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

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

Fieldwork Brewing Expands at Oxbow Public Market Annex with New Outdoor Beer Garden and Large Capacity Taproom in Spring 2021

February 28, 2021 by evebushman

Berkeley, Calif. — An ambassador for craft beer in Berkeley, California, Fieldwork Brewing Company expands its Napa Valley location with a new outdoor beer garden and increased indoor taproom capacity at the Oxbow Public Market Annex (1046 McKinstry Street, Napa) in spring 2021. Fieldwork Brewing opened its taproom at Oxbow Public Market in 2016, which will remain open until the Grand Opening of their new locale. At the adjacent Annex, Fieldwork builds out its indoor footprint to 1,450 square feet with an additional 900 square feet outside for the European-style beer garden. The new Fieldwork Taproom and Beer Garden at Oxbow Public Market Annex overlooks the Napa River and Oxbow Commons green space, and is located next to The Fatted Calf and Model Bakery.

“We are excited to have this expanded indoor / outdoor space to present a Fieldwork environment that is more akin to our other larger Bay Area locations,” said Barry Braden, CEO and Co-Founder of Fieldwork Brewing Company. “Our goal is always to provide the best hospitality, a casual environment, and seasonal beers — as fresh as possible and directly from the source.”

Steve Carlin, Founder and Managing Partner of Oxbow Public Market stated, “Barry and Alex always produce a terrific product and fun atmosphere. We expect their new space to be lively, comfortable, and a major part of Oxbow Public Market for years to come.”

Brewing well over 500 unique beers since opening its West Berkeley brewery in February 2015, Fieldwork brews with as much a sense of purpose as a sense of place as they honor Northern California’s magnificent outdoor landscapes with an array of idiosyncratic beers. The esteemed brewing team led by Head Brewer and Co-Founder Alex Tweet focuses on innovation for its ever-evolving roster of highly aromatic and well-balanced beers. Based on seasonality and consistent quality, Fieldwork forges its own path brewing beers they simply love to drink.

Walking into Fieldwork Brewing locations is never the same experience twice with their ambitious brewing program featuring signature IPAs, Double IPAs, lagers, pale ales, sours, stouts, etc. Bay Area regulars and out of town visitors can always rely on enjoying an onslaught of beer varieties with the tasting menu in constant rotation. Some beers reappear and others never repeat.

The Fieldwork Taproom and Beer Garden at Oxbow Public Market Annex will feature upwards of 18 beers on the menu, and will present live music and other A&E programming.

For more information regarding Fieldwork Brewing Company, please visit fieldworkbrewing.com and instagram.com/fieldworkbrewingco.

About Fieldwork Brewing Company

Established in 2015, Fieldwork Brewing Company is a craft brewery based in Berkeley, CA brewing for the regional Northern California marketplace. Available at their West Berkeley, Napa, Sacramento, San Mateo, Monterey, San Ramon, and Corte Madera taprooms/beer gardens, Fieldwork beers are also on draft at the finest local craft beer focused restaurants and bars. Fieldwork is the 10th fastest growing private company on San Francisco Business Times’ “100 Fastest Growing Private Companies in the Bay Area” for 2018, and Inc. magazine ranked Fieldwork at No. 604 on its 2019 Inc. 5000 list of “America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies.”

Fieldwork’s downtown Napa location expands to the Oxbow Public Market Annex in spring 2021, and the midtown Sacramento taproom is in The Handle District. In summer 2017, Fieldwork opened beer gardens in San Mateo and Monterey. The Fieldwork Taproom and Beer Garden at City Center Bishop Ranch (San Ramon) opened in 2018, and The Fieldwork Taproom at Town Center Corte Madera opened in 2020. Fieldwork’s latest releases can be enjoyed by sampler flight, beer by the glass, and filled “to go” in growlers and crowler cans. Special Release cans are available onsite and for delivery while supplies last at each location.

