcohol content.

Chinese scientists have also conducted microbiological research on the Laobaigan underground cylinder brewing technology. The Microorganism and Applied Enzyme Laboratory of Jiangnan University collaborated with Hengshui Laobaigan to produce a study entitled, “Environmental Microbiota Drives Microbial Processes and Metabolic Profiles for Chinese Liquor” published by Dr. Xueshan Wang. The study was selected as the cover article by Applied and Environmental Microbiology, an authoritative publication founded by the American Society for Microbiology.

This Mystery Liquor Conquered America a Hundred Years Ago
In 1915, The 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition Was Held In San Francisco. Hengshui Laobaigan’s Predecessor, Zhili Kaoliang Liquor, was submitted to the panel of judges. With its mellow and sweet taste and transparent color, Zhili Kaoliang won the “First Class Medallion” of the Panama Pacific International Exposition.

To commemorate this milestone in the company’s history, the manufacturer introduced “Laobaigan 1915” to the marketplace. The product’s recent award at the Global Spirit Awards proves that Chinese liquor can be adapted to American tastes.

Today, with western liquors such as whiskey and vodka consumed within the Chinese market, the makers of Laobaigan seek to foster a reciprocal appreciation for Chinese baijiu. With its award-wining taste and thousand-year history, Laobaigan deserves a place in every American liquor cabinet.

Global Spirit Awards Announces the 2nd Annual 2018 Winners

August 19, 2018 by evebushman

LAS VEGAS – PRNewswire – The 2nd Annual 2018 Global Spirit Awards was hosted July 10-13 at Palace Station in Las Vegas. The competition featured a judges panel (https://www.globalspiritawards.com/judging/) of industry experts with extensive diverse spirits, and mixology backgrounds to determine each of the spirits’ quality.

The judging process for the specialty spirit categories began with a 100% double blind tasting preliminary round, with the best spirits advancing to the Sweepstakes Rounds, where the Double Gold and The Best of Show Categories were awarded. During the competition, all the spirits in their respective and specific sub-categories are sampled together as flights, carefully evaluated from color to finish, and scored by each one of our spirits judges in the flight.

The Award-Winning Spirits include: (For a complete list of all the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners, visit https://www.globalspiritawards.co/awards/)

Overall Best in Category winners are:
- Best Vodka: Cape May Distillery, Sandcastle Vodka
- Best Tequila: Casa Noble, Casa Noble’s Anejo
- Best Rum: Kimberly Rum Company, Canefire Rum, Cane Fire 14
- Best Bourbon: Crooked Water Spirits, Old Hell Roaring Bourbon
- Best Whiskey: Omsons Marketing Pvt. Ltd., Star Walker Whiskey
- Best Liqueur: NCCGA of CT, Vincenzi Arancia
- Best Baijiu – TIE – Lao Bai Gan, 1915 and Yu Tan, Shang Pin

“Our 2018 Global Spirit Judges and I are pleased to recognize and salute the superior craftsmanship, quality, and taste of some of the very finest spirits in the world,” said Eddie Rivkin, CEO/Executive Director of Global Spirit Awards.

Double Gold Winners (Listed by: Company, Brand, Spirit Name):

Arizona Craft Beverage, Arizona Craft Beverage, Regalo de Vida Gran Rum
Cape May Distillery, Cape May Distillery, Sandcastle Vodka
China Liquor Sales LLC, Lang, Qinghua, Lang 20
China Liquor Sales LLC, Lao Bai Gan, 1915
China Liquor Sales LLC, Lao Bai Gan, 5 Star
China Liquor Sales LLC, Yu Tan, Shang Pin
Compass Distillers, Compass Distillers, Gin
Crooked Water Spirits, Crooked Water Spirits, Abyss Gin
Crooked Water Spirits, Crooked Water Spirits, Old Hell Roaring Bourbon
Destilaria Serralles, Don Q Rum, Don Q Double Aged Vermouth
D & S Distillers LLC, D&S Distilling Company, Delgado White Rum
E & J Gallo, New Amsterdam, Lemon Vodka
Enemigo Ltd, Tequila Enemigo, Enemigo 00 Extra
Kimberley Rum Company Pty Ltd, Canefire Rum, Canefire No. 14
LeVecke, Jesse James Spiced, American Whiskey
LeVecke, Spiced Rum Conciere, Rum & Cachaca
NCCGA of CT, Vincenzi, Arancia
Neptune Rum, Neptune Rum Barbados Gold, Neptune Gold Rum
Nevada Distilling Co, LLC, Smoke Wagon, Uncut Unfiltered Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Omsons Marketing Pvt. Ltd./ Star Walker Whiskey
Rhino Global Enterprises, Dos Ron, 16 Anos Solera
ROK Drinks, Bandero Tequila, Blanco Tequila
Casa Noble, Casa Noble’s Anejo
Rock N Roll Tequila, Rock N Roll Tequila, Cristalino

