October 2024 67
Discover the New Iconic Wine From a Rare Plot in a Premier European White Wine Region
Only 300 bottles of a new Riesling white wine from a limited section of a Grand Cru site have arrived in the U.S. market, and it is poised to attain legendary status.
At the entrance of Grand Cru Kitterlé, a unique ring sculpture welcomes visitors.
For dedicated collectors of notable and luxury white wines crafted from the Riesling grape, it’s well-known that these wines are among the most enduring, often thriving for up to 50 years when stored under optimal conditions. Fortunately, many can also provide a remarkable, transcendent experience much earlier in their lifespan.
Location: Alsace, France
Three renowned countries are celebrated for their iconic Riesling wines: Germany, Austria, and France. The first two are clear choices, but the inclusion of France might raise some eyebrows, as many popular wine varieties originate from this region, with Riesling perhaps seeming somewhat out of place. However, the northeastern French region of Alsace, which shares a border with Germany, has experienced numerous shifts in governance between the two nations. This history is still evident in Alsace today, reflected in the German-inspired architecture, the regional cuisine, traditional German surnames, and, importantly, the exceptional Riesling produced alongside three other esteemed white grape varieties.
An esteemed wine producer, Domaines Schlumberger, is one of the oldest wine houses in Alsace and possesses the largest collection of Grand Cru vineyards. They have unveiled a distinctive wine from a rare plot that is poised to become the next celebrated wine from Alsace: ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling.
Wine enthusiasts and collectors will quickly recognize that while the name ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ is mentioned as a Grand Cru vineyard, it does not actually exist as such in Alsace. Instead, it refers to a small, uniquely named parcel that operates as a monopole within the Grand Cru vineyard Kitterlé, which is Domaine Schlumberger’s premier site for Riesling. A monopole signifies that the parcel is wholly owned by a single producer, in this case, Domaine Schlumberger. This exceptional Grand Cru monopole is situated at an elevation exceeding 1,000 feet, featuring terraced slopes that ascend at a steep 50 degrees, earning it the nickname “Calf Breaker.” This moniker reflects the challenging reality of vineyard management, which must be accomplished manually due to the terrain’s severity. The unique attributes of this parcel, combined with the prevalence of volcanic rocks in the soil, contribute to producing low yields that result in highly complex and concentrated wines.
Have you ever wondered about the origin of the name Le Clos Saint Léger? It takes its name from the nearby Saint Léger Church, where a monk documented the area in the 12th century, describing it as a “blessed valley, like a celestial jewel.” This description beautifully encapsulates the wine’s remarkable attributes.
Séverine Schlumberger and Thomas Schlumberger
Currently, Thomas Schlumberger, the seventh-generation co-owner, manages Domaines Schlumberger alongside his sister, Séverine. Their family is recognized for owning the most extensive collection of Grand Cru vineyards, with a total of four different Grand Crus. They acknowledge the weight of their responsibility and approach it with seriousness. Thomas feels immense gratitude for his family’s natural ability to recognize exceptional vineyard sites long before the official classification system was established, as well as their perseverance in safeguarding these valuable lands through challenging times.
‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling, positioned near the ring sculpture
Thomas and his sister have adopted organic farming methods to enhance the balance of their vines. They have implemented horse plowing, which is environmentally friendly and helps mitigate soil compaction, while also opting for reduced yields despite the already naturally low yields of their small parcel called ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’. For the release of their special bottling designated as ‘Le Clos Saint Léger,’ they plan to withhold vintages until they are deemed ready for sale. Thomas mentioned that the 2019 vintage will likely be released before the 2018, as the latter appears to require significantly more aging. He emphasized that any vintage failing to meet the highest standards will be excluded from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ bottling.
The Schlumberger family possesses 50 acres of the 64-acre Grand Cru Kitterlé area, making them multi-generational authorities on this exceptional Grand Cru estate. Their intimate knowledge of each small segment of this remarkable site, which features one of just a few vineyard areas in Alsace with distinctive volcanic soil, speaks volumes. Therefore, when they claim that the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel represents their finest location for Riesling, it carries great significance. No other producer boasts as many Grand Cru vineyards as they do, and their familiarity with the Grand Cru Kitterlé site—characterized by its demanding viticulture due to steep slopes—sets them apart. This expert knowledge applied to an already outstanding vineyard points to the potential creation of an iconic wine.
2019 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling
A limited production of a few thousand bottles of the 2017 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling has been made, with only 300 bottles allocated for the U.S. market.
The tasting notes provided cover not only the 2017 vintage but also the 2018, 2019, and 2020, although currently, only the 2017 is available for purchase in select locations, with the other vintages set aside until they are ready for release; each bottle is meticulously hand numbered.
2017 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling: Made entirely from Riesling sourced from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel. The wine showcases a fantastic light golden hue that sparkles in the light, complemented by enchanting aromas of smoky minerals, honeysuckle, and a remarkable purity of fruit. On the palate, it reveals a delightful richness balanced by lively acidity, with a textural quality that contributes lift and precision throughout the long, expressive finish.
2018 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling: Also 100% Riesling from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel. The nose captivates with delightful scents reminiscent of freshly made crêpes drizzled with lemon curd and sprinkled with candied violets. It possesses a robust backbone of saline minerality and bright acidity, embellished by hints of aniseeds that subtly emerge in the background.
2019 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling: This vintage is once again 100% Riesling from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel. It presents a refined bouquet of wet river stones accompanied by juicy apricots, delivering a palate rich in dense flavors, including caramelized peaches, balanced by zesty orange rind. The wine features a well-structured body and a laser-focused finish, highlighting its crisp acidity.
2020 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling is a remarkable wine crafted from 100% Riesling grapes sourced from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ vineyard. It presents an alluring bouquet featuring lemon blossom intertwined with subtle hints of jasmine. The wine’s profile is complemented by an underlying essence of salty lemon confit, while its pronounced acidity infuses a dynamic energy that showcases a remarkable level of tension.
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The Surprising Ascent of American Blended Whiskey: A New Era in Spirits
The popularity of American whiskey has seen a remarkable surge over the last two decades. In 2023 alone, over 31 million nine-liter cases were sold in the United States, as reported by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. However, there remains a contentious topic that enthusiasts often avoid discussing: the term “blend.” Bringing it up around whiskey connoisseurs typically invites a dismissive reaction, or worse, a detailed critique about the supposed inferiority of blended whiskey compared to single barrels.
Nevertheless, these stereotypes are gradually being dismantled, much like the angel’s share itself, as a new generation of producers works to enhance the reputation of American blends. Interestingly, some of those very whiskey purists have begun to seek out high-quality blended expressions for their collections—a surprising twist that many admit they never expected.
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Dating back to the 1800s, American whiskey blends experienced a notable rise in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s, when premium brown spirits lost their appeal as consumers gravitated toward vodka and lighter, smoother liquors. With numerous barrels maturing in distilleries across the nation, brands found that by blending whiskey with cheaper neutral grain spirits and enhancing them with color and flavor additives, they could produce a version of whiskey that appealed to those who favored clear spirits. However, the quality of these blends fell short compared to international offerings, such as blended Scotch, which combines aged malt and grain whiskies from various distilleries, or the meticulous craftsmanship found in Japanese whisky production.
As a result, offerings like Seagram’s 7, Kentucky Gentleman, and Philadelphia Whiskey became popular, even as discerning enthusiasts viewed them with skepticism—and rightly so. The taste was often diluted and excessively sweet, accompanied by a harsh alcohol burn and lacking the depth found in traditional bourbon or rye whiskey. However, in recent years, established distilleries, artisanal producers, and those not directly distilling have begun to introduce a fresh perspective on American blends—combining straight whiskeys without any neutral spirits, colors, or flavorings added. This evolution has caught the attention of whiskey lovers. Aaron Goldfarb, author of Dusty Booze, points out that the novelty of these elevated American blends resonates strongly with collectors. “After a while, focusing on bourbon can become monotonous—you see another barrel-proof release or single-barrel selection,” he explains. “With these innovative blends, each release promises something truly unique.”