Fieldwork proudly supports select regional non-profits through the release of benefit beers such as Koalaty Time Double IPA, March On Hoppy & Strong, Crayon Box Double IPA, 924 Double IPA, Oakland Pride IPA, Golden Rule Double IPA, and Fetch Pale Ale.

About Oxbow Public Market

Oxbow Public Market, located in the historic Oxbow District of downtown Napa, has become the local resource for great food and wine in the Napa Valley. The 40,000 square foot marketplace, which includes a scenic outdoor deck with seating along the Napa River, features a diverse tenant mixture of local food vendors, artisan cafes and an organic produce outlet for local farms. For more information, please call 707-226-6529, or visit www.oxbowpublicmarket.com.

All-New Spirits Tasting Competition Targets Fledgling Distilleries

January 13, 2021 by evebushman

SPOKANE, WASH. (PRWEB) – Distillery University, the long-time provider of online and hands-on education for craft distillers, announced they would be offering a new Tasting Competition for the industry with a unique twist. Unlike other similar competitions, entrants would be limited to those licensed distilleries that have been in business for five years or less (international entries are also permitted). Registrations are opening soon for a variety of competitive categories, with the Competition taking place in May 2021 in Spokane, WA.

“Our goal is to create a platform for new distillers to get the insight, promotion and exposure they might not otherwise have access to.” – Rockwell Rutter, CEO, Distillery University.

With other competitions, the winner’s circle is often dominated by big brands and deep pockets; they’ve had years with which to perfect their recipes and can afford top-quality ingredients. This can make it difficult for the startups and new operations to compete at the same level. Distillery University plans to level the playing field by offering the truly talented small distilleries a chance to show off their best products and get some well-deserved promotion. At the same time, this is a great opportunity for those same distilleries to get an unbiased critique and analysis of their spirits from a group of experts.

Providing that analysis will be a blind panel of approximately 15 judges, all hand-picked by DU as leaders in their respective fields. For example, the judging panel will include sommeliers, brewers, chefs, journalists, bartenders and more. Over the course of several days in May 2021, these judges will critically sample each spirit submission and provide not only a rating score, but also tasting notes that will be released to the distillery. Distilleries will be awarded medals based on their resulting scores, while select winners will be offered a product placement meeting with a large spirits retailer.

“We believe the Next Great Distillery has yet to be found, and this is how we plan to do it.” – Rockwell Rutter, CEO, Distillery University

Distillery University is the premier provider of online and hands-on education for craft distillers. Since 2012 they have offered a fully comprehensive curriculum for those wishing to enter the industry, or those with a desire to broaden their existing skillset. Distillery University’s nearly 1500 students enjoy a wide range of course topics, covering everything from product development to business management. Students can choose to learn online through self-paced video courses, livestreaming webinars, or in-person at a multi-day Hands-on Workshop. Distillery University’s main goal is to make it as easy as possible for true craft distillers to realize their dream of making phenomenal spirits in a successful business.

SURREAL BREWING Unveils “CREATIVES IPA” Non-Alcoholic Craft Beer Fermented With Ancient Kveik Yeast

August 19, 2020 by evebushman

CAMPBELL, CALIF. (PRWEB) – Surreal Brewing Company adds a new thirst-quenching non-alcoholic beer to its lineup. Introducing “Creatives IPA”, an unconventional beverage of tropical aromas and flavors punctuated by a restrained piney West Coast hop finish. One of the latest additions to its growing line of all-natural, innovative, health-conscious craft beers, Creatives IPA was brewed with the ancient Norwegian Kveik yeast strain and a new variety of hop. “We were intrigued by Kveik yeast as soon as we heard about it. We have a deep appreciation for every ingredient we use, especially the yeast, which as the old axiom goes: the brewer makes the wort and the yeast makes the beer,“ said Tammer Zein-El-Abedein.

As in all their carefully crafted brews, the new beer consists of a complex blend that captivates a craft beer enthusiasts as well as the growing number of people who drink non-alcoholic beverages.