The 2018 Global Spirit Awards prestigious judges panel include (https://globalspiritawards.com/judging/):

Chairman of the Judges Panel, Steve Beal, renowned whiskey expert with over 20 years’ experience judging competitions around the world, and judges, Mia Mastroianni, Damian Cross, Dänny Ronen, Anthony Alba, Heather Manley, Robert Gonzales, and Tim McDonald.
For more information and a complete list of judge’s bios, photos and winners, visit the website at https://www.globalspiritawards.co/awards/

About Global Wine Awards & Global Spirit Awards
Eddie Rivkin CEO/Executive Director of Global Wine Awards and Global Spirit Awards hosts the events from the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information visit: https://www.globalspiritawards.com

The Night Is Bright At The Moon Bar At Lunetta: Santa Monica’s Stellar New Cocktail Bar Offers Evening Oasis For Thirst-Quenching Cocktails & Cool Coastal Ambiance!

August 13, 2018 by evebushman

Santa Monica, CA – After a fun day of surf and sun, when the tide begins to rise and the moon makes its nightly arch, The Moon Bar at Lunetta opens its doors and welcomes guests to partake in an evening of progressive, chef-driven elevated New Californian Cuisine and masterfully Handcrafted Cocktails. Presented by Chef Raphael Lunetta and the Lunetta Team, The Moon Bar is coquettishly tucked inside Lunetta Dining, capturing the atmospheric California coast quiescence with the approachability of an evening neighborhood cocktail bar that welcomes guests from all over Greater Los Angeles!

Photo credit – acuna-hansen

Helming The Moon Bar beverage program is Beverage Director & Sommelier Kristine Bocchino, who contributes her expertise in food and wine to quarterly publication EdibleLA, Westlake Magazine, and has most recently served as a judge in Italy for the Cocktail & Bartending Competition at the Florence Cocktail Week 2018. Describing her approach to the House Libations, Bocchino says, “The cocktails are heavily influenced by Chef Raphael Lunetta’s menu, particularly his incorporation of produce from the Farmers Market.” Fortuitously, there is no need to vacate the alluring ambience of The Moon Bar once guests begin feeling peckish as the full menu from Lunetta Dining is always available.

Vodka + Gin employs the use of clear spirits to bring guests three light and revivifying cocktails beginning with the cheekily named Spicy Like a Sleepover, undoubtedly the star cocktail of the menu, and prepared with St. George Green Chili vodka, Becherovka, coconut cream, lemongrass, ginger, and lime; the East Side to the West Side featuring Fords Gin, cucumber, mint, lime, orgeat, and Angostura Bitters, and the Honey Ryder made with London Dry Gin, pamplemousse, lemon and bubbles. Creamy with a hint of spice, the Spirits from South of the Border sizzle things up with Tequila + Mezcal based cocktails such as the Mariposa Calor comprised of Espadin mezcal, Amaro Nonino Aperol, lime, Firewater bitters, or get a little pep in your step with the Tired but Wired featuring blanco tequila, Rhum Agricole, housemade chamomile-turmeric syrup, coconut cream, Blackstrap Bitters, and lime. What restaurant by the beach would be complete without a couple of Rum libations, starting with a creative twist on a beachy classic, the Oaxacan Mai Tai, comprised Plantation Pineapple Rum, mezcal, lime, Dry Curacao, orgeat, and Angostura bitters. Hang ten and bottoms up to the Gnarly Surfer, a mixture of Rhum Agricole, pineapple gomme, lime, Blackstrap Bitters, and vegan egg white. Three liquid amber cocktails await Whiskey enthusiasts, starting with the Salted Butter, featuring Japanese whisky, Cocchi di Torino, Suze, Italicus, and grapefruit bitters, while Bocchino breathes new life into two quintessential mixed drinks, first with the Pimms Cup 2420, with Buffalo Trace, lemon, honey peach bitters, and Pimms, and lastly, make no mistake this is Not Your Nonna’s Negroni, comprised of rye, Mr. Black Cold Brew, Cappelletti, and Cocchi di Torino.

