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Whiskeysmith Co. Flavored Whiskey Launches a Variety of Flavors Nationwide

November 18, 2021 by evebushman

FORT COLLINS, COLO. (PRWEB) – Whiskeysmith Co., brainchild of Old Elk Distillery in Fort Collins, CO, has launched a line of flavored whiskeys across the United States. Whiskeysmith Flavored Whiskeys are crafted with a backbone of real American whiskey and natural flavors. Each flavor – chocolate, banana, pineapple, blood orange, salted caramel, peach and coconut – acts as a cocktail in a bottle and can be enjoyed on its own, while also adding incredible depth of flavor to any cocktail creation.

Born in a small town, there is nothing “small” about Whiskeysmith’s ambitions. “We are founded in flavor and find comfort in our craft,” says Melinda Maddox, Beverage Director of Whiskeysmith. “Our platform for flavor ideation, combined with handcrafted American whiskey, creates a product that is really unique in the whiskey category.

Our line of Whiskeysmith Flavored Whiskeys offers something for every palate.”

Whiskeysmith’s team are experts in their craft and hail from all corners of the industry. The result is a line of innovative flavored whiskeys sure to shake up any bar. Rooted in passion and innovation, they have created an impressive line of seven flavors, which can be enjoyed neat or impress cocktail enthusiasts with their versatility. “Just add two dashes of your favorite bitters to two ounces of Whiskeysmith Blood Orange and voilà! You have yourself an Old Fashioned,” adds Maddox.

This new line of original flavored whiskeys was carefully selected to capture both the backbone of American whiskey and the complex flavoring through the true essence of the extracts. By tapping the talent of industry experts, Whiskeysmith works continuously to deliver on quality. The result is in the liquid: whiskey with flavors that are true to taste.

ABOUT WHISKEYSMITH CO.
Whiskeysmith Co. Flavored Whiskeys are a delightful combination of real, American whiskey and the essence of fruit and culinary inspired extracts and flavors, offering the true experience of flavor in every sip. Whiskeysmith’s portfolio currently includes chocolate, banana, pineapple, blood orange, salted caramel, peach and coconut.

ABOUT OLD ELK DISTILLERY
Old Elk Distillery crafts remarkably smooth and innovative spirits that transcend tradition. The distillery was founded in Fort Collins, Colorado, in 2013 by serial entrepreneur Curt Richardson. His desire to craft spirits that embody both innovation and legacy led him to create a distinctive portfolio that includes Old Elk Bourbon, Dry Town Gin, and Nooku Bourbon Cream. Today, legendary master distiller Greg Metze leads production for Old Elk Distillery. For more information visit: http://www.oldelk.com

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: american, bar, chocolate, cocktail, colorado, craft, distillery, flavor, old fashioned, palate, united states, whiskey

2019’s Craft Producer of the Year Kentucky Peerless Unveils Double Oak Bourbon

October 16, 2021 by evebushman

LOUISVILLE, KY. (PRWEB) – Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company announces the release of their newest whiskey, Peerless Double Oak Bourbon.

This expression was born out of necessity, not marketing tactics. Peerless Double Oak Bourbon will be available in Kentucky, California, Illinois, Florida and New York.

Kentucky Peerless started crafting Double Oak whiskies with the original intention of rescuing whiskey from a leaky barrel, losing too much quantity to Angel’s share. When a barrel has a leak that cannot be repaired, the whiskey is transferred into a new charred oak barrel to continue its journey.

By exposing the whiskey to a second barrel, the whiskey develops unparalleled complexity as well as a heavy mouthfeel.

The Single Barrel Double Oak whiskies offered in the past at Kentucky Peerless have received overwhelmingly positive feedback, which has led to this release. Master Distiller Caleb Kilburn said: “With the amazing response to our very limited Double Oak program to date, we have decided to improve the quality and accessibility of the product. Where in the past we would leave things up to chance, we are now intentionally curating barrels to become Double Oak.”

Kilburn shares that the tasting notes reflect the characteristics of both barrels, and the dedicated tasting team is looking for prominent grain, fruit and herbaceous characteristics. Kilburn writes the tasting notes, including spicy oak, cinnamon, honey and leather as the more pronounced elements.

Find out more at kentuckypeerless.com or visit the distillery at 120 N. 10th Street in downtown Louisville. The distillery is open for tours and tastings by reservation Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

About Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co.
The Peerless family’s very first bourbon went into a barrel in 1889. They have since revived the craft in their own state-of-the-art distillery in the Bourbon District, where they use the finest ingredients. The Peerless family believes that patience builds character and fine Bourbon and Rye can never be rushed. All under one roof, the select Kentucky Peerless grains are milled, cooked, fermented, double-distilled and barreled as Bourbon and Rye.