Bardstown Bourbon Company embraces a unique philosophy in the whiskey industry. Not only does it produce its own whiskey, but it also offers contract-distillation services for various brands. Additionally, the team curates barrels to create innovative blends. “We take a fresh, modern perspective on the category, combining high-quality bourbon, rye, and international whiskeys to craft a distinctive flavor profile,” says Dan Callaway, Bardstown’s Vice President of new-product development. The Discovery Series exemplifies the meticulous quality and dedication the label invests in blending, as it selects whiskeys from different mash bills sourced from states like Tennessee, Indiana, and Kentucky, resulting in unique and collectible expressions of exceptional quality.
“It is thrilling to witness a line of guests at the distillery eager for new rare bottles,” Callaway shares. “Engaging in blends carries a certain level of risk; however, we’ve built a rapport with consumers who trust that we will provide an exciting product with a well-balanced profile and superior flavor.”
Another noteworthy brand is Louisville’s Barrell Craft Spirits, established by Joe Beatrice. This non-distilling producer specializes in either single-barrel straight whiskeys or blends of various straight whiskeys. “Today’s whiskey consumers are much more knowledgeable than they were five or ten years ago,” he observes. “Blending offers more depth than simply relying on a single-source whiskey from one barrel: The aim is to showcase creativity while achieving nuance and balance. It is a meticulous process of experimentation, tasting, and assessment—an art form that is finally gaining the acknowledgment it deserves.”
The Gold Label series has transformed into a sought-after collection, with secondary market prices soaring above $500—values often associated with Russell’s Reserve 15 or rare selections from Willett. Beatrice attributes this trend to the limited availability of the product and the greater age of the whiskeys blended: “The barrels chosen for these releases are picked for their refined characteristics and exceptional flavor profiles. Ultra-premium whiskey aficionados who appreciate our brand recognize the dedication and meticulousness involved in the production process.”
As newer brands like Old Elk, High Bank, and 15 Stars generate excitement in the premium-blend sector, it’s vital to acknowledge that traditional names have also joined the trend. For instance, James B. Beam Distilling Co., home of Jim Beam, has introduced high-end blends through its Little Book label, curated by eighth-generation master distiller Freddie Noe. This means you can confidently order your American blended whiskey without the scrutiny of spirits enthusiasts.
Jonah Flicker serves as the whiskey critic for Robb Report, providing weekly reviews of significant new releases and taking on freelance writing about the global spirits scene, journeying through distilleries across Kentucky to Scotland.
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Exploring the Unique Flavor of Cheese Curd Vodka: A Bold New Beverage Experience
Curd Fest, hosted by Drink Wisconsinbly, has returned to Milwaukee. This year, one of the exciting offerings is cheese curd vodka, and it comes with a ranch chaser!
Top Beers in America: Highlights from the Great American Beer Festival
Brewers are seen celebrating with Bob Pease, the President & CEO of the Brewers Association, who stands fourth from the right, after earning a medal at the Great American Beer Festival.
The Great American Beer Festival serves as an annual event that highlights a diverse array of beers from across the country. Organized by the Brewers Association, which advocates for America’s small and independent breweries, this festival is also known for its prestigious beer competition. The winners from the 2024 competition were revealed during a festive gathering on October 12 at the Denver Convention Center, the traditional venue for this event.
This year, nearly 9,200 beers and ciders were evaluated. Participants came from all 50 states, along with representatives from the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
Chris Williams, the competition director for the Brewers Association, mentions that the Great American Beer Festival competition encapsulates the essence of craft beer in the United States. While the number of submissions remained consistent with last year’s figures, it saw a decline from the record high of over 10,000 entries in 2022, mirroring the plateauing growth within the craft beer sector. True to form, the top three categories featured were primarily IPAs, yet it was noted that a majority of the remaining top-ten categories consisted of lagers, indicating a rising trend in the appreciation for craft lagers. The only ale category to make it into the top ten was Fruited American Sour.
“Approximately 5,000 volunteer hours are required to receive, unpack, sort, and organize the beers,” Williams shared during a phone interview. “It’s truly an impressive undertaking!” He emphasizes that breweries must submit several cans or bottles of each beer entered into the competition, allowing for thorough judging across multiple rounds by the 285 top judges from around the country. In total, nearly 60,000 cans and bottles of beer are processed.
Here are the champions of the 2024 Great American Beer Festival.
Gold: Fuzztail, Sunriver Brewing Co., Sunriver, OR
Silver: Mercy Cloud, Hobcaw Brewing Co., Mount Pleasant, SC
Bronze: Hoppla, NewSylum Brewing Co., Newtown, CT
Gold: Hey Girl, Hey!, Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop – Richmond, VA
Silver: A La Playa, Trademark Brewing, Long Beach, CA
Bronze: Bird Light Yuzu, Strangebird, Rochester, NY
Gold Award: Yankee Doodle Shandy from River Bluff Brewing located in Saint Joseph, MO
Silver Award: Enduro crafted by Cheluna Brewing Co. based in Aurora, CO
Bronze Award: Bear Bait produced by Schussboom Brewing Co. in Reno, NV
Gold Award: Fennel Rye Ale by Denver Beer Co. – Canworks situated in Denver, CO
Silver Medal: Cucumber Lime Blonde from Third Space Brewing located in Milwaukee, WI
Bronze Medal: That Coconut Porter crafted by Cherry Street Brewing in Cumming, GA
Gold Medal: Great Pumpkin produced by Elysian Brewing Co. in Seattle, WA
Silver Medal: Pumpkin Spice J. Marie from River North Brewery – RiNo based in Denver, CO
Bronze: Boo Ya!, Ocean View Brewing Co., Ocean View, DE
Gold: El Poblano Borracho, Liquid Mechanics Brewing Co., Lafayette, CO
Silver: Jalapeño Saison, On Rotation Brewery & Kitchen, Dallas, TX
Bronze: Palisade Peak, Station 26 Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Gold Medal Winner: Two Wheeler, Far Field Beer Co., located in Hawthorne, California
Silver Medal Winner: HellFire Club from Armored Cow Brewing Co., based in Charlotte, North Carolina
Bronze Medal Winner: Dill Pickle, produced by Field Artisan Brewing in Westfield, Indiana
Gold Medal Winner: Fudge Sickles from Fort George Brewery in Astoria, Oregon
Silver: Chocolate Stout, Fort Myers Brewing Co., Fort Myers, FL
Bronze: Triple Chocolate Viator Obscura, Wandering Monsters Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Gold: Squirrels Just Want to Have Fun, River North Brewery – RiNo, Denver, CO
Silver: Bucky, Terranaut Beer, Bend, OR
Bronze Medal: Gusto Crema Coffee Ale from Georgetown Brewing Co., located in Seattle, WA.
Gold Medal: Dusk Til Dawn, crafted by Pizza Port San Clemente in San Clemente, CA.
Silver Medal: Venti is Large, produced by Hop Dogma Brewing Co. from Half Moon Bay, CA.
Bronze Medal: Shock Treatment, created by New Ridge Brewing Co. in Philadelphia, PA.
Gold: Pure Nonsense from Dade City Brew House located in Dade City, Florida.
Silver: Coconut Cluster crafted by Heritage Hill Brewhouse in Pompey, New York.
Bronze: Peanut Butter & Jelly Tiempo produced by Kilowatt Brewing based in San Diego, California.
Gold: Crazy Jackass Ale from Great American Restaurants – Sweetwater Tavern in Centreville, Virginia.
Silver: Roggenschnizzle, Bier Brewery and Taproom, Indianapolis, IN
Bronze: Beauty is in the Rye of the Beholder, RockSolid Brewing Co., Ball Ground, GA
Gold: Hachimitsu Mai, Deschutes Brewery & Public House – PDX, Portland, OR
Silver: BeeLoved, 10 Barrel Brewing Co., Bend, OR
Bronze: Animals Strike Curious Poses, The Empourium Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Gold: NARC IPA, Resident Culture, Charlotte, NC
Silver: Free Wave Hazy IPA, Athletic Brewing Co., Milford, CT
Bronze: Kolsch, Best Day Brewing, Sausalito, CA
Gold Medal: NA Dark from Fremont Brewing located in Seattle, Washington.
Silver Medal: Non-Alcoholic Oktoberfest by Octopi Brewing in collaboration with Untitled Art, based in Waunakee, Wisconsin.
