May 2024 115
Unveiling the Best Vodka from the 2024 American Distilling Institute Judging
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The Best of Category Flavored Vodka is Safe House Distilling, Teller Green Chile Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml.
One vodka brand secured Best of Class honors, and two others grabbed Best of Category at the 2024 American Distilling Institute (ADI) International Spirits Competition (ISC) assessment. The victors reflected a diverse range of aroma and taste profiles across flavored vodka, along with neutral character and foundational character vodka.
The yearly competition, a spring event that attracts some of America’s leading spirit judges, is a prestigious platform. It does not just highlight standout craft distillers and their spirits amongst American and international manufacturers but also offers significant recognition for their endeavours. This year, the contest yet again showcased its worth, with numerous emerging distillers earning Double Gold and Gold medals, confirming their dedication and proficiency.
The ISC terms the top spirits in each category as Best of Class, while the leading spirits in every sub-category are referred to as Best of Category. The Best of Class victors are selected from the Best of Category winners.
Historically, the TTB defined vodka as a “neutral” spirit “to be without distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color.” It’s long been recognized, however, that the base materials used in the mash often leave trace flavor elements.
The ADI judging was among the first spirit competitions to distinguish between vodkas that were neutral and those that retained some element of flavor derived from the original mash components. These flavor components are different from “flavored vodkas,” which have been flavored with artificial compounds, and botanical vodkas, which have been flavored with naturally occurring substances.
The Best of Class Vodka – Residual Base Character is GlenPharmer Distillery, Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml.
GlenPharmer Distillery is a Massachusetts, grain to glass craft distillery. The ADI Judging Panel described the vodka as exhibiting:
Slightly herbal and vegetative on the nose and a bit spirity. On the palate it’s smooth with a noticeable herbal/vegetative note along with a touch of wet stone minerality. The finish has a sweet note and is slightly peppery.
The Best of Category Vodka Neutral Character is 1879 Distilling Red Barn Premium Vodka, 40% ABV, 750 ml.
1879 Distilling is a family-owned craft distiller in St. Louis Missouri that draws its grains from its own 2,800-acre farm. The ADI Judging Panel described the vodka as showing:
Very slight vegetative and fruity notes on the nose. On the palate it’s sweet and smooth, although slightly drying. The finish is long and smooth with slight but lingering fruity notes.
The premier category flavored vodka is Safe House Distilling, Teller Green Chile Vodka, with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 40% and a volume of 750 ml.
The Teller Green Chili Vodka from Safe House Distilling is distinct and tasty, celebrating the deep-rooted food culture of the American Southwest. This vodka incorporates a mix of charred green chili peppers, providing it with a hot and lively personality.
Here’s how the ADI Judging Panel described the flavored vodka:
On the nose, there are herbaceous, earthy, and green chili pepper impressions. When tasted, the vodka is sugary and smooth having a remarkable green chili spiciness that gradually escalates. The aftertaste is extended and a bit sweet with a powerful, persistent green chili pepper trail.
The 2024 ADI winners highlighted an impressive class of up-and-coming craft distillers. Some of the winners are well-known, while others are still relatively new and have limited national distribution.
All of them produce outstanding vodkas, and all are very reasonably priced. They are well worth seeking out and will prove excellent, either straight up or in cocktails. Once again, ADI has done a superb job of identifying the craft distillery industry’s up-and-coming vodka producers.
See the ADI’s website for a complete listing of all the medalists in the American Distilling Institute’s International Spirits Competition.
Cheers
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Ballast Point Brewery Shutdown: Assessing the Impact on San Diego’s Brew Scene
I was on a trip in Oregon – see “Quick Sips” link – when the news broke that Ballast Point had decided to leave its enormous 107,000-square-foot brewery in the Miramar area of San Diego.
Presently under the ownership of Kings & Convicts, Ballast’s strategy is to lower expenses by carrying out beer production in smaller establishments. This might be a financially sound move, but it’s certainly a regrettable situation! The widely known Sculpin IPA originated here, and now we’re witnessing a well-loved, nationally-recognized brewery dwindling in size.
This is the most recent setback for our local beer aficionados. Just two years prior, we had as many as 144 artisan breweries operating at 232 locations. Now, the count has reduced to 126 breweries and 220 locations.
Vince Vasquez, an independent sector analyst, observes that “No brewery has been spared from the trials of changing consumer preferences, inflation, hikes in labor costs and cost of living, as well as heightened competition, especially for breweries with an expansive distribution network.”
Still, that’s a fair number of breweries. Are any taking steps to survive, and even thrive, in these turbulent times?
Absolutely.