2017 Awards
Tricor Braun’s Spirits Division Package of the Year
Small Batch Rye named Top 20 Most Exciting Whiskies of the Year by Whisky Advocate Magazine

2018 Awards
Small Batch Rye named Top 5 Best American Whiskey in Forbes magazine

2019 Awards
“Craft Producer of the Year” for the Americas by Whisky Magazine
“Global Craft Producer of the Year” by Whisky Magazine

2020 Awards
Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon named “Best Kentucky Bourbon” by World Whiskies Awards
Peerless Small Batch Kentucky Straight Rye awarded Category Gold for Rye 12 Years and
Under by Whisky Magazine
Master Distiller Caleb Kilburn was a finalist for best distiller by Whisky Magazine
Peerless was among the 12 final nominees for best distillery tour by Whisky Magazine

2021 Awards
Small Batch Bourbon received 92 points from Wine Enthusiast magazine
Small Batch Rye received 93 points from Wine Enthusiast magazine

For more information, visit kentuckypeerless.com
Contact: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
120 North 10th Street, Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 566-4999
Contact@KentuckyPeerless.com
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Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: award, Barrel, bourbon, California, craft, distill, distiller, fermentation, fruit, gold medal, kentucky, mouthfeel, Oak, rye, tasting, tasting notes, whiskey, whisky, wine enthusiast

Watershed Distillery® Releases Highly Anticipated Batch 002 of Barrel Strength Bourbon Finished in Apple Brandy Casks

September 28, 2021 by evebushman

COLUMBUS, Ohio, /PRNewswire/ — Watershed Distillery announces its most mature spirit to date—a highly limited barrel strength bourbon—released on Saturday, September 18, at the distillery with limited allocation in Ohio retail agencies and select markets across the U.S. to follow. The highly anticipated 2021 Watershed Barrel Strength Bourbon Batch 002 follows the release of Batch 001 in September 2020 for the distillery’s 10-year anniversary, which sold out in under three hours.

 

Created from some of the last remaining barrels of Watershed Distillery’s original five grain mash bill of corn, wheat, rye, barley, and spelt—an ancient grain grown primarily in Ohio and nod to the distillery’s craft roots—Barrel Strength Bourbon Batch 002 was created from copper pot-distilled bourbon aged four years in virgin char #4 White Oak barrels and finished for 34-45 months in Watershed’s own Ohio apple brandy casks. Bottled without chill filtration at 120.8 proof, this rare and complex spirit was created from barrels 100% distilled, aged, and bottled on-site, and represents the oldest bourbon ever released by Watershed Distillery.

“When selecting the barrels for this batch of our Barrel Strength Bourbon, our Barrel Master Anne Dimmick and I set out to highlight the true depth and complexity of the bourbon we make at Watershed Distillery,” shares Head Distiller Aaron Harris. “We are always looking for that ‘magic’ in a barrel—a rich and bold bourbon with balanced sweetness that truly stands apart from the rest, and we think Batch 002 captures that perfectly.”

Watershed is releasing just 3,060 bottles of this highly anticipated limited offering to seven markets—Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, New York and Michigan. Suggested retail price is $89.99. Tasting notes for Barrel Strength Bourbon Batch 002 are as follows:

  • Appearance: Deep Amber
  • Aroma: Dark brown sugar caramel, roasted oak and rich vanilla
  • Flavor: The palate brings with it a full-bodied rich viscosity, with complex notes of fig, peripheral spice, and a touch of black cherry and toasted nuttiness
  • Finish: Robust and balanced with lingering complexity
  • Age: 6-8 years
  • Proof: 120.8

Watershed Barrel Strength Bourbon Batch 002 was released to the public at Watershed Distillery (1145 Chesapeake Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43212) on Saturday, September 18, before making its way—in small quantities—to select retail outlets in Ohio and to Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Lexington, New York City and Tampa.

To celebrate this limited release, Watershed Distillery hosted a special preview dinner, “The Evolution of Character,” on Thursday, September 16. This event featured a curated menu by Executive Chef Jack Moore, and allowed attendees to experience the special journey this particular bourbon took from grain to glass. All dinner participants had the opportunity to purchase up to two bottles of Watershed Barrel Strength Bourbon Batch 002 in advance of the public release on Saturday, September 18.

