Eve's Wine 101

San Diego Spirits Festival Returns Sept. 24 and 25

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SAN DIEGO –– The San Diego Spirits Festival, a world-class cocktail and cultural event, is shaking things up for its 13th year with a move to the newly-renovated Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla (MCASD). San Diego’s annual spirits extravaganza will take place on Saturday, Sept. 24 and Sunday, Sept. 25, featuring unlimited cocktails from over 60 brands, live music and entertainment, access to MCASD’s galleries and more. Tickets are now available for purchase here.

“This event has grown exponentially through a community of craft cocktail and premium spirits lovers, and this year, we look forward to taking the San Diego Spirits Festival upmarket to La Jolla in this world-class museum,” said Liz Edwards, owner and founder of the San Diego Spirits Festival. “We’re creating an experience-driven event completely unique to the community, where guests can be inspired by exceptional cocktails and spirits, exquisite art and spectacular views.”

This incredible new setting will take So Cal’s favorite spirits festival to new heights, where art, bespoke spirits brands and cocktails will come together for a stellar two-day experience. San Diego Spirits Festival’s move from downtown San Diego to La Jolla will build on the event’s loyal following while attracting a new audience within La Jolla and adding new layers to the world-class event.

The San Diego Spirits Festival offers an upscale event that appeals to everyone from novice cocktail lovers and fashionistas to experienced mixology professionals and restaurateurs. Spirits and art enthusiasts will explore the world of whiskey, bourbon, tequila, rum, gin, vodka and other fine spirits, plus ready-to-drink beverages including seltzers, canned cocktails and more.

Recently opened after a two-year, $200 million renovation, MCASD is comprised of both indoor and outdoor spaces, offering panoramic views of the La Jolla coast throughout. The festival will take place on multiple levels of the museum, with the full exhibition from its galleries on display.

Festival hours will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24 and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25. Advance tickets start at $65 until April 30, for a general pass and can be purchased online through Eventbrite here.

After the advance ticket sale, tickets will start at $85. More information about the festival can be found on the website at www.sandiegospiritsfestival.com.

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About The San Diego Spirits Festival

The San Diego Spirits Festival is an annual world-class event where cocktails, culture and art come together for a stellar two-day experience fueled by top spirits, bespoke cocktail brands in an exceptional venue. San Diego Spirits Festival distills the essence of the luxury craft cocktail and liquor market into a signature event; the creativity and design of the event space invites guests to be amongst world renowned brands and boutique distillers. The festival is shaking things up for its 13th year in 2022 with a move to the newly-renovated Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla(MCASD). San Diego’s annual spirits extravaganza will take place on Saturday, Sept. 24 and Sunday, Sept. 25. Tickets start at $65 are now available for purchase via Eventbrite here. More information is available on the website at www.SanDiegoSpiritsFestival.com, on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

How Was “Masters of Taste” LA 2022?

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The fifth annual Masters of Taste event, held on the field of the Rose Bowl, was last Sunday and we were thrilled to attend.

This is from my social media post the next day:

Oh WHAT FUN we had at Masters of Taste yesterday! This is the event where 100% of the profits go to Union Station Homeless Services! And it was on my birthday this year!

Traveling by limo courtesy my publishers Moe and Linda Hafizi, was an additional treat! Some of the liquor we sampled included wine from Golden Star Vineyards and Ascension Cellars, Lucky Dog (juice box) Sake, Knox and Dobson ready-to-drink cocktails (full article just on them runs 4/22), Smoke Lab Aniseed vodka distilled from Basmati rice is India’s “first premium vodka”, Dulce Vida Tequila, Ventura Spirits for their Amaro Angelino, Roku Gin, Suntory Whisky, Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur, American Born bourbon whiskey, Woodford Reserve, the 1886 Bar at the Raymond…and then there was the FOOD!

If you want to just see the story in photos and videos click this, for more details keep reading!

The Details

It’s always such a rush walking down to the Rose Bowl field from the stadium seats! I always make an immediate right turn and hit as many tables as possible before resting after that first loop around. This is who made an impact this time:

Georgia’s Restaurant made Gretchen’s Jambalaya – the first booth I had food at and it was delicious, flavorful and not too spicy!

The long but fast moving line for delectable Dim Sum from Lunasia Dim Sum House was worth it.

Another line was to sample the food and meet the host chef, Vanda Asapahu, at the Ayari Thai table!