If Wine is your pleasure, there is no better place to enhance your meal than The Moon Bar with eclectic varietals offered by the glass and by the bottle. Offering a tickle of Sparkling effervescence is the French Aubry Brut Rosé, and Hébrart Brut Cuvee de Reserve, or the Italian Ferrari Brut Sparkling. Pert and pink, Rosé includes the 2017 Liquid Farm “Vogelzang” Happy Canyon from Santa Barbara, as well as a Grenache based Rosé straight from the Sierra Foothills of California: the 2017 The Wither’s El Dorado. Essential for California coastal living, the White varietals start with a wine that Bocchino boasts is, “ideally paired with shellfish as it provides superb acid,” the 2015 Picpoul Forlorn Hope Rorock Vineyard, from Calaveras County, followed by a 2015 Viognier Yves Cuilleron from Condrieu, France, and all of the way from Kamptal, Austria the 2016 Gruner Veltliner Weinschlossl. Bold and sumptuous, a Red is sure to compliment the meal, such as the Spanish 2015 Grenache Palacios, Les Terrasses, or a bold and refreshing blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, uniting to create the 2015 Alpha Omega II Rutherford from Napa Valley. With the final Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, the 2010 Phélan Ségur Saint Estephe is sure to please every Bordeaux lover. For the true connoisseur, the Cellar Selections provide unique vintages such as the Bordeaux-Style blend from Napa Valley, the 2001 Joseph Phelps Insignia, or a wine born from the Nebbiolo grape in the mountains of the famous Piemonte region of Italy, the 1998 Gaja Costa Russi, also offered from Champagne, France is the 1997 Salon Les Mesnil Blanc de Blancs.

Creating The Moon Bar look and feel of comfortable but lush beach city cocktail bar is De JONG & Co. For the interior, De JONG & Co. employed contrast and drama as the timeless navy blue of the exterior is carried through The Moon Bar. Cached in the richness of the elements, walnut, soapstone and satin brass accents lend a density to the environment that is at the same time sophisticated and cozy, with custom plush green velvet furniture in a sea of green and teal encaustic tile, and custom designed shelving to showcase all that The Moon Bar has to offer. The details on its casework draw the eye up to a wall-to-wall ceiling treatment of ornate foliage, as though the ocean of the walls rise up to the forested sea floor. A skylight centers the room, with a single exposed beam cutting through like a ship’s mast, and tasteful brass lighting serve as portholes in this stately ship’s cabin. Funneling into the adjacent Lunetta Dining, the night sky is revealed in the constellation-inspired tiling laid out by the firm’s principal designer Ruth De Jong. Look closely and you can spy the Big Dipper.

Warm in attitude while relaxing in composition, The Moon Bar at Lunetta is a new sultry getaway in Santa Monica where you can sip a handcrafted cocktail by a fireplace, meet up with friends, or unwind with your own thoughts at the bar!

The Moon Bar at Lunetta is open every Tuesday through Friday from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm, and every Saturday from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm. For more information or to make reservations, please visit www.LunettaSM.com please call The Moon Bar at Lunetta directly at 310.581.9888.

2018 Pacific Wine and Food Classic Unveils Featured Chefs And Wineries

July 22, 2018 by evebushman

Newport Beach, CA – Pacific Wine and Food Classic is pleased to announce the chefs, restaurants and wineries participating in the foodie event of the summer presented by Pacific Sales and powered by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Celebrate the season with summer inspired culinary bites, wine pairings and refreshing libations in the picturesque atmosphere provided by Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort on Saturday, August 18 and Sunday, August 19, 2018.

36b2a178d324c62f818fb9d4c8a2224d Voted top 10 food and wine festivals in the world by International Food, Wine and Travel Writer’s Association, Pacific Wine and Food Classic offers an unparalleled gourmet culinary experience completely inspired by summer. More than 60 of the region’s top chefs will create dishes reminiscent of their favorite summer memories offering guests the unique opportunity to sample an array of Southern California’s finest restaurants all in one weekend.

