Eve's Wine 101

My Fave Wines + Spirits of 2022

by

Every year I reflect back on the best wines I’ve enjoyed the past year, and since I’ve had so many I often Google my name on the Internet to remind myself of it all. Of huge note was our trip to the Lake Garda, Italy DOC, and Chateauneuf du Pape…but there were many, many other wines – and spirits –  I’ve enjoyed. Here they are, pretty much in order from January through December 2022:

Lodi

I only had one day in Lodi to taste wines, and for this section I will focus on just one as it was so remarkable we became club members. Winemaker and owner Susan Tipton of Acquiesce Winery, aka the White Wine Winery, has been making award-winning Rhone wines that many other people have discovered long before we found them. There wasn’t a single wine that we didn’t love, from that first tasting and since with our club shipments.

Napa

As a wine journalist I try very hard to visit new wineries to write about when I visit California wine country. This past year the wineries of note that I loved in Napa include Myriad Cellars (winemaker Mike Smith makes an amazing number of 100-point wines), Hall Wines, Cakebread Cellars, Ladera Vineyard, Stag’s Leap Cellars, Titus Vineyards and Honig Vineyard and Cellars.

The Garda DOC

Lake Garda is the biggest lake in Italy, not as famous as Lake Como – I’m told that’s only because George Clooney made Como more popular when he set up residence there – and a large winemaking AVA. Prosecco is king, but I also enjoyed many red wine varieties while there. It’s also a beautiful lake dotted with amazing coastal towns that each offer something interesting for travelers and wine lovers. Read more about it in my article in Elite Magazine.

Chateauneuf du Pape

Eddie and I jumped at the chance to visit this amazing wine area – and this is how our adventure was titled for the online magazine Daily Ovation: A Wine Lover’s Bucket List: Eve Bushman Spends a Week Touring and Tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape. (Bite-sized articles on the area can also be found on this blog.) Besides all of the amazing Rhone wines we got to taste in several wineries, and sharing the experience with seasoned writers, my most vivid memory was seeing the amazing large quartz stones, that went two meters down before hitting any earth, that many of the vineyards were covered in. I’d heard it described many times, “rocky soil”, but seeing it was believing it. Wineries we visited included Domaine Du Pegau, Domaine Roger Sabon, Domaine de la Mordoree, Domaine Andre Brunel, le Clos du Caillou, Domaine la Barroche, Chateau Mont-Redon, Domaine du Grand Tinel, Domaine Saint Prefert et Domaine Isabel Ferrando and Vieux Telegraphe.

Single Bottle Posts and Events

When I have a remarkable bottle I do single-bottle blog posts on them in this blog. My thinking is that a winemaker has spent so much time creating that one wine, let me try and do it justice by devoting an article to it. I also receive bottles for review, dedicating the same space on the blog for them as well, and attended some remarkable events. In 2022 I truly loved a 2008 Robert Mondavi To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon from our cellar, Vinos Zanzonico 2020 Reserva Chardonnay and 2019 Reserva Syrah, Middle West Pumpernickel Rye whiskey, Corvezzo wines from Italy, the 2022 Bar and Restaurant Expo, 2021 Alavida Kosher Malbec, wines from Portugal’s Herdade do Esporao, Masters of Taste 2022, PureCru Brut Rose Sparkling wine, 2019 Chateau du Moulin-a-vent Beaujolais, many discoveries at the Universal Whisky Experience, Greek wines, 2019 Catena Malbec from Argentina, Knox and Dobson ready-to-drink cocktails, Valdobbiadene Prosecco and others. (If any of these interest you feel free to email me for the hyperlinks, or search this blog for more details.)

Now I can only ask, what exciting wines and spirits will 2023 have for us?

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the 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 Proof Awards, Cellarmasters, LA Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Wine Paris and Vinexpo Paris 2023, turning the spotlight on Be Spirits

by

The forthcoming Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris exhibition, due to take place from 13 to 15 February 2023 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, is dedicating a hall to the spirits and craft beverage arena with a programme that promises to be more vibrant than ever.