Here’s Vasquez again: “Some of the breweries I see doing well are focused more on onsite consumption, frequently rotating taps and an elevated customer experience.”
He named Pure Project “as a great example of all this.”
Omar Passons, a fervent advocate of the craft beer society, praised Kelsey McNair’s North Park Beer.
“… the distinguishing factor for North Park Beer, apart from its superb beer is the genuineness and authenticity that mirrors its founder,” expressed Passons through an email. “He has always maintained his aim to be a good neighbor and contribute positively to the community. I believe that this aspect is crucial to his endurance.”
Julie Wartell, an instructor of the course, “Craft Beer and the Urban Economy” at UC San Diego, emphasized the necessity of cultivating a wide-ranging audience.
“Of course, good beer places are followed by beer fans, but successful ones manage to capture the attention of people who are not strictly beer enthusiasts,” she stated.
They host trivia nights, running clubs, alumni associations, concerts and other non-beery attractions. Breweries large (Stone and AleSmith) and small (Deft and Duck Foot) maintain busy calendars of events.
These days, craft beer requires as much craft as beer.
In good times and bad, San Diego beer is a sure bet.
The World Beer Cup, one of the largest beer competitions anywhere, took place last month in Las Vegas. Our breweries captured 14 medals, improving on the 12 nabbed at the previous WBC.
The winners:
Coronado Brewing: gold, Nado, “international Lager” category.
North Park Beer (San Diego): gold, Ice-Fu!, “Hoppy Lager” category
Pizza Port Ocean Beach: gold, Junk in the Trunk Dunkel, “South German-style Dunkel Weizen” category.
Pizza Port Carlsbad: gold, 24th Annual Strong Ale Festival, “Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer” category.
Battlemage Brewing (Vista): silver, Summon Ifrit, “American-Style Amber/Red Ale” category.
Craft Coast Beer & Tacos (Oceanside): silver, Chlllzner, “International Pilsner” category.
Culture Brewing (Solana Beach): silver, Kosta-busser, “Honey Beer” category.
Karl Strauss Brewing (San Diego): silver, Golden Stout, “Coffee Beer” category.
North Park Beer (San Diego): silver, Hop Fu!, “American-Style IPA” category.
Abnormal Beer (San Diego): bronze, Eddie’s Redux, “West Coast-Style IPA” category.
Craft Coast Beer & Tacos (Oceanside): bronze, XPA, “Australian-Style Pale Ale” category.
Fall Brewing (San Diego): bronze, Tora!, “International Lager” category.
Julian Beer: bronze, Dolphin of the Desert, “Belgian-Style Quadrupel” category.
Kilowatt Brewing (San Diego): bronze, OB Bubble Dubbel, “Belgian-Style Dubbel” category.
“Winning,” said San Diego Brewers Guild Executive Director Erik Fowler, “never gets old.”
Capitulation
From: Monkless Belgian Ales, Bend, Ore.
ABV (Alcohol By Volume): 8.1 percent
Style: Belgian-Style Tripel
Drink or dump: Drink. Capitulation’s fresh melon and strawberry aromas are irresistible, thanks to the use of Citra and Hallertau Blanc hops for dry hopping. With a bubbly and gently spiced profile, it feels surprisingly light on the palate. This beer is a real standout, earning a bronze medal at the 2024 World Beer Cup.
Venture
From: Sunriver Brewing, Sunriver, Ore.
ABV: 5.5 percent
Style: New Zealand-Style Pale Ale
Drink or dump: Drink. With its light body, Venture is easy to quaff. Moderately bitter, with the Nelson Sauvin and Superdelic hops kicking in during the sassy finish.
Electri-Fly
From: Wild Ride Brewing, Redmond, Ore.
ABV: 6.3 percent
Style: India Pale Ale
Drink or dump: Dump. This jammy IPA should be a hop bomb — the brewery claims it packs 60 bittering units — but any enticing bitterness drowns in the pudgy, sweet apricot body. Electri-Fly never takes off.
Rowe is a freelance writer.
Unveiling 11 Essential Facts About Costco Whiskey
If you’re a whisky enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled by the variety available at Costco. This retail behemoth is as renowned for its comprehensive liquor range as it is for its succulent rotisserie chickens and monstrous cakes, with whisky being a distinguished feature of its shelves. Costco merchandises a large number of whiskies, promoting many high-profile brands as well as its exclusive Kirkland brand which boasts an impressive range of whiskies. Names like Maker’s Mark, Jack Daniel’s, Jameson, and Crown Royal could be seen in the expansive stores, along with their very own Scotch, bourbon, and Irish whiskies.