Surrounded by music and a gentle ocean breeze, indulge in over 100 wine, beer and cocktail stations on the soft sands in Newport Beach. In addition to SoCal and Napa’s most decorated wineries, Stella Artois, Bacardi rum, Sauza Tequila, Sky Vodka, Aperol Spritz and the Maker’s Mark touring truck will be onsite pouring refreshing crafty cocktails. Guests will enjoy all new summer experiences including the Paella and Sangria Lounge by Villa Roma, Summer Wine Garden featuring beautiful chilled wines to pair with bites by SideDoor and Haute Cuisine, Taco & Beer Lounge by Towne Park Brewery and Chela’s Mexican Restaurant, the debut of the official “Pacific Burger” by Burger Boss at the Lynx Backyard Grilling garden, Golden Spoon Café featuring summer gelatos and affogatos and more mouthwatering moments.

Pamela Waitt, President of OC Restaurant Association and Founder of the second annual classic commented, “We are thrilled to welcome guests back to the shores of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and highlight so many incredible winemakers and chefs. Orange County is home to some of the best restaurants in the world and it’s an honor to showcase the local talent.”

Single day general admission tickets are currently $115 for Saturday and $99 for Sunday which includes extended early bird pricing. Single day VIP tickets are $149 for Saturday and $139 for Sunday with extended early bird pricing. Purchase of VIP ticket grants 1-hour early admission at 1 p.m. and access to the grassy waterfront VIP courtyard featuring the Hornitos lounge serving fresh summer margaritas, the Perrier Jouet Champagne Gazebo, aged Bacardi rum cocktails, premium wines and an exclusive culinary experience provided by Back Bay Bistro, Bluegold, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, Filomena’s Italian Kitchen & Market, Lauren Lawless from Masterchef Season 8, Mix Mix, Mixed Bakery, Provenance, Sadie Rose Bread & Cabot Cheese and The Country Club. VIP tickets are very limited. Weekend two-day passes are sold out.

For more information on the Pacific Wine and Food Classic and to purchase tickets, please visit pacificwineandfood.com.

Pacific Wine & Food Classic Chefs:

Alejandra Padilla – Executive Chef, Five Crowns and SideDoor
Andrea Machuca – Chef, BXCR Wine Bar
Andres Miramontes – Executive Chef, Sol Cocina
Arthur Ortiz – Executive Chef, Skyloft
Bill Drexel – Original Meat Master, Grasslands Meat Market, BBQ & Churrasco
Brian Huskey – Executive Chef, Tackle Box
Bryant Taylor – Executive Chef, Chianina Steakhouse
Cathy Pavlos – Owner & Executive Chef, Provenance Restaurant
Cesar Sarmiento – Chef de Cuisine, CUCINA Enoteca
Chris Paul – Chef, The Public House by Evans Brewing Co.
Craig Brady – Executive Chef, Haven Gastropub
Daniel Jimenez – Executive Chef, Back Bay Bistro
David Castro – Corporate Chef Trainer, Texas de Brazil
David Man – Executive Chef, Fashion Island Hotel Newport Beach & Coastal Catering
Elyssa Fournier – Pastry Chef & Owner, Mixed Bakery
Eric Samaniego – Chef de Cuisine, Michael’s on Naples
Ernie Alvarado – Chef, Urbana Mexican Gastronomy
Francisco Ramirez – Chef, Rusty Pelican Restaurant
Craig Brady – Executive Chef, Haven Gastropub
Greg Daniels – Executive Chef
Greg Stillman – Executive Chef, Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge
Ivan Rogelio Calderon – Chef, Taco Rosa & Taco Mesa
Jason Mazur – Executive Chef, Bluewater Grill
Jenny Ross – Executive Chef
Joe Xavier – Executive Chef, Silva’s Bar & Grill
Jose Rodriguez – Chef de Cuisine, Pete’s Sunset Grille
Karla Vasquez – Executive Chef, Chelas Mexican Restaurant & Catering
Lauren Lawless – Chef, Masterchef Season 8
Leo Razo – Executive Chef, Villa Roma
Linda Johnsen, Owner & Executive Chef – Filomena’s Italian Kitchen & Market
Manny Lopez – Chef, Legado Bar + Kitchen
Manny Velasco – Co-Owner & Executive Chef, Sol Agave
Paolo Buffa – Executive Chef, Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Heirloom Farmhouse Kitchen
Pascal Olhats – Chef, Baja Shellfish Ambassador
Peter Lai – Executive Chef, Oak Grill and Aqua Lounge
Philip Tangonan – Chef, The Cannery Newport Beach
Rainer Schwarz – Executive Chef, Hendrix
Rich Mead – Owner and Executive Chef, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens
Ross Pangilinan – Chef, Mix Mix Kitchen Bar
Ryan Robertson – Executive Chef, TAPS
Scott Goldberg – Chef, Fresh Brothers
Shachi Mehra – Owner & Executive Chef, Adya
Tia Baker – Chef, The Federal Bar
Tin Vuong – Owner and Chef, Bluegold
Ugo Allesina – Executive Chef, Prego Mediterranean