2023, A LANDMARK YEAR FOR BE SPIRITS 

  • In terms of new features, Be Spirits will boast its own hall to make room for spirits from all backgrounds, from the craft distilleries to the household brands, and shed light on industry trends for professionals.
  • The new format comes with a change in tempo stemming from a desire to meet the community’s needs through specific opening times, from 10 am to 8 pm.
  • A new area, dubbed the Craft Pavilion, will be reserved for the upcoming generation, with young producers of spirits, RTDs, alcohol-free drinks, ciders and beers, allowing them to promote their products in an outstanding international setting. Featured producers will include Gin and Pastis from the Distillerie de l’Ort, produced organically by a brother and sister duo in the Perigord region; rum infusions from K’ribean Cocktail-Taleya, born of a family venture in Guadeloupe; Gin with lavender accents by the Le Vadrouilleur-Maison LC 1901 distillery in Haute Provence; and the craft aperitif Vylmer Apéritifs, also produced in Provence and inspired by the 1950s.

BE SPIRITS, AN EVENT WITHIN THE EVENT 

In 2023, spirits, craft and alcohol-free beveragesare becoming even more significant with 20 % extra floor space compared with the 2022 event and 44 % new exhibitors. Alongside the many French exhibitors, international attendance will be very strong with the return of Belgium, Canada, the United States, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Romania, the United Kingdom and Switzerland. Alongside them will be Uzbekistan, the Czech Republic and Vietnam as newcomers to the exhibition in 2023.

BE SPIRITS, AN EVENT FOCUSING ON DISCOVERY 

27 categories of spirits will be represented: Anise-based drinks, Armagnac, Cachaça, Calvados, Cognac, Cream Liqueurs, Brandies, Gin, Mezcal, RTDs, Rum, Rum infusions, Sake, Alcohol-free, Tequila, Tonic, Vermouth, Vodka and Whisky. New alcoholic drinks will enter the Be Spirits repertoire: Absinthe, liqueurs, bitter, Pisco (Peru’s national drink), Hard Tea and Shochu (the Japanese spirit), along with ciders and beers.

Making their debut in the Be Spirits hall are alcohol-free drinks which will come in a range of styles from semi-sparkling, spirits and beers to mixers and tonics, broadening the choice on offer in response to market demand.

EXHIBITORS FROM ALL BACKGROUNDS

International participants include Whisky, Rum and Vodka from Canada with Notaboo and sake and shochu from Japan with the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association and American RTDs Slim Chillers. French exhibitors will also share the limelight with attendance by the National Armagnac Marketing Bureau, Cognac with Château Montifaud, craft cream liqueurs with La Mentheuse, and Whisky from La Distillerie Warenghem with its Whisky Armorik.

Loyal exhibitors include the Consorzio di Tutela della Doc Prosecco, Anivin de France, Armagnac Castarede, Armagnac Veuve Goudoulin, BBC Vins et Spiritueux, Calvados Christian Drouin, Château de Saint Aubin, Cognac Dobbe, Maison Dolin, Drouet et Fils, Cognac François Voyer, Cognac Prince Hubert de Polignac, Dartilongue et Fils Armagnac, Delors Frères, Distillerie des Moisans, Distillerie Merlet, Distillerie de la Seine, Distillerie Jean-Paul Mette, Distillerie Longueteau, Domaine familial Louis Dupont, Eyland Spirits, Fire&Ice Beverages AG, Hardy Cognac, Hawkins Distribution, Jacoulot, Kaskad Diffusion, Les Bienheureux, Le Club des Marques, Les Jardins de l’Orbrie / So Jennie, Maison de la Mirabelle – Distillerie de Rozelieures, Maison Ferroni , Maison Peyrat, Michel Couvreur Scotch Whiskies LTD, Plus Oultre Distillery, Tesseron Cognac, Terre de Légende – Bruant Distribution, Tennessee Distilling and Vinet Delpech.

