Ojo de Tigre Artisanal Mezcal Seeks to Invite New Consumers into the Small but Rich Mezcal Category (Cocktail Recipes Included)

December 13, 2020 by evebushman

Puebla, México – Introducing approachable Mezcal. Renowned Mexican actor Luis Gerardo Méndez, who is best known for starring in and executive producing Netflix’s first Spanish-language original comedy series, Club de Cuervos, the groundbreaking comedy Nosotros Los Nobles, as well as for roles in Netflix’s Murder Mystery and the 2019 Elizabeth Banks reboot of Charlie’s Angels, has partnered with Casa Lumbre to create Ojo de Tigre Artisanal Mezcal, a new offering that seeks to bring Méndez’s love of this historic spirit to a new generation of drinkers, including those unfamiliar or unaccustomed to Mezcal.

Luis Gerardo Méndez

Ojo de Tigre redefines intimidating expectations of mezcal for new drinkers, offering fresh, inviting aromas on the nose, like green apple, fresh pear, and pepper. On the palate, think herbal notes, chocolate, and light smoke. With a process that is designed to broaden the experience of Mezcal, it is important to note what Ojo does not do: overwhelm. Each step of the process was crafted to create accessibility for new palates, paring down the acidity and funkiness during fermentation and any aggressive smokiness from roasting.

What it is not short on is flavor, driven by the unique signature blend of two agaves: Espadín and Tobalá. With sustainable practices at the forefront of all farming and harvesting decisions, and with the goal of maintaining this delicate resource, Espadín is grown in the state of Oaxaca and harvested after seven years, while the rarer Tobalá variety matures for between 10-14 years in Puebla. Each agave variety imbues the spirit with their own unique characteristics and nuances. Herbal notes along with hints of fruit and citrus in the Espadín blend nicely with the earthier, umami flavors of the older Tobalá.

The agave is roasted in underground stone pits, unlocking the plant’s sugars for fermentation, imparting some subtle smoky notes, and avoiding the strong char or smokiness that many intimidated drinkers may associate with Mezcal. The spirit is then naturally fermented in wooden vats and distilled in copper pot stills. The result is a smooth, low-smoke Artisanal Mezcal bottled at 40% ABV – lower than most Mezcals currently on the market.

The resulting flavor profile makes Ojo de Tigre spirit equally suited to sip neat, as is tradition in Mexico, or to balance other flavors in bright, fresh cocktails. The Ambar is a take on the margarita that marries the herbaceousness of the Mezcal with passion fruit and lime, while the Amethyst mixes Ojo de Tigre with lime juice, hibiscus syrup and ginger beer, offering a tropical retreat in a glass.

Even the product’s name seeks to invite consumers into the world of Mezcal. Ojo de Tigre translates to Eye of the Tiger – the brand takes its name from the semiprecious stone of the same name, recognized as a universal amulet of good fortune and bravery. Camille Austin, Director of Advocacy for Ojo de Tigre, explained “There’s a wonderful Mezcal proverb ‘El que Mezcal bebe, nada teme’ or, ‘He (or she!) who sips Mezcal fears nothing.’ Drinkers need not be intimidated by what they think they know about Mezcal, but should be fearless and experiment within a category that has so much diversity and richness in it!”

Ojo de Tigre comes in a standard 750 mL bottle as well as a smaller 200 mL for those looking to bravely experiment with a category they may be less familiar with.

“I’ve been asked a number of times by other brands to collaborate, but it was important to me to create something I believed in with a partner I trusted,” said Méndez. “I wanted more people around the world to experience Mezcal the way we do here in Mexico and knew the team at Casa Lumbre had a like-minded vision. What we have created is a truly exceptional Mezcal that epitomizes the inviting Mexican and Mezcal culture – a spirit to toast the small successes, to the big moments, and everything in between. It’s a spirit for everyone and everyday life.”

Cocktail Recipes

Tahiti Pearl

Ingredients:

1.5 oz Mezcal Ojo de Tigre
8-10 Mint Leaves
1 oz Simple Syrup
2 Dashes Lemon Bitters
3 Drops Olive Oil

Method: Place all ingredients except olive oil in a shaker with plenty of ice and give it a good shake. Serve in a cold coupe glass and use a fine strainer to catch stray pieces of leaves. Finish with 3 drops of olive oil on top and decorate with a mint leaf.