Some of the Pacific Wine & Food Classic Featured Wineries:

Barone Fini
Pinot Grigio

Belle Glos
2016 “Las Alturas” – Monterey

Black Stallion Estate Winery
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon

BÖEN
2016 Pinot Noir – Sonoma

Bouchaine
2017 Vin Gris (Rosé of Pinot Noir)
2014 Estate Chardonnay
2014 Estate Pinot Noir

Cave de Lugny
Les Charmes

Chateau Ste. Michelle

Colores del Sol
Rose

Copper Cane Wines & Provisions

Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Diora
Pinot Noir

Elouan
2017 Rose – Oregon

Fleurs de Prairie
Rose

Garnet Vineyards
Monterey Pinot Noir

Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Premium Wines Selected

J. Wilkes
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon

Joseph Carr
Paso Robles Sauvignon Blanc

Josh Cellars
Reserve North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon

Mercer Wines
2016 Cabernet
2016 Chardonnay
2016 Red Blend
2016 Merlot
2016 Reserve Cabernet

Merryvale Vineyards
Cabernet Sauvignon
Chardonnay

Nobilo
Sauvignon Blanc

Orogeny Vineyards
Pinot

Perrier Jouet
Champagne

Picket Fence
Alexander Valley Cabernet
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir
Red Blend

Quilt
2016 Chardonnay – Napa Valley
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley

Rosenblum Cellars
Rock pile Zinfandel

Ruffino
Sparkling Rose
Il Ducale Pinot Grigio

Smashberry Red

Starmont Winery & Vineyards
Sauvignon Blanc
Rose
Pinot Noir

The Calling
Pino Noir

The Crossings
Sauvignon Blanc

Turtle Bay
Sauvignon Blanc

TYKU Sake

We Believe
2014 Sonoma County Cabernet
2016 Russian River Chardonnay
2016 Russian River Pinot Noir

Z. Alexander Brown
Red Blend
Sauvignon Blanc

Zaca Mesa
2017 Rose
2016 Viognier
2014 Z Cuvee
2013 Mesa Reserve Syrah

Pacific Wine & Food Classic is an incredible world-class culinary experience. Taste bites from local top chefs, explore over 100 wines and hand crafted premium cocktails. Enjoy celebrity chef demonstrations, master sommelier discussions and summer mixology demos. Taste the flavors of summer as the region’s top chefs and mixologists create dishes from their favorite summer memories. The Pacific Wine & Food Classic is a fantastic gourmet experience on the beautiful soft sand in Newport Beach, you’ll be surrounded by music and ocean breezes while enjoying the region’s top chefs.

The success of this great event depends on our wonderful culinary community. Net proceeds will be given to Golden Rule charity as the beneficiary of the Pacific Wine and Food Classic in order to give back to the restaurant industry that works so hard. Golden Rule is a local charity founded to give back and support those in need IN the restaurant industry. Golden Rule Charity administers grants and acts as a liaison between the community and those faced with an unanticipated crisis. Big or small.

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort
1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA, 92660
For more information on the Pacific Wine and Food Classic and to purchase tickets, please visit www.pacificwineandfood.com.

Partners Include: Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, 95.5 KLOS, Infiniti, Golden Rule Charity, The Fork Report with Neil Saavedra, OCfoodies, The ACE Agency, Orange Coast Magazine, US. Foods, Celebrity Cruises, Bacardi, Maker’s Mark, Hornitos, Stella Artois, Dreambox Creations, Sauza, Skyy Vodka, Aperol Spritz, Baja Shellfish Farms, Atria Senior Living, Los Angeles Times, LA & SF Specialty, Greer’s OC, Viele & Sons, Govino, Badoit, Evian, Area 51, Melissa’s Produce, Anderson Seafoods, Arctic Glacier, ICEsurance

Ming River Baijiu Launches In The United States

July 18, 2018 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Ming River Sichuan Baijiu proudly announces its launch in the United States. Crafted by China’s oldest continuously operating distillery, Ming River is produced using time-honored methods passed from master to apprentice for over 20 generations. With a passion to introduce an authentic baijiu for international spirit lovers, Ming River was founded by Simon Dang (Global Director of Marketing), Matthias Heger (Head of European Operations), Bill Isler (Chief Executive Officer), and Derek Sandhaus (Director of Category Education). Sandhaus is a leading global authority on baijiu, and the author of “Baijiu: The Essential Guide to Chinese Spirits,” the first English-language guide to baijiu.