Gold Medal: Patagonia Provisions Non-Alcoholic Kernza Golden Brew crafted by Deschutes Brewery in Bend, Oregon.
Silver Medal: Tropical Sour produced by Athletic Brewing Co., found in Milford, Connecticut.
Bronze Medal: Special Effects Grapefruit IPA from Brooklyn Brewery, located in Brooklyn, NY.
Gold Medal: Saison Lily, crafted by ColdFire Brewing Co. – Barrel House in Eugene, OR.
Silver Medal: Frequency of Expansion, produced by The Big Friendly in Oklahoma City, OK.
Bronze Medal: Guillaume, from Pizza Port Ocean Beach in San Diego, CA.
Gold Medal Winner: Divi from Offset Bier Co., located in Park City, Utah.
Silver Medal Winner: Josh’s New Tiny Shoes crafted by Green Cheek Beer Co. in Orange, California.
Bronze Medal Winner: Mini Ramp Session IPA from June Lake Brewing in June Lake, California.
Another Gold Medal Winner: Jeff’s Baltic Porter from Green Cheek Beer Co. – Oceanside in Oceanside, California.
Silver: Magpie, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. in Santa Barbara, CA
Bronze: Baltic Porter, Bear Chase Brewing Co. from Bluemont, VA
Gold: Soul of a Star, HUDL Brewing Co. located in Las Vegas, NV
Silver: Agua Santa Imperial, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. in Buellton, CA
Bronze: Stone LifeBlurred, located at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens in Liberty Station, San Diego, CA.
Gold: Hazy Crush from New York Beer Project at the Beer Lodge in Orchard Park, NY.
Silver: Lavender Haze brewed by SingleSpeed Brewing based in Waterloo, IA.
Bronze: East Gruesome from Lost Cabin Beer Co. in Rapid City, SD.
Gold winner: Great Wave Sake Lager from MAP Brewing Co. located in Bozeman, MT.
Silver winner: Bourbon Maple Wishes and Pecan Dreams by Odd Side Ales in Grand Haven, MI.
Bronze winner: Agrio Morado from 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Bend Pub in Bend, OR.
Gold winner: BierKraft Grodziskie by BierKraft based in McAlester, OK.
Silver Medal: Decorah Nordic Gruit from PIVO Brewery located in Calmar, IA
Bronze Medal: Kentucky Common brewed by Blackhorse Pub & Brewery in Alcoa, TN
Gold Medal: Fat Randy from Holidaily Brewing Co. based in Golden, CO
Silver Medal: Oktoberfest crafted by Orange Bike Brewing Co. in Portland, ME
Bronze: Pilsner from Orange Bike Brewing Co. based in Portland, ME
Gold: Silver Medal Worthy crafted by Launch Pad Brewery in Aurora, CO
Silver: Capitulation brewed by Monkless Belgian Ales located in Bend, OR
Bronze: Golden Strong Ale with Pink produced by Fowler Ranch Farm Brewery in Lincoln, CA
Gold: Bes from Little Beast Brewing located in Clackamas, Oregon
Silver: Wicked Shifty crafted by Shoe Tree Brewing Co. in Carson City, Nevada
Bronze: Mirage produced by New Terrain Brewing Co. in Golden, Colorado
Gold: Peach Silhouette brewed by Hudson Valley Brewery in Beacon, New York
Silver Medal: Funkberry Pie from Girdwood Brewing Company located in Girdwood, Alaska.
Bronze Medal: Cactus Juice produced by 12Degree Brewing in Louisville, Colorado.
Gold Medal: First Release Part 2 crafted by Peaceful Side Brewery in Maryville, Tennessee.
Silver Medal: Belle Saison created by Third Window Brewing Company based in Santa Barbara, California.
Bronze: Touch of Brett from Alesong Brewing & Blending located in Eugene, Oregon.
Gold: Proverbial Fork crafted by Olfactory Brewing in San Francisco, California.
Silver: Knitting Circle S5 Batch C produced by Fair Isle Brewing based in Seattle, Washington.
Bronze: Elisabeth from ColdFire Brewing Co. – Barrel House in Eugene, Oregon.
Gold: Ghoul Fuel – Rum Diaries Edition, Bull & Bush Brewery, Denver, CO
Silver: Temporary Paradise – Rum Diaries Edition, Bull & Bush Brewery, Denver, CO
Bronze: Barrel Aged Dopplebock, MORE Brewing Co., Huntley, IL
Gold: Bass Clef, Audio Graph Beer Co., Los Angeles, CA
Silver: Barrel-Aged Imperial Satan’s Pony from South Street Brewery located in Charlottesville, VA.
Bronze: 10th Anniversary Barleywine by Creature Comforts Brewing Co. in Athens, GA.
Gold: Western Justice crafted by Westbound & Down Brewing Co. in Idaho Springs, CO.
Silver: Humongous Sleepy Chungus Bear brewed by Werk Force Brewing Co. in Plainfield, IL.
Bronze Medal: Breakside La Maison du Bang! from Breakside Brewery located in Portland, OR
Gold Medal: French 75 produced by Alesong Brewing & Blending in Eugene, OR
Silver Medal: Madrigal crafted by Monday Night Brewing – Garage based in Atlanta, GA
Bronze Medal: 5 On It from Long Table Brewhouse situated in Denver, CO
Gold: Raspberries on Acid from Blue Mountain Brewery, located in Afton, VA
Silver: White Dwarf by True Anomaly Brewing Co., based in Houston, TX
Bronze: Cassis brewed by Moody Tongue Brewing Co., from Chicago, IL
Gold: Czech Plz created by CraftHaus Brewery, situated in Henderson, NV
Silver: Pilsners are Lagers, Benchtop Brewing Co., Norfolk, VA
Bronze: Tankbeer, Hopewell Brewing Co., Chicago, IL
Gold: Smoke and Embers, New Belgium Brewing Co., Fort Collins, CO
Silver: Smoke Control, Burghers Brewing, Pittsburgh, PA
Bronze: Rauchbier, brewed by Port City Brewing Co. located in Alexandria, VA.
Gold: Sky Dog, crafted by Wiseacre Brewing Co. in Downtown Memphis, TN.
Silver: Family Vacation, a creation of Roadhouse Brewing Co. based in Jackson Hole, WY.
Bronze: Transmission Light, produced by Transmission Brewing in Ventura, CA.
Gold Medal: Light Lager, Seapine Brewing Co., located in Seattle, Washington.
Silver Medal: Wakumi, crafted by Mother Earth Brew Co., based in Nampa, Idaho.
Bronze Medal: Wondrous Hell, produced by Wondrous Brewing Co., from Emeryville, California.
Gold Medal: Down South, made by Appalachian Mountain Brewery, hailing from Boone, North Carolina.
Silver: Modern Classic from Counter Weight Brewing Co. located in Cheshire, CT.
Bronze: Pat’s River Beer crafted by MAP Brewing Co. in Bozeman, MT.
Gold: Baseball, created by Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown situated in Los Angeles, CA.
Silver: College Dropout produced by StillFire Brewing in Suwanee, GA.
Bronze: Richmond Lager from Hardywood Park Craft Brewery located in Richmond, VA
Gold: Classic City Lager crafted by Creature Comforts at their Production Facility at Southern Mill in Athens, GA
Silver: Buccaneer’s Gold created by Project 9 Brewing Co. in Seattle, WA
Bronze: Happy Little Clouds brewed by Cloudburst Brewing, also in Seattle, WA
Gold: Chillzner, Craft Coast – San Marcos, San Marcos, CA
Silver: 500 Pesos, ODD Muse Brewing Co., Dallas, TX
Bronze: Munk Lager, Munkle Brewing Co., Charleston, SC
Gold: Was Angeles Craft Beer, Uinta Brewing Co., Salt Lake City, UT
Silver: El Sully, 21st Amendment Brewery, San Leandro, CA
Bronze: Atascadero Beach, Wild Fields Brewhouse, Atascadero, CA
Gold: Infinity Pils, Westbound & Down Brewing Co. – Westbound Mill, Lafayette, CO
Silver: Branching Out, Everywhere Beer Co., Orange, CA
Bronze: Rancho Cowabunga, Grains of Wrath – Washougal, Washougal, WA
Gold: Bateman Bier, Greenstar Brewing, Chicago, IL
Silver: Las Cruces, Wild Blue Yonder Brewing Co., Castle Rock, CO
Bronze: Big Rock Amber Lager, Malibu Brewing Co., Westlake Village, CA
Gold Medal Winner: Haha Pils from Arbeiter Brewing Co. located in Minneapolis, MN
Silver Medal Winner: Door Code brewed by Piece Brewery in Chicago, IL
Bronze Medal Winner: Trumer Pils by Trumer Brewery in Berkeley, CA
Gold Medal Winner: Reality Czeck-style Pilsner created by Moonlight Brewing Co. from Santa Rosa, CA
Silver Medal: River Delta Czech Pils from Silver Bluff Brewing Co. located in Brunswick, GA.