Golden Star Vineyards and Ascension Cellars, two wineries that I’ve enjoyed for years, so it’s always nice to see them on the playing field.

The detail on the animal-faced macarons, an item you can request for special occasions, from Etoile Filante Patisserie was another cool find.

Maneki Wanko Lucky Dog (juice box) Sake: I saw people sipping from juice boxes and was surprised to find that the cute little turquoise boxes with a playful dog design was holding Sake!

Fantasy Frostings makes a killer cake, moist and tasty. I looked at their Facebook and their wedding cakes are lovely!

Knox and Dobson ready-to-drink cocktails made an impact on me again – see the full article just on them April 22 on Eve Wine 101.

Little Llama Peruvian Tacos made a Shrimp Ceviche Tostada that was full of flavor.

Dulce Vida Tequila has THE best flavored tequila in my opinion, this time I enjoyed their grapefruit, on its own as it doesn’t need a thing. And it’s made with real fruit.

Enjoyed discovering Ventura Spirits Amaro Angelino, also their Limoncello. Nice local place to support.

Who doesn’t love short ribs? Chef Gil Saulnier from Mi Piace made a Prime Slow Braised Short Rib over Saffron Risotto and a Mini Crème Brûlée cheesecake too = so very decadent!

Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur was my first big find at Masters of Taste years ago. If you like gin try this liqueur, it softens all that juniper with other botanicals.

I got more comfort food from Granville as they served up their Uptown Mac n’ Cheese!

American Born bourbon whiskey was tasty, again on its own, no mixer needed!

World Empanadas baked several varieties, I wanted to try them all but settled on sharing a Nutella-filled one with my husband. Family run, locally owned and Vegan too.

Woodford Reserve had a huge area just at the entrance, and made a refreshing slush cocktail with their bourbon, lemonade and cranberry juice. I wanted a second one, but that would not do with all that we had to try!

The 1886 Bar at the Raymond always make the best cocktails, on the field and in their Pasadena restaurant!

Bertha Mae’s brownies, in all kinds of flavors, were yummy.

There was quite a buzz going for the Jicama Shrimp Tacos from Mercado! They were sooooo good!

Smoke Lab Aniseed vodka distilled from Basmati rice is India’s “first premium vodka”, and not at all like the sweet or thick Sambuca anise liqueur.

Mignon Chocolate had their fountain flowing and I had a nice freshly dipped strawberry from them!

Enjoyed the Suntory whisky booth for the whisky and the Roku gin.

Seeing two of the Drago brothers and trying their pasta with pork sausage and Gorgonzola from Drago Centre was a big thrill for me.

See all of the Masters and their social media outlets here  https://mastersoftastela.com/masters/

2022 Host Chef Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Thai

Vanda Asapahu is the second-generation owner and chef of Ayara Thai and Ayara Luk in Los Angeles, CA. Vanda worked with non-profit organizations and the United Nations in Thailand. Living in Thailand allowed Vanda to revive old family recipes and travel through the different regions to discover new tastes and inspirations…read more here.

From the Start

Our mission was to create a unique event that would benefit an organization that focuses on addressing and resolving the issues surrounding homelessness in the San Gabriel Valley. The solution was to produce a one-of-a-kind, premier food and beverage festival for those who appreciate delicious food, cocktails, and sweets! Anyone who attends Masters of Taste can feel confident that they’re making an impact in their community because 100% of the proceeds help Union Station Homeless Services end homelessness and rebuild lives.

2022 Platinum Sponsors

The House of @suntorywhisky and Judith L. Chiara Foundation.

http://www.MastersofTasteLA.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mastersoftaste/

https://www.facebook.com/MastersOfTaste

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.

MASTERS OF TASTE RETURNS – The Fifth Annual Masters of Taste Returns Sunday April 3, 2022

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Los Angeles, CA – Come celebrate and be part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 3rd, 2022, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl with 100% of the proceeds going directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services!

Chef Vanda Asapahu, Photo credit: Masters of Taste

Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event which had to be canceled in 2020 due to the Pandemic. Masters of Taste 2022 Culinary Master and Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and she has participated since its inception in April 2016. Asapahu went to college at UCLA and to graduate school at Yale, then she spent four years living, traveling, and working her way through Thailand before returning home to Los Angeles. During Asapahu’s stay in her native country, she took extensive notes, which included absorbing Bangkok’s street food scene and reviving old family recipes. After cooking with relatives and eating her way through the streets and countryside, Asapahu brought back these treasured old recipes and new flavors to share at Ayara Thai. While her mother Anna Asapahu still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai Cuisine, and in May of 2019 Ayara Thai Cuisine was named one of MICHELIN Guide California’s 2019 Bib Gourmands.