Among new exhibitors will be Arspirits, Armagnacs from Château de Lacquy, Black Mountain, Cognac Paul Giraud et Fils, JNPR, Distillerie de l’Ort, Distillerie Castan, Distillerie Miclo, Distillerie des Menhirs, Domaine de Coquerel, Dunrobin Distilleries, Groupe Geloso/Broue Alliance, Kratochvilovci, K’Ribean Cocktail / Taleya, Gaec du Clos de la Pommeraye, Godet Frères Cognac, Vignobles du Hour, Notaboo Corp, Famille Laudet / Domaine de Laballe, Maison Gelas, Saka Spirits, Slim Chillers, Spirignac, Shogga, Spiritique, Spiribam, Square Box / L’arrange Français and Univers Drink.

AN ON! PROGRAMME FUELLED BY CREATIVITY 

As part of the ON! programme, the event will provide the stage for innovative events in a new area called Speakeasy, a nod to the illicit ‘speak softly’ bars of the Roaring Twenties.  The 2023 Speakeasy by Wine Paris & Vinexpo will take an enterprising approach to on-trend topics in the world of spirits and mixology, yet maintain a very convivial atmosphere.

The battle of the Mixologists, a new event, will bring together the industry’s most creative figures. Speakeasy will also be the venue for masterclasses, conferences and panel discussions devoted to new trends and challenges in the global spirits market. The line-up already includes:

  • a masterclass on Brandy curated by Lucien Bernard,
  • a ‘Spirits’ masterclass by the WSET,
  • a ‘Sowine’ conférence hosted by Marie Mascré, ‘Z (for zebra?): younger generations and their relationship with wines and spirits’,
  • and masterclasses by the Japan Sake and Shochu Association.

The FEVS (French Federation of Wine & Spirits Exporters) will also reveal figures for French wine and spirits exports at its annual press conference on Tuesday 14 February at 10 am in the LET’S SPEAK WINE! area.

  • THE INFINITE BAR

One of the go-to attractions at Be Spirits is the huge, 40-metre-long Infinite Bar which is a focal point in the Be Spirits hall and the point where business meets inspiration. In 2023, it will welcome European, Parisian and French bars to showcase the incredible creativity of the top mixologists or up-and-coming personalities on the bartender scene.

For more information, visit wineparis-vinexpo.com

About WINE PARIS & VINEXPO PARIS

Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris is the annual event for wine and spirits professionals from around the world. Hosted in February at a key time of the year, it aims to offer a cohesive focal point for industry players centring on a comprehensive, relevant and inclusive range of products that showcases vineyard sites across the globe alongside all the French wine regions.

About VINEXPOSIUM

Vinexposium is the world’s leading organizer of wine and spirits trade events. The group boasts an extensive portfolio of iconic, high-performance events tailored to different market segments: Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris; Vinexpo America, Drinks America; Vinexpo Asia; Symposium; Vinexpo China; WBWE Amsterdam; and Vinexpo India, along with Vinexpo Explorer and Vinexpo Meetings. Vinexposium also continues to enhance its digital portal, Vinexposium Connect, the high-performance business enabler where industry members can connect 365 days a year around the world and enjoy online networking and exclusive content.

Reviewing Coppa Cocktails Cosmopolitan and a Trip to the 1980s

by

When I see a Cosmopolitan cocktail offered on a bar menu I’m immediately swept into the 1980s and an episode of Sex in the City. This is a good thing, as I loved the 80s and that show! So when offered a bottle of a pre-mixed “Coppa Cosmo” that’s “a blend of Dutch vodka with triple sec, cranberry, and lime juices” I said heck ya!

Come to find that the brand, Coppa Cocktails, also makes a Pina Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri, Mojito, Mai Tai, Sex on the Beach and a Margarita. That covers a lot of favorites! But let’s get back to the Coppa Cosmopolitan for now, and my review below.