Bronze Medal: Parachute Pivo crafted by Victor-23 Craft Brewery in Vancouver, WA.
Gold Medal: Zombi Shark Fight brewed by Green Cheek Beer Co. in Costa Mesa, CA.
Silver Medal: Che Figata from Sunriver Brewing Co. based in Sunriver, OR.
Bronze Award goes to Wolf of the Woods by Second Dawn Brewing Co. located in Aurora, Colorado.
The Gold Award is presented to Helles from von Trapp Brewing in Stowe, Vermont.
The Silver Award is claimed by Crystal River from Glenwood Canyon Brewing Co. in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Another Bronze Award goes to Old Gold by Structures Brewing, which is based in Bellingham, Washington.
Gold Medal: Festbier, Glenwood Canyon Brewing Co. from Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Silver Medal: Festbier, Northwoods Brewing Co. hailing from Northwood, New Hampshire.
Bronze Medal: The Cushman, brought to you by Morgan Territory Brewing located in Tracy, California.
Gold Medal: Vienna Fest Bier, a delightful offering from Quarter Celtic Brewpub in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Silver Medal: Metalmark Marzen from Morgan Territory Brewing in Tracy, California
Bronze Medal: Red Dawn crafted by Bonesaw Brewing Co. in Glassboro, New Jersey
Gold Medal: Pleasantbräu Oktoberfest produced by Soul Brewing Co. located in Pleasantville, New York
Silver Medal: Marchtoberfest from Galveston Island Brewing in Galveston, Texas
Bronze Medal: Oktoberfest from Left Hand Brewing Co. based in Longmont, CO
Gold Medal: Schwarz Wulf produced by Greywolf Brewing located in Norco, CA
Silver Medal: Flex Fiesta Munich-Style Dark Lager brewed by Red Horn Brewery and Roastery from Leander, TX
Bronze Medal: Chehalis After Dark crafted by Talking Cedar Brewing in Rochester, WA
Gold Medal: Puesto Negra from Puesto Cerveceria located in San Diego, California.
Silver Medal: Czech-6 crafted by Eagle River Brewing Co. based in Gypsum, Colorado.
Bronze Medal: Czech Dark Lager produced by Structures Brewing in Bellingham, Washington.
Gold Medal: Pan is Alive from IMBIB Custom Brews situated in Reno, Nevada.
Silver Award: Lawyers, Hogs & Money from Bentonville Brewing Co. located in Bentonville, AR.
Bronze Award: Hootenanny from Bankhead Brewing Co. in Rowlett, TX.
Gold Award: Eisbock from Northbound Smokehouse Brewpub in Minneapolis, MN.
Silver Award: Co-Conspirator from Victor-23 Craft Brewery in Vancouver, WA.
Bronze: Execrator from Resolute Brewing Co. in Centennial, CO
Gold: Modern Gothic by Columbia Craft Brewing Co. located in Columbia, SC
Silver: Kolsch produced by Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco, CA
Bronze: Brick West Kolsch crafted by Brick West Brewing Co. in Spokane, WA
Gold Medal Winner: Baywindow from 10 Barrel Brewing Co. located in Bend, Oregon.
Silver Medal Winner: Disco Lemonade crafted by Aslan Brewing Co. in Bellingham, Washington.
Bronze Medal Winner: Gose from Kulshan Brewing Co – K2, also in Bellingham, Washington.
Another Gold Medal Winner: Commander Salamander by Spring House Brewing Co. based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Silver: Razzle fo’ Shazzle, Great Basin Brewing Co., Reno, NV
Bronze: Gindulgence, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Bend Pub, Bend, OR
Gold: 3 Citrus Gose, Culture Brewing Co., Solana Beach, CA
Silver: It’s a G Thang Ginger Gose, Red Rock Brewing – Production, Salt Lake City, UT
Bronze: Wild Pear, Blue Mountain Barrel House and Organic Brewery, Arrington, Virginia
Gold: Rhine Divide, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Portland, Portland, Oregon
Silver: Altbier, Double Clutch Brewing Co., Evanston, Illinois
Bronze: Altruism, Rock Cut Brewing Co., Estes Park, Colorado
Gold: Weizenbock from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. located in Mills River, NC.
Silver: Kristal Moon brewed by Blue Moon Brewing Co. based in Denver, CO.
Bronze: Sixpoint Brewery’s Mimic Weisse from Brewers At 4001 Yancey in Charlotte, NC.
Gold: Washout Wheat, crafted by Holy City Brewing in North Charleston, SC.
Silver: Don’t Hassle the Hef, Westbound & Down Brewing Co. – Westbound Mill, Lafayette, CO
Bronze: Polterweiss Hefeweizen, Green Mountain Beer Co., Lakewood, CO
Gold: Distinguished Fellow, Project 9 Brewing Co., Seattle, WA
Silver: The Proprietor, BierKraft, McAlester, OK
Bronze: Toasty, The Brew Brothers – Scioto Downs Racino, Columbus, Ohio
Gold: Pub Ale, Pilot Brewing Co., Charlotte, North Carolina
Silver: Brighton ESB, Bravery Brewing Co., Lancaster, California
Bronze: Velvet Organic ESB, Hopworks Urban Brewery, Portland, Oregon
Gold Medal Winner: Kiitos Blonde Ale from Kiitos Brewing in Salt Lake City, UT
Silver Medal Winner: Easy Mode by Logan Brewing Co. located in Burien, WA
Bronze Medal Winner: Bench Seat crafted by Transmission Brewing in Ventura, CA
Gold Medal Winner: Kiitos Pale Ale also from Kiitos Brewing in Salt Lake City, UT
Silver: Elevated Summer Ale from Goose And The Monkey Brewhouse located in Lexington, NC.
Bronze: Oregon Summer Ale crafted by Bend Brewing – High Desert in Bend, OR.
Gold: Doc McLoughlin Scottish Ale produced by Oregon City Brewing Co. in Oregon City, OR.
Silver: Scottish Ale from Stodgy Brewing Co., based in Fort Collins, CO.
Bronze: Oasis Amber, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery – Reno, Reno, NV
Gold: Coppermind, Denver Beer Co. – Lowry Field, Denver, CO
Silver: Engine 402, Orange Hat Brewing Co., Knoxville, TN
Bronze: Equanimity, Ursa Minor Brewing, Duluth, MN
Gold Medal Winner: Black Cats from Streetside Brewery located in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Silver Medal Winner: Back Country produced by Lewis & Clark Brewing Co. in Helena, Montana.
Bronze Medal Winner: Brown Ale crafted by Oliphant Brewing from Somerset, Wisconsin.
Gold Medal Winner: Who’s That Brown from Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. in Thousand Oaks, California.
Silver: Heart of Glass, Three Wide Brewing Co., Fort Worth, TX
Bronze: Beckley Furnace Brown Ale, Norbrook Farm Brewery, Colebrook, CT
Gold: Blackside Snap, Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach, CA
Silver: Stoup American Stout, Stoup Brewing – Capitol Hill, Seattle, WA
Bronze Medal: A Dark in the Light from Radiant Beer Co. in Anaheim, California
Gold Medal: Le Petit Demon crafted by Bonesaw Brewing Co. – Pilot House located in Deptford, New Jersey
Silver Medal: DOMESTIQUE Blonde Ale brewed by Rouleur Brewing Co. in Carlsbad, California
Bronze Medal: Aurora from Apogee Brewing Co. based in Grover Beach, California
Gold Medal: Allagash White from Allagash Brewing Co., located in Portland, ME.