Awarded World’s Best Non-Alcoholic Beer of 2019, Surreal Brewing Company is the family-founded and operated brewing company that specializes in all-natural, non-GMO, non-alcoholic craft beers as a healthy, yet flavorful, alternative to alcohol and/or sugary drinks. The brand’s core brews are all available starting at 17 calories per can, no sugar, low carbs, and two reduced gluten options: Chandelier Red IPA, Juicy Mavs Hazy IPA, 17 Mile Porter, and Natural Bridges Kolsch Style.

Creatives IPA will initially roll out online at http://www.SurrealBrewing.com before being made available at select stores in California.

“This brew is a shout out to all creatives, whether that is through the arts, technology, or other creative outlets, to everyone who creates positive change. This beer is made for all who Dare to Be Different,” said Donna Hockey.

ABOUT SURREAL BREWING COMPANY
Founded in Campbell, California by husband and wife team, Tammer Zein-El-Abedein and Donna Hockey, Surreal Brewing aims to fill a void in the marketplace with a variety of great-tasting non-alcoholic beverages. Surreal Brewing brings forth a new era in which health-conscious and sober individuals can still enjoy the unique, crisp flavor of beer anytime while maintaining their health goals and feeling included at social gatherings.

John Fearless Launches Online Shop With Global Hop Varieties And More

July 5, 2020 by evebushman

NAPA, CALIF. (PRWEB) – New aromatic opportunities are being offered through John Fearless for breweries that want to expand their brewing options. South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, USA and German hops are newly available to purchase online via JohnFearless.com. This expanse of inventory offers a much wider selection to the small, medium, and large-sized businesses that purchase beverage-making supplies from John Fearless.

As a leader in the beverage supply industry, John Fearless works hard to ensure top products are available to breweries, wineries, distilleries and non-alcoholic beverages. Quality and unique ingredients are important for craft beverages. In addition to hops, John Fearless also carries a range of products including, Muntons Malt, Brewshield, WineShield, Structan, WLT 150, Milne Microdried fruits, Humuflor Hop Essence, and used wine and spirit oak barrels.

Modern hop varietals with tropical, fruit forward aromatics have been added to the website and are now available to order 24/7:

A number of South African hops are currently available including: Southern Passion, African Queen, Southern Star, Southern Tropic and Southern Sublime New Zealand hops sold by John Fearless include: Nelson Sauvin, Motueka, Taiheke, Wakatu™, Riwaka, and the soon to be released Hort4337 and more.
A wide selection of USA hops include: El Dorado, Azacca, Zappa, Centennial, Cascade and more.
Three hop varieties are available from Germany: Ariana (which offers a blackcurrant, grapefruit, geranium and vanilla aroma blend), Callista and Huell Melon
Ella™ is the flavor hop varietal available from Australia via JohnFearless.com, and it’s highly versatile while containing floral aromatics (a common feature in noble European and Australian hops)

With a focus on finding unique options for small, medium, and large sized brewing companies, John Fearless is excited about their new options for hop varietal sales. Craft brewers can explore aroma profiles from around the world to find the right fit for their beer styles. Detailed information on sizing and pricing for orders is currently available on the John Fearless website on the individual products page.

About John Fearless Co: John Fearless is dedicated to bringing specialty hops, malts and more to the small brewing community. Items sourced from all over the world are brought directly to small businesses looking to craft bold flavors, complex brews and heady aromas. With over 20 years in the beverage industry, John Fearless offers specialty hops, hop aroma, malt, beer and wine stabilizers, finishing tannins, liquid flavor extracts, quality aged barrels, MicroDried® fruits and more.

Cali Orchards® by Mine Shaft Brewing, Announces The Launch of Cali Orchards® Hard Sparkling Water

February 15, 2020 by evebushman

Entering the beverage market this winter the founders of Mine Shaft Brewing (MSB) are proud to announce the launch of Cali Orchards® Hard Sparkling Water. Cali Orchards® Is the World’s Most Deliciously Flavorful Refreshing All-Natural Hard Sparkling Water Made With Real Fruit Juice As Nature Intended with Zero aftertastes.

