Historic Straub Brewery Launches First Ever Sangria Spritzer for Year Round Enjoyment

July 22, 2021 by evebushman

ST. MARYS, Pa./PRNewswire/ — The genesis of Straub Brewery traces back to the day Sabina Sorg and Peter Straub met, nearly 150 years ago. This brewer’s daughter and an emerging brewmaster married and together launched a legacy of handcrafting beer in the tradition of their German heritage, that continues on today seven generations later. To celebrate the spirit of this adventurous matriarch, Straub Brewery is proud to offer Sabina’s Signature Series – Wild Berry Sangria Spritzer!

“While the founding Straub family worked together, they were also known to enjoy spending some down time as a family,” noted Bill Brock, Straub Brewery President/CEO and the great-great-grandson of Peter and Sabina Straub. “I can envision them, sitting on their expansive front porch after a long day of work, sipping on their refreshing brews. It is in her honor that Straub Brewery is proud to offer our new flavorful Wild Berry Sangria Spritzer.”

Sabina’s Wild Berry Sangria Spritzer is a bubbly rich ruby red blend with 100% natural fruit juices and a hint of citrus. It is gluten free and has only 80 calories per six ounce serving. The 5% ABV complements the natural fruit and sparkling mountain fresh spring water, red and white grapes, apple, raspberry, and elderberry juices combine to create a refreshing, fruit forward, well balanced sangria that captures the wine sweetness and is balanced with real fruit tartness and citrus of the berries. Sabina’s Sangria Spritzer is available now throughout western Pennsylvania.

“In the beverage industry, flavored wines – such as Sangria – and sparkling seltzers have been doing well over the past few years and we thought, why not combine the two into a fresh new product?” added Brock. “Our Sangria Spritzer is a great entry category for new and younger Gen Z and millennial wine consumers, and we’ve experienced great feedback from a much broader base of new fans! After being stuck at home for so long, people are excited to get out and see their friends. And, our Sangria Spritzer is the perfect beverage for friends and family to get together, celebrate, and enjoy the super summer of all summers!”

ABOUT STRAUB BREWERY
Straub Brewery, Inc. is an international award-winning brewery founded in 1872 by German immigrant Peter Straub, who, at age 19, left his family and homeland in search of the American Dream. Today, Straub Brewery is an American Legacy Brewery™. Located in St. Marys, PA, it is one of the oldest and most historic breweries in America, and is still owned and operated by its founding family, now into its sixth and seventh generations. Fodor’s Travel named Straub Brewery one of the “5 Best Places in America to Drink American Beer.” Straub Brewery produces Straub American Lager, Straub American Light Lager, Straub American Amber Lager, Hop Blaster IPA, and an ever-changing lineup of seasonal craft brews, such as Summer Splash Lager, Tight Lines Kolsch, 1872 Lager, Autumn Smash, Oktoberfest, and Winter Bash. For more information visit: www.straubbeer.com.

Media Contacts:
Cathy Lenze, Straub Brewery, Inc.	Stephen Wayhart, BrandMill
814.335.4004, 312929@email4pr.com	412.401.0555, 312929@email4pr.com

SOURCE Straub Brewery

Sweden Creates the World’s Largest Open-Air Bar

July 8, 2021 by evebushman

Following the success of the 2019 Edible Country campaign is the launch of Drinkable Country – the largest, open-air, world-class bar led by internationally acclaimed team at Tjoget, and other leading Swedish beverage experts. Starting June 15, visitors can book a seat at more than 16 tables located in some of Sweden’s most beautiful natural landscapes for a chance to enjoy a selection of drinks and DIY recipes reflecting the country’s 100-million-acre natural pantry.

New York, NY – The world’s largest, outdoor, socially distanced bar is opening this summer in Swedish nature. In 2019, Sweden launched The Edible Country, the world’s largest DIY gourmet restaurant, with recipes developed by Guide Michelin-awarded chefs. The concept, which until now, consisted only of food, is being expanded to include an incredible drinking experience. Drinkable Country features a combination of ready-made beverages that reflect local nature and produce alongside drinks that visitors can mix themselves with ingredients found in the surroundings based on recipes provided by Sweden’s foremost beverage experts. When booking a Drinkable Country experience, guests will have the opportunity to explore the area with local guides while collecting and mixing the ingredients, and then enjoy the various drinks.

Credits: Niklas Nyman/Visit Sweden

“The DIY recipes enable visitors to explore Swedish nature through world-class taste experiences,” says Jens Heed, Program Director Food Travel at Visit Sweden.”The country’s 100 million-acre pantry of fruit, berries, vegetables, and crystal-clear spring water is open to everyone. We call it the Drinkable Country – the world’s largest open-air bar.”

The recipes have been developed in collaboration with four different beverage experts, each of whom has been given the responsibility to represent different regions in Sweden. Rebecka Lithander represents southern Sweden. Lithander has experience from the two-Michelin-star restaurant Daniel Berlin, where she raised the non-alcohol drink packages to the same high level as the food. The tables on the west coast are represented by Bar Bruno, a local gem of a cocktail bar; while on the east coast, it is the world-famous bar Tjoget that will compose the drink menu. Emil Åreng, a nationally and internationally acclaimed bartender and author of the world’s best cocktail book in 2016, represents the northern part of Sweden.