Silver Medal: Breakside White produced by Breakside Brewery & Taproom, found in Milwaukie, OR.
Bronze Medal: Gully Washer Wit crafted by Munkle Brewing Co., based in Charleston, SC.
Gold Medal: Dogwood Saison from Devils Backbone Brewing Co. – Basecamp, situated in Roseland, VA.
Silver Medal: Farm Out from Worthy Brewing Co. located in Bend, Oregon.
Bronze Medal: Plough & Harrow crafted by ISM Brewing in Long Beach, California.
Gold Medal: Lucy Loves Rye by Apogee Brewing Co. in Grover Beach, California.
Silver Medal: Mount Eden produced by Pure Project in Vista, California.
Bronze: Wild Honey from Cruz Blanca Brewery located in Chicago, IL
Gold: Eau Rouge crafted by Noble Beast Brewing Co. in Cleveland, OH
Silver: Apple Pomace Puncheon produced by Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Intinction – Petite Sirah from Russian River Brewing Co. based in Santa Rosa, CA
Gold Medal: Kroon from Wallenpaupack Brewing Co., located in Hawley, PA.
Silver Medal: Pitouchi produced by Attic Brewing Co., based in Philadelphia, PA.
Bronze Medal: Monks on the Moon crafted by Apogee Brewing Co., situated in Grover Beach, CA.
Gold Medal: LMM Dubbel II from Lone Man Mountain Brewing Co., found in Driftwood, TX.
Silver Medal: Allagash Tripel from Allagash Brewing Co., located in Portland, ME.
Bronze Medal: Monks In Space crafted by Apogee Brewing Co. in Grover Beach, CA.
Gold Medal: My Cerise Amour, produced by Oregon City Brewing Co. in Oregon City, OR.
Silver Medal: East of Line Kriek from Awkward Brewing in Fayetteville, GA.
Bronze: Vordrassil, Webb’s City Cellar by Green Bench, located in St. Petersburg, FL
Gold: Don’t Feed the Bears from Gatlinburg Brewing Co., found in Sevierville, TN
Silver: Slumber Car, created by Accomplice Beer Co. in Cheyenne, WY
Bronze: Old Tom Porter brewed by Piney River Brewing Co. in Bucyrus, MO
Gold Medal Winner: Port City Porter from Port City Brewing Company located in Alexandria, Virginia.
Silver Medal Winner: Peaklet crafted by Mountain Rambler Brewery in Bishop, California.
Bronze Medal Winner: Dark Chocolate Love from Salish Sea Brewing Company – Boathouse Taproom in Edmonds, Washington.
Gold Medal Winner: Correspondent produced by Wander Brewing in Bellingham, Washington.
Silver: Nebula Stout from Block 15 Brewery & Tap Room located in Corvallis, OR
Bronze: Diatomaceous Dry Stout crafted by Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. at their Production Facility in Chattanooga, TN
Gold: Mustachio Milk Stout produced by Tractor Brewing Co. in Albuquerque, NM
Silver: Chocolate Milk Stout brewed by Boxing Bear Brewing Co. – Firestone in Albuquerque, NM
Bronze Medal: Moozie from Brink Brewing Co., located in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Gold Medal: Scaredy Cat crafted by Vintage Brewing Co. in Madison, Wisconsin.
Silver Medal: Buttons the Bear brewed by Bear Chase Brewing Co., based in Bluemont, Virginia.
Bronze Medal: Brother Sam from Three Tigers Brewing Co. in Granville, Ohio.
Gold: Indie Roo, Pizza Port, Imperial Beach, CA
Silver: Kill the Lights, The Tap Brewery, Bloomington, IN
Bronze: ReVive, 10 Barrel Brewing Co., Portland, OR
Gold: Wobbly Traveler, Silver Harbor Brewing Co., Saint Joseph, MI
Silver: Full Malted Jacket from Beachwood Brewing located in Huntington Beach, CA.
Bronze: Old Chub by Oskar Blues Brewery based in Longmont, CO.
Gold: Orange Giant crafted by Ecliptic Brewing in Eugene, OR.
Silver: Grow Old With You from Verboten Brewing situated in Loveland, CO.
Bronze: Artemesia from Burns Family Artisan Ales Taphouse located in Denver, CO.
Gold: Smells Like Purple Rain crafted by Riip Beer Co. based in Huntington Beach, CA.
Silver: Ponga by Grand Fir Brewing situated in Portland, OR.
Bronze: Breakside Hello My Alien made at Breakside Brewery – NW Slabtown in Portland, OR.
Gold: More Than A Zealand, Cannonball Creek Brewing Co., Golden, CO
Silver: Wannabe Wallaby, Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach, CA
Bronze: Wastelandia, Grains of Wrath, Camas, WA
Gold: Timbo, Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown, Los Angeles, CA
Silver Medal: Featherweight Pale Ale from Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. located in Golden, Colorado.
Bronze Medal: Bare Bones Disco produced by Bird Creek Brewing in Temple, Texas.
Gold Medal: Easy Eddy crafted by Big Grove Brewery & Taproom based in Iowa City, Iowa.
Silver Medal: Foggy Pines created by Evans Brewing Co. situated in Corona, California.
Bronze: Wisp from Lumen Beer Co., located in Omaha, Nebraska.
Gold: Something Dank This Way Comes by Sunriver Brewing Co., based in Sunriver, Oregon.
Silver: Zero Degrees brewed by Shred Beer Co., from Rocklin, California.
Bronze: Independence Pass Ale IPA crafted by Aspen Brewing Co., hailing from Aspen, Colorado.
Gold Medal: Joyful Intuition from Everywhere Beer Co. located in Orange, California
Silver Medal: Lupulin Lab crafted by Wicked Weed Brewing Pub in Asheville, North Carolina
Bronze Medal: Windows Up produced by Alpine Beer Co. in Ft Collins, Colorado
Gold Medal: Pretty Good created at Third Space Brewing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Silver: Buttface Amber from RAM Restaurant and Brewery located in Tacoma, WA
Bronze: Object K by Site-1 Brewing based in Omaha, NE
Gold: Wreak Havoc crafted by Bootstrap Brewing in Longmont, CO
Silver: Rolling Rust from Grand Fir Brewing situated in Portland, OR
Bronze: Trash Pandamonium from Benchtop Brewing Co., located in Norfolk, VA
Gold: Hoptomic crafted by Morgan Territory Brewing, based in Tracy, CA
Silver: Gastropod brewed by Grand Fir Brewing in Portland, OR
Bronze: Nose Goblin from Ghost Town Brewing, found in Oakland, CA
Gold Medal Winner: DDH Pillow from Highland Park Brewery located in Chinatown, Los Angeles, CA
Silver Medal Winner: Mosaic Double Crush by Moonraker Brewing Co., based in Cameron Park, CA
Bronze Medal Winner: Juice Master crafted by Shred Beer Co. in Rocklin, CA
Gold Medal Winner: Fresher Than Fresh from Trap Door Brewing in Vancouver, WA
Silver: House of 1000 Cones from Moonraker Brewing Co. located in Cameron Park, CA
Bronze: Fresh Hop King Crispy crafted by Deschutes Brewery & Public House in Portland, OR
Gold: Codebreaker produced by Trademark Brewing in Long Beach, CA
Silver: Pacific Portal from Alma Mader Brewing based in Kansas City, MO
Bronze: IPA for Aliens, Masthead Brewing Co. located in Cleveland, Ohio.
Gold: Competition, a creation from Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown in Los Angeles, California.
Silver: One Way, brought to life by Old Caz Beer from Rohnert Park, California.
Bronze: Lexical Gap, crafted by Pollyanna Brewing Co. in Lemont, Illinois.
Gold: Professional Human Being, Ambitious Ales, located in Long Beach, California.
Silver: Groundswell from Single Hill Brewing Co., based in Yakima, Washington.
Bronze: Crash of Rhinos by Movement Brewing Co., situated in Rancho Cordova, California.
Gold: Classic Dry, crafted by Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, found in Philo, California.
Silver Medal Winner: Cedar Valley Blend by Paha Cider Co., based in Waverly, Iowa.
Bronze Medal Winner: 2022 Cidre Bouché produced by 2 Towns Ciderhouse, located in Corvallis, Oregon.