Tiger Lily

Image HERE

1.5 oz Mezcal Ojo de Tigre
1.5 oz Pineapple Juice
2 oz Ginger Beer

Method: Build all ingredients over ice in a Highball Glass. Garnish with a pineapple slice or lime.

Amethyst

Ingredients:

1.5 oz Mezcal Ojo de Tigre
.5 oz Lime Juice
¾ oz hibiscus syrup
2 oz ginger beer or ale

Method: Combine all ingredients and shake well. Strain and top with ginger beer.

The New Irish Whiskey Disruptor: Introducing The Busker

November 15, 2020 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The Busker Irish Whiskey is proud to announce the U.S. launch of their innovative line of Irish Whiskeys, an adventurous and modern take on the category. While The Busker honors its Irish heritage, it encourages consumers to go beyond the limitations and lines of history with its four new Irish Whiskeys, including a Single Grain, Single Pot Still, Single Malt and Triple Cask Triple Smooth Blend. The Busker is perfect for urban wanderers, for those who are flavor-curious, eager for inspiration and a quality Irish whiskey like no other. It sides with innovation way beyond its production process; it reimagines a new generation of American whiskey drinkers.

Carefully crafting an independent path to an authentic and high-quality Irish whiskey, The Busker balances tradition with innovative and modern techniques. The Busker uses different casks during the maturation process including bourbon casks, sherry casks, and marsala casks. A major point of differentiation for The Busker takes place during the aging process where the blend, Triple Cask Triple Smooth, and Single Grain expressions mature in rare hand selected Sicilian Marsala wine casks from Cantine Florio (1833), one of the oldest wineries of the south of Italy.

“We take the rich history and heritage of Irish distillation and combine it with innovation and creativity at our state-of-the-art Royal Oak Distillery,” says Woody Kane, Royal Oak Distillery Ambassador. “Not only is The Busker offering a beautiful range of whiskeys with fantastic quality that we stand behind, we are adding a product unlike anything else to the marketplace. The Busker is a great whiskey to drink with friends while we come together and share our stories.”

The Busker includes all four types of Irish whiskeys (Single Grain, Single Pot Still, Single Malt and Blend), all produced under one roof at the world-class Royal Oak Distillery. The Distillery is proudly located on an 18th century estate in the Ancient East region in County Carlow:

The Busker Blend – Triple Cask Triple Smooth combines the Single Grain with a high percentage of the Single Malt and Single Pot whiskeys. Matured and finished in three different casks (Bourbon, Sherry, Marsala), this whiskey brings a new meaning of smoothness to Irish Whiskey. The Busker Single Collection is represented by the three traditional Irish Whiskeys (Single Grain, Single Pot Still and Single Malt). Each whiskey boasts an unmistakable taste profile, with nuances ranging from vanilla and oak, to rich spicy notes.

Looking to challenge the historically traditional muted and dark tones of the Irish Whiskey category, The Busker leverages the power of its bright and bold packaging to inject modernity and disrupt old world expressions. User-friendly and easy to hold, the bottle’s packaging showcases a simple, sleek screen print design. With large fonts and pops of color, the aesthetically ripped label elicits a boldness and ruggedness intriguing to all whiskey drinkers.

To enjoy the full Irish Whiskey experience, The Busker Blend – Triple Cask Triple Smooth’s suggested retail price is $24.99 and the Single Grain, Single Malt and Single Pot Still suggested retail prices are $29.99. The Busker is available nationwide and online. Ask your closest retailer and visit our website http://www.TheBusker.com.

About The Busker

The Busker is a “new to world” Irish Whiskey that is born out of a modern Ireland, where the contemporary and bold meet at the crossroads of tradition. The Busker is produced at the Royal Oak Distillery, in County Carlow, Ireland, located on an 18th century estate in Ireland’s Ancient East region. It is the only distillery in Ireland which offers all three classic Irish styles of whiskey – Single Grain, Single Malt & Single Pot Still, which make The Busker Single Collection. The Busker portfolio also includes The Busker Blend which is a beautiful blend of The Single Collection. The Busker uses different casks during the maturation process of their whiskeys including Bourbon casks, Sherry casks and Marsala casks.