“It is a thirst-quenching journey through Swedish nature that is a completely new and fascinating way to experience cocktails and to discover the country and its natural environment,” says Leo Lahti, Bar Manager at Tjoget.

In Sweden, nature is everyone’s playground. It’s a place to linger – as long as you do not disturb or destroy it – thanks to the unique Allemansrätt – Swedens’s “freedom to roam.” With the Drinkable Country, Sweden invites everyone to experience their close-to-nature lifestyle over world-class food and drink.

More information about the experience: visitsweden.com/drinkable-country/

Video: https://youtu.be/1u-c9YnGbho

The Beverage Experts

Southern Sweden: Rebecka Lithander is an acclaimed sommelier who now works at the locally praised restaurant Mutantur in Malmö. Before joining Mutantur she worked at the two-star Guide Michelin restaurant Daniel Berlin.

Western Sweden: Bar Bruno, a small cosy bar that serves innovative cocktails with a home-bar feel.

Eastern Sweden: For the past five years, Tjoget has been on the list of the World’s 50 Best Bars.

Northern Sweden: Emil Åreng with roots in Norrland was named Sweden’s best bartender in 2015 and has also won several international awards. Emil most recently came from Cardier Baren at the historic Grand Hôtel in Stockholm, where he was Creative Director. He is the author of the cocktail book Salongs i Norrland, which was named Best Cocktail Book in the World in 2016.

The Edible Country
‘The Edible Country’ is an initiative from Visit Sweden to highlight the natural and healthy pantry that Swedish nature has to offer. The menu suggestions of the do-it-yourself dining experiences are co-created with four of Sweden’s top chefs: Titti Qvarnström, Niklas Ekstedt, Anton Bjuhr and Jacob Holmström. The dishes are created with inspiration from Sweden’s varied landscape and shifting seasons. The over 20 tables are placed in Swedish Lapland, Stockholm Archipelago, the High Coast, Dalarna, Gävleborg, Sörmland, Värmland, Västsverige, Småland, Halland, Skåne and Gotland and you can find more information about the regions on our webpage. The initiative is an open invitation for everyone to experience the Swedish ‘close-to-nature’ lifestyle and take pleasure in the natural pantry that Sweden has to offer. Add-on services that will help you during your experience, for example, your very own personal guide or chef and a basket with the necessary ingredients to create the drinks or cook the recipes outdoors are available to book online.

About Visit Sweden
Visit Sweden is Sweden’s marketing company. Visit Sweden markets Sweden abroad as a destination to contribute to more jobs and economic growth. The company also provides and sells communication and knowledge services related to the hospitality industry, tourism, and travel. Foreign tourists spend approximately SEK 144 billion annually in Sweden and approximately 172,400 people are employed in the hospitality industry’s companies alone. Visit Sweden is owned by the Swedish state through the Ministry of Enterprise and Innovation.

Tommy Bahama Spirits Wins A Remarkable Six Awards At The 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, including Double Gold

June 10, 2021 by evebushman

CASHMERE, WASH. (PRWEB) – Coral Cay Beverage Group is thrilled to announce that Tommy Bahama Spirits was recognized with a remarkable six (6) medals at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC). The SFWSC honored Tommy Bahama Mango Vodka with Double Gold (Unanimous “Gold” by 30+ judges), Tommy Bahama Copper Finished Vodka a Gold Medal, Tommy Bahama Island Gin a Silver Medal, Tommy Bahama No.2 Rum a Silver Medal, Tommy Bahama Cucumber Vodka a Bronze Medal and finally Tommy Bahama Rye with a Bronze Medal. With these six new medals, Tommy Bahama Spirits extends its run of medalling with every Spirit it enters in every competition.

About San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Founded in 2000, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition is one of the oldest and most reputable competitions of its kind. Every year, esteemed judges from around the world come together to engage in the blind tasting process that ensures every entry is judged fairly. The judges of the San Francisco World Spirits Competition are seasoned experts of their industry, each with a well-defined story and trusted palate.

About Coral Cay Beverage Group
Coral Cay Beverage Group utilizes every known distillation known to science including, cold distillation to achieve the brightest flavor and aromatic essences from each individual botanical. Currently producing distilled spirits, Ready to drink vodka + sparkling water, wine spritzers, ready to serve cocktails and craft beer. Coral Cay Beverage Group takes Luxury Relaxation to a new level with products in 4/5 of the top trending beverage categories. To learn more about Coral Cay Beverage Group, please visit: https://www.coralcaybeveragegroup.com/, and follow along on Facebook.com/SipTheIslandLife + Instagram @TommyBahamaSpirits.

About Tommy Bahama Spirits
A lifestyle with no deadlines or demands, where one has the space to reconnect with simple pleasures; the world of Tommy Bahama offers the chance to breathe freely, live spontaneously, and relax in style. To this iconic brand, we add the bespoke beverage selections of Coral Cay Beverage Group, exclusively producing Tommy Bahama Spirits. A portfolio comprised of hand crafted spirits, a lineup of Travelers to take with you wherever relaxation happens!