I poured three shots (it’s a low ABV) of this premade Cosmo into my Martini shaker, filled with ice, shook like mad and then strained it into an iced coupe glass. Noting a very pretty color, like the watermelon or peach flavored Jolly Rancher hard candy. Aromas included the cranberry (juice) and orange (from the triple sec), lime soda as well as memories of a sweet fruit cocktail in syrup. The flavor mirrored the aromas, and if you like your cocktails on the sweeter side, without too much alcohol, this one fits the bill perfectly!

I’ll be keeping an eye out for the other flavors come summer as they all sound perfect to have by the pool, beach, picnic and to share with other gal pals!

From Coppa Cocktails

Coppa Cocktails are ready-to-serve, bartender quality cocktails, and their Cosmo in particular blends premium Dutch vodka with triple sec, cranberry, and lime juices. Convenience and quality are hand-in-hand with Coppa Cocktails!

https://www.coppacocktails.com/en-us/our-cocktails

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the 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 Proof Awards, LA Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Shop like a Pro with the Tastings.com 2022 Holiday Gift Guide

by

CHICAGO, /PRNewswire/ — Tastings.com, the official review site of the Beverage Testing Institute, is gifting savvy holiday revelers with their Holiday Gift Guide that features hundreds of award-winning adult beverages to help them better plan their parties and upgrade their gift giving, all while impressing their friends, family, and co-workers with tasty drink discoveries.

The Tastings.com Holiday Gift Guide is a colorful, eye-catching flip book that features top-rated and perfect-for-presents spirits, wines, beers, ready-to-drink cocktails, sakes, ciders, and mixers from BTI’s expert reviews in 2022. The guide also serves up some delicious holiday-inspired drinks that are perfect for around the house and a few personal holiday stories from their expert panelists.

Considered the nation’s leading adult beverage testing and review organization, BTI taste tests thousands of beverages annually, is accredited by the American Society for Testing and Materials for its scientifically based blind tasting standards, and is universally recognized for independence, integrity, and consistency. Ratings and reviews from BTI have catapulted brands like Grey Goose and Pappy Van Winkle into the pantheon of the world’s most successful brands. Julian P. Van Winkle has said of BTI, “Every time we received a high rating from BTI over the years, interest increased for our brand. We owe a lot to Beverage Testing Institute for our success.”

Their Tastings.com Holiday Gift Guide makes finding and purchasing unique wines, beers and spirits super simple and virtually foolproof. With just a click on a product from the guide you go to the full review page on Tastings.com where their “Buy-It-Now” button allows consumers to buy any item featured in the guide via links to retailer sites. Throughout the guide you will find “Best Buy” beverages that offer exceptional score to price ratios, so that you can drink like a connoisseur without spending a ton of coin.

According to Andrew Moldenhauer, BTI’s Director of Content & Education, “Because BTI assembles dozens of leading experts to assess products based on consumer appeal, quality, and typicity, you know that the Tastings.com Holiday Gift Guide is a great way to elevate your home tastings and discover many of the best and most interesting products in their categories without having to sift through advertising spin or just rely on one writer’s sense of taste.”

Items featured in the Holiday Gift Guide were blindly judged and scientifically vetted based on merit alone by BTI’s panels of beverage industry experts. The guide features many of BTI’s recently announced “Best of Year Awards” like Larceny Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (2022 Best Straight Bourbon Whiskey), Evan Williams Egg Nog Cream Liqueur (2022 Top 2 Cream Liqueurs), and Le Chemin Du Roi NV Brut Rosé (2022 Best Champagne Brut Rose), Grand Marnier (France) Cuvée Du Centenaire Liqueur (2022 Best Flavored Brandy Liqueur ), Philip Mead Traditional Sweet Mead (2022 Top 2 Traditional Meads) and the Midleton Dair Ghaelach Kylebeg Wood Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey (2022 Best Whiskey of the Year).

Put a bow on it and call it a wrap with Tastings.com’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide.