Gear up for the Holidays with stunning at-home cocktail creations from Empress 1908 Gin

October 24, 2020 by evebushman

This Holiday season, discover a new multi-sensory cocktail experience with Empress 1908’s delicious, all-natural gin. Handcrafted in small batch copper-pot stills, Empress 1908 is a collaboration between Victoria Distillers and the legendary Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia. Their gin pays homage to the Empress’ regal afternoon tea service, coupling the hotel’s signature black tea blend with carefully sourced botanicals in its recipe. The result is a spirit with a modern flavour profile that is at once lively, delicate, and opulent. Whether you’re looking for last minute gifts or a bold new way to enjoy Holiday-inspired cocktails, Empress 1908’s premium gin will elevate any Holiday celebration.

On top of traditional gin botanicals and Empress Blend tea, Empress 1908 adds grapefruit peel, ginger root, and cinnamon bark to their gin, lending it unique bright and peppery notes. Perhaps the most unusual botanical of all, butterfly pea blossom is also added to balance the gin’s citrus notes with a warm herbal earthiness and soft texture, and provide it with a lush natural indigo colour that transforms depending on the mixer. A twist on tradition, Empress 1908’s creative combination of botanicals, exquisite taste, and remarkable presentation provide the perfect base for a new aesthetic of Holiday cocktail creation.

Since it’s establishment in 2017, Empress 1908 has made a big splash in the world of spirits. It comes as no surprise that their award-winning gin has received praise on the local, national, and international stage, including but not limited to: The Canadian Artisan Spirit Competition, The Fairplex Los Angeles International Spirits Competition, The San Francisco World Spirits Competition, The World Gin Awards, The New York World Wine & Spirits Competition, and The World Beverage innovation Awards.

This Holiday season, we invite you to join the Empress 1908 story by creating— or simply enjoying— a new aesthetic of irresistible Holiday cocktails. Spice up the generic French 75 (or any other gin cocktail!) with Empress 1908’s exquisite taste, delicate aroma, soft texture, and remarkable presentation. The moment of creation is at hand.

Empress 1908’s Holiday favourites:

Cranberry 75
The perfect signature drink for your Holiday celebration! Sweet and tart, the Cranberry 75 is a festive spin on a classic.

1.5oz Empress 1908 Gin

0.5oz Lemon Juice

0.5oz Cranberry Juice

0.5oz Simple Syrup

Sparkling Wine (to top)

Garnish: Cranberries

Method: Shake on ice, fine strain into a chilled flute, top with sparkling wine. Garnish with cranberries

Cinnamon 75
Sugar, spice and everything nice! The Cinnamon 75 will be an instant Holiday hit.

1.5oz Empress 1908 Gin

0.75oz Lemon Juice

0.5oz Cinnamon Syrup

0.25oz Maple Syrup

Sparkling Wine (to top)

Garnish: Cinnamon

Method: Shake on ice, fine strain into a chilled flute, top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
For the syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer with cinnamon sticks (approximately 2-3 per 1 cup of water) for about 15 minutes, or until the desired flavour is reached. Strain, and cool. Store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 1-2 weeks.

Rosemary 75
Light and cheery, the Rosemary 75 is your new go-to Holiday cocktail.

1.5oz Empress 1908 Gin

0.75oz Lemon Juice

0.5oz Rosemary Syrup

Sparkling Wine (to top)

Garnish: Rosemary Syrup & Pomegranate Seeds

Method: Shake on ice, fine strain into a chilled flute, top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and pomegranate seeds.

For the syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer with rosemary sprigs (approximately 3-4 per 1 cup of water) for about 15 minutes, or until the desired flavour is reached. Strain, and cool. Store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 1-2 weeks.

About: Handcrafted in small batch copper-pot stills, Empress 1908 Gin is a collaboration between Victoria Distillers and the legendary Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia. On top of traditional botanicals, Empress 1908 adds a signature blend of black tea served at the Empress Hotel, as well as butterfly pea blossom, an exotic herb that lends the gin a warm herbal earthiness and natural indigo colour. Empress 1908’s exquisite taste, delicate aroma, soft texture, and remarkable presentation set it apart from traditional spirits, and provide the perfect base for a new multi-sensory cocktail experience.

Empress 1908 Gin is a remarkable spirit that could have only been created in the city of Victoria, on beautiful Vancouver Island, where rugged mountains meet the beautiful Pacific Coast. It is a place where tradition is honoured, nature is revered, and artistic expression drives innovation. Perched on the edge of the continent, Empress 1908 is inspired and guided by the natural world. They embrace the wild, and respect both the saltwater that surrounds them and the pristine fresh water used in their gin. Empress 1908’s commitment to nature extends beyond the product to include sustainable production practices, including a geothermal cooling system used in their distillery. Empress 1908 is proud to be paving the way in sustainable spirits.