Orlando, FL – Public Wire LLC – Entering the beverage market this winter the founders of Mine Shaft Brewing (MSB) are proud to announce the launch of Cali Orchards® Hard Sparkling Water. Cali Orchards® Is the World’s Most Deliciously Flavorful Refreshing All-Natural Hard Sparkling Water Made With Real Fruit Juice As Nature Intended with Zero aftertastes.

Once You Try Cali You Never Go Back!

As of this press release, Cali Orchards® has won every blind taste test against the biggest brands in the seltzer/hard sparkling water space. One of the things that separates Cali Orchards® from the top brands is that Cali Orchards® flavor and smell last the whole can and not just the first sip plus Cali Orchards® has ZERO sodium VS the top brands having from 5mg to 25mg of sodium per a 12oz can. Cali Orchards® is loaded with flavor VS Just a Hint of Flavor.

Cali Orchards® is proud to announce it will make its first public appearance in Northern California and across UT in early spring through its distributors. Carlson Distributing for all of UT and Saccani Distributing for its territory in northern California. “Carlson & Saccani have been great to us, and we are excited to be working with such incredible distributors with great histories” said Tim Nemeckay, President of MSB.

Cali Orchards® is all-natural, low calorie, low carbs, low sugar, gluten-free, and vegan – all with 5.0% ABV. On top of these healthier attributes, MSB partnered with a world leader in all-natural ingredients. It was paramount to work with one of the best companies in the world to create Cali Orchards® When we first started working with the company we said: Ask yourself, would you eat a peach, black cherries, orange or any other fruit if you only tasted it on the first bite, or it only had a hint of flavor. Would you eat raspberries and say “let me put lime juice on them” or “some fresh melon sounds good this morning but let me put some basil on it.” Probably not, so why would you drink a hard-sparkling/seltzer water with a hint of flavor and only on the first sip or some crazy combination fruit and herbs said Tim Nemeckay President of MSB.

Cali Orchards® Was Created with The West Coast in Mind. Sunsets, Endless Days, And an Active Lifestyle. We’ve Tested Our Product from The Beaches to The Mountains. As Nature Intended, Cali Orchards® Is Made with Real Fruit Juice. The New Summertime Drink Anytime of The Year.

To learn more about Cali Orchards® visit the website and follow the company on social media: https://caliorchards.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/caliorchards/

Website: CaliOrchards.com

WhistlePig Rye Whiskey The Boss Hog 六 Edition ‒ The Samurai Scientist

December 5, 2019 by evebushman

SHOREHAM, VT. (PRWEB) – WhistlePig, the No. 1 distiller in the fast growing, ultra-premium and luxury rye whiskey category, 1 is pleased to introduce their newest edition of The Boss Hog: The Samurai Scientist. Now available for pre-order via Caskers, The Samurai Scientist is a sixteen-year-old, single barrel, straight rye whiskey that is powerfully complex and distinctly unique from anything WhistlePig has introduced before.

The Samurai Scientist is named for a legendary Japanese chemist, Jōkichi Takamine, the pioneer who introduced koji fermentation to the American whiskey industry in the 19th century. The limited-edition whiskey is the embodiment of a genuine collaboration between WhistlePig’s team and Japanese brewers from Kitaya, an award-winning sake, shōchū and umeshu producer located near Yame City in Fukuoka Prefecture on Japanʼs Kyushu Island. The umeshu used is Saikoo, a uniquely traditional, aged umeshu made by Kitaya. The whiskey was distilled in Canada using koji fermentation and aged for sixteen years before being finished in umeshu seasoned barrels and bottled by hand on the WhistlePig Farm in Shoreham, VT.