This limited release is the latest offering in Watershed’s premium family of aged spirits. This summer, the distillery moved to a fully-aged stated bourbon portfolio with the launch of Watershed Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon and the relaunch of their flagship Watershed Distillery Bourbon as a 4-6 year blend of three bourbons. For more information on Watershed Distillery, its spirits or to purchase a ticket to the “Evolution of Character dinner,” please visit www.watersheddistillery.com.

ABOUT WATERSHED DISTILLERY
Watershed Distillery is the largest independent Ohio distillery and producer of award-winning craft bourbons, gins, vodka and a variety of specialty spirits. Founded in 2010 by Greg Lehman, Watershed Distillery was inspired by the vision of creating great spirits and shared experiences that bring people together. Watershed Distillery offers seasonal curated events, daily tours and tasting experiences, and is home to Watershed Kitchen and Bar—consistently named one of the top restaurants and cocktail bars in Columbus. Find Watershed online at http://www.watersheddistillery.com or @watershedistillery.

Please drink responsibly. 60% Alc/Vol. © 2021 Watershed Distillery, Columbus, Ohio.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: aged, alcohol, aroma, balance, Barrel, bourbon, brandy, cask, chef, craft, dinner, distiller, distillery, finish, flavor, menu, proof, rye, spirits, sweet, tasting notes, u.s., whiskey dinner

PENNINGTON DISTILLING COMPANY EARNS 17 MEDALS

September 21, 2021 by evebushman

Nashville, TN— Pennington Distilling Company earns 17 medals from the American Distilling Institute and the American Craft Spirits Association annual competitions.  

Davidson Reserve® is a big winner at the coveted 2021 ADI Judging of Craft Spirits Award earning Best of Class, Best of Category, and Gold.   The Davidson Reserve® Four Grain Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey, made with corn, wheat, barley and rye, topped the judging in the Distilled(1) & Certified Craft Distilled Spirits™ Whiskey division (specifically “grain to glass” distilleries).

Jeff and Jenny Pennington, co-founders of Pennington Distilling Company, state “We are very proud that our Davidson Reserve® Whiskies continue to showcase our passion to distill the best Tennessee Whiskey on our category.   Our entire team works hard every day to make Davidson Reserve an award-winning whiskey.”

Pennington Distilling Company also earned a Silver medal for the Davidson Reserve® Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a Bronze for the Davidson Reserve® Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey and a Bronze for each vodka, Pickers Vodka® and Walton’s Finest Vodka®.

In addition to the ADI awards, Pennington Distilling Company had an impressive tally at the American Craft Spirits Association Awards with the Davidson Reserve® Single Barrel Straight Tennessee Whiskey winning a Gold medal and eight Silver medals for other Davidson Reserve® whiskies and Walton’s Finest Vodka®.

About Davison Reserve


Davidson Reserve is the truest expression of what originally inspired the Pennington’s to open a distillery in Nashville.  It’s the first locally distilled six-year-old Tennessee Whiskey since Prohibition and is a reflection of Tennessee’s heritage and history that connects us to a long (and storied) history of distilling alcohol in our home state.


Davidson Reserve joins the very small club of Tennessee distilleries that perform every function of the production process on-site. At our facility in West Nashville, we do everything except grow the grain, which is sourced locally from Renfroe Farms just up the road in Huntington, Tennessee.  Davidson Reserve is one of the first distilleries in Tennessee to receive the sought-after “bottled-in-bond” designation since the laws were changed in 2009.

About Pennington Distilling Company
Pennington Distilling Company was founded in 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee by husband-and-wife team, Jeff and Jenny Pennington.  Located in the heart of their hometown, the Penningtons have personally crafted the finest in Tennessee Whiskey, vodka, and sipping cream.

From hand-selecting local farmers, gathering the best non-GMO grain, and remaining committed to “grain to glass“, to aging whiskey in oak barrels, combined with unique and flavorful spirit recipes, the Pennington Distilling Company brands are not only fan loved but also award-winning. The brands have garnered over 69 awards to date in competitions such as the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the International Wine and Spirits Competition, SIP Awards, Beverage Tasting Institute/Tastings.com Awards, and the American Distilling Institute Awards.

For almost ten years, Pennington Distilling Company has worked diligently to bring the finest alcoholic beverages to the ever-changing and highly competitive spirits industry. The Pennington Distilling Company family of brands includes three proprietary mash bills: Davidson Reserve Tennessee Straight Sour Mash Whiskey®, Davidson Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey®, and Davidson Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey®. Davidson Reserve Four Grain® and Davidson Reserve Genesis® are both Tennessee Straight Bourbon whiskeys created by blending small batches of these mash bills together.