Despite these eminent brands may be available at appealing prices, they may not account for some of the best deals among Costco’s other whisky products. Additionally, Costco offers some unusual whiskies you may not have expected to find, such as the elusive Pappy Van Winkle which purchasing demands specific information about its release and procurement. If you’ve been curious about the secrets behind Costco whisky, we’re here to provide you with the relevant facts. So fill up your glass and let’s take a closer look.
Find out more: All The Benefits Of A Costco Membership
Costco is not known to do things by halves, and that indeed extends to its collection of whiskies. The store offers a large selection under its Kirkland Signature brand, indicating a strong demand. As per the information in December 2023, seven distinct Kirkland Signature Scotch whisky formats are consistently available in the store. The blended Scotch whiskies are a constant offering, with an array of Speyside, Islay, and regular Single Malt scotches also frequently up for grabs.
Costco provides three distinct Kirkland Signature bourbon varieties, typically available and stocked during the summer season. The selection also includes Irish and Canadian whiskies, with the wholesaler occasionally offering limited-edition Kirkland whiskey products. Not included in this selection are whiskey-based beverages and liqueurs, such as Irish cream, which Costco also offers under its Kirkland label.
It’s important to note that like any large retailer, Costco may alter its product range unexpectedly. The items have changed over the years, which suggests that returning customers may experience changes in whiskey selection or flavor profiles. However, considering the indispensable popularity of the beverage, it’s likely that Costco will continue to stock whiskey for the foreseeable future.
Unsurprisingly, a large portion of Costco’s revenue stems from its whiskey sales. According to Forbes, the retailer sold approximately $6.5 to $7 billion worth of alcoholic beverages in 2023. These figures place Costco not only as the leading alcohol retailer in the United States but also worldwide. Around a quarter of these alcohol sales are attributed to spirit beverages. Given that a large portion of the Kirkland alcohol range consists of various whiskies, the sales figures imply a high volume of bottles being sold.
So, what does Costco owe to its successful alcohol sales? The answer is a mix of competitive pricing, high-quality products, larger bottle sizes (providing a sense of value), and the retailer’s influential subscription model. Costco’s membership model fosters customer loyalty by creating an impression of exclusivity and value-for-money, prompting customers to maximize their memberships. As a result, customers are inclined to bulk-buy whiskey and other alcoholic beverages, filling their carts with large, non-perishable items that appear to offer excellent value.
Costco’s subscription model creates a sense of exclusivity, leaving non-members feeling they might be missing something. However, in some places, you don’t need to be a member to purchase your favorite whiskey. There are standalone Costco liquor stores in a few places where you can go without having a full Costco membership and buy whiskey, vodka, among other spirits.
But for you to locate these outstanding stores, you need to be somewhere specific. Namely, Costco Liquor is situated only in Alberta, Canada, a province where alcohol is only sold in designated liquor outlets. Therefore, these stores are positioned right next to regular Costco locations, but they have a separate entrance. This means to buy your Canadian whisky, you have to just go next door. If you’re in the United States, you probably still need to obtain a Costco membership to buy its range of whiskies. Although some states, like Florida, separate the alcohol collection from the general product selection, you still need to show your membership card to get in.
Costco’s Kirkland alcohol products often generate rumors about their source. For instance, a question has been raised for years whether Kirkland Signature vodka is actually Grey Goose due to similarities in their flavors. Despite both Costco and Grey Goose denying such claims, the retailer seems not as enthusiastic in squashing the rumor that its Blended Canadian Whisky, which many suspect is produced by prominent Canadian whisky brand Crown Royal.
The comparison between the two is understandable due to their striking similarities. The Kirkland Signature Blended Canadian Whisky’s taste and smell are very similar to those of Crown Royal, although with minor differences and an extra hint of spice. As both whiskies are blended, it’s quite possible the Kirkland version has a slightly different recipe compared to other Crown Royal expressions, as there’s no exact comparison. The difference in taste could also be because of its six-year aging process, considering Crown Royal usually does not provide aging information on its whisky bottles.
Costco’s selection of Scotch under its Kirkland brand is impressive, with a diverse array of blended and single-malt options available. These Scotch expressions can age up to 25 years, ensuring a complex flavor profile. However, these products are not made by Costco. It’s widely believed that the company behind Costco’s Kirkland brand Scotch since 2007 is Alexander Murray & Co., a Scottish company operating in the United States.
Alexander Murray & Co. is named after the great uncle of owner Steve Lipp, a whisky aficionado himself. Established in California in 2004, the company supplies Scotch to the American alcohol market. Many liquor stores carry Alexander Murray & Co. products, but purchasing from Costco is an affordable way to enjoy their smooth, peaty whiskies.