Team photo.

“Baijiu has for years been the world’s most popular spirits category, but it’s still not well understood outside of China. There’s a tendency in Western media to focus on the drink’s potency and otherness, which misses the fact that baijiu is a diverse category of spirits with expressions that come in many strengths and styles. Two baijius can be as distinct from one another as gin is to tequila,” says Sandhaus. “There’s also a cultural dimension to alcohol in China. The Chinese have been producing distinctive alcoholic beverages for several millennia, and baijiu for about the last thousand years. It’s inseparable from the Chinese culinary tradition, and it contains a range of aromas and flavors one can’t find in any other type of spirit.”

Each batch of Ming River Baijiu starts with mash from locally harvested red sorghum grain and the purest waters from protected wells. It is fermented in earthen vessels with naturally harvested yeast cultures native to the lush river town of Luzhou that impart the distinctive terroir of Sichuan-style baijiu. After two months, the mash is unearthed and distilled in small batches using a traditional Chinese pot still. The spirits age for up to two years before the master blender balances them into Ming River’s distinctive flavor. The result is an uncompromisingly bold spirit with notes of pineapple and anise with a lingering mellow finish.

Baijiu is traditionally enjoyed neat at room temperature. Ming River’s fruity sweetness is the perfect counterpoint to the numbing spice of Sichuanese cuisine. As a clear but decidedly non-neutral spirit, in mixed drinks Ming River’s bold aroma and flavor can be called upon to perform like a rhum agricole, Jamaican pot distilled rum or a Batavia arrack, effortlessly finding a home in tiki drinks while also opening new possibilities for sours and aperitifs. Many classic recipes can also be reinvigorated by incorporating Ming River baijiu as a split base or even just as a rinse.

Ming River is available in a 750-ml. format, beginning in the states of New York, New Jersey, and California through Park Street Imports. Ming River is currently available now for purchase at Brooklyn Wine Exchange for $34. In July, Ming River will be featured in the cocktail menus at Kings Co. Imperial LES developed by Justin Lane Briggs and at Win Son by Jesse Shapell.

About Ming River (http://www.mingriver.com)
Ming River is the original Sichuan baijiu. Crafted by Luzhou Laojiao, China’s oldest continuously operating distillery since 1573. It uses time honored traditional methods passed from master to apprentice for over 20 generations. Ming River is distilled from grain, 45% alc./vol, Imported by Park Street Imports, LLC, Miami, FL.

Now Open: The Underground, The Mob Museum’s Prohibition History Exhibition

May 20, 2018 by evebushman

LAS VEGAS (PRWEB) – The Mob Museum, The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, today announces the opening of The Underground, its new Prohibition history exhibition featuring a working distillery and speakeasy. Zappos.com serves as The Underground’s signature sponsor.

The Mob Museum is located in downtown Las Vegas, Nevada.

Entirely re-envisioning the typical museum exhibition experience, The Underground takes visitors on an uncommonly vivid journey back in time: Situated discreetly in the basement of the Museum, The Underground encompasses 2,814 square feet appointed with luxurious, Art Deco design motifs. Guests of The Underground are encouraged to ponder the time when consuming alcohol was not only a criminal act, but also bred secret watering holes–some of which became the most glamorous places to be.

“We are extremely proud of this addition to the Museum, which was developed to tell the story of this pivotal period of American history in the most dynamic way possible,” said Jonathan Ullman, president and chief executive officer, The Mob Museum. “To our many supporters whose contributions made The Underground possible, we extend enormous gratitude.”

The Museum’s project team for The Underground included LG Architects, design firm Gallagher and Associates, historic consultant Robert Chattel of Chattel, Inc., custom fabricator CREO Industrial Arts, the City of Las Vegas and Core Construction.

Numerous exhibits and artifacts found in the distillery and speakeasy add depth and context to the experience. Exhibits and artifacts on display bring to life the essence of a time that saw organized crime syndicates grow richer and more powerful than ever before, while giving rise to great cultural and societal change.