Pennington Distilling Company also produces Pickers Original Vodka® with additional fruit-infused flavors including Blueberry, Blood Orange, and Pineapple; Pickers Unplugged Vodka Soda® in assorted low calorie, zero carbohydrate, and gluten-free flavors; Pickers Crafted Cocktails® in assorted flavors; Whisper Creek Tennessee Sipping Cream® (Cream Liqueur made with Tennessee Whiskey) available in Original®, Mocha, Peanut Butter Chocolate and Pumpkin Spice; and Walton’s Finest Vodka®, which is named after Jenny’s father and made with 100% Tennessee red winter wheat.

For more information about the company, please visit www.penningtondistillingco.com.

Whisper Creek Tennessee Sipping Cream, Pickers Vodka, Davidson Reserve Whiskey, and Walton’s Finest Vodka are registered trademarks. ©2020 Pennington Distilling Company. Pennington Distilling Co., Nashville, Tennessee. PenningtonDistillingCo.com. October 2020. Please Enjoy & Drink Responsibly * 21 + ONLY

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: alcohol, american, barrels, best of class, blend, bourbon, bronze medal, competition, craft, craft cocktail, distill, distillery, farmer, flavor, fruit, glasses, gold medal, judge, prohibition, silver medal, spirits, tennessee, vodka, whiskey

Introducing Basil Hayden Toast, A New Style Of Bourbon Marrying Innovation And History In Every Sip

September 5, 2021 by evebushman

CLERMONT, Ky., /PRNewswire/ —  Basil Hayden® proudly announced the launch of Basil Hayden Toast, a super-premium Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and the newest addition to the award-winning Basil Hayden portfolio.1 Consisting of an entirely new mash bill, Basil Hayden Toast breaks away from preconceived notions of American Whiskey to deliver an inviting spirit for both familiar and new bourbon drinkers.

 

Expertly crafted by eighth generation Beam family distiller, Freddie Noe, Basil Hayden Toast represents a reimagining of Basil Hayden with the use of a toasted barrel. In lieu of traditional rye grain, Basil Hayden Toast is made using US-grown brown rice, which imparts a hint of sweetness and a touch less spice, while a secondary toasted barrel finish draws out notes of caramelized sugar and toasted wood. After aging, the toasted brown rice bourbon is blended back with more brown rice bourbon, which has been rested in level four char barrels, to achieve a final product with complex flavor grounded in sweet vanilla and rich roasted notes. In an ever-expanding and often intimidating bourbon market, the light, approachable palette of Basil Hayden Toast offers a fresh perspective.

“Basil Hayden Toast is truly a whiskey for fans of all taste and experience levels to share. When my grandfather Booker Noe first made Basil Hayden, his intention was always to create bourbon that opened people’s minds to what bourbon can be. Inspired by his mission, I’ve spent many years working to produce a new bourbon that speaks to this sense of discovery,” said Freddie Noe. “The unexpected addition of brown rice, as well as the toasted barrel finish of Basil Hayden Toast does just that. It delivers an intriguing avenue into the warm and memorable bourbon sipping occasion. I encourage you to raise a toast with friends to this exciting addition to the Basil Hayden family!”

In addition to being the newest permanent expression to join the Basil Hayden portfolio, Basil Hayden Toast marks the debut of a sophisticated, design-forward packaging update for the brand that elevates its most distinctive brand asset – the monogrammed belt. A nod to the metal hoops that encircle bourbon barrels, the belt holds both the physical bottle and liquid stories of Basil Hayden together. This new packaging will be featured across the portfolio, while leaving the liquid inside untouched. As a bourbon beloved for its warm and welcoming characteristics, the new Basil Hayden packaging better reflects the brand personality, inviting others to discover what bourbon can be and the many moments it’s made for.

“As one of the fastest growing super-premium bourbons on the market, Basil Hayden has been quick to respond to the increasing demand for elevated offerings in the bourbon category,” said Jonathan Marks, Senior Brand Director for Global Small Batch Bourbon at Beam Suntory. “The launch of Basil Hayden Toast is a testament to our expanding fan base and an exciting moment in our continued journey to redefine what it means to be a whiskey.”