Registration opens for Vinexpo America and Drinks America 2023

by

PORTLAND, Maine – Registration has kicked off for Vinexpo America and Drinks America following a successful 2022 debut for the two co-located events, which unite the global beverage alcohol industry. The leading international exhibition for wine and spirits professionals in North America will return to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center’s new exhibit Hall 3 in New York March 8-9, 2023. Next year’s program will build on the momentum of 2022, which drew more than 380 exhibitors representing the products of 30 countries. Planning for the co-located programs is well under way, and a new member of the Vinexpo America and Drinks America Advisory Board is in the mix. Robert Tobiassen, president of National Association of Beverage Importers, Inc., has joined the prestigious panel, now comprised of 13 esteemed executives from the beverage alcohol industry. Registration for attendees is now open, with an early bird rate offered through March 7.

Where the Wine, Beer, and Spirits World Meets in North America

North America’s premier trade-only expos will provide U.S. and Canadian buyers and decision makers with access to new and established brands looking to enter and expand in the North American market, and the opportunity to discuss products and conduct business in one location. Vinexpo America focuses exclusively on wines from around the world and Drinks America features spirits, beer, sake, ready-to-drink, and related products and services. Attendees will have full access to both events. The event will feature two full days of educational conferences and master classes, networking opportunities, and an exhibition hall strategically organized to foster business relationships. Exhibitors already confirmed for the 2023 show include Aquitaine Wine Company, Kazayak-Vin, Bodegas Tagua Tagua SPA, Retail Pak, Scentone, Casa Maestri, Charles Edge London, and Slim Chillers.

For younger wine and spirits producers with less than five years in the business, a New Wave exhibitor option is available to help them launch and boost sales. The show will welcome Brau from France and Wine Library from the United States as New Wave exhibitors this year and is still accepting applications.

By the Numbers: Attendees and Purchasing Power

Ninety-three percent of last year’s attendees were from North America, with 43 states represented. Top participating states included New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, California, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Illinois. Seventy-one percent had purchasing roles within the beverage alcohol space, and 68% purchased between $100,000 and $1.5 million annually.

Advisory Board Welcomes Robert Tobiassen

Robert Tobiassen, president of the National Association of Beverage Importers, Inc. (NABI), has joined the Vinexpo America and Drinks America advisory board. Since 1935 NABI has represented importers of distilled spirits, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages on key regulatory and public policies at the federal, state, and international levels impacting trade and supply chain distribution in goods and accompanying services.

Tobiassen joins 12 other U.S.-based wine and spirits industry leaders who contribute to the planning and growth of Vinexpo America and Drinks America, including John Beaudette (MHW, Ltd.), Cheryl Durzy (LibDib), Valerie Gerard-Matsuura (Sopexa USA), Monique Huston (Winebow), Helen Mackey (Darden), Vela McClam Thomas (Lemae Group), Steve Melchiskey (USA Wine West, LLC), Brandy Rand (The IWSR), Brian Rosen (BevStrat LLC), Manilay Saito (Business France), Aaron Sherman (SevenFifty) and David Talbot (Ultimate Beverage Challenge).

For more information or to register to attend, visit www.vinexpoamerica.com.

About Vinexposium

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

About Diversified Communications

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

Knox and Dobson Introduces Superior Ready-To-Drink Bottled Cocktails 

by

(Los Angeles, CA) – Knox & Dobson toasts to their new collection of premium ready-to-drink bottled cocktails that are expertly designed to be shared with friends, so simply Open, Pour, and Enjoy!

Knox & Dobson’s new bottled cocktail collection was meticulously curated with an uncompromising commitment to excellence in quality, craftsmanship, and taste by Knox & Dobson President Rob Levy and Creative Director Peter Lloyd Jones (The Raymond 1886, Everson Royce Bar) who heads Knox & Dobson’s formulation and product development. Featuring a gin Martini, classic Old Fashioned, Improved Whiskey Cocktail with Maraska Maraschino Liqueur, and Rye Manhattan, Knox & Dobson uses the highest quality ingredients including hand-selected barrel aged whiskey, distilled gin, natural cane sugar, and authentic Angostura Bitters. From the award-winning design of the bottle, these superior bottled cocktails were solely created so expertly handcrafted cocktails could be shared and effortlessly enjoyed anywhere.