Empress 1908 Gin is now available for purchase in select liquor stores across Canada and the USA, and can be purchased online and shipped across North America.

The Busker, a Contemporary, Adventurous and Bold Irish Whiskey Launches in the U.S. Market

September 3, 2020 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The Busker is proud to announce the launch of their “new to world” innovative Irish Whiskey in the U.S. market. The Busker is born out of a modern Ireland, where the contemporary and bold meet at the crossroads of tradition. Disrupting the Irish Whiskey landscape, The Busker is a revamped and adventurous look into the category.

Photo from westmeathwhiskeyworld website.

The Busker includes all four types of Irish whiskeys (Single Grain, Single Pot Still, Single Malt and Blend). The Busker Blend – Triple Cask Triple Smooth – combines the Single Grain with a high percentage of the Single Malt and Single Pot whiskeys. Matured and finished in three different casks (Bourbon, Sherry, Marsala), this whiskey brings a new meaning of smoothness in the Irish Whiskey. The Busker Single Collection, represented by the three traditional Irish Whiskeys (Single Grain, Single Pot Still and Single Malt), is produced under one roof at the world-class Royal Oak Distillery. The Distillery is proudly located on an 18th century estate in the Ancient East region at County Carlow. Each whiskey boasts an unmistakable taste profile, with nuances ranging from vanilla and oak, to rich spicy notes.

User-friendly and easy to hold, the bottles packaging showcases a simple, sleek screen print design. The aesthetically ripped label elicits a boldness and ruggedness intriguing to all whiskey drinkers.

“We aim to disrupt the Irish Whiskey category by attracting new and authenticity-seeking consumers to the brand”, says Ray Stoughton, Executive Vice President of Disaronno International LLC, The Busker’s parent company. “While we honor the rich Irish heritage and whiskey-making traditions to produce superb liquid, we go beyond the limitations and lines of history to create our own story. The American consumers are thirsty for something that’s exciting and innovative, and The Busker delivers just that.”

A major point of differentiation for The Busker takes place during the aging process where the blend Triple Cask Triple Smooth and Single Grain expressions mature in authentic, Cantine Florio (1833) Sicilian Marsala wine casks.

The Busker sides with innovation way beyond its production process; it reimagines a new generation of American whiskey drinkers. The Busker blend suggested retail price is $24.99 and for Single Grain, Single Malt and Single Pot Still is $29.99 to enjoy the full Irish Whiskey experience. The Busker will be available nationwide.

About The Busker
The Busker is a “new to world” Irish Whiskey that is born out of a modern Ireland, where the contemporary and bold meet at the crossroads of tradition. The Busker collection includes all four types of Irish whiskeys (Single Grain, Single Pot Still, Single Malt and Blend). The Busker is produced at the Royal Oak Distillery, in County Carlow Ireland, located on an 18th century estate in Ireland’s Ancient East region. The Royal Oak Distillery is the only distillery in Ireland which offers to a unique Brand all three classic Irish styles of whiskey – Single Grain, Single Malt & Single Pot Still. The Busker uses different casks during the maturation process of their whiskeys including Bourbon casks, Sherry casks, and Marsala casks.

Cognac Lesson, Tasting and Pairing Too! Oh My!

November 1, 2019 by evebushman

Tickled to have had an opportunity to learn about Cognac from one of my peers in our #LAWineWriters group, Irina Ponomarenko, at our favorite spot in LA for pairings, Napa Valley Grille in Westwood. This was the invite:

This table was special for me as my friends Eric, Terry, Gail, Rebecca, Steve and the one and only Louise joined us for the day!

Join us for a luncheon at Napa Valley Grille with Cognac Educator Irina Ponomarenko. Cognac, the most revered brandy in the world, is an expression of the distinct climate, soils, history and culture of the region where it is grown. We will taste several spirits that illustrate the diversity of Cognac’s terroirs and styles, as well as its versatility in food pairing.

Learning from Irina

Yes, Cognac is a city in France. They produce 10% of the French vineyard area.

The land is mild, no real elevations, by the sea, very green and gets enough rainfall. The key is their limestone-rich soils, known as the “Cognac terroir.”