Costco also sells bourbon under its Kirkland brand, providing a cost-effective alternative for customers. The supplier of Costco’s Kirkland bourbon is somewhat of an open secret, as Barton 1792 Distillery is named directly on the label.
Barton 1792 Distillery, based in Kentucky, has a deep-rooted history in bourbon making, dating back to 1879. They specialize in small-batch whiskies. Interesting to note, though, is the recent partnership with Costco. Records reveal that in 2011, Jim Beam was behind Costco’s Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Tennessee-based George Dickel Distillery is believed to have taken over for a period, before Costco settled on Barton 1792 Distillery as their bourbon supplier.
If you’re a fan of Irish whiskey, Costco may be your next stop. The warehouse behemoth’s Kirkland Signature variant offers the nuanced, barley-forward taste and extended maturation typical of this spirit. Furthermore, there are strong indications that its production is under competent management. It is speculated that Costco’s Irish whiskey hails from the stables of Irish Distillers Ltd., a subsidiary of Pernod Ricard. Surprisingly, this well-known firm also produces Jameson, which is also available at Costco, albeit at a significantly higher price than its Kirkland counterpart.
True to its style, Costco has refrained from officially recognizing Irish Distillers Ltd. as its Kirkland brand supplier. Nevertheless, the evidence seems compelling. Irish Distillers Ltd.’s nationwide presence and substantial production capacities make it a plausible supplier for Costco’s large volume requirements. Additionally, the firm’s reputation for quality products offers significant peace of mind. In addition to Jameson, Irish Distillers Ltd. is credited with creating Middleton Very Rare, Redbreast Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Powers Irish Whiskey, among others.
Worth noting is that Costco offers an even wider liquor selection beyond its Kirkland-branded products. In fact, Costco outstrips other outlets in sales of Johnnie Walker Blue and The Macallan, and its liquor aisles teem with a diverse range of whiskey options.
For those with a preference for Irish whiskies, a bottle of Jameson should suffice, either in its Black Label or standard form. However, expect to part with an extra $20 for the branded version. If bourbon is up your alley, Costco’s assortment is dizzying, featuring options like Bulleit, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s, and Woodford Reserve. In addition, Glenlivet 14-Year-Old Single Scotch Malt Whiskey is available, besides the aforementioned Johnnie Walker Blue.
Just remember that these whiskeys may not always be a standard feature in Costco stores — and some of them can be extremely hard to find. On occasion, you can find a bottle of ultra-rare Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon on its shelves, at a slightly lower price than it’s sold elsewhere. These “drops” of Pappy Van Winkle only happen sporadically, though, and you’ll either have to be in the right place at the right time or be one of the lucky few that employees hand a ticket out to for a chance to purchase it.
Although you have to pay for a membership to Costco, you’re rewarded with a cavernous warehouse full of low-price items, including whisky. Costco whiskies are consistently cheaper than name-brand versions, and given that they’re made by reputable companies, you shouldn’t worry too much about their cheaper price point.
Take Costco Kirkland Blended Canadian Whisky, for example. A 1.75-liter bottle will generally cost you between $20 and 30, depending on which state you buy it in. A bottle of its closest name-brand competitor, Crown Royal (which may manufacture the Kirkland product), will come in closer to the $50 mark. Costco’s Kirkland Signature Blended Scotch Whisky may have a lower price difference, but buying it can still save you valuable dollars. Its 12-Year expression comes in at roughly $46 and is praised for its excellent, layered taste, with hints of cinnamon, prune, smoke, and brown sugar. Johnnie Walker Black Label usually comes in at over $50 per bottle for the same size, and while it will give you a similarly smooth experience, every penny counts.
It can feel like going for Kirkland whiskies over a name-brand version can leave you with an inferior product. If you’re smart, though, you can get a whiskey that tastes pretty similar to a more expensive option, saving you money and the hassle of going to a different store to get your liquor. Scotch pros have noted the similarity between Kirkland Signature Blended Scotch Whisky and Dewar’s White Label, although the Kirkland version may be a little darker. As such, if you’re using the Kirkland product in a cocktail instead of Dewar’s, you’re unlikely to tell the difference.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Canadian whisky is often likened to Crown Royal, not just in taste but also in the bottle’s design. The form of the bottle echoes the squat structure of Crown Royal’s. This resemblance might be seen as a nod to the pricier brand, offering customers a similar luxury at a more economical price — and almost identical flavor to boot.
One might imagine Kirkland products to be unvarying and uniform owing to the emphasis on delivering basic goods at lower prices. However, that doesn’t mean Costco shies away from experimenting. The company sometimes releases limited-edition versions of its whiskies, celebrating a new flavor or marking an occasion.