“Our mission was to create a collection of cocktails that were equal in taste and quality to those freshly crafted by a skilled bartender. Peter Lloyd Jones was the best choice, and I can’t imagine working with anyone better, “ says Levy. “Pete was Head Barman at 1886 Bar at The Raymond and he was also behind the stick at Everson Royce Bar for several years, so his experience is invaluable, and his passion and creativity make him the perfect partner at Knox & Dobson.”

Levy’s upbringing in Skokie, Illinois, at Knox Avenue and Dobson Street is where Levy spent most of his adolescence in the ‘60s and 70’s hanging out “on the corner” with neighborhood kids who remain lifelong friends. Knox & Dobson is as much an elevated on-the-go craft beverage experience as it is a distillation of hometown pride and a love of bringing people together.

Each Knox & Dobson bottled cocktail is 200 milliliters and features two servings. Whether you are a classic Martini drinker (34% ABV), this is a take on the classic combining gin with dry vermouth to create a flavor profile of an aromatic gin martini that is slightly earthy and refreshing to drink. Lloyd Jones recommends serving this cocktail up or over ice, garnished with olives. Old Fashioned aficionados (38% ABV) can savor this cocktail which consists of straight aged bourbon, natural cane sugar, orange oil and Angostura Bitters with tastes of aged bourbon with bright citrus flavors, bitters, raw cinnamon, clove, and American oak. The Improved Whiskey Cocktail (35.42% ABV) – made with straight aged rye whiskey, Maraska Maraschino Liqueur and Angostura bitters – has a spiced flavor profile combined with American oak, citrus, along with bright and deep cherry notes. This is a whiskey cocktail that is meant to be sipped and savored. Finally, the Rye Manhattan (36% ABV) is made with straight aged rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. The tantalizing pairing of the aged whiskey combined with the aromatic Italian-style vermouth creates a spice, citrus and charred oakwood profile that will have anyone asking for another round.

Who’s ready for happy hour? And, if your go-to cocktail isn’t on the menu just yet, don’t worry. The Knox & Dobson bar cart will be rolling this Summer with more cocktails on the way and no shortage of inspiration. Knox & Dobson’s new collection of superior bottled cocktails are best served chilled or over ice and each cocktail features two servings, perfect for sharing, so simply chill, Open, Pour, and Enjoy!

Knox & Dobson is available for delivery anywhere Nationwide, so visit www.KnoxandDobson to order your new favorite bottled cocktails today. Knox & Dobson is now available at 15 Total Wine & More California stores – Brea, Daly City, Long Beach, Northridge, Pasadena, Rancho Cucamonga, Redondo Beach, Roseville, San Diego, San Jose, San Mateo, San Ramon, Temecula, Thousand Oaks, Tustin and soon to be in all 28 Total Wine & More California stores; Bristol Farms South Pasadena and soon to be in all 14 Bristol Farms California stores; Bar Keeper Los Angeles; Cypress Liquor Los Angeles; Everson Royce Bar Pasadena; Gerlach’s Pasadena; Highland Park Wine; K&L Wine Merchants in Los Angeles and San Francisco; and The Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles. To see the full list of locations, please visit Knox & Dobson’s Find a Stockist.

# # #

About Knox & Dobson:

Knox & Dobson crafts premium, ready-to-drink cocktails expertly designed to be shared and enjoyed anywhere. Our multi-award-winning bottled cocktails are made with an uncompromising commitment to excellence in quality, craftsmanship, and taste, featuring the highest quality ingredients including premium barrel-aged whiskies, Maraska Maraschino Liqueur, and authentic Angostura Bitters. Whether you’re a classic Martini drinker, Old Fashioned aficionado, Rye Manhattan enthusiast, or searching for the perfect Improved Whiskey Cocktail, serve Knox & Dobson’s bottled cocktails chilled or over ice and discover the pleasure of true craft cocktails created to simply open, pour, and enjoy. That’s something we can all toast to!