Regarding the Cognac symbols on the bottle regarding their aging: V.S. (very special) is the youngest blend of at least two years old, V.S.O.P (Very Special Old Pale) is at least four years old, Napoleon is at least six years old and X.O. is 10 years old.

Champagne vs. Cognac Champagne: While the town of Champagne, France, produces Champagne, the word in itself means chalky soil, something Champagne has in common with Cognac. To further clarify, in 2008 Dr. Vinny in Wine Spectator wrote: Cognac is a brandy made mostly from Ugni Blanc grapes. Champagne is made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier grapes. Cognac is made in a region called Cognac, and Champagne is made in a region called Champagne. But then it gets a little confusing, because there is something called “fine Champagne” Cognac. Within Cognac are six growing regions, including two named Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne. Turns out that “Champagne” is a way to reference “chalky soils” in France, so there are several areas in France that have “Champagne” in their names. So, if a Cognac comes from Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne, it can be called “fine Champagne Cognac.”

We don’t warm cognac in a big snifter anymore. We don’t just enjoy after dinner as a digestif either. Cognac comes in many styles all of which lend themselves to be stored in the freezer and served chilled. Irina explained that unless your home is as cold as a French castle, it’s not room temperature for Cognac. She said the best temperature for serving Cognac is 60-65 degrees.

The Charentaise method for distillation is a double distillation process, using small copper pot stills in comparison with the stills used in Scotland for whisky. Read more here.

The color of the spirit is not a good indication of its age. Color is allowed to be added. In fact the Asian market prefers it more caramel colored and special blends are made for their use.

Three quarters of all V.S. is used in cocktails. Angel’s share (evaporation) is about two percent.

Napa Valley Grille Pairing Menu and Sample Cognacs

Starter/palate cleanser: Kenwood NV “Yalupa” sparkling wine with notes of apple and pear that all enjoyed.

Smoked Salmon Salad (beets, orange and greens)

Camus Ile-de-Re Fine Island Cognac

Loved the smoked salmon with this Cognac that had been grown and matured on the Ile-de-Re Island. While Irina prompted us to find Iodine notes, I did detect some salinity and less sweetness than I would normally have associated with Cognac. This was my first to taste, it also ended up being my favorite in the lineup.

De Luze VSOP, Fine Champagne

Brian Cousins, the GM at Napa Valley Grille, had thought this Cognac would do well with the beets in the salad, and he was right, it also paired nicely with the orange slices. There was a slight sweetness to the Cognac that was slightly amplified by the orange.

Mini Grilled Soft Cheese and Prosciutto (Triple Cream Brie, mushroom)

D’Usse VSOP

The grilled cheese sandwich was a genius pairing for this VSOP Cognac! Who knew? The notes of brown butter, caramel and kernel made the sandwich a little sweeter…and yummier in my opinion.

Pierre Ferrand Reserve Double Cask, Banyuls cask finish, Grande Champagne

This Cognac reminded me of botrytis grapes due to a bit of a honeyed-sweetness, toast, butter and the rich mouthfeel.

Duck rillettes with plum jam on sourdough crostini (I wasn’t a fan of the gamey fatty dish but many loved it and felt it was an inspired pairing for Cognac.)

Hine Homage to Thomas Hine, Grande Champagne

This Cognac had been matured in Bristol, England, and had notes of orange zest, other citrus, a long finish and almost like a scotch whisky to me. Excellent just to sip.

Deau XO

This was my second favorite Cognac in the tasting with notes of honey, orange and spice.

Pork loin, house made Mole sauce, chickpea salsa, cilantro

Camus Borderies XO

I believe that this course was everyone’s favorite; from the flavorful mole sauce down to the pork, our plates were cleaned. The Cognac had notes of leather, dried citrus, honey, botrytis and cream with a huge mouthfeel – both sweet and creamy.

Flourless chocolate cake

Courvoisier Napoleon, Fine Champagne, 1980s bottling

Notes of orange, citrus, cream and caramel on the nose and on the palate. Irina said this Cognac was the “Quintessential after dinner drink” and one guest commented that the drink “is the dessert.” I was happy for both. An excellent finish – chocolate + Cognac – to an excellent lesson and pairing.

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.