Artifacts on display include:

Five-gallon whiskey still, an example of one of the smaller home stills used to make alcohol during Prohibition.
Valise with hidden flasks produced by Abercrombie & Fitch, with a brass stud on its base that, when swiveled, reveals a tiny keyhole. Once unlocked, the false bottom opens to reveal three silver flasks.
One-gallon “alky cooker” like those used by impoverished families employed by Chicago’s Genna brothers to make small batches of liquor in their homes.
Grape brick sign, which advertised the blocks of grape concentrate sold in grocery stores. These blocks could be combined with water to make grape juice. Of course, yeast could be added, the mixture poured into a bottle, the bottle corked and, three weeks later—voila!—home-made wine.
Budweiser frozen eggs, which along with more than 25 other non-alcoholic products, carried Anheuser Busch’s most popular brand name during Prohibition. Other products included soft drinks, malt extract, corn syrup and truck bodies. The frozen eggs were sold in 30-pound canisters and stabilized with sugar and salt.
Beaded chiffon dress, circa 1926, which provides an example of the new and bolder fashions that became popular during the Prohibition era due to the rise of flapper culture.

A unique aquarium exhibit, produced in conjunction with The Animal Planet series “Tanked,” tells the story of the 1922 sinking of the Lizzie D, a tug boat believed to have moonlighted as a rum runner, off the coast of Fire Island, New York. The 440-gallon tank memorializes the discovery of the sunken vessel in 1977, which was indeed found to be carrying crates containing hundreds of bottles of Kentucky bourbon, Scotch whisky and Canadian rye whisky.

Master Distiller in Residence George Racz, oversees the initial production of corn-mash moonshine in The Underground’s 60-gallon, custom-made copper-pot still. Capable of producing 250 750 ml jars of moonshine per week, the gleaming still forms the focal point of the distillery.

In the speakeasy, The Underground’s moonshine provides the centerpiece of the cocktail collection, while a full bar is also available. The speakeasy cocktail menu includes typical Prohibition cocktails such as Bee’s Knees, Underground Old Fashioned, Ginger Jake and Giggle Water. A variety of coffee cocktails, draft beer, bottled beer, wines by the glass and non-alcoholic cocktails are also available.

Finally, for private groups and intimate events, a VIP hideaway called “The Fitting Room,” concealed by a secret entrance off the speakeasy, can accommodate up to 12 guests.

Entrance to The Underground at The Mob Museum is free with general Museum admission until 5 p.m.; guests who wish to visit just The Underground after 5 p.m. may enter via its exterior side entrance free of charge until closing. The new hours of the Museum, including The Underground, are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Wednesday, and 9 a.m. until midnight, Thursday through Saturday.

For even more information about Prohibition, visit the Museum’s online exhibit at prohibitionhistory.org. Photos are available for download here.

ABOUT THE MOB MUSEUM
The Mob Museum, the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, provides a world-class, interactive journey through true stories—from the birth of the Mob to today’s headlines. The Mob Museum offers a provocative, contemporary look at these topics through hundreds of artifacts and immersive storylines. Whether you like it or not, this is American history. It debuted a major renovation in 2018, including a Crime Lab, Use of Force Training Experience, and Organized Crime Today exhibit as well as The Underground, a basement-level Prohibition history exhibition featuring a working speakeasy and distillery and sponsored by Zappos. Since opening in 2012, The Mob Museum has accumulated numerous accolades, including being named one of TripAdvisor’s “Top 25 U.S. Museums,” one of Las Vegas Weekly’s “Twenty Greatest Attractions in Las Vegas History,” one of Hotel.com’s Top 7 “Travel Brag Landmarks,” one of USA Today’s “12 Can’t Miss U.S. Museum Exhibits,” “A Must for Travelers” by The New York Times, one of “20 Places Every American Should See” by Fox News and Budget Travel magazine, “Best Museum” by Nevada Magazine and is a multi-year winner of the Las Vegas Review-Journal’s “Best of Las Vegas” rankings. The Mob Museum has been awarded accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded U.S. museums. General admission is $26.95 for adults ages 18 and over with special pricing for online purchase, children, seniors, military, law enforcement, Nevada residents, and teachers. The Museum is open daily; visit the website for up-to-date operating hours. For more information, call (702) 229-2734 or visit https://themobmuseum.org. Connect on Facebook at facebook.com/themobmuseum or Twitter @themobmuseum.