June 2025 96
Whiskey Meyers Delivers a Blend of Musical Genres to Missoula
Cody Cannon and Jamey Gleaves, part of the Texas-based band Whiskey Myers, recently electrified the stage at the Kettlehouse Amphitheater in Missoula. Known for their eclectic blend of musical styles, the band defies easy categorization, drawing from genres like country, rock, and Southern rock. In an era where streaming services have blended traditional musical boundaries, Whiskey Myers embraces and celebrates their diverse influences, stating on their website that they take inspiration from both Nirvana and Waylon Jennings.
Since their formation in 2007, Whiskey Myers has carved out a unique niche by staying true to their musical passions rather than conforming to genre expectations. Lead singer Cody Cannon articulated their approach to music, explaining, “Everybody wants you to pick a genre, but we did this our whole career. We like it all, so we’re gonna do it all.” Their sold-out concert in Missoula is a testament to their growing fanbase and the resonating appeal of their music.
The concert showcased Whiskey Myers’s commitment to authenticity and their refusal to be boxed into a single genre, much to the delight of their enthusiastic audience. The electric atmosphere at the Kettlehouse Amphitheater highlighted the band’s ability to connect with fans across different musical tastes, ensuring that their diverse sound continues to thrive in today’s music landscape.
The Significance of Sierra Nevada Pale Ale’s Unconventional Victory at the World Beer Cup
When the World Beer Cup awards were announced recently, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. won gold for its flagship beer, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, in a surprising category: Extra Special Bitter. Although this beer has been renowned for 45 years and is celebrated for essentially creating the American Pale Ale style, winning in this category was unexpected.
To understand this, we need to explore how pale ales differ from Extra Special Bitters (E.S.B.). Historically, these two styles were often regarded as the same in England, with the beer referred to as pale ale in bottles and bitters on draft. Before clear identifiers emerged, customers would simply order a bitters, differentiating it from the sweeter mild ale that was also popular.
The term “bitters” evolved over time into three categories: Ordinary Bitters, Best or Special Bitters, and Extra Special Bitters. The E.S.B. designation was introduced by Fuller’s in 1971, but because early craft beer drinkers in the U.S. generally avoided beers labeled as bitter, many brewers opted to use the pale ale term instead.
Today, the World Beer Cup features several categories for pale ales and bitters, with guidelines that evolve each year. While Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is now labeled a legacy beer, its classification has shifted to fit the sub-category of American-style Extra Special Bitter, reflecting changing consumer tastes and brewing practices.
Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is well-balanced, blending rich malt and robust hop flavors. When it debuted in the early 1980s, it was considered hop-forward, but compared to modern IPAs, it now appears more restrained. This balance is why pale ales remain a popular choice for various occasions.
If you’re looking to explore pale ales, Sierra Nevada’s original is readily available and still tastes nearly the same as when it was first introduced. Additionally, Faction Brewing’s Penske File Pale Ale stands out as an excellent West Coast pale ale. Firestone Walker’s Double Barrel Ale offers a great take on English-style pale ales, while Cellarmaker Brewing in San Francisco produces excellent options like Underneath the Pine and Super Mt. Nelson.
For those interested in the craft beer landscape, Sierra Nevada’s recent win highlights the intersection of tradition and evolving tastes in the brewing world.
Unleash Summer Fun: Discover the Limited Edition M3GAN x Captain Morgan Bottle!
Get ready for a thrilling summer as M3GAN prepares to make her much-anticipated return in the sequel M3GAN 2.0, which hits theaters on June 27, 2025. This time, the killer AI doll is back with even more enhanced abilities, ready to wreak havoc alongside her creator, Gemma (played by Allison Williams), and teenage companion, Cady (Violet McGraw). Facing off against a new synthetic adversary, the military-grade doll known as Amelia, fans can expect more chaos and action.