Nevada’s Bently Heritage Estate Distillery Tasting Room Opens to the Public

March 28, 2019 by evebushman

MINDEN, Nev., – PRNewswire – The Bently Heritage tasting room opened to the public on February 9, 2019. Tours are offered through the reservation system at bentlyheritage.com. The cost of a tour is $20; tastings are $10. The tasting room hours of operation will be from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on Thursdays, from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on Sundays. Tours will generally run from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

The distillery’s home, which is currently pursuing LEED Gold certification, was the site of the century-old and historic Minden Flour Mill, a local landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Owners Christopher and Camille Bently have lovingly restored the historic building to state-of-the art standards, creating an important landmark which will be a source of pride for Minden, Carson Valley, and all of Nevada.

Bently Heritage Estate Distillery uses 100% of its grains from those grown on the operation at the Bently Ranch. Winter rye, oats, wheat, corn, and barley are milled on-site and malted in-house on the malting floor. The distillery’s Mill Building creates single malt whisky using handmade Forsyths pot stills that were imported from Scotland. The distillery’s Creamery Building distills vodka and gin, using carl pot stills imported from Germany. Bently Heritage has also begun the process of oak barrel aging their single malt, bourbon, and rye for future releases.

Three spirit offerings are included in the first Bently Heritage release: Source One Single Estate Vodka, Source One Vodka Rested in Oak Sherry Casks, and Juniper Grove American Dry Gin. All products are sold in 750ml bottles for between $32 and $40. Bently Heritage whiskies are currently aging in barrels and will be available in the future.

You can visit Bently Heritage, L.L.C. at 1601 Water St., Minden, Nevada 89423, or find us online at bentlyheritage.com.

About Bently Heritage
Bently Heritage Estate Distillery creates ultra-premium spirits from grains that have been grown on the Bently Ranch here in Minden, Nevada. Our products elevate the connoisseur’s passion for luxury spirits, creating an experience that will be treasured for generations to come.

Purple Wine + Spirits Launches Redwood Empire American Whiskey

October 19, 2017 by evebushman

Sonoma County, CA (PRWEB) – Purple Wine + Spirits, parent company to Sonoma County’s Graton Distilling Company (GDC), has announced the inaugural release of its Redwood Empire American Whiskey. Distinguishing itself from other whiskeys on the market today, Redwood Empire’s proprietary blend of house-distilled and port barrel-rested rye whiskeys includes mature stocks of four, five and eleven-year-old bourbon aged in classic, high-toast American oak casks. Rye-forward and 90-proof, its full body is complimented by subtle, spicy notes and an indulgent vanilla-caramel finish.

“With Redwood Empire, we set out to create a whiskey that was a true reflection of the spirit and landscape of our Northern California home – rugged, pioneering and adventurous but also aesthetically beautiful,” says GDC Distiller, Jeff Duckhorn. “Our ability to source and distill exceptional ryes and bourbons – and age them in a way that marries tradition with innovation – makes our proprietary blend a one-of-a-kind sipping and cocktailing experience unlike any other whiskey on the market today.”

Redwood Empire Whiskey began to hit store shelves in major metropolitan markets this past September for a suggested retail price of $45. It is the second craft spirit launched by GDC, whose D. George Benham’s Sonoma Dry Gin, launched nationally earlier this year to much critical acclaim. The stand-alone distillery, located on the site of a former apple processing plant, features a custom-built, micro-column still and is dedicated to producing carefully crafted spirits inspired by the artistry, local flavor and rugged beauty of Northern California.

ABOUT PURPLE WINE + SPIRITS

Founded by Derek Benham in 2001, Purple Wine + Spirits is dedicated to creating extraordinary wine and distilled spirits experiences including nationally branded, custom and private label wines for major U.S. and International retailers and restaurateurs. In 2015, Benham added a distillery to Purple Wine + Spirits main production facility based in the west Sonoma County town of Graton, and Graton Distilling Company was born. For more information about Purple Wine + Spirits, Graton Distilling Company or Redwood Empire American Whiskey, please visit our websites: purplewinespirits.com, gratondistilling.com, and redwoodempirewhiskey.com

Get a Broom! Global Spirits Brands Sweep Up the Gold at the LA International Spirits Competition

July 13, 2017 by evebushman

Los Angeles, CA – Global Spirits US, a privately held, international manufacturer and marketer of wines and spirits, received numerous Gold Medals at the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition [LAISC]. Winning products include Odessa V.S.O.P. Brandy, LEAF Organic Vodka Made With Alaskan Glacial Water, and Khortytsa Platinum and Ice Vodkas. Both Odessa V.S.O.P. Brandy and Khortytsa Platinum Vodka won “Best in Category.”