“It was an honor to work alongside the team at Kitaya to bring this collaboration to life in the form of the first American whiskey finished in Japanese umeshu barrels. With the introduction of The Samurai Scientist, WhistlePig continues to pave the way for innovation across the rye category,” says Jeff Kozak, CEO, WhistlePig. “Dave Pickerell committed to five promises for The Boss Hog, including being distinctly unique from anything we’ve done before. He had a thirst for exploring and trialing techniques from around the world, and Takamine was likeminded in propelling whiskey innovation across continents. This vision continues to drive us to explore beyond the limits of American Whiskey.”

“We finished one of our oldest whiskeys in barrels that held Kitaya’s eleven-year-old umeshu. With umeshu being an intensely aromatic spirit, it does not take long to impart deeply complex flavors. Each barrel of The Samurai Scientist is bottled at proof. Only 90 barrels exist and each bottle notes the barrel number and proof, ranging between 120 – 122,” says Pete Lynch, Master Blender, WhistlePig.

On the nose, The Samurai Scientist is intensely aromatic, with cinnamon, maple syrup and toasted marshmallow. Upon tasting, you’ll find bold notes of tobacco, ginger, baking spices and savory umami. After some time in the glass, and with a few drops of water, the whiskey reveals rich and complex notes of rye spice, oak char and vanilla. The finish on The Samurai Scientist is incredibly long, with oak spice, char and just a touch of smoke.

The Samurai Scientist is crowned by a hand-made Danforth pewter stopper representing Takamine’s family heritage and ground-breaking contributions in the field of chemistry. It is presented in a gift box elaborating his story.

The Samurai Scientist is available in a 750ml bottle at 60 – 61% alc./vol. with a suggested retail price of $499.99. Like the other Boss Hog editions before it, The Samurai Scientist will be sold at a variety of premium liquor stores, bars and restaurants across the United States, entering select international markets in the coming weeks, and is now available for pre-sale via Caskers.com.

About WhistlePig

Founded in 2008, WhistlePig is the premier aged rye whiskey, featuring the bold and often untapped flavor of rye. WhistlePig is leading a surge of innovation in the emerging field of North American whiskey. As the most decorated rye whiskey – having received the coveted ‘Best in Show Whiskey’ title from the 2017 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, WhistlePig is widely viewed as the world’s finest Rye. With the opening of its distillery on its 500-acre Vermont farm in the fall of 2015, WhistlePig has also become one of the leading farm-to-bottle rye whiskeys in the world. http://www.whistlepigrye.com

(1) Ultra-premium and luxury rye category defined as all rye whiskies in the U.S. sold at $75 or higher per 0.75L bottle at retail (Source: IWSR 2016)

Vintage Eve Circa 4/2016: Masters of Taste 2016 Hits the Rose Bowl

July 16, 2019 by evebushman

Wowza! All the full-sized cocktails to tantalize any happy imbiber, paired with wine, beer and the most incredible food from LA’s best restaurants all while walking on the field of the Rose Bowl? Yep, add in complimentary massages in the VIP lounges, plenty of seating on the “infield” and every vendor dedicated to provide the best they have to offer, all to benefit the Union Station Homeless Services. Read on, and/or watch my 3-minute YouTube slideshow.

Ladies enjoying all of the festivities.

First, here’s the teaser:

The Invite

Masters of Taste, a luxury food and beverage festival, will take place on April 3, 2016 –rain or shine– on the field of the Historic Pasadena Rose Bowl. All proceeds will benefit Union Station Homeless Services.

Guests will walk the field of the Rose Bowl to discover LA’s finest fare including 40 restaurants & 25 breweries, wineries, and spirits. Tiered ticketing will offer VIP’s and sponsors a premier experience, with private lounge seating and concierge dining service.

Master chefs, vintners, mixologists and brewers will be curated with the help of seasoned event producer Dennis Richardson (Taste LA, Taste Beverly Hills, and Wolfgang Puck Catering) and restaurant owner and businessman Rob Levy (The Raymond 1886, HomeStreet Bank).

A full listing of The Masters (I couldn’t get to them all!)