“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “As a proud UCLA alum (Go Bruins!), I’d give anything for the opportunity to cook, eat and dance on the field of the Rose Bowl. The most amazing thing about Masters of Taste is that 100% of the proceeds go directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services and not many food festivals can say that. Union Station Homeless Services is committed to ending homelessness in Los Angeles.”

Masters of Taste 2019 was a sold-out event that attracted over 3,000 guests and garnered media attention all throughout Southern California and beyond. The fifth annual Masters of Taste 2022 is also expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar featuring top Mixologists from four of L.A.’s most distinguished drinking destinations, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.

100% of the proceeds from Masters of Taste 2022 will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping men, women and children experiencing homelessness, rebuild their lives. Union Station is part of a premier group of human services agencies in L.A. County that are leading the way to end homelessness in our community. Union Station offers an array of services including street outreach, meals, shelter, housing, case management and career development. In the last four years Masters of Taste has raised over $2 Million in support of Union Station’s life-saving programs.

Mark your calendars and save-the-date for the return of the fifth annual Masters of Taste 2022!

Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2022 will take place on Sunday, April 3rd, 2022, and this is a 21+ event. A VIP Power Hour will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Tickets will go on sale Sunday, August 1st, 2021. For more information on Masters of Taste 2022, please visit www.MastersofTasteLA.com. 

Masters of Taste

Pasadena Rose Bowl

1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena, CA 91103

T: 626.791.6677

E: info@MastersofTasteLA.com

www.MastersofTasteLA.com

Starting June 3 for One Month: It’s Tiki Time! The Front Yard at Ellis Island Hotel, Casino and Brewery Transforms Second Floor into The Island at Ellis, a Hidden Tiki Bar Pop-Up

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LAS VEGAS /PRNewswire/ — Prepare to be transported into a one-month-only mid-century tiki dream at The Front Yard at Ellis Island Hotel, Casino & Brewery, where the restaurant’s second floor will be transformed into a delightfully kitschy, tiki bar escape, called The Island at Ellis. The summer soiree will run from June 3 until July 4.

Stepping into this all-day oasis, sponsored by Bacardi, guests will be greeted by a 15-foot swordfish, staff decked out in Hawaiian-themed attire and tiki-style vignettes throughout the space. But no tiki bar is complete without tropical favorites, and The Front Yard’s Tiki Bar will be serving up dishes such as a Teriyaki Chicken Burger, Tiki Quesadilla, and Coconut Shrimp, only available on the second level of the restaurant. Ten boozy island-themed specialty drinks will also be available, with beer cocktails and Ellis Island spins on Tiki classics, multiple served as individual cocktails or in punch bowls for a crowd. For high-res photos of some of the menu items, click HERE.

In addition to the specialty Island at Ellis offerings, The Front Yard’s brunch and dinner menus will be available, with fan favorites like Stuffed Crunch Toast, Salmon and Lox Flatbread, Bacon Mac & Cheese, a Giant Pretzel, and more. All of Ellis Island’s iconic beers will also be on the menu, served in glassware made specifically for the pop-up.

And it would not be Vegas without a little gambling! Two blackjack tables will add some Sin City flare and a variety of slots will be available to play in a lounge area located by the Terrace Bar.

“We can’t wait for the launch of The Island at Ellis,” said Director of Marketing, Christina Ellis. “We have really enjoyed decorating and transforming the restaurant, and we knew now was the perfect time to take it to the next level.”

Starting June 3, the Tiki Bar will be open Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 3pm and 4pm to midnight; Mondays from 10am to 3pm and 4-10pm; and Tuesdays through Thursdays from 4-10pm. Reservations are available through OpenTable and people can follow this special pop-up on Instagram at @islandatellis.

About The Front Yard

The Front Yard is a two-story indoor/outdoor beer garden, providing a casual brewpub atmosphere in the heart of Las Vegas at Ellis Island Hotel, Casino & Brewery. With a premium bar and a full-service restaurant, The Front Yard offers some of the Ellis family’s favorite recipes along with dishes curated by Executive Chef John Ales, providing a little something for everyone.

Retractable ceiling shades, expansive windows, and Instagram-worthy garden walls present a lush outdoor atmosphere where patrons can come together for brunch on the weekend or enjoy a game on the restaurant’s 18-foot big screen.