To celebrate this upcoming film, Captain Morgan has released a limited-edition glow-in-the-dark rum bottle, perfect for horror enthusiasts eager to indulge. The special edition bottle, aptly named Captain M3GAN, invites fans to slay summer in style. For those wanting to elevate their experience at home, an exclusive Cocktail Courier kit themed after M3GAN 2.0 will be available, enabling fans to craft delicious rum and cola cocktails. The kit features a cocktail recipe called "This Is the Part Where You Rum (& Cola)" and can be ordered online.
You can snag the Captain M3GAN bottle for $15.99 at select stores, allowing fans to indulge in the iconic spiced rum with a touch of M3GAN’s fierce energy. This collaboration perfectly blends the essence of the movie with a refreshing drink for summer gatherings, making it a must-have for both collectors and fans alike.
Olive + Oak Unveils Revery + Rum: A Summer Saturday Pop-Up Experience!
Every Saturday this summer, Olive + Oak in Webster Groves will transform its sidewalk into Revery + Rum, a lively pop-up bar characterized by island-themed vibes. Jeremy White, the bar manager, and his colleague Curtis Holder are set to bring a taste of the tropics with classic and eclectic cocktails from 4–10 p.m.
The cocktail menu will feature a range of island-inspired drinks, including cachaça-based creations along with classics like Mai Tais and Piña Coladas. Each week, patrons can expect a rotating selection of three to five original cocktails alongside a curated list of sipping rums, natural wines, canned beers, and zero-proof options.
Music plays an essential role in the experience, with an upbeat playlist named “Psycho Beach Party,” inspired by the famous film. The pop-up’s name, “Revery,” derives from an Emily Dickinson poem, linking the culinary experience to the idea of escapism and shared joy.
White credits the support of co-owners Mark and Jen Hinkle, who have faith in their vision for creating a unique space for the community to gather. They are dedicated to fostering an inviting atmosphere where guests can relax and connect, living out the essence of Dickinson’s poetic line about finding beauty in simple moments.
For more information about Olive + Oak and their latest pop-up offerings, you can visit Olive + Oak.
Celebrating Flavor: Everything You Need to Know About the North Coast Wine and Food Fest
The North Coast Wine & Food Festival showcased an impressive array of over 115 wineries and chefs, bringing together wine aficionados and food lovers at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts. Attendees enjoyed a beautiful Saturday in June while sampling award-winning wines recognized from the North Coast Wine Challenge, alongside delectable bites prepared by talented local chefs. The event was a delightful experience, celebrating the culinary arts and the wine culture of the region.
Unveiling the Essence of Terroir: The Luxury Champagne Wine That Redefines Sense of Place
Champagne Cristal, produced by the family-owned Louis Roederer, stands out for its remarkable expression of terroir, rooted in the nutrient-poor, chalk-dominant soils of its vineyards. This Champagne is a testament to the land and the meticulous care taken in its production, showcasing a unique sense of place that is often lost in the world of mass-produced wines.
The vineyards of Champagne Cristal have a storied past, dating back to 1816 when André Jullien classified vital vineyards in the region. Roederer’s distinct approach began in 1876 with the creation of Cristal, focusing on the specific vineyards that could showcase the terroir’s depth. The crisp acidity and delicate structure found in the wine can be attributed to the vineyard’s challenging conditions, which mean the vines grow more like “bonsai” trees—small but mighty, struggling yet thriving.
Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, the chef de caves, has dedicated himself to exploring innovative practices to maintain the vineyards’ health and longevity while respecting their unique characteristics. Adopting methods such as permaculture and organic farming, he has observed a positive shift in the wines’ pH levels, resulting in heightened acidity and complexity.
Champagne Cristal is not merely about luxury branding; it embodies a philosophy rooted in the land. The house resists the trends of corporate acquisition commonly seen in the wine industry, opting to cultivate its heritage and focus on quality. This commitment is evident in the multiple vineyard sites contributing to Cristal’s blend, each bringing distinct qualities based on their soil structures and climatic influences.
When tasting Cristal, connoisseurs often experience an initial shock. It’s not the bold fruitiness they may expect; instead, the wine impresses through its sheer intensity and complexity derived from the terroir. The nuances of the chalk, minerals, and the very essence of the vine create a multidimensional profile that encourages wine drinkers to embrace a more profound appreciation of what Champagne can be.