Food: http://mastersoftastela.com/the-masters/food

Drinks: http://mastersoftastela.com/drinks

Sweets: http://mastersoftastela.com/lifestyle

My Favorites

As soon as we started to descend from the bleachers onto the cool AstroTurf of the playing field I knew we were in for a real treat. Vendors circled the entire field, two large lounges marked the end zones, and on the field itself was innovative seating for all.

As I made my rounds (at least three times) and snapped photos for you, I enjoyed a little me time with these vendors:

Two different milk-based cocktails, one with rum and one with bourbon, from Nighthawk Breakfast Bar.

Crispy Pork Belly, Crostini with Fava Bean and Radish from BierBeisl.

Dark chocolate toffee from Alique Toffee Company.

A coconut Citrus Salad from Toca Madera.

The wine line up from Vinemark Cellars, Ascension Cellars, Four Brix, Spin the Bottle Wine Studio and Anglim. (Sorry to have missed some others though!)

Compressed Pork Shoulder with Andouille, Braised White Beans and Pickled Onion served up from Noor.

Refreshing Margaritas at Sol Cocina made with Des Madre tequila.

A killer tuna presented by Pasadena’s The Osawa.

Hyde Sunset made a Braised Beef Cheek with Pea and Sunchoke Puree, Crispy Shallots and Pea Vines.

My new favorite sipping Whiskey, no water needed, is now Kikori. Wonderful in both an Old Fashioned and, best drink of the day, the Blood Orange Sour.

Birch made a great foie gras and pâte dish with crostini for dipping, expertly served up by Chef Brendan Collins, and it was my favorite bite of the day.

The Hooch APP table, for an outstanding cocktail made with ginger beer and Brugal rum.

Sliders form Hache LA seemed to be a favorite for many.

The “Green Arrow” dink from Demitasse Coffee Roasters with Vermouth, muddled mint, Kyoto iced coffee and honey cream. Both a pick-me-up and dessert!

Chef Claud Beltran kept his line moving from Claud and Co. and Bacchus’ Kitchen and Eatery.

The perfect cocktails crafted by the experienced bartenders from Alexander’s Steakhouse Pasadena and The Raymond 1886 in the VIP areas.

Meeting the talented mixologist-gone-rogue Adam Seger of Balsam Spirits and trying his drinks made with Amaro and Shrub.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Vintage Eve Circa 7/2016: The 2016 Long Beach Grand Cru Public Tasting and Fundraiser

June 25, 2019 by evebushman

Though being a past judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru was a major bucket list item for me, it was nearly as thrilling to be invited back as a guest of the event once they discontinued the wine competition. Basically, the work was over, it was time just to taste for pleasure. And that we did.

Coruce Vineyards at Long Beach Grand Cru Tasting

This year’s venue, the Rainbow Lagoon in Long Beach, was easy to spot with pop up tents and white chairs and dining tables that we could see as we pulled in to park. The first person I met inside was event Executive Producer Kim Vu, who was quickly followed by Long Beach Grand Cru Board of Director Tom Stolpman of Stolpman Vineyards and Stolpman Law Group; then I spotted Master Sommelier George Skorka – who I was honored to serve along with in the 2015 competition.

“I feel like we’ve put together a pretty good group” Vu commented of the dozens of wineries, brewers and restaurants that encircled the venue. I got a nice photo of her in front of the dance floor before it would soon be filled with happy twirling guests. (See all my photos in this YouTube slide show.)

We would’ve loved to have had a bottomless thirst and appetite to have sampled everything from all of the vendors listed below. But, as is the case for any guest, “palate fatigue” is a real threat! So, before that happened we truly enjoyed the vendors noted in bold:

Wineries and Breweries

Absolution Brewing Company

Angel City Brewery

Archium Cellars – Don’t miss their extensive line-up if you find them at an event, or go to the tasting room.

Ascension Cellars – Always awesome Rhone and Bordeaux blends from Paso Robles.