In early 2024, Costco introduced a blended Scotch whisky, matured for eight years, in celebration of the Lunar New Year. The bottle’s design incorporated the Year of the Dragon, featuring a formidable serpent, and came in a special edition box. The whisky had familiar taste notes, suggestive of it originating from the same producer as Costco’s other Scotches. It had a pronounced spiciness and a woody, peaty finish. The year prior, Costco had introduced a limited-edition 15-year-old single malt Scotch, and in 2022, it outdid itself with a 20-year-old Speyside Scotch. It is certainly worth keeping an eye on what Costco’s offering.
Read the original article on Daily Meal
Revival of Healdsburg Wine and Food Experience for its Third Year
Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience returns for its 3rd year from May 16-19th in Sonoma County, California.
The first time is a point, the second time is a line, and by the third time it’s a pattern. Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience (HWFE) is back on Thursday, May 16 for a 4-day celebration. It’s here in Sonoma County, amidst the clinking of wine glasses and laid back luxury that first-time visitors will question why they didn’t find this place and event sooner. Having had the distinct pleasure of attending this Healdsburg wine and food event since its inception, I’ve witnessed its evolution firsthand. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a must-visit for any serious food and wine aficionado, each year has built upon the last, refining and expanding the experience in ways both subtle and significant.
This year’s expansion includes:
“We’re thrilled for our third annual event in May,” exclaimed Steve Dveris, founder and CEO of the festival. “In just a short time, we’ve made a national impact as the first international wine and food festival in Sonoma County and Napa Valley, showcasing wines from around the globe. Our event pillars remain celebrating the talented makers, honoring our agricultural roots, culinary diversity, and sustainability, while pairing local talent with top chefs nationwide. Get ready for an incredible weekend packed with fun, surprises, music, and, of course, the finest wine and food!”
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram will be performing at Rodney Strong Vineyards during Healdsburg Wine & Food (HWFE)
In addition, HWFE will continue to offer special wine tastings and seminar discussions, exceptional lunches, dinners, celebrity chef demonstrations, cocktail experiences, and a live outdoor concert featuringKINGFISH at Rodney Strong on Friday, May 17. But what would a food and wine event be without a GRAND TASTING? The cornerstone event will be held from 12.30pm to 5pm on Saturday, May 18 for patrons to enjoy wine, spirits, and beers from over 150+ brands. Also top chefs like Crista Luedtke, Kelsey Barnard Clark, and Matt Horn will be on hand offering their hand crafted dishes and bites. I’m personally excited to finally try Sushi by Scratch, whose pop-up will be on-site.
The impact of Healdsburg Wine and Food Experience on the local community cannot be overstated. Beyond the immediate economic boost, which is palpable to anyone who has tried booking a room in the area during the festivities, there is a deeper, more lasting effect. The outdoor concert at Rodney Strong Vineyards on Friday evening with KINGFISH benefits Farm to Pantry, whose goal is to bring together our communities to end food injustice and reverse global warming by rescuing and sharing locally grown food with those who have been marginalized. In addition HWFE will contribute to the Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation. The organization’s mission is to raise funds that support the Leadership Academy, which focuses on workforce development and other resources that elevate local vineyard workers, farmer workers and their families. Lastly this year’s event will also support Healdsburg Future Farmers of America (FFA). Sponsored by Foley Family Wines, a significant donation will go towards the HWFE Future Farmers Scholarship, created by HWFE for students from the local Healdsburg High School FFA chapter.
“As co-founders and partners in this remarkable endeavor, we are deeply committed to our dual mission: showcasing Sonoma County’s extraordinary wine, agriculture, and commitment to sustainability on a global platform, while simultaneously raising vital funds to uplift and honor our local vineyard workforce. This mission permeates every aspect of our events and messaging throughout the entire weekend. What could be more fulfilling than enjoying oneself while also making a positive impact?” – Karissa Kruse, CEO & President of Sonoma County Winegrowers and Executive Director of the Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation.
Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience is a four-day celebration featuring the best of world-renowned food and wines and highlighting the “Makers Behind the Magic.” The festival showcases the region’s makers – farmers, growers, winemakers, and chefs – alongside globally recognized wines from the greatest wine regions of the world. HWFE highlights vibrant culinary diversity, sustainable farming practices and a deep connection to agriculture, through tastings, Culinary demonstrations, seminars, events, and more, in the beautiful setting of Healdsburg & Wine Country. Learn more here.
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Addressing Hangxiety: Rum Jungle’s New Single ‘Did The Morning Let You Down?’