2021 Nightclub and Bar Show Announces Official Charity Partners Core and Southern Smoke

June 3, 2021 by evebushman

Las Vegas – The 2021 Nightclub & Bar Show announces CORE and Southern Smoke, non-profits benefiting families of food and beverage service employees, as the official charities for this year’s convention, happening June 28-30, 2021.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 27: CEO of Brewdog USA Tanisha Robinsnon (L) and David Kaplan speak during day three of the 34th annual Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show on March 27, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images for Nightclub & Bar Media Group)

A long-time charity partner with the Nightclub and Bar Show, and sister-show VIBE Conference, Children of Restaurant Employees (CORE) is a national nonprofit dedicated to serving food and beverage employees with children to provide financial relief when either the parent or their child faces a health crisis, injury, death, or natural disaster.

“Food and beverage service employees who face a qualifying life crisis can turn to CORE: Children of Restaurant Employees,” said Sheila Bennett, executive director of CORE. “We’re grateful to Questex’s Nightclub & Bar Show whose contributions to our grants program will provide financial support to qualified employees when they need us.”

For the first time, Nightclub & Bar Show is also partnering with Southern Smoke. The non-profit also helps food and beverage service employees and has successfully provided relief funds throughout all 50 states toward those battling health crisis, natural disasters, mental health, the COVID-19 pandemic and more.

“We’re so grateful that Southern Smoke is a beneficiary of the Nightclub & Bar Show this year,” said Chris Shepherd, co-founder of the Southern Smoke Foundation. “Bar and restaurant employees were devastated by the pandemic, and this partnership with Nightclub & Bar Show will do so much to provide relief—and awareness about the Emergency Relief Fund—for these folks. Southern Smoke provides relief year-round for food and beverage workers in crisis, and we’re so glad to partner with them at this upcoming event.”

The Nightclub & Bar Show will donate $12,500 to both CORE and Southern Smoke in efforts to support the backbone of the food and beverage community. Both charities will have an interactive booth on the Nightclub & Bar Show expo floor and will be speaking during the conference program on their work, their missions and opening up channels of communication for industry workers in need of their services.

To learn more about registration or other programs and activations at the 2021 Nightclub & Bar Show June 28 – 30, 2021, visit www.ncbshow.com. Nightclub & Bar Show is a trade event and not open to the general public.

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About Nightclub & Bar Show

Nightclub & Bar Show is the go-to resource for the bar and restaurant industry. Mirroring the fast-paced, trend-setting nature of the hospitality industry, Nightclub & Bar has been providing the specific tools that bar and restaurant owners, operators and managers need to grow their businesses, compete, and succeed in this hyper-competitive and dynamic industry. Nightclub & Bar Show is part of the Bar & Restaurant Group, a division of the Questex Hospitality Group which also produces VIBE Conference, and daily content on barandrestaurant.com.

About Questex

Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

About CORE

CORE: Children of Restaurant Employees, a national 501(c)3 founded by industry veterans, is

dedicated to serving food and beverage service employees with children when either the

working parent or child is navigating through a medical diagnosis, illness, injury, a death, or

impacted by a natural disaster. Industry organizations and individual donors provide financial

funding to help these families when they are faced with a medical crisis, injury, death or natural

disaster. Since 2004, the organization has grown into a nationally recognized non-profit that has

helped more than 1,300 families in 50 US states. For grant qualifications, to apply or to refer a

family for grant consideration please visit coregives.org. To support food and beverage

employees via a donation please visit coregives.org and click on the donation button.

About Southern Smoke

Chris Shepherd launched Southern Smoke in 2015 after learning his friend and former sommelier Antonio Gianola was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Since then, Southern Smoke has donated $763,000 to the MS Society, making it the largest third-party fundraiser in a five-state area.

In 2017, Southern Smoke shifted its focus to provide assistance to people in the food and beverage industry affected by Hurricane Harvey and distributed $501,000 to 139 people in need. Recognizing a need, the Southern Smoke Foundation created an Emergency Relief Fund for people in the food and beverage industry in crisis.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the Southern Smoke Emergency Relief Fund has distributed $6,264,274 to 2,727 people nationwide—both directly to people in need via the Emergency Relief Fund and to organizations that represent the needs of people in our industry. As Chris says, Southern Smoke was created to “take care of our own.” To donate or to apply, visit southernsmoke.org.

DAVE AND PATTI REISS, AND JARED MEISLER, ANNOUNCE GRAND RE-OPENING OF VENICE’S THE BRIG

June 2, 2021 by evebushman

VENICE, California – THE BRIG, the iconic Westside watering hole, reopened on Friday, May 28, 2021. Owned and operated since 2000 by the reputable Dave and Patti Reiss (Reiss Co – Nueva, The Alibi Room & Vito’s Pizza), are newly joined by notable Los Angeles restaurateur Jared Meisler (Nueva, Roger Room, The Friend & The Little Friend). Fresh off their recent successful launch of Nueva, the trio has teamed their talents in reintroducing their fans to THE BRIG 3.0. Taking guests back in time to experience what was Babe Brandelli’s original Brig, featuring a late sixties mid-century esthetic of terrazzo floors, wood paneling, light earth-toned walls, smooth sounds of vintage Soul, Rock & Roll, and of course, Babe’s raison d’être – boxing.