To celebrate the launch of Toast, Basil Hayden is partnering with contemporary design studio and manufacturer, Fort Standard to help one lucky winner level up their entertaining space with a custom-made oak home bar crafted to show off the new toasted oak bourbon. For more information on how to enter for a chance to win, please follow @basilhaydens on Instagram.

Basil Hayden Toast is now available in the United States at a suggested retail price of $49.99/750mL. Enjoyed stirred into your favorite aperitif cocktail, neat or on the rocks, this 80-proof bourbon delivers an intriguing invitation into the warm, refined bourbon sipping occasion to both familiar and new friends.

About Basil Hayden®

Crafted in 1992 by Booker Noe as part of the Small Batch collection, Basil Hayden introduced a more subtle side of bourbon compared to its counterparts. Inspired by bourbons with high-rye mash bills, Booker set out to create a bourbon that would offer an approachable taste profile and defy preconceived bourbon perceptions.  Basil Hayden Bourbon welcomes new drinkers into whiskey and showcases new occasions to drink it. Beyond its flagship Basil Hayden Bourbon, the brand has pushed the boundaries of innovation in recent years. These intriguing offerings have included expressions such as Basil Hayden Dark Rye, Basil Hayden 10 Year, the limited time release of Basil Hayden 10 Year Rye Whiskey and Basil Hayden Toast.

About Beam Suntory Inc.

As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.  For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.

Share Generously. Drink Responsibly. Basil Hayden® Toast, 40% Alc./Vol. ©2021 James B. Beam Distilling Co., Clermont, KY.

1 Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, New York International Spirits Competition, Gold (2020)

 

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: aging, american, award, bar, barrels, bottle, bourbon, craft, kentucky, rye, spice, spirits, sugar, taste, whiskey

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

September 1, 2021 by evebushman

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

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: bar, beverage, breweries, charity, chef, cocktail, cocktail event, coffee, cooking, craft, craft cocktail, cuisine, festival, flavor, food, food event, food fest, kitchen, los angeles, masters of taste, michelin, mixologist, recipe, restaurants, sweets

High Praise for a New Line of Customizable Bottled Cocktails

August 8, 2021 by evebushman

COLLINGSWOOD, N.J., /PRNewswire/ — Brody’s, a line of customizable bottled cocktails that launched in May, has received high praise from both the consumer judged SIP Awards and the 12th annual New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC). This woman-owned beverage brand offers five flavors, available in select liquor stores in the Greater Philadelphia area and to 31 states via the brand’s eCommerce platform.

 

The brand, which received an innovation award from SIP Awards for their Minted Mule offering, has also collected the following accolades within its first month on the market.

  • Air Mail — rum infused with honey, lime and earthy aromatic bitters; Gold medal at SIP Awards.
  • Minted Mule — a minty mingle of vodka and spicy ginger with a splash of lime; Bronze Medal at SIP Awards
  • Touch of Grey — a bittersweet blend of gin, black tea, bergamot, black raspberry and honey; Bronze Medal at SIP Awards and a Bronze Medal from NYISC.
  • French 75 — bright juniper gin with a tart lemon kiss and a licorice finish; Silver Medal at SIP Awards
  • Black Orchid — a fresh bouquet of vodka, fruit and flowers; Double Gold at SIP Awards and a Silver Medal from NYISC.

The idea for Brody’s was born in co-founder Cristy Neunson’s kitchen out of the desire to create an easy consistent answer to crafting sparkling cocktails at home. Along with her husband John, and tenured beverage professional Ken Dee, they vetted the concept, and it soon became clear that they uncovered an opportunity in the ready-to-drink cocktail space.

“I’ve always gravitated toward champagne,” states Neunson. “But in recent years, I’ve found myself ordering sparkling cocktails as they’ve become increasingly popular on menus. When we put our heads together, we realized there was this white space between premium spirits and sparkling wine that we could fill,” she adds. “Knowing we wanted to create a multi-serve product that could be shared and wouldn’t fall flat, we incorporated the experiential element of encouraging consumers to choose their own adventure by adding the sparkling beverage of their choice.”

Brody’s comes to market during a period of strong growth and segmentation in the U.S. ready-to-drink cocktail category, at a time when consumers value experiential food and beverage products to enjoy at home. These expertly blended cocktails are best enjoyed chilled; topped with champagne, sparkling wine, club soda, tonic or ginger beer. Brody’s cocktails are available in 375 ml bottles, serve up to five cocktails each and vary in proof (16 – 25% alc/vol). Brody’s is currently retailed in the Greater Philadelphia area and to 31 states via their eCommerce platform with a suggested retail price of $14.99-$16.99 per bottle.