Since introducing a spirits category in 2007, the LAISC has set the standard for judging distilled beverages. An esteemed panel of 20 judges used a blind-tasting method to award medals to the best spirits from around the world. This year’s competition received 392 Spirits entries from 146 producers in 31 different countries.

“This represents a bi-coastal win for us, and follows Gold awards from the NY International Spirits Competition earlier this month,” notes Global Spirits CEO Max Dubossarsky. “Since we introduced the brands here in the US, we’ve consistently captured the gold in numerous competitions.”

Gold winning Khortytsa (commonly referred to as KHOR in the USA) Platinum and Ice Vodkas are produced at Ukraine’s famed Khortytsa Distillery, which is among the world’s best distilleries. The brand is named for Khortytsa Island, which is known as “the heart of Ukraine.” This ancient island’s history dates back thousands of years, to the very roots of civilization. It is considered a sacred place, and is one of the country’s seven wonders.

Built in 2003, the Khortytsa Distillery is among the world’s finest distilleries. It uses a local organic filter containing schungite (a unique natural mineral) which allows it to get as close as possible to the structure of natural water. The filtration process is further enhanced with special birch and alder-tree charcoal and quartz sand.

Gold winner Khortytsa Platinum is the most popular item in the line Khortytsa line and retails for $14.99 per 750-mL. Khortytsa Ice, with a bottle color that changes when chilled, retails for $14.99 per 750-mL.

LEAF Organic Vodkas are sourced from unique waters around the country. The Gold winning variety is made from Alaskan Glacial water, which lends a pure, smooth taste with a hint of sweetness. The water source gives LEAF Vodka its signature taste. (My review March 2017 of LEAF vodkas can be read here.)

With a recommended shelf price of $18.99 for 750-mL—and Certified USDA Organic — LEAF Vodka is well positioned within the dynamic and growing vodka category.

Odessa V.S.O.P. Brandy is produced at Ukraine’s famed Shustov Distillery from spirits distilled from white grape varietals including Rkatsiteli, Aligoté and Pinot varieties. The Rkatsiteli is an ancient pale-skinned grape variety from the Republic of Georgia – one of the oldest (if not the oldest) wine-producing regions on earth. Aligoté is a white grape used to make dry white wines in the Burgundy region of France, but it is also cultivated in many Eastern Europe countries.

Odessa is distilled using the traditional French “Charentais” – or double fractional distillation – in copper pot stills. The heart of the distillate is then carefully selected to be bottled and aged, enhancing the delicate and refined aroma that is the signature of its white grape varietals. The spirit then ages in oak barrels for at least five years.

The resulting brandy is world class. Notes of oriental spices and citrus fruit dominate the first nose, while the second follows with hints of raisins and tones of maturity. The taste carries honey and nutty overtones, while the creamy caramel finish is long and smooth. It’s a brandy to be savored.

Odessa V.S.O.P. Brandy available in 750-mL and 100-mL sizes, the product carries a suggested retail price of $10.99 or $1.99 respectively.

About Global Spirits USA

A Fortune 500 Company in Europe, Global Spirits was established in 2008 and has offices in New York, Moscow and Kiev, employing over 5,000 people. The company’s annual volume exceeds 10 million cases, with distribution in over 80 countries. Global Spirits USA markets and distributes strategic brands including: Khortytsa Vodka (3rd largest selling international vodka brand*), LEAF Organic Vodka, and Odessa V.S.O.P. Brandy.

Gregory Alozno on: Swiss Eaux-de-vie

May 2, 2013 by evebushman

Located in northwest Switzerland on the Rhine River is the beautiful city of Basel. I love this area where the Swiss, French, and German borders converge. The region is rich in a culture that is affectionately known as the “Regio Tri-Rhena,” and extends into German Baden-Wurttemberg and French Alsace. Part of Basel’s allure is its many theaters and museums.

By now, you are thinking this sounds lovely, but wines and spirits from Switzerland?

Today I am joined by friend and fellow sommelier, Celine Huber. We plan to share with you a selection of spirits that are unmistakably, Swiss.

“You know Gregory, Celine paused to contain her amusement. “We Swiss once had a reputation for being a nation of heavy drinkers.”

“Seriously?”

“Back in the 17th century there was a popular saying, ‘drink like a Swiss.’ It was not only in part our culture, drinking was our passion,” her tone was light and lively.