Knox & Dobson Awards:

Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) Gold Medal – Knox & Dobson Old Fashioned 2022

Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Improved Whiskey Cocktail 2022

Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) Bronze Medal – Knox & Dobson Martini 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Old Fashioned 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Improved Whiskey Cocktail 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Gin Martini 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Bronze Medal – Knox & Dobson Rye Manhattan 2022

San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Silver Medal – Knox & Dobson Bottled Craft Cocktails. Designer: Knox & Dobson 2022

Photo Credit:  Jakob N. Layman

Social Media:  Follow Knox & Dobson on Facebook @KnoxandDobson and Instagram @knoxanddobson

Knox & Dobson

www.KnoxandDobson

Ready-to-drink Del Mar Margaritas Deliver Vacation In A Bottle

by

ST. HELENA, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — Del Mar Margarita Wine Cocktails has announced its entry into the popular ready-to-drink margarita wine cocktail market – currently growing by more than 50 percent and worth more than $199 million annually1. The vacation-inspired duo in Pacifica Lime and Strawberry expressions beckons the beach with bold flavors from agave wine blended to perfection with real lime and strawberry juices. Each 13.9 percent ABV offering is vegan, gluten-free and available nationwide in three summer-ready sizes: 187mL four-packs ($11 SRP) plus 750mL ($10) and 1.5L ($18) bottles.

“This summer, we invite beach-goers and beach-dreamers alike to enjoy this new twist on America’s most-loved cocktail2,” said Jennifer Hohman, director of marketing for Del Mar Margarita Wine Cocktails. “Simply twist the top and pour your favorite flavor over ice for your ticket to good times in the sunshine and a beachside state-of-mind with this sessionable summer sipper.”

Refreshing and tangy, Del Mar Pacifica Lime Margarita opens with zesty notes of real lime juice accompanied by fresh flavors of organic Blue Weber agave from Jalisco, Mexico. Del Mar Strawberry Margarita delivers the same juicy mouthfeel, accented by sweet and succulent notes of real strawberry. Both are crafted with wine made from the agave plant – the base in craft tequila spirits. Agave wine is a fortified wine made from fermented agave plants, resulting in a lower ABV agave-based alcohol that delivers tequila-like flavors and aromas without the boozy burn. Together, these ingredients elegantly blend into Del Mar Wine Cocktails with a lower ABV than traditional margaritas – all while maintaining the classic aromas of agave and tempting taste of tequila in a ready-to-drink format.

Like its namesake oceanfront city, Del Mar Margarita Wine Cocktails evoke a beachside state-of-mind. Twisting the top of Del Mar brings memories of sun on your shoulders, friends by your side and toes in the sand. Kick off your summer and reach for the beach with classically delicious margarita wine cocktails from Del Mar; with one sip, you’ll escape to a flavorful and fun vacation* (*flip flops not required).

About Del Mar Margarita Wine Cocktails

Reach for the beach and live life in the sunshine with Del Mar Margarita Wine Cocktails, a refreshing ready-to-drink wine cocktail made with agave wine and a beachside state-of-mind. With two delicious flavors, Pacifica Lime and Strawberry, Del Mar brings memories to mind of friends by your side and your toes in the sand. Like its beachfront city namesake, Del Mar knows life by the ocean. This ready-to-drink margarita brings you to the beach and the good times in the sunshine that it provides. After all, Del Mar is more than a destination. It’s a state of mind. For more information, visit www.delmarwinecocktails.com.

Social Media
Instagram: @DelMarCocktails
Facebook: @DelMarCocktails

How Was “Masters of Taste” LA 2022?

by

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.

Alessandro Del Piero and Edge Americas Online Announces Launch of NIO Cocktails USA

by

Los Angeles, Calif. – Edge Americas Online, a Los Angeles-based consumer products distributor and retailer and an operating unit of EDGE Americas Sports, has been appointed by NIO Cocktails to kick off their brand presence in the United States with a California launch of their innovative premium line of boxed cocktails. Edge Americas Online has signed a licensing agreement with NIO Cocktails to launch NIO’s online ordering platform in the USA and opens the first NIO Cocktails retail shop in Los Angeles, CA, apart from NIO’s flagship retail store in Milan, Italy.