For more information on Brody’s, availability or to purchase online, visit www.drinkbrodys.com.

ABOUT BRODY’S CRAFTED COCKTAILS

Brody’s Crafted Cocktails is a woman-founded bottled cocktail brand offering a craft cocktail experience that encourages people to celebrate the everyday. Brody’s authentic, craft cocktails are made to customize with a splash of any sparkling beverage or to pour and enjoy, providing an approachable way to enjoy personalized premium cocktails at home. Inspired by the spirit of our founder’s first puppy – who was always the life of the party and the perfect companion to life’s memorable moments – Brody’s pledges a percentage of their profits to benefit pet-related non-profits and animal rescues. www.drinkbrodys.com

Enjoy effortlessly, drink responsibly. 16 to 25% Alc/Vol. © 2021 Brody’s Crafted Cocktails, Collingswood, NJ.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: bronze medal, champagne, cocktail, cocktails, craft, gin, gold medal, kitchen, rum, silver medal, vodka

The Ford Announces Culinary Partnership with Plant-Based Chef Jocelyn Ramirez of Todo Verde for 2021 Concert Season

August 7, 2021 by evebushman

Plant-Based Menu and Beverages are Featured at the Ford Terrace Café and Grab & Go Market

LOS ANGELES, CA – The Ford, the 1,200-seat Los Angeles amphitheater nestled into the Hollywood Hills, announces a new culinary program designed by celebrated chef and community activist Jocelyn Ramirez of Todo Verde. Beginning July 30, 2021, attendees of The Ford’s performing arts programs began to order food and beverages at Todo Verde at the Terrace or the Grab & Go Market with Ramirez’ flavor-rich and healthy plant-based menu of dishes and drinks.

Jocelyn Ramirez founded Todo Verde in 2015 with a mission to create delicious and healthy foods inspired by her Mexican and South American roots for her Eastside Mexican community. As one of the most popular vendors at Smorgasburg LA, Ramirez continues to learn about the health benefits of nutrient-dense food and healthy ecosystems and shares her knowledge of healthy living through workshops, dialogues and food demonstrations throughout the community.

Photo credit Lindsay Kreighbaum.

Ramirez is thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce her menu at The Ford, stating, “This is such a moment for chefs of color in Los Angeles, and I’m honored to be a part of The Ford’s season as the first plant-based food concessionaire to take over a major music venue in the city of Los Angeles. Just six years ago, Todo Verde was founded and has become a staple across LA’s farmers’ markets and Smorgasburg LA. Now we are happy to call The Ford home, serving up some of our signatures like tacos de carnitas, ceviche, mulitas de chorizo and more.”

In addition to three types of tacos – Mushroom y Mole, Jackfruit Carnitas con Pipian Verde and Chorizo-Spiced-Seared Mushroom, – Todo Verde offers several dishes to share: Ceviche de Palmitas with hearts of palm in citrus and olive oil served with avocado, tomato, cilantro, jalapeño, cucumber, black sesame & tortilla chips;  Como La Flor of quinoa, cilantro micro greens, tomato, cucumber & orange, served with citrus-dressed mixed greens; Mulita of house-made cashew cheese melted between blue corn tortillas with house-made plant-based “chorizo,” cashew crema & pickled red onion; Nachos with house-made plant-based nacho cheese over tortilla chips with choice of plant-based “chorizo” or jackfruit, cashew crema & pico de gallo; and Poblano Mac y Cheese with fire-roasted poblano cashew queso and wheat semolina macaroni.

Desserts include Cacao Pudding, a cacao-and avocado-based pudding spiced with cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup with strawberry reduction, dehydrated strawberries & pistachio crumble; and Plant-Based Cheesecake of creamy cashew-based lemon cheesecake with toasted almond cashew crust, cacao ganache and lemon zest.

To complement these menus are Todo Verde’s refreshing agua frescas, Strawberry Rose and Black Rice Horchata, which are available in both non-alcoholic and spiked versions using craft spirits. Guests may select craft beers from SouthNorte Beer Co. (San Diego) and Baja Brewing (Tijuana) and natural wines from small producers Sassara and Las Jaras wineries.