Gold Medal Winner: The Russets from Snow Capped Cider, hailing from Austin, Colorado.
Silver Medal Winner: Graventein also from Snow Capped Cider in Austin, Colorado.
Bronze: 10th Anniversary, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, located in Corvallis, Oregon
Gold: Blackberry Cider, crafted by McMenamins Breweries from Portland, Oregon
Silver: Ozark Strawberry Rhubarb Cider, produced by Ozark Beer Co. based in Rogers, Arkansas
Bronze: Pacific Pineapple, from 2 Towns Ciderhouse in Corvallis, Oregon
Gold: Rosé Cider from Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, located in Philo, California.
Silver: The 2019 Pommeau crafted by 2 Towns Ciderhouse based in Corvallis, Oregon.
Bronze: 802 Barrel Aged produced by Vermont Cider Co. in Middlebury, Vermont.
Gold: Mountain Rose from Haykin Family Cider situated in Aurora, Colorado.
Silver: Macintosh, Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, Philo, California
Bronze: Glow – Airlie Redflesh SV, Alpenfire Cider, Port Townsend, Washington
Gold: Piwo Grodziskie, Kansas City Bier Co. with Mike & Stephanie Butler, Kansas City, Missouri
Silver: Rising Sun, Crooked Lane Brewing Co. with Matt Hall, Auburn, California
Bronze: South of Helles, Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop – Richmond with Joel Miller, Richmond, VA Category
Gold: Twenty-Fold Sword, No Boat Brewing Co., Obelisk Beer Co., Snoqualmie, WA
Silver: Stupid Sticky Fingers, Werk Force Brewing Co, Rocky Reef Brewing Co., Plainfield, IL
Bronze: Spudweiser, Live Oak Brewing Co., Hold Out Brewing, Del Valle, TX
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10 Eerie and Delicious Cocktails to Elevate Your Halloween Festivities
Spooky party beverage served in a vintage wineglass.
With Halloween around the corner, it’s an excellent opportunity to infuse chilling vibes into every aspect of your gathering—especially your beverages. Whether you’re organizing a frightful festivity or just wish to sip on a themed drink while enjoying horror films, Halloween cocktails set the perfect eerie atmosphere without requiring complex ingredients or extravagant displays. With some imaginative tweaks, you can create delightful and visually captivating drinks that embody the essence of the season.
Rich, dark flavors suit Halloween perfectly. Ingredients like blackberries, pomegranate, and dark rum not only provide bold, robust profiles but also enhance the visual appeal of your drink with their deep, dramatic hues. For an extra hint of the sinister, consider using black vodka or even activated charcoal to lend an ominous flair to your beverage. These uncomplicated additions transform any cocktail into a festive seasonal creation.
If crafting something entirely new isn’t your style, a Halloween variation on a beloved cocktail will do just fine. Adding seasonal spices such as cinnamon, clove, or a dash of pumpkin spice to your go-to drinks can refresh a classic recipe into a delightful seasonal treat. It doesn’t take much to make a significant impression—just a few small modifications can elevate a simple drink into something extraordinary.
Garnishes can truly elevate Halloween cocktails, transforming a simple drink into a spooky delight. For instance, a lychee filled with a blueberry can resemble a chilling “eyeball,” while a sprig of rosemary serves perfectly as a witch’s broom.
Are you seeking ideas for your Halloween gathering? Check out these eerie cocktail creations from esteemed brands and bartenders worldwide:
Black Friday
Crafted by Reyka Ambassador Jeff Naples
Ingredients:
Directions: Start by removing the charcoal from the capsule. Then, mix all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker, leaving out the soda. Shake vigorously, strain into a glass, garnish with a lemon wedge, and serve in a Collins glass.
Witching Hour Martini
Ingredients:
Instructions: Begin by shaking the first four ingredients thoroughly with ice. After shaking, double strain the mixture into a chilled glass. Finish by adding chilled sparkling wine on top, and then add your desired garnish.
Autumn in NY
Ingredients
Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice and shake lightly to blend and cool. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Finish by garnishing with slices of apple.
Bloody Negroni
Ingredients:
Directions: Blend the ingredients thoroughly and pour them into a rocks glass over ice. Top it off with a twist of orange peel as a garnish.
Banfi Rosa Regale Vampire’s Delight
Ingredients:
Directions: Combine ingredients over ice, then strain into a glass that has been rimmed with chocolate sauce and covered in cacao nibs. Finish with 2 oz of Rosa Regale Red poured on top.
Watermelon Jack-O-Lantern
Ingredients:
Directions: Mix together all the ingredients directly inside the hollowed-out watermelon. Toss in some ice, give it a good stir, and then pour the concoction into a glass. Add a garnish of your choice and enjoy your refreshing drink.
Bubbling Cauldron
Ingredients:
Instructions: Combine Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, limeade concentrate, 3 1/2 cups of cold water, and 1 can of ginger beer in a punch bowl. Add scoops of ice cream to the mixture. To finish, pour the remaining 2 cans of ginger beer on top to create a foamy effect. For an extra touch, you can garnish with candy eyeballs.
There Will Be Blood (Orange)
Ingredients:
Instructions: This drink is served on the rocks and can be garnished with a dehydrated blood orange wheel.
Pumpkin Patch
Ingredients:
Directions:
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine water, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to mix. Allow it to cook until the sugar has fully dissolved. Once done, remove from heat and set it aside.
Begin by hollowing out a pumpkin and then combine the pumpkin, apple cider, orange juice, seltzer, lemon juice, Reyka Vodka, and Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum inside it. Whisk the mixture until well blended. After that, introduce the cinnamon mixture and stir everything together once more.
For the finishing touches, add lemon slices along with a few cinnamon sticks for garnish.
Bloody Party Punch
Serves 6-8 people
Ingredients:
Directions: Begin by mixing Fraser & Thompson, pomegranate juice, orange zest, and orange juice in a large pitcher. Allow it to chill until you’re ready to serve. Just before serving, fill a punch bowl with ice and pour in the mixture from the pitcher. Finish by adding Prosecco and garnishing with pomegranate arils. Enjoy!
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Trademark Showdown: Bellows International vs. Cardow Inc. Over ‘Magens Bay Rum’
A local rum producer has initiated legal action against another company for trademark infringement, following the latter’s decision to market rum under a name that closely resembles its own.
Island Saint LLC, operating as Bellows International, has been offering rum under the trademark “Magens Bay Rum” since late 2005, as stated in the complaint submitted on Thursday to the V.I. District Court. This branding stems from an exclusive agreement with Magens Bay Authority to manufacture rum using the Magens Bay name.
Labels from Bellows International’s Magens Bay Rum
Since the launch of its sales in October 2005, the volume has impressively increased from 79 cases to 1,158 cases by 2003. Over the years, Bellows has sold more than 122,000 bottles of Magens Bay Rum, resulting in revenue that surpasses $458,000.
Around May 2024, the complaint alleges that Cardow Inc., a company recognized for its jewelry, officially registered the trade name “Magens Bay Rum” with the Government of the Virgin Islands and began marketing products under this name.
The complaint claims that Cardow’s product “uses identical imitations of Bellows’ MAGENS BAY RUM mark in a manner that is likely to cause consumer confusion and deceive the public.” Bellows contends that Cardow’s actions are causing “irreparable” damage to its brand. One significant impact of Cardow’s activities, as stated in the complaint, is that the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs issued a cease and desist letter to Bellows due to Cardow’s registration of the trade name.
The cease and desist order instructed Bellows to stop selling its rum, which had been in the market for nearly two decades, “despite Bellows having properly registered its label with DLCA” as recently as 2016 when they updated the labels for both the white and gold rum variants.
To complicate the situation, Bellows claims that Cardow has started to sell bottles of a competing product “to the very same retail and restaurant establishments where Bellows had been distributing its brand for the previous 19 years.”
The purported “imposter” bottles, as stated in the complaint, are being sold by Cardow Inc.
Bellows is requesting that the court recognize its “clear entitlement to a common law trademark,” citing its “exclusive and extensive use of the mark in the jurisdiction.” The company also seeks a ruling that federal trademark infringement has occurred, along with common law trademark infringement due to Cardow’s use of the name Magens Bay Rum. They are asking for both a preliminary and permanent injunction to stop Cardow from using the mark. Additionally, Bellows is seeking damages for unfair competition and for Cardow’s unfair business practices.