Photo credit: Rob Stark Photography.

THE BRIG, located at 1515 Abbot Kinney Boulevard (where it meets Palms Blvd.), with its bohemian charm and charisma reflecting the neighborhood’s diverse spirit, has always been the gateway to Los Angeles’ premier dining and shopping mecca in Venice, California. When travelers first glimpse THE BRIG’s iconic sign above the illustration of renowned Golden Globes boxer and former owner, “Babe” Brandelli, they know they have arrived in the heart of the Abbot Kinney district.

The Babe’s other passion, THE BRIG’s drink menu, has been re-mastered by Meisler and the reputable Raul Yrastorza, who crafted the tequila and Mezcal collections at Nueva, El Carmen and Las Perlas. The bountiful options include playful takes on boxing-centric craft cocktails, a who’s who of local brewers, California winemakers, kombucha and sparkling cider craftsmen, as well as a fresh take on the obligatory spirits menu. And to make a good situation even better, Meisler and the Reiss’s have invited sought-after sandwich aficionado UNCLE PAULIE’S to join the party, setting up shop at the far end of the bar, offering their classic Italian-American sandwiches in-house to match the playful beverage program.

THE BRIG’s storied marquee guides visitors to its entrance. Once through the weathered door, guests are greeted by a newly refreshed mid-century interior, influenced by the popular modern stylings during the early years of “Babe” Brandelli’s Brig. On the left lies a long Brazilian mahogany bar handsomely fitted with nougat leather barstools accentuated by brass fixtures. Behind the bar, patrons can ogle THE BRIG’s broad collection of distinctive spirits showcased below three large rectangular wood-framed mirrors that allow guests to observe the comings and goings around the room. There are three large flat-screen televisions perfect for upcoming spectating events. Complementing the bar are intimate mahogany banquettes covered in camel ultra-suede. Venturing deeper into the hull of THE BRIG, find subtle rise leading to an elevated play area where L-shaped, camel-colored bench seating frames the vintage maroon Valley-Dynamo billiard table. Large globes hang from the ceiling, effusing soft light reflecting off back-painted mirrors, flowing with varying shades of colored glass. The walls are adorned with Ellsworth Kelley-inspired mid-century geometric works of art.

At the rear of the bar is the entrance to the newly added expansive patio, flanked by the famed Art Mortimer mural-with-in-a mural. Guests can lose themselves in this spacious outdoor seating area as they wind through a mix of Ficus trees and colorful picnic-style tables and benches reminiscent of the mysterious corners and out-of-the-way spots found in yesterday’s fern bars. The setting exudes the relaxed southern California style and vibe for which Venice is known. Whether it is a warm summer evening or First Friday, it will be the place to see and be seen.rum

THE BRIG continues with its popular MOJITOS menu, including SPICY with Havana Club Rum, Mint, Lime & Thai Bird Chili; MEZCAL with Mal Bien Mezcal, Mint & Lime; ABSINTHE with Pernod Absinthe, Mint & Lime. HOUSE COCKTAILS include BANTAMWEIGHT with Passion Fruit, Aperol & Prosecco; KNOCK OUT with Vodka, Cucumber, Mint, Ginger & Crushed Ice; D0WN BY LAW with Rye Whisky, Fernet Branca & Angostura Bitters, Stirred and Served Up; SOUTHPAW with Reposado Tequila, Hibiscus, Mandarin, Averna, Served Tall & Over Ice; MAIN EVENT with Blanco Tequila, Ancho Chili, Pineapple, Lime, Served Tall & Over Ice; and SLUGGER with Bourbon, Baronjager Honey Liqueur, Lemon, Habanero Bitters, Stirred & Served on the Rocks. Meisler also adds a SHOT & BEER menu including “BABE” BRANDELLI with Bourbon + Rolling Rock Bottle; JULIO “EL CESAR” CHAVEZ with Tequila + Carta Blanca Bottle; RAY “BOOM BOOM” MANCINI with Ferrari (Half Fernet/Half Campari) + Peroni Bottle; JAMES “LIGHTS OUT” TOMEY with Elijah Craig + IPA Can; and “MARVELOUS” MARVIN HAGLER with Mezcal + Grapefruit Radler Can. (For a complete list, please visit THE BRIG’s online drink and spirits menu)

THE BRIG is open for service Monday – Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., and Saturday & Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. For those seeking a refined private experience, THE BRIG offers customized Private Events by appointment.

Beverages will be available for takeout.

ABOUT JARED MEISLER:

Jared Meisler, raised in Los Angeles, discovered his passion for nightlife and bringing people together while playing music in clubs on the Sunset Strip. Meisler began his career promoting shows and parties and booking fellow musicians and DJs in old mansions and warehouses throughout Los Angeles. In 2006, Meisler partnered with restaurateur and hotelier Sean MacPherson. Together they opened Bar Lubitsch, an art deco-styled Vodka bar in West Hollywood, then the instant classic – The Roger Room, followed by The Pikey, a high-end pub on the Sunset Strip. Desiring to expand his network, Meisler partnered with Artist Andre Saraiva to open The Friend, in Silverlake which instantly became a hub for artists, musicians and all creative types. The Friend, known as one of the coolest bars in town, expanded to Venice with The Little Friend. The Little Friend is located just behind the former Sunny Spot in Venice and led to the successful collaboration with Dave & Patti Reiss (Reiss Co) and the transformation of Sunny Spot into Nueva in 2020.

