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To Bring or Not to Bring Wine: Expert Insights on the Etiquette of Gifting at Gatherings
Should You Ask Before Bringing Wine? Here’s What You Need to Know
Bringing a bottle of wine to a gathering is often seen as a thoughtful host gift. However, whether it’s appropriate can be more nuanced than you may think.
The Importance of Knowing Your Host’s Preferences
Wine can be a great gift, but it’s crucial to know if the host enjoys it. According to hosting expert Sarah True, founder of True Event, there are several occasions when gifting wine may not be the best choice. For instance, if the host doesn’t drink, has specific wine pairings in mind, or if they might feel pressured to serve it, your gesture could inadvertently create more responsibility for them.
Asking the Right Questions
If there is uncertainty about whether to bring wine, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the host beforehand. A simple query like, “I’d love to bring you something. Would you enjoy a bottle of wine, or would you prefer something else?” allows the host to guide the decision without feeling awkward.
In cases where you decide to bring a bottle, clarify that there is no expectation for it to be opened during the event. This removes any potential pressure the host might feel regarding their drink options.
Alternative Gift Options
If it seems wine isn’t the right fit, consider other gift ideas that are equally appreciated but less demanding. True suggests items like candles, kitchen towels, or even edible gifts such as specialty chocolates, pastries, or gourmet coffee. These options allow the host to enjoy your gift at their leisure instead of feeling they must incorporate it immediately into the event.
Conclusion
The goal of bringing a host gift is to show appreciation without adding to the host’s responsibilities. Thoughtful consideration of their preferences and open communication can help ensure your gesture is warmly received.
5 Delightful Cocktails to Make with Costco’s Kirkland Signature Vodka
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Vodka has gained popularity for its smoothness, drinkability, and affordability, making it an excellent base for a variety of cocktails. Priced at around $13.69 for a 1.75-liter bottle in some regions, this vodka can be stored in the refrigerator to help maintain quality. Here’s a rundown of five cocktails that pair perfectly with Kirkland Signature Vodka.
Bloody Mary
A classic brunch staple, the Bloody Mary is a delightful mix of vodka, tomato juice, and an array of spices and garnishes. The muted flavor of Costco’s vodka allows the bolder ingredients—like hot sauce, pickle juice, and Worcestershire sauce—to shine. For a spicy twist, consider infusing your vodka with hot peppers using a sous vide process to elevate your Bloody Mary experience.
Moscow Mule
This refreshing cocktail combines vodka with ginger beer and lime juice, ideally served in a chilled copper mug. The mild profile of Kirkland Signature Vodka complements the spiciness of ginger beer, making it a trendy choice. Interestingly, although it’s named after the Russian spirit, the Moscow Mule originated in the U.S. in the 1940s as a marketing ploy.
Espresso Martini
Perfect for brunch, the espresso martini is a delightful blend of vodka, coffee, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup. The Kirkland vodka’s smooth texture enhances the rich flavors of the cocktail. You can personalize the drink by adjusting the amount of coffee liqueur or adding spices like cinnamon for warmth or hazelnut liqueur for a nutty flavor.
Lemon Drop
This sweet and sour cocktail, reminiscent of candy, is crafted with vodka, fresh lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup, often served with a sugared rim. While triple sec is standard, you can also use Kirkland’s orange liqueur to create a richer flavor profile.
Dirty Shirley
A grown-up version of the beloved childhood mocktail, the Dirty Shirley features vodka mixed with grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and garnished with maraschino cherries. The combination of fruity sweetness and bubbly carbonation creates a refreshing experience, with Kirkland Vodka providing a smooth background that allows the other flavors to shine.
These cocktails showcase the versatility of Kirkland Signature Vodka, making it a go-to option for any home bartender looking to craft delicious drinks without breaking the bank.
Petaluma River Craft Beer Festival 2023: New Brewers, Live Music, and Unforgettable Experiences Await!
When the Petaluma River Craft Beer Festival returns to Water Street on Saturday, September 12, it will feature a record 24 breweries along with several newcomers and a partnership between two local Rotary clubs.
John Burns, a former festival co-chair and member of the Petaluma Valley Rotary Club, noted that this year’s event is unique—it’s the first time two Rotary clubs, the Petaluma Valley and the Petaluma Sunrise Rotary Club, have collaborated to host the festival. Co-chairs for this year are John Moller and Katherine Wells.
Scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m., the festival will take place along the riverfront in downtown Petaluma. Attendees can sample drinks from local breweries and enjoy live music and food from various local restaurants. The proceeds from the festival benefit local nonprofits focused on education, support for seniors, and those experiencing homelessness, with part of the funds allocated for the preservation of the Petaluma River and wetlands.