The Front Yard is open for dinner daily from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Brunch is served Saturday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Front Yard is located at 4178 Koval Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89109 and can be reached by calling (702) 733-8901. Follow The Front Yard on Instagram and Facebook at @thefrontyardlv.

Vintage Eve Circa 7/2018: The Seventh Art Beyond the Glass!

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Art Beyond the Glass VII: L.A.’s Top Bartenders Come Together To Celebrate

Seven Years of Cocktails, Community, Women In The Industry and A Great Cause…Proceeds from ABTG VII will go to the Women’s Center for Creative Work, a vital arts nonprofit in Frogtown. Now in its seventh year, Art Beyond the Glass is L.A.’s premier cocktail culture festival, featuring more than 100 top bartenders making cocktails and showcasing their artistry, from painting and sculpture to photography, live music and more!

Yep, we did it again, covered three levels of mind blowing cocktail mayhem in the Los Globos nightclub in Silver Lake. The “mayhem” included a wide array of live music, a dj, burlesque, a tap dancer and wildly costumed bartenders as well as guests. There also was a raffle, art exhibit and “silent auction items such as artwork, photography, rare spirits and more.” 

As you know I was there to take it all in (photos here if that’s all you’re after) these are the spirit vendors I made sure to meet up with:

Jack Daniel Distillery Lynchburg Tennessee, The Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Ming River Baijiu and Teeling Whiskey – these were just part of the first floor of fun, and each spirits’ table offered more than one cocktail option so you could do them all or just select one that sounded good to you.

More from the first floor: Fun stewards (stewardesses, whatevers) from Aviation Gin sat guests in a mock airplane, served them cocktails and if you agreed to sit in the exit row you got a special treat! Loved the two cocktails – one with tea and another in a slush – I sampled from Pomp & Whimsy (remember them – hope they’ll be back for Cocktails on the Roof 2018!) and fun drinks from Fords Gin, Plymouth Gin, and Lillet.

The cutie pies at the Mulholland Distilling table were happy to sing for a photo on the second floor! Fun table, and the drinks were yummy. I had the Mulholland Mule and I swear there was another drink they made with Boba in it. I really loved the Edinburgh Distillery Rhubarb Ginger liqueur! Also enjoyed checking out Distillerie Clement rum.

And on the ground floor, an outdoor patio filled with happy smokers and vapers, had a cold brew coffee vendor, Colorado Common Hard Cider and Illegal Mezcal Joven cocktails in ice cube glasses that blew my mind – the one I tried was called “560 Shades of Greg”, while the other, which I didn’t try, had CBD in it!

Even more entertainment on the first and second floors: we got our VIP badges from Jack Daniel’s, sampled cocktails from Åhus Akvavit, Born and Bred, Domaine Combier, Partida Tequila and The Real McCoy Rum.

More About Art Beyond the Glass (ABTG): Art Beyond the Glass is a special event that showcases the artistic pursuits of top bartenders when they’re not behind the stick. ABTG began, as many things do, with a conversation in a bar. In the fall of 2011, bartender Zahra Bates and writer Daniel Djang were at Sunny Spot in Venice, discussing how so many bartenders in Los Angeles express themselves creatively through painting, photography, music, and other arts. But at the time there wasn’t a proper showcase for bartenders to share their artistic pursuits. To fill this gap, Art Beyond the Glass was born: uniting the bar community, which gives back to the art community, and strengthening the community in which we live.

At ABTG, everything from the cocktails to the art and music is created and performed by bartenders. Proceeds from every ABTG event are donated to a local arts-based charity. To date, Art Beyond the Glass has donated more than $98,000 to nonprofit organizations across the country.

The inaugural ABTG raised more than $6,000 for Inner-City Arts. In 2013, ABTG II raised $13,700 for Art Share L.A. and saved this vital nonprofit from closing. ABTG III raised $18,000 for the Mural Conservancy to restore Struggles of the World, one of the landmark Freeway Murals from the 1984 Summer Olympics. ABTG IV raised more than $20,000 for KCRW on behalf of its Capital Campaign to open a new Media Center and public event space in Santa Monica.

To celebrate its five-year anniversary in 2015, Art Beyond the Glass expanded to cities outside of Los Angeles for the first time. The fifth annual ABTG was the largest event to date and raised over $25,000 for Global Inheritance. In July 2016, the first-ever ABTG outside of L.A. took place in Oklahoma City and raised $7,300 for Arts Council Oklahoma City. ABTG Chicago took place in August 2016 and donated $8,450 to ArtReach.