Australian four-piece indie rock band, Rum Jungle admits to being victims of hangxiety in their latest single: “Did The Morning Let You Down.” We’ve all been there before, waking up in the morning with an awful lurking feeling of dread for the actions of our past self, but Rum Jungle is here to help us feel a little less guilty and a little more understood with their new chilled-out anthem.
Lead singer Benny McIntyre shares, “You’d be lying to yourself if there hasn’t been a morning in your life that you’ve not been stoked with the events of the night before or something’s weighing you down and that morning it hits you hard. Mistakes get made, shit goes wrong, everything’s tough for everyone in their own relative state. What this one is about though is pickin’ up and rollin’ on and understanding the world is the way it is, and finding that thing or person or reason to charge on with some sonic stability.”
“Did The Morning Let You Down” is the ultimate laid-back summer anthem, shimmering with jangly indie guitars, upbeat drums, a super catchy chorus, and an overall feel-good vibe.
The song comes right as Rum Jungle kick off their UK/EU tour, so be sure to check out their dates if they’re in a city near you, as their live shows are tipped to be something out of the ordinary.
HOLD ME IN THE WATER UK/EU TOUR
9th May – FOCUS – Wrexham, Wales
10th May – The Louisiana – Bristol, UK | SOLD OUT
11th May – The Cavern – Exeter, UK
13th May – Oporto – Leeds, UK
14th May – Sidney and Matilda – Sheffield, UK
15th May – Omeara – London, UK | SOLD OUT
16th May – The Great Escape – Brighton, UK
20th May – Badehaus – Berlin, DE
21st May – Molotow – Hamburg, DE
22nd May – Wohnemeinschaft – Cologne, DE
23rd May – Supersonic – Paris, FR
25th May – A Stones Throw – Newcastle, UK
26th May – Broadcast – Glasgow, UK
Connect with Rum Jungle : Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok
Local Wineries in San Diego Flourish Despite Decline in U.S and California Wine Sales: A How-To Guide
“I feel sometimes like we’re the David who’s starting to really have a go at Goliath.”
In this version, Goliath is Temecula and David is the San Diego winery scene.
That’s the take of Mike Weber, the general manager of Orfila Vineyards & Winery and president of the San Diego County Vintners Association. A few times in a recent interview, he expressed bemused frustration that San Diego’s wineries are sometimes overlooked by local wine drinkers and revelers.
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“I mean, they’re literally driving by 100 to 160 different wineries to go to Temecula,” he said.
But a report published Wednesday by San Diego’s winery trade group suggests San Diego wineries have some encouraging findings: In 2023, sales and hiring were both up year over year at San Diego County‘s 166 wineries, which are scattered throughout urban San Diego neighborhoods like Point Loma and Mira Mesa, cities including Lakeside and Escondido, as well as in the backcountry of Julian, Ramona and Santa Ysabel.
These businesses have largely bounced back from the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some are expanding.
That’s a striking contrast to how the rest of the U.S. wine industry is doing. According to Silicon Valley Bank’s State of the US Wine Industry Report, “Direct-to-consumer volume and value sales were lower in 2023 and tasting room visitation dropped for the second straight year.” That report says interest in wine is dwindling as other lures — beer, canned alcoholic beverages, liquor and cannabis — beckon, especially among key younger drinkers.
California’s wine industry also is hurting. Consumption fell almost 9 percent in 2023, according to a report cited Wednesday in the San Francisco Chronicle. Trouble has been brewing for a while. “Who Will Save the US Wine Industry? Not California Boomers” reads one recent headline by Bloomberg. And Last September, Meininger’s International, a wine trade publication, wrote about California’s grape surplus amid falling demand.
San Diego’s wine industry is a drop in the bucket — producing around $55 million, compared with California’s $55 billion. But its winemakers are doing a lot right, according to the San Diego wineries report, by the San Diego County Vintners Association trade group, which examined economic data and surveyed winemakers to piece together a state of the industry.
The data tells a story of resilience and resourcefulness, said Vince Vasquez, the report’s author.
“That is, I think, something that is a clear indication that wineries, at least in San Diego County, have found the solutions they need to be successful for serving existing and new customers,” he said.
Some of the report’s findings:
Vasquez, the policy and data analyst hired to conduct the research and author the report, said San Diego’s wineries have mostly rebounded from pandemic era disruptions and are finding ways to draw in more customers.
While consumption fell 2 to 4 percent in the U.S. and more sharply in California, here it grew 11 percent. (The increase was due to more wine sold and less to higher prices, he noted.)