The Grab & Go Market features some of Todo Verde’s favorite food businesses that embody the cultural flavors that define Los Angeles. Carnivores, pescatarians and vegetarians can choose from Ramirez’s curated collection: George’s Boyle Heights Bean & Cheese Burrito or Ground Beef Burrito; Seoul Sausage Korean Fried Chicken; Bridgetown Roti Garlic Trini Eggplant & Scallion or Green Curry Shrimp & Potato; Toss It up Caesar Salad or a Southwestern Chicken Salad; Maison Matho French Ham & Butter Sandwich; Mama Musubi Curry Chicken Musubi or Yuzu Salmon Musubu; and Plantae Sushi Miso Avocado Roll or Spicy “Tuna” Roll. Ramirez includes a vegan and traditional Cheese Box served with accompaniments, and for dessert, Madame Shugah cookies; Omiso cookies; Bijoux Macarons; Coolhaus dairy-free ice-cream sandwiches; and Buttery Co kettle and cheddar corn. The Grab & Go Market offers an expansive selection of local craft beers and natural wines by the glass and bottle.

To browse the complete Todo Verde at the Terrace Café menu or to order online on show days (90 minute window) click HERE.  To view the complete Grab & Go Market offerings, click HERE. To learn more about dining and picnicking at The Ford, click HERE.

About Jocelyn Ramirez:

Todo Verde founder Jocelyn Ramirez is a plant-based chef, college professor, yoga instructor and advocate for healthy food access in her community. After Jocelyn’s father was diagnosed with cancer for the second time, she created a plant-based superfood smoothie diet that made him dramatically stronger and helped with a quick recovery. She founded Todo Verde in 2015 and left her career in higher education to pursue a new path in foodways related to culture and tradition, and she references traditional recipes passed down for generations within her family. Her business offers a robust catering division and can be experienced at farmers’ markets and at Smorgasburg LA in DTLA.  Jocelyn’s background includes Fine Art, Design and Business degrees, and she has trained at the Matthew Kenney Culinary Institute. Her work has been featured in several publications, including Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Vice, Spotify, Buzzfeed, Smithsonian, and Bon Appetit. Jocelyn published her first cookbook, La Vida Verde: Plant-Based Mexican Cooking with Authentic Flavor (Page Street), in 2020. In 2017, Jocelyn co-founded Across Our Kitchen Tables, an organization focused on uplifting women of color in the food industry that hosts skill-shares and an annual symposium. She currently sits on the Culinary Advisory Board for Food Forward and the Leadership Board for the Los Angeles Food Policy Council.

About The Ford

The Ford is one of the oldest performing arts venues in Los Angeles, with an outdoor 1,200-seat amphitheater and a rich history dating back to 1920. Situated in a 32-acre park and under the stewardship of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, The Ford presents an eclectic summer season of music, dance, film and family events that are reflective of the communities that comprise Los Angeles.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: beer, beverage, California, chef, craft, culinary, dessert, drinks, food, hollywood, los angeles, menu, mexico, south america, spirits, wine

The New York World Wine and Spirits Competition is celebrating its 10th anniversary!

July 21, 2021 by evebushman

Entrants can submit their products online or download entry materials from the Competition’s website at www.nywscomp.com. The deadline to submit is Friday, August 6th, 2021. (The deadline to contact their import partner, Park Street Imports for help with importing products into the United States has passed.)

This year’s new trade, marketing and writing awards celebrate the talented trade people whose efforts have influenced growth and trends in the wine and spirits industry — especially small and mid-sized producers. Winners will be announced throughout the year.

“After a year where the people of the beverage community were so dramatically affected, we wanted to take time to recognize, honor and highlight the people that dedicate their lives to and make up this amazing industry,” said Amanda Blue, COO of The Tasting Alliance.

Below are the new awards.

  • Best Mixologist
  • Best Sommelier
  • Best Wine List
  • Best Wine Retailer
  • Best Spirits Retailer
  • Best Online Wine Retailer
  • Best Online Spirits Retailer
  • Best Brand Ambassador
  • Best Wine Writing
  • Best Spirits Writing
  • Best Social Media Account
  • Best Marketing and Advertising
  • Best Craft Distiller
  • Most Creative POS Display
  • Best Cocktail Menu (US/International)
  • Best Independent Food and Beverage Director
  • Best Corporate Food and Beverage Director

And more, for a full list of awards please visit the NYWSC website: www.nywscomp.com 

About the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition: 

  • The NYWSC is a member of The Tasting Alliance, parent company of the SFWSC, SFIWC, and SWSC.
  • Products are evaluated in a blind, consensual procedure ensuring the NYWSC maintains the highest level of impartiality.
  • The 2021 Competition takes place over five days, August 30th through September 3rd.
  • Deadline for entries will be Friday, August 6th, 2021
  • The Tasting Alliance sponsors tasting events throughout the year where trade professionals and consumers can sample the Competition’s top winners.