Among the notable vintages, the 2002 is highlighted for its remarkable balance and evolution, while the 2012 offers an intriguing combination of minerality and fruit. Tasting the 2016 vintage, shaped by a challenging year, reveals a breathtaking purity that defies expectations.
Champagne Cristal Rosé also deserves mention for its exceptional character, expressing both power and finesse. Through innovative techniques, Lécaillon enhances the rosé’s terroir expression, allowing nuances of cherry blossoms and wild strawberries to dance on the palate, complemented by a mineral backbone.
In a crowded field of luxury Champagnes, Cristal carves its own niche, representing not just a drink, but a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to showcasing the beauty of its origins.
Burlington Beer Co.: A Creative Journey Through Fermentation
When Joe Lemnah’s savings ran dry, Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) stepped in to help with his brewery venture, Burlington Beer Company (BBCo.). After starting home-brewing in 2006 and honing his skills at Dogfish Head Brewery in Delaware, Lemnah launched BBCo. in 2014 with a vision to bring his brewing talent back to Vermont.
Located in Williston, BBCo. operates from a 22,000-square-foot production facility and features a brewpub in Burlington’s South End, which opened in 2021. Lemnah faced significant challenges in securing funding, particularly in an increasingly competitive market. Despite numerous rejections from traditional lenders, VEDA believed in his passion and entrepreneurial spirit.
With VEDA’s support, Lemnah secured the necessary financing for brewing equipment and other critical needs, indicating that their willingness to invest in passionate entrepreneurs was vital to BBCo.’s establishment and growth. The brewery has contributed positively to the community by creating unique brews for local causes, such as a special beer in response to flooding in 2023.
Lemnah emphasizes the importance of artistry in his beer production, stating that brewing is more than just a business; it’s about making a fun and enjoyable product that reflects his creative spirit.
Currently, VTDigger is addressing Vermont’s affordability crisis by launching a new reporting beat focused on economic inequality across the state. To support this initiative, they are partnering with Report for America, relying on community contributions to fund the new reporting position. A Vermont donor is matching all donations received before June 14, doubling the impact of each contribution.
Capturing the Brilliance of Ellie Beer: A Visual Tribute to an Australian Track and Field Star
Ellie Beer has established herself as a remarkable talent in track and field since her teenage years, marking her place in Australian sports history with impressive accolades including a gold medal at the World Indoor Championships. Her career has flourished as she represented Team Australia at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, showcasing her skill on an international stage.
In her journey, she has consistently set record-breaking times and earned recognition in various competitions. As part of Team Australia, Beer participated in the Women’s 4 x 400m relay heats at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Over the years, she has continued to shine, winning events and achieving personal bests, further solidifying her status as a top-level athlete.
Her recent achievements include winning the Women’s 400m final at the Maurie Pant Meet in Melbourne and competing in the 2025 Australian Open and Under 20 Athletics Championships. At this event, she notably finished first in her heat and progressed to the final, demonstrating her capabilities as a sprinter.
In May 2025, Beer contributed to Team Australia’s success by securing second place in the mixed 4x400m relay final at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China. Her relentless pursuit of excellence makes her a standout athlete and a prominent figure in Australian athletics.
For more about Ellie Beer and her journey in athletics, follow her career as she continues to make waves in the sport.
7 Rosé Wines That Redefine the Blush Stereotype
Rosé wine has often been seen as a light, seasonal option that lacks depth and seriousness. However, this stereotype is rapidly changing as winemakers around the globe, particularly in regions like France and California, are redefining what rosé can be. The global rosé wine market was valued at about $3.2 billion in 2023, with projections to reach $5.2 billion by 2032, indicating a growing consumer appreciation for the versatility of this wine.
Today, rosé is produced with the same level of care and precision as red and white wines. Winemakers are focusing on specific grape plots, managing harvest timings, and controlling fermentation to create wines that are complex and structured. This evolution means that rosé now embodies a range of styles—from bone-dry to sparkling and even surprisingly age-worthy varieties.