Last year, San Diego experienced a surge in tourism, which had a positive effect on all the wineries in the area, according to Vasquez. In addition to this, the wineries are putting efforts into organizing events, enhancing their marketing strategies and investing in customer service. This comes at a time when QR codes and applications have made the process of ordering without personal contact possible. However, the trend in wineries is storytelling. Customers enjoy conversing with staff members, getting to know the owners, and learning about the winery’s history. Vasquez emphasized that the involvement from staff members plays a crucial role in the winery experience.
In the face of the pandemic, having outdoor spaces proved to be crucial. These spaces are now being repurposed for hosting events and even weddings.
For example, Orfila, a large winery located in the San Pasqual Valley, brought onboard a dedicated events manager last summer.
“With over 70 acres of sprawling vines and mountain views, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery,” says Orfila’s website under the photo of the rolling vineyards bathed in a dusky glow.
The goal isn’t primarily weekend weddings but rather corporate events that can be scheduled from Monday to Friday. Employing an events specialist was a logical consequent step for the 30-year-old winery, considering the surge in events demand as the COVID-19 pandemic subdued, Weber mentioned.
“We had been receiving considerable interest through telephone calls and emails, but we were not really prepared to manage it,” Weber stated. These days, he added, “we are observing an ever-increasing number of reservations.”
The report highlighted one macroeconomic condition that contributed to the successful year: Businesses can acquire what they require to produce and sell wine.
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Despite the positive connections and client base being established by wineries, the survey also highlighted a few problem areas.
The circumstances are becoming increasingly difficult for smaller wineries.
“Large and rapidly growing wineries in the area drove the bulk of revenue growth in 2023, adding crucial jobs and stimulating sales. The majority of the smaller wineries, on the other hand, are either seeing another year of stagnant or decreasing sales or only modestly increasing,” the survey reports.
Reduced access to cheap insurance is yet another issue. In 2023, the majority of the examined wineries lessened brush and cultivated defensible areas, and some even invested in firefighting equipment at their sites. However, nearly a quarter of those examined were denied coverage, and premiums increased for 60 percent.
Rejections of coverage and increased costs due to the risk of wildfires have led to a higher percentage of surveyed wineries resorting to Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plans. These plans are expensive and often viewed as a last-minute option for insurance coverage.
Another hurdle is the lower wages earned by the San Diego wineries in comparison with other wine-producing regions in the state.
This discrepancy is connected to difficulties in the recruitment and retention of skillful workers, the expanded hiring of lower wage entry-level workers, part-time employees supplanting full-time workers, greater number of boutique winery owners shoulder multiple roles, and workforce reductions. The report also mentions the influence of California’s housing affordability crisis, which is more serious in San Diego County.
Despite these issues, Weber of Orfila asserts that San Diego is not experiencing an exodus of winery workers to Northern California, where the industry wages are higher. He claims that, if anything, workers are migrating to San Diego from other areas.
“From what I’ve seen and heard, it seems more like it’s the opposite. People come to San Diego from other places,” he stated.
Let’s revisit the tale of David and Goliath.
“We often hear people at different events who are tasting our wine say, ‘I had no idea they made wine in San Diego.’ Needless to say, we’re not fond of hearing that. It paints a pretty accurate picture of what we’re up against,” Weber expressed.
The vineyards of San Diego not only exist in Temecula’s overshadow but also in the shadow of craft beers. Who in San Diego, or even in Arizona and Chicago, hasn’t heard of Stone Brewing?
Local wineries must put themselves in the spotlight to compete effectively, as pointed out by both Weber and Vasquez. This could be accomplished through increased wine events, collaboration, and marketing.
Vasquez highlighted an interesting fact: wineries are scattered everywhere, from the coast of San Diego to the desert and the border. In places like Napa and Temecula, wineries are clustered together. In San Diego, however, one can sample a local wine without having to travel great distances.
Local wines continue to garner praise. In the 2023 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition — a platform that judges thousands of North American wines — and the Toast of the Coast International Wine Competition, San Pasqual Winery received numerous awards.
Producing award-winning wines with grapes sourced from across California, Carruth Cellars operates as an urban winery and tasting room. Its 2019 Kelly Napa Cabernet Sauvignon was a gold winner at the 2023 Toast of the Coast competition.
“We’re making some inroads,” Weber said. “It always starts with the wine quality. Several locals who’ve been in the business for a very long time have made rather strong comments saying just what a wonderful incline, increase, in the quality of wine that’s happened in the county in the last 10 to 15 years. It’s remarkable.
“I think if you lead with good wine, all the rest comes together,” he said.
The Secret to Deliciously Glazed Carrots: Whiskey!