“Interesting,” I paused on the moment. “I have always regarded the Swiss as moderate drinkers.”

“True,” Celine’s eyes crinkled softly as she spoke. “We have been influenced greatly by our neighbors. However, we do enjoy drinking almost as much as we love eating.”

“Proscht!”

Eau-de-Vie is French for “water of life.” It refers to the wide variety of fruit-based distilled beverages. Orchard fruits, such as apples, pears, plums, cherries, and blackberries are commonly used in distilling these spirits. Typically, Eaux-de-Vie are bottled at an alcohol content between 35%-50%.

Our first selection, Ette Zuger Kirsch Eau-de-Vie is made from Swiss black mountain cherries and distilled in small copper pot stills, then aged for three years. It is important to note that no chemical flavors are used in any way. On the eye, our Kirsch is clear and bright. When swirled, it leaves a thin clear coat on the inside of the glass and shows some impressive “long legs.” On the nose, there is an immediate aroma of fresh cherries that smoothes subtly. On the palate, Ette Zuger Kirsch is clean with subtle cherry flavors. Keep in mind that it has not been aged in wood, so it has a cleaner and just fruit taste. The finish is long lingering. The alcohol content is 42% with a price tag of $45.

“I love the warming rush from Ette Zuger Kirsch,” Celine smiled softly. “This is a well-made Eau-de-Vie.”

“What dishes would you serve with our Ette Zuger Kirsch?” I queried.

“Definitely a lovely match with smoked salmon canapes,” she replied without hesitation. “Ette Zuger Kirsch also makes a wonderful Aviation cocktail’

“I did not know you drank gin,” I chuckled lightly.

“I don’t,” Celine shook her head from side to side. “I cheat the recipe and use vodka.”

“Well then, from one vodka drinker to another,” I laughingly shared the moment and raised my glass to toast her. “Proscht.”

Our next selection, Fassbind Pflumli is a premium plum fruit brandy from the Urschwyzer Distillery. The company has been producing premium spirits since 1846. In 1856, at the World Exhibition in Paris, Napoleon lll awarded a gold medal to this legendary Swiss company. On the eye, Pflumli is clear and semitransparent. It is well textured with long legs. On the nose, the bouquet is filled with the intoxicating aroma of Lohrpflumli, Swiss sweet plums. On the palate, there is a harmony of fruit and alcohol from a 3 year maturity period. There is also an array of flavors reminiscent of marzipan, followed by a long and continuous finish. Fassbind Pflumli is 41% alcohol with a price tag of $65.

“I especially like the fruitiness of Pflumli,” Celine openly displayed her preference. “The long finish always leaves me wanting more.”

“Since living in Europe I have learned to appreciate spirits distilled from plums,” I paused for effect. “Pflumli is just a tad too sweet for my palate.”

Himbeergeist, also known as Framboise, is a unique type of German Schnapps that is popular with the Swiss. It is distilled primarily in Germany, the Alsace region of France, and select Swiss distilleries. What separates Himbeergeist from traditional schnapps is the process by which it is made. First, a mixture of neutral spirit, which must be 95.6% purity is distilled with fresh ripe raspberries. This process of maceration is used rather than fermenting the raspberries as they contain very little sugar. It is then left at rest for several weeks. This period allows for flavor and aroma to transfer to the alcohol. The mash is then distilled in copper pot stills. The name in German translates as, himbeere (raspberry), geist (spirit). The French translation, framboise (spirit).

Our next selection, Schladerer Himbeergeist is renown amongst raspberry brandies. Schladerer boasts using only select fruits from the Black Forest. On the eye, our Himbeergeist is clear and bright. When swirled, it shows some extremely long legs. On the nose, there is only the essence of raspberries, which is most inviting. On the palate, it is simply sublime. There is a perfect balance of sweetness to fruit. The finish on this liqueur is long and memorable. The alcohol content is 42% with a price tag of $40.

“Some people prefer Himbeergeist in their coffee,” Celine was quick to point out. “I’m sure you would find that a sacrilege.”

“Indeed,” I nodded heartily. “This is a wonderful liqueur that demands to be appreciated on its own”

“Speaking of coffee, shall we make a move?” Celine’s eyes sparkled as she smiled. “I know an excellent cafe, not far from here, with wonderful pastries.”

“But that my friends, is another story …”