ABOUT DAVID & PATTI REISS (REISS CO):

Dave Reiss is an icon of the L.A. scene, responsible for opening Swingers on Beverly, Red, Sugar, The Brig, and half a dozen other properties. Patti met Dave while working in marketing at New Line Cinema, having spanned an extensive career in the entertainment industry from Warner Music Group to BMG. Patti is no stranger to the food world, having founded a family baking company patronized by hotels and gourmet food shops in the Twin Cities. After The Brig, Patti and her husband Dave opened a series of properties under the Reiss Co umbrella, beginning with Beechwood in 2004. Together, the two share an entrepreneurial spirit that has grown over the years into the vibrant Reiss Co portfolio of restaurant and bar concepts providing outstanding food, wine, cocktail, and service in exceptional spaces throughout their Los Angeles community.

THE BRIG

1515 Abbott Kinney Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291

310.399.7537

info@thebrig.com

For more information, the public can visit:

www.thebrig.com

Follow THE BRIG:

Facebook: @TheBrigVenice

Instagram: @thebrigvenice

Twitter: @thebrigvenice

Remembering James Alexander Clendenen

May 30, 2021 by evebushman

SANTA MARIA, Calif., /PRNewswire/ — The wine world has lost an icon. James Alexander Clendenen of Au Bon Climat Winery in Santa Maria, CA passed away Sunday, May 16th in his sleep. He was 68. A visionary, Jim was instrumental in putting the Santa Barbara region on the map by cultivating an international reputation for fine Chardonnay and Pinot Noir since 1982. His absence is keenly felt, but his legacy will continue.

Jim Clendenen, guiding light for the Santa Barbara County wine region. Photo by Kirk Irwin

Jim Clendenen, the “Mind Behind” as was his official title, was one of the lions of the wine industry, recognized worldwide for his classically styled wines of balance, restraint, and longevity. This was countered by his larger than life personality. He was outspoken, articulate, humorous and unfiltered in his beliefs. Jim was both enthusiastic ambassador and guiding light for the Santa Barbara County wine region. He was essential in elevating Burgundian varietals on the Central Coast and continued to be a driving force throughout his life. Among his accolades, Jim has been named Winemaker of the Year by the Los Angeles Times and Food & Wine Magazine; one of the Fifty Most Influential Winemakers by Wine & Spirits Magazine; one of the Fifty World Wide Creators of Modern Classic Wine by Oz Clark, Winemaker of the World by leading German Magazine Wein Gourmet; deemed One of the Best Wineries in the World by Robert Parker; and inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s “Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America.”

A man of great generosity, Jim was a key figure at many wine auctions, from Emeril Lagasse’s Carnivale du Vin and the Atlanta High Museum Wine Auction to Direct Relief’s biennial auction, with his sizeable donations always one of the top grossing items. He was also generous with his time mentoring budding winemakers, sharing the spotlight and acknowledging fellow colleagues, and when in need, always there with a helping hand. An avid cook, Jim’s lunches at the winery that he prepared every day for the crew were legendary with celebrated guests from around the globe often in attendance. Amazing wine, food and discussion was a daily event, and that is how Jim lived his life – to the fullest.

Jim’s other passion was his children. He treasured his time with Isabelle (26) and Knox (21), and enjoyed taking them on great adventures all over the world. Isabelle states, “My father was a very generous, bright, and candid man. Beyond wine, his contributions to the culinary world were tremendous. He was an icon to many, but most importantly, he was a very caring father. He made sure my brother and I wanted for nothing. His loss effects so many, but his impact will never be lost to any of us. It means a lot to me that he was celebrated and loved by so many.”

Jim is also survived sister Pat Matela and her husband Frank Matela, niece Marisa Matela who is assistant winemaker at Au Bon Climat, sister Marsha Clendenen, and nephew Patrick Clendenen.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Direct Relief: https://secure.directrelief.org/8FF475FC&2924_donation=form1

Reviewing the “Swankey” Wine Tote, a “Supersized” PortoVino Wine Purse!

May 28, 2021 by evebushman

Who likes swanky purses? One that can fit up to FOUR BOTTLES OF WINE, with a liner and a spout! The “Swankey” Wine Purse is the latest from the Porto Vino Wine Purse company and I absolutely adore it! When I did this video the opened pouch on the outside of the purse looked like it was talking at me! I loved all of the different prints to pick from and chose this bright baby as I thought it would look good by my swimming pool, with nice chilled wine in the outside pouch and goodies kept cool on the inside! How does it look to you?

Come to find that the new swanky purse came with an extra-large insulated lining and pour spout, much like my first purse from this company, that is easily “hidden” from unwanted viewing. It’s convenient and a conversation piece – if I choose to share what I’ve got! Love that I can use just like a regular purse as it’s plenty roomy inside for everything I normally carry. But now I can normally carry…wine! Along with that, the insulated interior allows me to store plenty of food and drink inside the bag, while I store wine in the hidden panel outside. I am now picnic, pool and party ready!