One of the easiest wholesome side dishes you can make to fill up your dinner table is glazed carrots: Tender roasted carrots with a sweet, flavorful glaze. With a handful of ingredients and about 15 or so minutes, you get a vibrantly-colored dish that tastes as amazing as it looks. Nonetheless, the flavor and fragrance of your roasted carrots may be enhanced significantly by adding whiskey.
Whiskey is renowned for its smoky and complex flavors beneath the potent hit of alcohol. Some of the primary tasting notes, such as honey and vanilla, complement the natural sweetness of carrots wonderfully. As a result, the whiskey-infused glazed carrots may taste earthy and slightly alcoholic, although most of the actual alcohol will evaporate during cooking.
To incorporate whiskey into your glazed carrot recipe, simply add a bit or two to the pan alongside the other glaze ingredients like honey, butter, and garlic. Following that, as the carrots roast in the oven, the alcohol will evaporate, leaving a pleasing depth of flavor that will have your dinner guests intrigued about your cooking secret.
Read more: The 27 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked
With that in mind, you’re probably mentally sorting through the list of all the whiskies you know for a good fit. Here’s a simple recommendation: For a lighter, smooth twist on the dish, go for Irish whiskeys. If you like something a bit more bold, you won’t go wrong with smoky, classic all-American bourbons.
If it’s the former that piques your interest, consider popular bottlings of Irish whiskey such as Jameson or Bushmills. Irish whiskeys tend to have a lighter, fruitier flavor profile due to their triple distillation process, which can add that fresh twist to your glazed carrots. The subtle notes of vanilla and citrus in these whiskeys can brighten up the dish and give it a more complex taste. Meanwhile, the smoky and oaky taste of American bourbons will pair well with the sweeteners in the dish, be it caramelized brown sugar or honey.
For those who prefer a bolder, spicier flavor, a rye whiskey like Bulleit Rye or Templeton Rye is worth a shot. Rye whiskeys have a distinct peppery and strong taste that can add a nice kick to your glazed carrots. Just be sure to use a light hand when adding rye whiskey to your glaze, as its strong flavor can easily overpower the delicate taste of the veggie.
And if this has got you in the mood for adding whiskey to more dishes, have a look at our 12 ways to cook with whiskey for inspiration.
Read the original article on Tasting Table
Navigating the 2024 World Expo of Beer in Frankenmuth: A Comprehensive Guide
A group of 10 women compete in a beer stein-holding competition during the 20th Annual World Expo of Beer on Friday, May 20, 2016 at Heritage Park in Frankenmuth. Katy Kildee | MLive.com
FRANKENMUTH, MI — Beer aficionados soon will tap into the dozens of beer taps set to flow in Frankenmuth.
The 2024 World Expo of Beer is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 17-18, at Frankenmuth’s Heritage Park. Hours are 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday.
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Addressing Hangxiety: Rum Jungle’s New Single ‘Did The Morning Let You Down’
Australian four-piece indie rock band, Rum Jungle admits to being victims of hangxiety in their latest single: “Did The Morning Let You Down.” We’ve all been there before, waking up in the morning with an awful lurking feeling of dread for the actions of our past self, but Rum Jungle is here to help us feel a little less guilty and a little more understood with their new chilled-out anthem.
Lead singer Benny McIntyre shares, “You’d be lying to yourself if there hasn’t been a morning in your life that you’ve not been stoked with the events of the night before or something’s weighing you down and that morning it hits you hard. Mistakes get made, shit goes wrong, everything’s tough for everyone in their own relative state. What this one is about though is pickin’ up and rollin’ on and understanding the world is the way it is, and finding that thing or person or reason to charge on with some sonic stability.”
“Did The Morning Let You Down” is the ultimate laid-back summer anthem, shimmering with jangly indie guitars, upbeat drums, a super catchy chorus, and an overall feel-good vibe.
The song comes right as Rum Jungle kick off their UK/EU tour, so be sure to check out their dates if they’re in a city near you, as their live shows are tipped to be something out of the ordinary.
HOLD ME IN THE WATER UK/EU TOUR
9th May – FOCUS – Wrexham, Wales
10th May – The Louisiana – Bristol, UK | SOLD OUT
11th May – The Cavern – Exeter, UK
13th May – Oporto – Leeds, UK
14th May – Sidney and Matilda – Sheffield, UK
15th May – Omeara – London, UK | SOLD OUT
16th May – The Great Escape – Brighton, UK
20h May – Badehaus – Berlin, DE
21st May – Molotow – Hamburg, DE
22nd May – Wohnemeinschaft – Cologne, DE
23rd May – Supersonic – Paris, FR
25th May – A Stones Throw – Newcastle, UK
26th May – Broadcast – Glasgow, UK
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