Art Beyond the Glass will continue to grow into established and emerging markets that are eager to demonstrate the creative prowess of their bar community.

The Charity

This year we are honored to be raising funds for the Women’s Center for Creative Work, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Frogtown. Combining a co-workspace on the L.A. River, project incubation facilities, residency programs, a rapidly growing network of over 20,000 followers, and a full calendar of artistic and professional development programming, WCCW advocates for feminist-led creative businesses and projects in Los Angeles.

www.ArtBeyondtheGlass.com

Follow Art Beyond the Glass on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtBeyondTheGlass

Twitter: @ABTGLA

Instagram: @abtgla

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 15k 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.

Circle of Hope Announces Twilight Tea Fundraiser: Dinner, Entertainment and Iced Tea Cocktails

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Santa Clarita, Ca. – Circle of Hope has announced their 16th annual signature Tea fundraiser held on Saturday, October 3, 2020 that will feature something new and different with an internationally themed dinner and program. Traditionally a daytime English Tea brunch, this year’s event will be offered as a semi virtual Twilight Evening Tea with dinner, iced tea cocktails, music, and entertainment, all with an innovative international flair.

VIP tickets also include a raffle ticket in the VIP Twilight Tea drawing and a bottle of specially paired Entourage by Two Papas wine to enjoy with your meal.

This year’s theme will focus on peace and unity with the theme “It’s a Small World”. “I’m so excited for this year’s theme”, said one of this year’s event co-chairs, Rebecca DeLuca. “We have created an evening that is unique, diverse and filled with fun and joy while bringing our community together to support a great cause and organization”. This unique and high energy “tea party” will include a delicious internationally themed dinner and dessert, iced tea cocktails, and gift bags for all attendees that will be picked up curbside from Marston’s Restaurant. The evening will also include an exciting interactive program that includes guest speakers, cancer survivor Vanessa Wilk and her husband Scott Wilk, music, international dancing and entertainment, a fabulous on-line silent auction and more.  Whether you hold the party in your home with family or together with a few friends on a socially distanced outdoor patio, your support will ensure that those with cancer in our community will receive the help they need to fight their battle with cancer. “This year more than any other has been especially challenging for fundraising, but we will continue to find ways to have the funds we need to help those with cancer in our community”, stated Laura Kirchhoff, Executive Director. “The Twilight Tea will help do just that.”

All tickets include your choice of dinner from an international themed menu served by Marston’s Restaurant, dessert and a Twilight Tea gift bag filled with fun and unique items including an assortment of iced tea cocktails with fresh ingredients to pair with your international feast, a beautiful iced tea glass, and an assortment of special gifts. VIP tickets also include a raffle ticket in the VIP Twilight Tea drawing and a bottle of specially paired Entourage by Two Papas wine to enjoy with your meal. “Having the right wine with your meal is very important”, said Rick Pratt, Wine Sponsor and master winemaker of Entourage by Two Papas Wines. “I will be pairing a specially selected bottle of artfully crafted red or white boutique wine that will go perfect with each meal on the menu and I am sure each guest will enjoy.”

This year’s event is being chaired by two of the organizations long time volunteers and board members Debra Ragonig and Rebecca DeLuca . “I am beyond thrilled to co-chair this year’s event for Circle of Hope, a cause that is extremely close to my heart. Our committee has worked hard to add some exciting new concepts to the event that are sure to bring fun and surprises to our guests” stated Ragonig, “The Twilight Tea will certainly make for an exciting Saturday night!”.

The organization is currently looking for donations of any kind in the way of certificates, merchandise or services to be used in its silent auction. Sponsorship opportunities are available for the event and tickets can be purchased on the Circle of Hope website at www.circleofhopeinc.org/tea. For more information on the Twilight Tea, becoming a sponsor or making an auction item donation, please contact the organization at 661 254-5218 or info@circleofhopeinc.org . Circle of Hope provides emotional, educational and financial assistance along with supportive wellness therapies and support groups to the Santa Clarita Valley cancer community. All programs are offered free of charge.

Circle of Hope is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Federal Tax I.D. #20-0680327

Vintage Eve July 2017: Art Beyond the Glass 2017

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L.A.’s Top Bartenders Celebrated “Six Years of Cocktails, Community and A Great Cause” during the sixth Art Beyond The Glass held at Los Globos in LA on June 25… Proceeds from ABTG VI will go to The Moth, the award-winning nonprofit that that celebrates the ability of stories to honor the diversity and commonality of human experience.