The press release with more information is below:

PORTOVINO WINE PURSE ACQUIRES THE SWANKEY BEVERAGE TOTE BAG, THE PERFECT, BIGGER SIZE, ADDITION TO THEIR COLLECTION OF CONVENIENT AND FASHIONABLE WINE PURSES

Phoenix, ARIZONA -The time to expand the PortoVino Wine Purse collection has come. The “fashion meets functionality” company recently made a super-size addition to their already incredible collection of wine bags by acquiring the Swankey Beverage Tote Bag.

Portovino, the Wine Lover’s go-to purse brand, allows you to discreetly store and pour up to 2 bottles of wine, or your favorite drink “on the go”, and the new addition to the collection, now brings even more to the table. The Swankey Tote, or as we like to call it, the Supersized PortoVino, not only allows you to fill up the included beverage pouch with up to 4 bottles of wine or 3L of any beverage hot or cold, but you can also insert and 3L boxed wine pouch in it. This new Swankey is designed with a built-in cooler, so you can fill it up with a 6 pack of cans and all of your picnic items. It is essentially your everyday bag with a stealthy cooler attached all while adding a stylish pop of color to your outfit and making life much easier. You can bring the Swankey Tote bag with you to all kinds of events, filling it up with water for hot days, mixed drinks for festivals, or cold brew for busy moms on the go.

Much like the PortoVino, The Swankey Tote is your everyday bag but unlike your average everyday bag, it has a secret, zippered, and insulated compartment for the wine pouch that is separate from the actual bag. The Swankey’s compartment is designed like its own cooler and is big enough to store the 3-liter capacity beverage pouch that is included with each tote, or you can easily replace it with any of the smaller 750ml or 1.5L beverage pouches that PortoVino offers and have extra room for any snacks you’d like to keep cool. The Swankey can dub as a cooler for anything you would like to keep cold or hot. The value is unbeatable, and just like the rest of the PortoVino Wine purse collections, the Swankey Tote also includes a flap that covers the pouring spouts, as well as interior pockets that can hold your phone, keys, and your mask while you take a quick sip.

Not only will you now be able to choose whether you want a more formal leather purse or a fun and colorful one with an assortment of different patterns to choose from, but you will also be able to choose by capacity. Portovino allows you to choose between 1 bottle or 2 bottle pouches, and now with the amount of space in the Swankey Tote you’ll have enough wine to provide for all of your friends. Whether you decide to utilize the function of taking your wine on the go or using them as your favorite fashion accessory for everyday use, you will always create a buzz, so pick your poison and be ready to be everyone’s official favorite friend.

About PortoVino

The PortoVino purse, which notably stores and pours up to 2 bottles of wine from a secret insulated compartment, is making fast strides in the fashion industry. Since their 2017 launch, their collection has more than tripled with fashion accessories ranging from their classic vegan leather wine bags to their trendy messenger bags, to their insanely popular Double Pour Tuscany totes. There is truly something available for everyone’s personal style esthetic.

PortoVino is also socially conscious, and since 2016 has partnered with Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) organization. FMSC is a Christian based non-profit organization that coordinates the packaging and distribution of food to people in developing nations. Since 1987, it has reached out to more than 70 countries. For every PortoVino purse purchased, one meal is donated to Feed My Starving Children.

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

Vinexpo America and Drinks America Plan A Joint Debut In New York, March 9-10, 2022

May 23, 2021 by evebushman

Where the wine and spirits world meets in America: Vinexpo America and Drinks America plan a joint debut in New York, March 9-10, 2022

PORTLAND, Maine – Diversified Communications and Vinexposium has announced two co-located events—Vinexpo America and Drinks America—that will reunite the beverage alcohol industry in person, under one roof, in 2022. The trade-only expos will be held March 9-10, 2022, in the new Hall 3 at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Together, they promise to attract top buyers and decision makers from across North America, the largest and fast-growing beverage-alcohol-consuming market in the world.

Vinexpo America is a repositioning of the former Vinexpo New York, which for three years served as the premier international exhibition for wine and spirits professionals in North America before a 2021 pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In its new form, Vinexpo America will focus exclusively on wines, with representation from all of the world’s top-producing regions.

Drinks America is a brand-new expo created in response to a forecasted continuing rise in consumption of spirits and ready-to-drink beverages. It will feature a wide array of spirits, beer and sake from producers across the globe as well as beverage alcohol accessories and services.

Both events will provide U.S. and Canadian buyers access to new and established brands that are looking to expand distribution, network and meet with existing customers in North America. From conferences to master classes, two full days of educational programming will address issues relevant to both the wine and spirits worlds.

For attendees, Vinexpo America | Drinks America offers the advantage of one registration for full access to both shows’ exhibits, programming and events—a great value that also optimizes efficiency as they can meet with producers from around the world in one location over two days.

Exhibitors will benefit from visibility to all buyers, decision makers and influencers from both events, plus unlimited free guest invitations. A new business matchmaking service will facilitate one-to-one meetings during the two-day exhibition.