Here are seven rosé wines that exemplify this new standard, showcasing depth and character beyond their color:
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Belle Glos ‘Oeil de Perdrix’ Rosé
This California rosé, with its traditional copper hue, is crafted specifically for this style using a careful winemaking approach. It features stone fruit and citrus flavors layered over bright acidity, demonstrating that rosé can offer structure and complexity. -
Champagne Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé
Known for its elegance, this rosé champagne combines chardonnay, pinot noir, and meunier. With extended aging on lees, it achieves a refined texture and a balance of red berry notes, proving that rosé can be both celebratory and sophisticated. -
Chateau D’Esclans ‘Whispering Angel’ Rosé
A pioneer in the global rosé market, this wine is celebrated for its smooth and dry profile, created from a blend of grenache, cinsault, and rolle. It helps illustrate that rosé can achieve popularity without sacrificing quality. -
Château Gassier Côtes de Provence ‘Esprit Gassier’ Rosé
This wine showcases a vibrant mix of red berries, citrus, and tropical notes like mango, alongside a refreshing menthol finish, breaking the mold of overly simple rosés. -
Château Minuty Prestige Rosé
Dominated by grenache, this floral wine offers flavors of yellow peach and a salty edge, with a clean finish that speaks to its quality and care in production. -
Gerard Bertrand ‘Gris Blanc’ Rosé
Almost colorless, this granache rosé presents minerality and a faint sparkle, delivering a fresh approach and a lean finish that challenges preconceptions about the sweetness of rosés. -
Souleil Vin de Bonté Le Rosé
This organic blend evokes brightness and salinity, with a delicate maceration process that preserves the wine’s freshness, proving that rosé can be both light and complex.
This selection of rosé wines illustrates the category’s potential for serious enjoyment, moving beyond its traditional image to reveal a variety of intricate flavors and textures.
Refreshing Review: Trying Betty Booze’s New Lemonade & Passion Fruit Vodka Iced Teas!
Betty Booze has recently expanded its beverage lineup with the introduction of two vodka iced teas, perfect for summer sipping. Blake Lively’s brand, previously known for its sparkling tequila and bourbon drinks, is now offering these non-carbonated drinks featuring real tea and fruit juice with clean spirits. The two flavors available are Meyer Lemonade and Passion Fruit, which can be found in stores like Total Wine & More and BevMo or on BettyBooze.com.
Lively describes the Vodka Iced Teas as “summer in a can,” made from recipes crafted in her home. As someone familiar with iced teas from a young age, I was eager to see if these drinks held up to that summer standard.
Vodka Iced Tea + Meyer Lemonade
- Initial thoughts: The first thing I noticed is that these vodka iced teas are not carbonated. While I usually enjoy bubbly drinks, this one is incredibly refreshing.
- Pros: The taste is reminiscent of homemade Arnold Palmer, and the Meyer Lemonade flavor stands out as vibrant and fresh. The alcohol is hardly detectable, making it easy to drink.
- Cons: The drink isn’t very sweet, which may disappoint those who prefer traditional Southern sweet tea. While the lemonade enriches the flavor, it may not satisfy those looking for a robust sweetness.
- Overall thoughts: This drink is ideal for poolside relaxation with friends.
- Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Vodka Iced Tea + Passion Fruit
- Initial thoughts: Similar to the Meyer Lemonade, this drink is subtly sweet and brings a delightful passion fruit flavor into play.
- Pros: The passion fruit twist feels unique, likening its taste to Arizona’s green tea and evoking nostalgic summer memories.
- Cons: Still lacking in sweetness, those wanting a pronounced passion fruit flavor might be let down.
- Overall thoughts: This flavor feels innovative, and I’m excited to share it at summer gatherings.
- Rating: 5 out of 5
These new vodka iced teas from Betty Booze not only promise a refreshing summer drink option but also hint at a growing trend in ready-to-drink cocktails that focus on natural ingredients and genuine flavor.