Thrilled to cover this unique event a second time, especially a chance to escape the heat at home, Los Globos was the perfect venue in the not too far off Silver Lake neighborhood.

Multiple stories, live music, food and tons of air conditioning kept guests happily scattered from bar to bar to bar for four fun-filled hours. (If you only have three minutes, you can view my slideshow of the event here.)

Bartenders, some dressed in 60s garb, some as medics and others just in tanks emblazoned with their bar’s names were almost as entertaining as the concoctions we tried that incorporated everything from gin to vodka, bitters, botanicals to fresh fruit.

I honestly think I tasted a cocktail from every bar, and when I thought one was so unique the next one I tried would prove to be even more incredible! These bartenders definitely raised the bar on expressing themselves via their exceptional mixology talents.

It was a lot to take in. And I was thankful for blogger Daniel Djang (now content manager for DiscoverLosAngeles.com) and bartender Zahra Bates (now a National Brand Ambassador for Courvoisier) for dreaming the whole thing up six years ago.

The List of Bartenders and Bars (at press time)

Aaron Polsky – Harvard & Stone

Adam Fournier – Faith & Flower

Alex Barbatsis – Esprit De Corps Hospitality

Alyson Iwamoto – Here’s Looking At You

Beau Du Bois – The Corner Door

Bethany Ham – Birds & Bees

Brittney Olsen – Hotel Figueroa

Chris Amirault – Otium

Christopher Day – Bar Tribute

Christina Russo – The Board Room

Chris Whelan – Hotel Figueroa

Dan McClary – Cannibal

Dan Sabo – Hotel Figueroa

Dee Ann Quinones – Commerson

Dustin Newsome – Bar Clacson, Slipper Clutch

Edwin Cruz – Winsome

Evan Charest – Patina Restaurant Group

Garrett McKechnie – Bar Mattachine

Greg Bryson – The Wallace

Jeremy Lake – Lost Property, Rosaline

Jodi Calderon – Normandie Club

John McGlothlin – Delilah

Kalani Ben – The Spare Room

Kim Stodel – Providence

Michael Lay – LONO

Peter Lloyd Jones – 1886

Ryan Wainwright – The Ponte

Sophia Oolie – The Freehand

Tobin Shea – Redbird

Yael Vengroff – The Spare Room 

More About Art Beyond the Glass

Art Beyond the Glass (ABTG) is a special event that showcases the artistic pursuits of top bartenders when they’re not behind the stick. At ABTG, everything from the cocktails to the art and music is created and performed by bartenders. Proceeds from every ABTG event are donated to a local arts-based nonprofit. The inaugural ABTG raised over $6000 for Inner-City Arts. In 2013, ABTG II raised $13,700 for Art Share L.A. ABTG III raised $18,000 for the Mural Conservancy to help restore one of the historic 1984 Olympic Freeway Murals. ABTG IV was the largest event to date and raised $20,000 for KCRW.

ABTG began, as many things do, with a conversation in a bar. In the fall of 2011, bartender Zahra Bates and writer Daniel Djang were at Sunny Spot in Venice, discussing how so many bartenders in Los Angeles express themselves creatively through painting, photography, music, and other arts. But at the time there wasn’t a proper showcase for bartenders to share their art. To fill this gap, Art Beyond the Glass was born.

By uniting the bar community, which gives back to the art community, Art Beyond the Glass helps to strengthen the community in which we live. 

www.ArtBeyondtheGlass.com.

Follow Art Beyond the Glass on:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtBeyondTheGlass | Twitter: @ABTGLA

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, 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.

Masters of Taste Announces 2020 Date and Introduces Chef Vanda Asapahu as 2020 Host Chef! (Sunday, April 5th, 2020)

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Los Angeles, CA – Come celebrate and be part of the fifth annual Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival taking place on Sunday, April 5th, 2020 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl!