As of the time of this report, Cardow had not provided a response to the complaint.
From Vineyard to Bottle: The Art of Selecting Wine Brands as an Importer
Inside the art of wine curation and how one leading importer builds its portfolio after 20 years in operation.
A collection of French wines in the Vintus portfolio.
When it comes to choosing wines for import, the decisions made by a company can define not just its portfolio but also its identity in a competitive global market.
These decisions are increasingly important as the global wine industry has struggled over the last few years due to several contributing factors, including inflation and climate change. According to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, global wine consumption fell to a 27-year low in 2023. In addition, global wine production saw a decline this year compared to the last, with 237.3 million hectoliters produced, a drop from 262.6 million hectoliters in 2022, according to Statista.
For Vintus, a wine importer that has experienced steady growth since its inception in 2004, curating the perfect collection is a blend of artistry and scientific precision. Throughout the last twenty years, the company has curated a portfolio featuring over 50 iconic wine brands from a diverse set of countries, including France, Spain, Italy, Argentina, and New Zealand.
Michael Quinttus, the founder and CEO of Vintus, shared during a Zoom interview that the company’s approach emphasizes a harmonious mix of smaller family-owned estates along with more widely recognized producers.
“When Vintus evaluates the possibility of incorporating a new wine brand into its portfolio, it seeks specific essential traits that resonate with its strategic vision, values, and market positioning,” said Quinttus. “The most crucial factor is the quality of the wine, which must have a distinct sense of place and showcase a brand’s dedication to excellence. Wine should be intimately connected to its terroir—comprising the geography, climate, and soil that play a vital role in shaping the wine’s features.”
He noted that the key challenge is balancing well-known, globally recognized producers with smaller, family-run estates that provide unique, artisanal wines. Every new addition to the company’s portfolio is a thoughtful choice, motivated by a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and authenticity.
“Our producers prioritize sustainable, organic, or biodynamic farming methods,” stated Quinttus. “Any new brand should reflect our commitment to providing premium and luxury wines.”
This approach seems to be paying off, as the company has experienced over 50% growth in the past five years. Quinttus points to significant decisions, like the establishment of Vintus’ own distribution branch in New York in 2019, as pivotal in this success.
“Relocating our office to Manhattan in 2020 and adding event and tasting spaces was another crucial investment,” he noted, emphasizing that these initiatives have enabled Vintus to connect more closely with its customers on both local and national levels. “This has allowed us to collaborate directly with restaurants and retailers to enhance our brands in the most vital fine wine market in the U.S.”
In addition to its operational growth, Vintus has greatly expanded the variety of brands it represents. Since 2020, the company has welcomed several domestic and international estates, including Gary Farrell, Marietta, and Iron Horse from Sonoma, as well as renowned names like William Fèvre Chablis, Château de La Chaize Beaujolais, and Juvé & Camps Cava.
Although the company is experiencing growth, it is also grappling with challenges within the industry, particularly related to changing consumption habits and economic pressures. Factors such as inflation, elevated interest rates, and a shift in preferences among younger consumers are affecting the wine sector overall.
Quinttus recognizes these hurdles but maintains a hopeful outlook.
“Luckily, our emphasis on premium wines positions us advantageously since demand in this segment has proven to be more stable,” he remarked. “There are positive recent trends in the economy, including strong employment figures, declining inflation, and the latest half-point interest rate reduction by the Federal Reserve, which should create a more conducive environment for the ongoing growth of our business.”
In light of the increasing appeal of ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and non-alcoholic alternatives, Vintus is actively seeking ways to broaden its product range.
“A significant long-term concern is the shifting consumption habits, as younger consumers are consuming less alcohol compared to former generations and are increasingly open to alternative products,” Quinttus stated. “By staying agile and responsive, we aim to address these industry challenges while maintaining our growth.”
Looking ahead, Vintus is poised for further expansion, particularly beyond its primary focus on wine. Quinttus highlights forthcoming additions to the portfolio, especially from Italy and Spain. The company also intends to invest in technology and process enhancements to improve its relationships with distributors and customers.
“We will also explore developing categories that complement our wine business,” Quinttus noted. “Non-alcoholic beverages are one example, and while spirits currently constitute a small portion of our business, they are certain to grow in significance in the coming years.”
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Top 5 Wine Decanters to Elevate Your Wine Experience
For those who appreciate wine, the act of decanting is more than just a visual treat; it’s a crucial process to enhance the experience of a bottle. No matter if you’re indulging in a rich cabernet sauvignon or a light pinot noir, selecting the appropriate decanter can significantly aid in the aeration of the wine, mellowing its tannins and enabling the finer aromas to emerge. Among the finest wine decanters available, our top recommendation for most is the Rabbit RBT Decanter, which features a sleek design, sediment strainer, and aerating funnel.
Decanters are not only about visual appeal; they play a key role in aerating your wine.
At the very least, decanters provide a way for a bottle to breathe, but they are also perfect for “removing sediment in older wines,” shares Elizabeth Vianna, winemaker and general manager of Chimney Rock situated in Napa, California. Additionally, using a decanter elevates the overall presentation, making it far more sophisticated than simply placing an open bottle of wine on the dinner table. From contemporary, hand-blown glass designs to more practical options, we present a selection of the best decanters to elevate your wine experience.
Amazon
Materials: Borosilicate glass, acacia wood, silicone, stainless steel | Capacity: 81.5 ounces
Pros:
Cons:
The Rabbit RBT Wine Decanter is often considered the ideal choice for wine enthusiasts, providing a versatile option suitable for various bottle types. It features a micro-perforated strainer that effectively filters out sediment and other unwanted elements like cork fragments from the wine. Additionally, it incorporates a built-in aerating system, making it particularly advantageous for young, tannic red wines. For those who prefer serving older vintages, the aerator can be easily removed to ensure a more gentle decanting process. According to Vianna, “For a younger wine, it’s good to allow more aeration for better flavor development. However, when dealing with a delicate wine that is over 20 years old, a softer approach in the decanting method is advisable to preserve its qualities.”
In addition, the elegant base crafted from stainless steel and acacia wood ensures stability, minimizing the chances of the vessel slipping on your counter or tipping over. With these attributes, alongside its user-friendly design and easy maintenance, this decanter stands out as an excellent choice for both casual drinkers and refined enthusiasts.
Amazon
Material: Tritan crystal glass | Capacity: 25.3 ounces
Advantages:
Cons:
The Schott Zwiesel Pure Decanter offers several advantages. Its broad base maximizes the surface area for wine to aerate, thereby speeding up the oxygenation and enabling the wine’s aromas and flavors to fully come alive. The design is user-friendly, ensuring smooth and drip-free pouring. Additionally, it is made from premium Tritan crystal glass, which is both break-resistant and dishwasher-safe, making it suitable for regular use. Despite its high quality, the decanter is affordably priced.
“I adore the Zwiesel Pure decanter,” shares Chris Hanna, president of Hanna Winery located in Healdsburg, California. “Its modern and angular design features a spacious bowl and a sleek, elegant neck. Surprisingly, although it appears fragile, we haven’t been able to break it, even with frequent use.”
Amazon
Material: Crystal glass | Capacity: 43.4 ounces
Pros:
Cons:
The Riedel Ultra Decanter is the perfect indulgence for wine lovers seeking a combination of elegance and functionality. It serves as more than just an attractive centerpiece for dinner gatherings; it’s engineered to significantly enhance your wine drinking experience. Its expansive base increases the wine’s exposure to air, enabling rapid aeration and bringing out its rich flavors, while the slender neck assists in preserving the wine’s bouquet. Renowned in the wine industry, Riedel is celebrated for crafting glassware that amplifies the unique attributes of various wines. The Ultra Decanter is artfully hand-blown from crystal, contributing to its sophisticated charm, ensuring that no two decanters are ever the same.
Indeed, it is quite a luxury. However, the exceptional craftsmanship, its ability to elevate your wine experience, and its stunning aesthetics make it essential for anyone passionate about their wine traditions. This is the sort of investment that transforms a regular bottle into something extraordinary.