Ave Winery – Lots of wine coming your way from this growing producer, and all good. Sent a few people over to try these and they all loved them. Enjoyed the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2013 Syrah.

Baja Brewing Company

Ballast Point – What fun beers – I loved the “Pineapple Sculpin” and learned that they do spirits as well!

Balletto Vineyards

Barefoot Wine & Bubbly/
E. & J. Gallo

Beachwood BBQ

Big Tar Wine Co.

Boisset Collection

Bottle Jack Wines

Buono’s Pizzeria
Sommelier Feature

Cholame Vineyard

Coda Wines

Congregation Ale House
Brewmaster Feature

Coquelicot Estate Vineyard – One I’ve liked for awhile from Santa Ynez.

Coruce Vineyards & Winery – Always a treat to see the Coruce people and all of their awards from Wine Enthusiast Magazine, as well as competitions from Sunset Magazine and San Francisco Chronicle.

Culinary Institute of America

Grassini Family Vineyards

Happy Hour Wine – They make a fun red and a white, less than $10 each, made from grapes grown in Spain. Look for them in your local supermarket.

Kimmel Vineyards

King Frosch Wines

Lagunitas Brewing Co.

Millésimé Cellars

Mother Earth Brewing Company

Navarro Vineyards and Winery – Good wines, need a full tasting visit soon.

Pagter Brothers Winery – Love what our very own Scott Pagter is doing…stay tuned to see what else he’s going to do next.

Parkers’ Lighthouse
Sommelier Feature

Phantom Carriage

Rhythm Wine Co. – They have a wine from the “Alonso Family Vineyard” which is Juan from Le Chene!

Robert Hall Winery – Been awhile since we visited and we enjoyed the entire line-up. They were especially pleased with recent awards for their 2015 Rose from the California State Fair and a whopping 91 points for their 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon from Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

San Antonio Winery /
Stella Rosa

Santa Barbara Winery

Ska Brewing

Smog City Brewing

Stolpman Vineyards – The 2003 Nebbiolo from the cellar, 2012 Petite Sirah and 2014 Angeli “The Best Syrah” killed, and so did a Syrah and Sangiovese poured by the one and only Tom Stolpman.

TW Ferm Co. – Sent a few people over to try their two killer Cabernet Sauvignons.

Turiya Wines – Another favorite at wine events.

Vina Simpatica – Fun fruit infused, flavorful and colorful sparklers!

Vinemark Cellars – Love all their wines, and love running into them at many events.

The Wine Crush

WineLA

Workman Ayer – Always great to see and taste with Michel Ayer. NEVER miss an opportunity if you get one!

Restaurants

The Attic – A devilishly good deviled egg, and then something with tuna poke that killed me. So good.

Beachwood BBQ

Buono’s Pizzeria

Cafe Sevilla

Congregation Ale House

Delightful Crepes Cafe – Hubby was happy with these!

L’Opera

La Brea Bakery – Thanks for the take-home baguette!

Marsatta Chocolate

Modica’s Deli

Moondance Catering

Naree Thai – All grand.

Parkers’ Lighthouse – Great chilled seafood salad.

The Sky Room

Subarz – Tasty biscotti-like cookies.

https://lafla.org/events/long-beach-grand-cru/

About the Legal Aid Foundation of LA

Since 1929, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles has provided civil legal aid to poor and low-income people in Los Angeles County.

Now with five neighborhood offices, three Domestic Violence Clinics and four Self-Help Legal Access Centers, LAFLA serves communities as diverse as East Los Angeles, the Westside, South Los Angeles, Koreatown and Long Beach. LAFLA is the first place thousands of poor people turn to when they need legal assistance for a crisis that threatens their shelter, health and livelihood.

In 2015, LAFLA provided services to more than 80,000 people, including more than 10,400 children. We helped more than 39,000 people at our Self-Help Legal Access Centers. More than 11,000 people attended legal clinics and educational workshops, and we provided referrals to almost 30,000 people.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com