Masters of Taste 2020 is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu as Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2020 which also happens to mark the 5th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste Culinary Master and 2020 Host Chef Vanda Asapahu is the chef and owner of Ayara Thai Cuisine and has participated since its inception in April 2016. Asapahu went to college at UCLA and to graduate school at Yale, then she spent four years living, traveling, and working her way through Thailand before returning home to Los Angeles. During Asaphu’s stay in her native country, she took extensive notes, which included absorbing the Bangkok street food scene and reviving old family recipes. After cooking with relatives and eating her way through the streets and countryside, Asapahu brought back these treasured old recipes and new flavors to share at Ayara Thai. While her mother Anna Asapahu still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai Cuisine, and in May of this year Ayara Thai Cuisine was named one of Michelin Guide California’s 2019 Bib Gourmands.

“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “As a proud UCLA alum (Go Bruins!), I’d give anything for the opportunity to cook, eat and dance on the field of the Rose Bowl. The most amazing thing about Masters of Taste is that 100% of the proceeds go directly to benefit Union Station Homeless Services and not many food festivals can say that. Union Station Homeless Services is committed to ending homelessness in Los Angeles.” 

Masters of Taste 2019 was a sold-out event that attracted over 3,000 guests and garnered media attention all throughout Southern California and beyond. The fifth annual Masters of Taste 2020 is also expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar featuring top Mixologists from four of L.A.’s most distinguished drinking destinations, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.  

100% of the proceeds from Masters of Taste 2020 will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping men, women and children experiencing homelessness, rebuild their lives. Union Station is part of a premier group of human services agencies in L.A. County that are leading the way to end homelessness in our community. Union Station offers an array of services including street outreach, meals, shelter, housing, case management and career development. In the last four years Masters of Taste has raised over $2 Million in support of Union Station’s life-saving programs.

Mark your calendars and save-the-date for the fifth annual Masters of Taste 2020!

Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2020 will take place on Sunday, April 5th, 2020 and is a 21+ event.  A VIP Power Hour will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, January 1st, 2020, and Early Bird Tickets will be available from January 1st, 2020 through Sunday, March 1st, 2020.  For more information on Masters of Taste 2020, please visit www.MastersofTasteLA.com.  

Masters of Taste

Pasadena Rose Bowl

1001 Rose Bowl Drive

Pasadena, CA 91103

T: 626.791.6677

E: info@MastersofTasteLA.com

www.MastersofTasteLA.com

Art Beyond the Glass VIII Was Amazing!

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Now celebrating its eighth year, Art Beyond the Glass VIII (ABTG) took place on Sunday, June 23, 2019 at Los Globos in Silver Lake. L.A.’s premier cocktail culture festival featured more than 100 top bartenders making cocktails and showcasing their artistry, from painting and sculpture to photography, live music and more, all while raising funds for Beautify Earth. Ria Soler and Josh Gelfand hosted the event. Los Globos was graciously donated to ABTG for the third consecutive year. Opened as L.A.’s first American Legion hall in the 1930s, Los Globos is a massive two-story venue with multiple rooms and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.

Yea, so this (nine photo grids) happened again. Such a fun event where we get to sample so many different spirits, are entertained by different themes at each bartender station, artists were painting, dj playing music and live music – all spread out through three exciting floors.

We had a lot of fun, and discovered a lot of great cocktails and spirits. Of note for us was Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur in cocktails made by a crew in Alice in Wonderland costumes, bartenders wearing gas masks served up drinks made with Plymouth Gin, coffee liqueur served over rolled soy vanilla ice cream in the circus area, sailors serving up The Botanist gin, Jack Daniels in BRO-Tein Shakes in a cross-fit themed booth, 1856 whisky in a ball-park booth, Hendricks Gin in served up with some of the characters from Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream (video), Ford’s Gin served up in an ice glass by more sailors, Redemption Rye in a campground for the “Lowboy Scouts of Echo Park Troop 1540” had a “survival remedy”, bartenders danced around a Fernet Branca ice sculpture (video), Aviation Gin cocktails by several bartenders dressed as Deadpool…

Lawrence Moore, of Lawrence Moore & Associates (Public Relations, Marketing Strategy and Social Media agency) said that more bartending teams dressed in themes than in any previous year – and this definitely added to the exceptional event for all.