Amazon
Material: Crystal glass | Capacity: 53 ounces
Advantages:
Cons:
If you’re not already aware (or have inferred from the earlier image), a swan decanter is crafted with an elegant, flowing silhouette that often mimics the graceful neck of the swan. This elongated and curvy design does not only impart a sense of elegance and allure to the table but also enhances the aeration of the wine. We value the slanted spout featured in this Riedel model, which cleverly minimizes spills and drips, and the simplicity of its design makes it user-friendly and more durable compared to other swan decanters.
This is the decanter that Vianna showcases “to make a statement at a dinner gathering,” she remarks. Hanna shares her admiration for the Amadeo’s aesthetics, noting, “It’s breathtaking and sculptural.”
Williams Sonoma
Material: Crystal glass | Capacity: 29 ounces
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
For those in search of a gift that conveys the message, “I want you to savor your wine with elegance,” this decanter is the ideal choice. Its stylish, sculptural design enhances any home’s decor, regardless of whether the recipient is a true wine enthusiast. Unlike several other decanters that may look appealing but prove difficult to handle, this one is designed with a curved handle that, along with its pointed spout, facilitates easier and more precise pouring. This feature is particularly beneficial when hosting dinner parties or serving numerous guests.
In simple terms, it’s the sort of present that seems meaningful without being too extravagant, making it suitable for numerous events. Plus, its durable design ensures it will endure for many years.
At Forbes Vetted, we are dedicated to our thorough research approach and our promise to deliver objective, expert-informed suggestions.
When curating the finest wine decanters for this compilation, we evaluated several important elements to guarantee a well-rounded combination of aesthetics, practicality, and affordability.
The Top American Single Malt Whiskey Revealed: Highlights from the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
The title has been awarded to a brand that is already recognized in the industry.
A close-up of a sommelier savoring whiskey in a cellar setting.
Stranahan’s Whiskey, famous for producing American single malt right from Denver, has achieved a significant milestone at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition by claiming the title of “Best in Class” in the American Single Malt category. This recognition has brought Stranahan’s to the forefront in a competitive whiskey landscape.
This award is considered one of the highest honors within this competition, which is esteemed as one of the most significant events in the spirits industry.
Stranahan’s Single Malt Whiskey
Established in 2004, Stranahan’s was among the pioneering distilleries in the United States to concentrate on American single malt—a style traditionally linked to Scotch whisky. However, Stranahan’s does not seek to replicate Scotch. Instead, they have found a unique place in the market by producing a distinctly American spirit. Their whiskey is crafted from 100% malted barley, distilled in small batches, and matured in new charred American oak barrels.
The decision to use new oak barrels is crucial to Stranahan’s signature taste. While Scotch is typically aged in previously used barrels, Stranahan’s imparts a robust and bold character to its whiskey, featuring flavors such as caramel, oak, and spice. Additionally, the exceptional climate of the Rocky Mountains—with its high altitudes and fluctuating temperatures—plays a significant role in the aging process, resulting in a whiskey that stands out from traditional single malts.
The distinguished flavor profile of Stranahan’s captured the attention of judges at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Their American single malt exhibits a rich interplay of sweetness and warmth, highlighted by notes of toasted oak, dark fruit, and a hint of spice. This whiskey is both bold and accessible, appealing to both experienced whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers to the category.
Achieving the title of “Best in Class” at this prestigious competition is certainly an impressive accomplishment. The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is renowned for its stringent evaluation process, which features a panel of industry experts.
The brand’s Original whiskey secured a Gold medal at the previous year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition and garnered a Double Gold in 2021. In addition, it has received accolades at the SIP Awards, New York International Spirits Competition, LA Spirits Awards, and several others.
Stranahan’s success serves as a significant boost for American single malt whiskey overall. This category has been building momentum in recent years, as an increasing number of U.S. distilleries delve into the possibilities offered by barley-based whiskey. While bourbon and rye continue to dominate the American whiskey landscape, single malt is gradually establishing its own foothold. Other notable brands in this segment include Westland, Balcones, and Virginia Distillery Company.
For numerous whiskey enthusiasts, Stranahan’s recent accolade serves as an inspiration to delve into the expansive realm of American single malt. This style merges age-old methods with innovative American craftsmanship, resulting in a spirit that feels both familiar and intriguingly distinct.
Apart from the Original American Single Malt, the brand features several distinctive offerings: For those in search of a unique experience, the Sherry Cask edition matures their single malt in Oloroso sherry barrels, infusing it with a delightful complexity of dried fruit and nutty undertones.
Additionally, Stranahan’s presents the Blue Peak, a whiskey inspired by mountainous terrains, which is aged using a Solera system. This process imparts a smooth and intricate profile, complemented by notes of vanilla and roasted nuts. For those in pursuit of something exceptionally rare, their Snowflake release is an annual limited-edition selection that undergoes aging in an assortment of casks—from rum to port—ensuring that each batch is a unique discovery.
Stranahan’s wasn’t the sole whiskey label to receive a Best in Class accolade at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits and Ready to Drink Competitions. Other distinguished winners included King’s Family Distillery, honored for Best American Blended Whiskey, Starboards for Best Australian Single Malt Whiskey, and Eau Claire Distillery for Best Canadian Whiskey.
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Indulge in Luxury: Cleveland Restaurant Unveils $1,000 Seven-Course Wine Dinner Experience
Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar is hosting an extravagant wine dinner.Judie Vegh, special to cleveland.com
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar is preparing for an extravagant upcoming wine dinner.
The First Growth Bordeaux wine dinner features seven courses, 12 wines, and costs $1,000 – it will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30.
The selection of wines is rare and represents the crème de la crème of France’s Bordeaux region. Many wine pairings will be served alongside the corresponding dish.
• A sumptuous sea scallop and lobster mousseline, known for its silky, rich texture reminiscent of Hollandaise, is paired with Bulgarian osetra caviar, beurre blanc, chives, and zucchini. Wine pairing: 2020 Château d’Yquem Bordeaux Blanc.
• Enjoy turbot a la meuniere, a delightful fish served with a buttery sauce, accompanied by beurre rouge, beurre noisette, a medley of fall vegetables, and chervil. Wine selections include 2020 Château Lafite Rothschild Premier Cru Classé and 2020 Carruades de Lafite.
• Experience cedar-roasted poulet farce coq au vin, featuring roasted wild mushrooms, pearl onions, shaved black truffle, and a luxurious bacon-tarragon sauce Bordelaise. The recommended wines are 2020 Château Mouton Rothschild Premier Cru Classé and 2019 Le Petit Mouton de Mouton Rothschild.
• Indulge in lobster thermidor with buttered brioche, complemented by a salad of shaved fennel, frisée, and watercress, all drizzled with sauce a l’Americaine. Suggested wines are 2011 Château Haut-Brion Cru Classé de Graves and 2019 Le Clarence de Haut-Brion.
• Duck a l’orange served alongside roasted brussels sprouts, crispy parsnip, cranberry vinaigrette, and chestnut puree. Recommended wines include the 2019 Château Margaux Premier Grand Cru Classé and the 2016 Pavillon Rouge de Château Margaux.
• Enjoy a Wagyu bouef bourguignon accompanied by baby carrots, marble potatoes, cauliflower, hearts of celery, and a rich chasseur (brown sauce). Pair this dish with the 2015 Château Latour Premier Grand Cru Classé and the 2017 Les Forts de Latour.
• For dessert, indulge in a dark chocolate-studded lemon ricotta soufflé paired with stracciatella blueberry ice cream, burnt honey, and apricot bavarois (crème Anglaise), beurré noisette financier (tea cake), spiced pear sabayon (light custard), and candied marcona almonds. A wonderful wine to complement this treat is the 2020 Château d’Yquem Premier Supérieur Sauternes.
To make reservations, visit exploretock.com.
Marble Room is located at 623 Euclid Ave., Cleveland.
I write about restaurants, beer, wine, and topics related to sports for our life and culture team. You can find my recent stories in this directory on cleveland.com. Every Thursday around 8:20 a.m., I discuss food and drink with Bill Wills on WTAM-1100. You can follow me on Twitter and Instagram at @mbona30. My latest book, co-written with Dan Murphy, is titled “Joe Thomas: Not Your Average Joe” by Gray & Co.
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