Co-founded by World Cup champion Alessandro Del Piero and industry veteran Jeffrey Whalen, EDGE Americas Online is a Los Angeles-based distribution company focused on consumer products retailing. NIO Cocktails is a Milan, Italy-based leading purveyor of premium quality, boxed, and ready-to-share full line of truly innovative cocktails. NIO Cocktails bears the guaranteed signature of Patrick Pistolesi, an Italian master mixologist ranked nineteenth among the World’s 50 Best Mixologists and brand ambassador of the most prestigious brands in the spirits industry.

“We are very pleased to have signed a licensing agreement with NIO Cocktails, undoubtedly #1 in the world of innovative, premium, ready-to-enjoy cocktails,” said Jeffrey Whalen, Co-Founder of Edge Americas Online. Whalen brings extensive high-level experience in the consumer products segment, having previously served in executive roles in consumer products licensing worldwide. “It is my belief that NIO Cocktails will spread a new cocktail culture with a combination of Made in Italy craftsmanship, expert mixology, and novelty.”

NIO Cocktails (Needs Ice Only) was founded on the simplicity of tasting and enjoying your favorite cocktail wherever you want, with the highest quality recipes and ingredients. It’s as simple as shake, open, and pour! “We are equally pleased to have signed this licensing agreement with Edge Americas Online, Alessandro, and Jeffrey to kick off our journey in the United States,” said Alessandro Palmarin, Co-Founder of NIO Cocktails. “NIO Cocktails is expanding rapidly across continents with a core collection of more than 15 premium cocktails perfect for any occasion like company celebrations, dinner parties, weddings, and so much more. We are very focused as well on our approach to sustainability, each NIO Cocktails box is entirely recyclable, and we are a Carbon Neutral Company.”

NIO Cocktails will be available for shipment in California only and can be purchased at retail at 257 W 7th St – San Pedro, CA, in the heart of Los Angeles’ Little Italy district, and online at niococktails.us.

About NIO Cocktails

NIO Cocktails is the brainchild of Luca Quagliano and Alessandro Palmarin, with the aim to change attitudes around cocktail consumption among the general public. The brand aims to become a leading innovator in the world of mixology, bringing its premium ready-to-drink cocktails to every place and occasion. The concept behind NIO is simple: just shake, tear, pour. NIO, which stands for Needs Ice Only, is based on the dream to be able to enjoy your favorite cocktails wherever you want, all while maintaining the highest quality in both the recipes and their ingredients. All NIO Cocktails boast the seal of approval of Patrick Pistolesi, Italian master mixologist and brand ambassador to some of the world’s most prestigious spirits brands, who is now considered to be among the top 50 bartenders in the world by World’s 50 Best Bars. Pistolesi’s artistry is reinforced by NIO’s collaboration with some of the best producers and spirits labels in the world. Better yet, sustainability is at the core of the brand: the iconic design packaging is entirely recyclable, thanks to FSC- certified paper sleeves and the 45% bioplastic pouches. In addition, NIO Cocktails is a Carbon Neutral Company. Online at: www.niococktails.us

About EDGE Americas Sports 

EDGE Americas Sports is a sports and marketing/distribution agency. The agency was created with a singular aim to deliver the most inspired consumer experience in the market – products and services that add to the celebration and emotion of that one moment. EDGE Americas Sports currently licenses NIO Cocktails, operates the Juventus Academy Los Angeles, owns the football Club LA10 FC, with investments in the acclaimed Los Angeles Italian restaurant N10 and multiple consumer brands. The agency has offices in Los Angeles and Torino, Italy. Learn more at www.edgeamericassports.com.

EDGE Americas Sports on the web at: www.edgeamericassports.com