Participating Bartenders

Adam George – The Nomad

Aly Iwamoto – Bavel

Bryan Tetorakis – The Varnish

China Morbosa – Eveleigh

Dan Sabo – Pali Hotels

Harry Chin – Here’s looking at you

Jason Yu – Songbird Cafe

Jesse Smyth Genever – Most Imaginative Bartender Finalist

Jodi Calderon – The Nomad, Normandie Club

Josh Suchan – Ice and Alchemy, The Wallace

Kim Stodel – Providence

Melina Meza – Broken Shaker, Bacardi Legacy Winner

Max Reis – Gracias Madre

Ryan Silva – Otium

Sean Lickliter – Republique

Tobin Shea – Redbird

Participating Artists and Performers

Anna Wingfield (Employees Only), Elizabeth Brice-Heames (Apotheke), Joel “Teknyc” Martinez (Madame Siam), and Peter Lloyd Jones (Everson Royce Bar) –and more – with Sweet & Chilli sponsoring the ABTG Local Artist Room in conjunction with the first-ever ABTG Media Lounge available for podcasters and Instagrammers.

This year the Jack Daniel’s Performance Stage featured Dream Machines, The Cauterizers, a return session by the dynamic duo of musician Brandon McCulloch and tap dancer Lee Howard. There were also DJ sets thanks to sponsor Azunia Tequila, who also donated all of the recyclable paper goods and non-plastic straws at this year’s event.

Sponsors 

Azunia Tequila, Jack Daniel’s, Sweet & Chilli, The 86 Co featuring Fords Gin, Aberfeldy Single Malt Scotch, Amass, Ancho Reyes / Montelobos, Aviation Gin, Back Bar Project, Beam Suntory, Bombay Sapphire, Botanist Gin, Chareau, Fernet-Branca, Grey Goose, High West / Mi Campo, Hotaling & Co, Ilegal Mezcal, Jagermeister, Licor 43, MEXA Brands, Mulholland Distilling, Montenegro, Partida Tequila, Peroni, Plymouth Gin, Pomp & Whimsy, The Real McCoy / Combier / Liquid Alchemist, Redemption Whiskey, Singani 63, Slane Irish Whiskey, Spiribam (Rhum Clement), St Germain, Teeling Irish Whiskey, Tromba Tequila, Uncle Nearest Whiskey, William Grant feat. Hendrick’s Gin, Woodinville Whiskey, Q Drinks, East Imperial, Miracle Mile Bitters, Ventura Spirits and West Coast Ice Provisions.

As always, Art Beyond the Glass VIII is being produced with the participation and support of the USBG Southern California Chapter.

About Art Beyond the Glass (ABTG)

This annual event showcases the artistic pursuits of bartenders outside of their bars. At ABTG, everything from the cocktails to the art and music is created and performed by bartenders. Art Beyond the Glass has also grown into a national event, and ABTG VIII is welcomed participants from across the country: Julian Cox (Tartine Manufactory) and co-host Josh Gelfand from the Bay Area; Brynn Blackstone (Raised by Wolves, San Diego), and Chris Barrett & Colby Poulin (A Clockwork Pour) from Oklahoma City, which is hosting its fourth ABTG later this year. Proceeds from every ABTG event are donated to a cultural nonprofit organization. Since its inception in November 2011, ABTG has donated over $171,000 to nonprofits across the country and following ABTG VIII, the fundraising total will potentially top $200,000. “We’ve had such an amazing response from the whole bar community this year. Everyone has been working so hard to make this the biggest Art Beyond the Glass yet,” says Clare Ward (Hippo), Head of Production.

Art Beyond the Glass was co-founded in 2011 by Courvoisier National Brand Ambassador, Zahra Bates and Daniel Djang, Founder of the cocktail and spirits blog, Thirsty in LA, and Content Manager at Discover Los Angeles. “We are so grateful to the extraordinary family of L.A. bartenders and our wonderful sponsors that have donated their time, talent and product on behalf of these vital nonprofits. From saving an arts facility from closing to restoring a historic mural and contributing to the construction of a public radio station and community gathering place, Art Beyond the Glass will continue to make a positive and lasting impact on L.A.’s cultural legacy,” says Djang.

About Beautify Earth

Once upon a time there was a street dubbed “Stinkin’ Lincoln,” named after a run down and dreary street on the west side of Los Angeles. That street is Lincoln Blvd. Evan Meyer, a local Santa Monica resident decided to take action and coordinate murals on dozens of walls on this street in Santa Monica and Venice. Others followed suit around the country, labeling their own “Beautify” projects after their street, town, or city. And there the movement was born – The team formed a 501(c)3 non-profit and became Beautify Earth. It all started right here in our hometown of lovely Santa Monica. Learn more at www.BeautifyEarth.org.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtBeyondTheGlass

Twitter: @ABTGLA

Instagram: @abtgla

www.ArtBeyondtheGlass.com.

Los Globos

www.ClubLosGlobos.com

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.

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

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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