SOURCE The Tasting Alliance

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: award, cocktail menu, competition, craft, distiller, menu, mixologist, social media, sommelier, spirits, wine list

The Award-Winning Lost Explorer Mezcal Brand Expands Distribution Presence in U.S.

June 28, 2021 by evebushman

OAXACA, Mexico/PRNewswire/ — The Lost Explorer Mezcal, an award-winning, sustainably crafted and Oaxacan-cultivated mezcal, announces expanded distribution across the U.S. by partnering with Infuse Spirits Group. Infuse has built a strong distribution network spanning 34 states for their unique single-bottle infused vodkas and unapologetically non-traditional Broken Barrel Whiskey brands. As a part of the agreement, Infuse Spirits Group will lead U.S. sales for The Lost Explorer Mezcal, making inroads in 12 markets by the end of 2021.

 

Seth Benhaim, founder of Infuse Spirits Group says, “Working with The Lost Explorer Mezcal will open many doors for all brands involved. The undeniable popularity of Mezcal and the unique profile, quality and packaging of The Lost Explorer are perfect compliments to the vodka and whiskey brands we currently sell. There are so many great synergies between our two teams.”

Launched at the end of 2020, The Lost Explorer Mezcal most recently received Double Gold (Salmiana), Gold (Espadin) and Silver (Tobala) recognition from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the most established and influential spirits competition in the world. The brand was also named Taste Master, the prestigious accolade of the best of the best across the tequila and mezcal category, in a competition hosted by The Spirits Business.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Infuse Sprits Group to bring The Lost Explorer Mezcal to even more consumers across the country,” said The Lost Explorer Mezcal CEO Tanya Clarke. “As a new brand entering the growing Mezcal market and gaining recognition quickly, this partnership puts our sustainably-crafted and Oaxacan made Mezcal on the fast track for growth.”

In addition to its direct-to-consumer platform, The Lost Explorer Mezcal is now listed with a variety of e-commerce partners including Caskers.com, ReserveBar and Mercado de Mezcal. The Lost Explorer Mezcal is also available in high-end retailers, restaurants and bar locations throughout California, including Gracias Madre, The Peninsula Hotel, Old Town Tequila and Beverly Hills Liquor & Wine.

The Mezcal is now available in Mexico, the UK and US, and was created in partnership with award-winning Maestro Mezcalero Don Fortino Ramos and his daughter Xitlali as a premier, earth-centric spirit. For more information on The Lost Explorer Mezcal, visit www.thelostexplorermezcal.com or follow their journey on Instagram @thelostexplorermezcal.

ABOUT THE LOST EXPLORER MEZCAL
Handcrafted from 100% agave cultivated in the sun-soaked Valles Centrales, Oaxaca, Mexico, The Lost Explorer Mezcal is co-founded by David de Rothschild and Thor Björgólfsson, and created in partnership with award-winning Maestro Mezcalero Don Fortino Ramos and his daughter Xitlali. It is a toast to empowering sustainable Mexican enterprise, while protecting the ancient artisanal craft, heritage, and biodiversity of Mexico. Harvested in harmony with the elements and in tune with the rhythm of nature, the three uniquely profiled varietals – Espadín, Tobalá, and Salmiana – invite people to celebrate the earth and live curiously, exploring the diversity and wonder of the sacred agave.

ABOUT INFUSE SPIRITS GROUP
Infuse Spirits Group [ISG] is based in Los Angeles, California but produces its one-of-a-kind vodkas in North Las Vegas, Nevada and its small batch craft whiskeys in Owensboro, Kentucky. ISG is unlike any other spirits company in the industry, focusing its attention on the diversification and process behind spirits, rather than just the provenance of spirits. In addition to the six current vodka expressions, its Broken Barrel whiskey brands each feature a unique Oak Bill™, which like the “mash bill” describes the barrel stave composition that finishes each whiskey batch. All Broken Barrel whiskeys are finished with various broken cask staves, steeped into the whiskey. ISG’s portfolio is made with passion and purpose and is currently sold in 34 states throughout the U.S. ISG’s brands have received over 70 awards in the past seven years including (3) Double Gold Medals & Best-of-Show at the San Francisco & New York World Spirits Competition.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: agave, Barrel, beverly hills, California, craft, mexico, mezcal, san francisco, taste, tequila, vodka, whiskey

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Eve Bushman

Eve Bushman, owner Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting.

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