“We’re excited to renew our partnership with Vinexposium and come back to New York in 2022 with a brand-new, greatly enhanced offering,” said Mary Larkin, president of Diversified Communications USA. “Bringing together Vinexpo America and Drinks America in a single meeting place will enable us to serve the entire U.S. wine and spirits communities—an especially welcome opportunity after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the industry’s major exhibitions in 2021.”

“The launch of our events in the United States in 2022 is designed to coincide with the resumption of trade between Europe and the USA. Under a new name, Vinexpo America aims to embrace the entire North American market, alongside Drinks America. It has become crucial to offer our customers a comprehensive business platform that matches the scale of the American continent and includes spirits, craft drinks and beers alongside wine,” stresses Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium.

More information regarding the 2022 event will be announced in the coming months.

About Vinexposium

Owned jointly by Comexposium and Vinexpo Holding, Vinexposium is the world’s leading organiser of wine and spirits trade events. Vinexposium offers an enhanced range of high-performance events, tailored to different market segments, with a portfolio of iconic and recognised events: Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris, WOW! Meetings, Vinexpo America & Drinks America, Vinexpo Hong Kong, WBWE Asia, Vinexpo Bordeaux, Vinexpo Shanghai and WBWE Amsterdam, as well as Vinexpo Explorer and World Wine Meetings.

About Diversified Communications

Diversified Communications is a leading international media company with a portfolio of face-to-face exhibitions and conferences, online communities, and digital and print publications. As producers of these market-leading products, Diversified Communications connects, educates, and strengthens business communities in over 15 industries including: renewable energy, healthcare, natural and organic, food and beverage, and technology. Established in 1949 and headquartered in Portland, Maine, USA, with divisions and offices around the world, Diversified Communications remains a privately held, third-generation, family-owned business. For more information, visit www.divcom.com

Clarion Events Food & Beverage Group Offers Reinvented Live Events

May 20, 2021 by evebushman

Trumbull, CT – Clarion Events Food & Beverage Group, trade show producers of several leading restaurant and foodservice industry events, is thrilled to announce that the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo and Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show will both be taking place as scheduled in August and September 2021, respectively. Free registration will be made available to qualified foodservice professionals. Registration for both events will open in June.

“While the restaurant and hospitality industry has been hit hard by the global pandemic, we are thrilled to see the light at the end of the tunnel and make plans to bring the industry together in both Anaheim and Orlando,” said Tom Loughran, Vice President for the Clarion Events Food & Beverage Group. “As a way for us to support the industry we are picking up the check and offering free registration to all qualified foodservice professionals who will have access to our new education program offering five Summits as well as to the trade show floor which will showcase industry vendors and aisles of new products and services.”

Based on attendee and market feedback, the five new Educational Summits will feature content focused specifically on the needs of: Independent Restaurateurs, Small to Mid-Sized Chains, Retail, Contract Foodservice, and Technology at each of the events. Each of the Summits will focus on similar topics, geared toward the particular segment they represent. Some themes include social media and marketing, human resources, leasing and development, financing and accounting, operations, and technology. For more information, visit www.westernfoodexpo.com/education-tracks.

Additionally, there will be COVID-specific focused sessions to show what opportunities there are for rebirth and growth that can come from such a challenging time. These sessions will focus on Re-evaluating Leasing and Negotiating Contracts, Post-COVID Opportunities and Franchising and Growth Strategies. The events will also offer operator-focused education providing peer learning from those operating restaurants daily. Attendees will also hear from industry-thought leaders and consultants who can provide firsthand knowledge and insight.

The trade shows will also feature many of the special events attendees have come to expect including Center Stage Culinary Demonstrations, the Torch and Beacon Award Presentations, as well as panels of industry thought-leaders and C-Suite executives. Rapid Fire and Hip Sip Competitions with local chefs and bartenders and Beverage Focused panel with members of the ‘Bar Rescue’ Team are also being planned. For information on participating in these events, contact Lauren Selman, Conference Manager at lauren.selman@ifbta.org.

The live trade shows and education programming will take place at the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo, August 22-24, 2021 at the Anaheim Convention Center, CA; and The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show taking place September 19-20, 2021 at the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL.

Clarion Events (https://clarionevents.com/) produces 37 events across 13 sectors of both trade and consumer events. The Food & Beverage Group includes the International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York, The Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show, Healthy Food Expo, CoffeeFest and The NGA Show. Clarion Events, backed by The Blackstone Group, has become one of the fastest growing event companies in the U.S. with aggressive growth through both acquisition and launch. Clarion acquired PennWell in early 2018, bringing 4 Tradeshow 200 events into the U.S. portfolio and super-charging the already rapid growth. Clarion Events has offices in Trumbull, CT; Kennesaw, GA; Boca Raton, FL; Tacoma, WA, and Fairlawn, NJ.

Auberge du Soleil Announces The Reopening Of Its Iconic Michelin Star Restaurant And The Return Of Fine Dining On The Terrace

April 29, 2021 by evebushman

RUTHERFORD, CALIF. (PRWEB) – Auberge du Soleil, Napa Valley’s quintessential adult getaway, has announced the reopening of The Restaurant, the property’s culinary landmark, featuring a new two- or three-course prix fixe lunch menu ; a three- or four-course prix fixe or six-course tasting menu for dinner service; and a three-course brunch menu available on Saturdays and Sundays. The Restaurant, one of Napa Valley’s first fine dining establishments and recipient of 13 consecutive Michelin Stars, is synonymous with Wine Country cuisine and widely considered a “must experience” culinary destination among discerning travelers and locals alike.

Photo: @verticalluxurytravel

Simultaneously, the hotel’s Bistro and Bar will welcome guests with its original menu concept featuring a range of casual dishes meant to be enjoyed with refreshing cocktails, craft brews and a vast selection of more than 40 wines by the glass that offer a balanced selection of California and French/Old World wines.

Enhancements to the hotel’s beverage program include a range of palate pleasing Aperitifs, French-Inspired Cocktails, and elevated “Classics” featuring the most indulgent versions of time-honored standards such as the Martini, Manhattan, Old Fashioned and Negroni, along with an array of Speciality Cocktails and a new selection of Digestifs.

“Reopening The Restaurant is something we’ve all been looking forward to these many months as it’s the cornerstone for the full sensory experience of the property. Dining on the Terrace can transport you to the south of France while seated in the heart of Napa Valley,” said Bradley Reynolds, Managing Director of Auberge du Soleil. “We’ve missed the special birthdays, anniversaries and celebrations that our guests share with us and we can’t wait to begin creating life-long memories together once again.”

Auberge du Soleil offers spectacular panoramic views of vineyards and mountain vistas from the expansive outdoor terrace, where guests may sip, savor and linger over the dining experience of their choice: The Restaurant, with an elevated fine-dining approach that showcases seasonal, locally-grown ingredients prepared with French techniques; or the Bistro and Bar, which provides the ideal mid-valley respite for an informal lunch between wine tastings or a casual dinner to relax over at the end of the day.

Robert Curry has served as Executive Chef at Auberge du Soleil since 2005, overseeing the culinary program at The Restaurant, Bistro and Bar and hotel’s Private Dining exclusively for Weddings and Events. Curry began his culinary career in his native Los Angeles and received his degree from the Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park. After graduation, he was recruited by Michael Richard and Alain Giraud for Citrus Restaurant in New York. In the late ‘90’s he travelled to France working with Alain Ducasse at his three-star Louis XV in the Hotel de Paris, Joseph Thuet at the Moët & Chandon Résidence de Trianon in Epernay, and in Paris at the two-star Michel Rostang. He later served as Executive Chef at the Wine Spectator Greystone Restaurant at the CIA in St Helena, California, eight years at Domaine Chandon in Yountville, as Executive Sous Chef under Philippe Jeanty and ultimately succeeding him as Executive Chef.

Reservations are now being accepted for The Restaurant by contacting Auberge du Soleil at 707.967.1211 or online via OpenTable. The Restaurant will be open for Lunch, Wednesday-Friday from 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, followed by Dinner service from 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Brunch will be offered on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM. The Restaurant will open seven days a week starting May 1.

The Lunch menu will offer a two course prix fixe for $60 and three-courses for $75. Dinner service will feature three courses for $135, four courses for $155 or a six-course tasting menu for $185. All menus include vegetarian selections available with each course.

The Bistro and Bar offers continuous service seven days a week from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM. Reservations are suggested via 707.967.1211 or online at OpenTable.

Inspired by the relaxed sophistication of the South of France and infused with California soul, Auberge du Soleil features wine country’s most luxurious accommodations, spectacular valley views, a 13-time Michelin Star award-winning Restaurant, and exclusive Auberge du Soleil Spa. Known for passionate, intuitive service that sets the standard for gracious hospitality, the property is a long-standing member of Relais & Châteaux, an international association of outstanding boutique properties known for their excellence in hospitality and the culinary arts.

Auberge du Soleil consistently receives the highest accolades from the hospitality industry, discerning guests and the media, and is perennially ranked among the best and most romantic hotels in the world by influential publications. For more information please visit http://www.aubergedusoleil.com and follow at facebook.com/AubergeduSoleil and on Twitter and Instagram at @AubergeduSoleil. For reservations and availability contact the hotel directly at 800.348.5406 or email ads.reservations@aubergeresorts.com.

About Relais & Châteaux
Created in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an organization of more than 560 exceptional hotels and restaurants run by independent men and women, all driven by a passion for their profession and dedicated to the authenticity of the relationships they build with their customers. With operations on all five continents, from the vineyards of Napa Valley to Provence and the beaches of the Indian Ocean, Relais & Châteaux members invite all to discover the art of living enshrined in the location’s culture, and share a unique, human story. Relais & Châteaux members have a profound desire to protect and showcase the richness and diversity of the cuisine and inviting cultures of the world. They worked towards this goal, along with the goal to preserve local heritages and the environment, through a UNESCO Manifesto in November 2014. For more information please visit http://www.relaischateaux.com.

About Auberge Resorts Collection
Auberge Resorts Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine and spas, and gracious yet unobtrusive service. With 19 hotels and resorts across three continents, Auberge invites guests to create unforgettable stories in some of the world’s most desirable destinations. For more information about Auberge Resorts Collection, please visit aubergeresorts.com. Follow Auberge Resorts Collection on Facebook at facebook.com/AubergeResorts and on Twitter and Instagram at @AubergeResorts and #AlwaysAuberge.