General admission provides a commemorative beer glass for sampling, allowing guests to interact with brewers and explore new beverages. Among the festival newcomers are notable breweries and beverage makers from around Northern California. Some long-established names will also be present, such as Anderson Valley Brewing and Gowan’s Cider from Mendocino County as well as Drakes Brewing and Ghost Town Brewing from the East Bay.
Local participation includes The Keg Stand Brewing Co., which is eager to connect with the community. Owner Jacob Gullett emphasizes the intimate, community-focused atmosphere that their brewery has. They plan to showcase several of their beers, which include a range of styles from cream ales to IPAs.
In addition to craft beers, Freedom Juice 1776 from Napa will debut its fermented agave beverage. This year marks another first with two hard cider producers represented; along with Gowan’s Cider, Petaluma’s Goat Rock Cider will also provide tastings.
Musical highlights include performances from The Schlick Ones, marking their first time headlining the festival, alongside Americana-rock band Over the Line and blues outfit Randy & The Special Agents.
For safety, a limited number of designated-driver tickets will be available, offering snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, alongside a purchasing certificate for food vendors. Attendance is restricted to those aged 21 and older.
Event Details:
- What: 12th Annual Petaluma River Craft Beer Festival
- When: 1 to 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 12
- Where: Downtown Petaluma riverfront, entrance by Water Street near the Balshaw Bridge
- Admission: $60 in advance; $65 on-site if available. Designated-driver tickets are $25.
- Tickets: petalumarivercraftbeerfest.org
Bayou Rum Designates Crescent Crown Distributing as Its Louisiana Distribution Partner
Bayou Rum has announced its partnership with Crescent Crown Distributing as its distribution partner in Louisiana, marking a significant step for the distillery. The first shipments of Bayou Rum commenced on September 1, 2026, with Crescent Crown, a family-owned distributor since 1982, operating in multiple locations in Louisiana.
Crescent Crown Distributing serves around 8,000 retail and on-premise accounts across South Louisiana and has been expanding its portfolio to include spirits since 2023. This partnership signifies a return to local roots for Bayou Rum, which is distilled in Lacassine, Louisiana from locally grown sugarcane and molasses sourced from M.A. Patout & Son, the oldest family-owned sugar mill in the U.S.
The new distribution agreement arrives alongside a major rebranding and product overhaul for Bayou Rum, which includes an updated recipe for its flagship expressions—Bayou White and Bayou Spiced—designed to enhance flavor and overall character. The brand has also implemented a modernized production line capable of filling 3,600 bottles per hour and repositioned its shelf space to compete more effectively against imported rums.
Angelo Torre, President of Louisiana Spirits LLC, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, "Bayou Rum is proudly born and raised in Louisiana, so entrusting our brand to a Louisiana-based distributor makes this partnership with Crescent Crown especially meaningful." Similarly, Chris Bourg, President of Crescent Crown Distributing, emphasized the honor of adding Bayou Rum to their portfolio and the shared Louisiana heritage between both entities.
Going forward, Bayou Rum plans to expand its distribution beyond Louisiana, aiming to establish a broader presence across several southern states with further developments expected in the fall.
Why Spritz Cocktails Are the Year-Round Trend You Can’t Miss
The spritz cocktail, which traces its roots back to 19th-century Northern Italy, has evolved from a summer favorite to a year-round drink. With the traditional recipe featuring Aperol, Prosecco, and soda, this cocktail is now being adapted for fall and beyond. Featuring a flexible 3-2-1 build that combines bubbly, liqueur, and club soda, it allows for creative variations perfect for different seasons.
JoJo Fletcher, co-founder of Saint Spritz, underscores the drink’s rise in popularity. People today crave light, refreshing cocktails that enhance social experiences, ideally suited for daytime gatherings or casual brunches. This shift embraces the aperitivo culture—enjoying a refreshing drink with friends before dinner—which has gained traction in the U.S. in recent years.
Marshall Dawson from Gallo Winery notes that the spritz not only offers flavor but also an experience that is less heavy on the stomach. The cultural rituals surrounding aperitif hour and socializing at home have contributed to its appeal.
The spritz has seen numerous modern adaptations, moving beyond the classic combination of Prosecco and Aperol. For instance, floral flavors are gaining popularity. Mixologist Rafaela Francisco highlights the emerging elderflower and limoncello spritzes, which provide a lighter taste compared to traditional bitters. Similarly, the Sarti Spritz, made with the fruity Sarti Rosa liqueur, is attracting attention for its distinct sweetness.
Locations such as American Social in Florida are now serving the Sarti Spritz, showcasing its refreshing fruitiness while maintaining the core spritz qualities. The cocktail’s portability is also a key factor behind its popularity; ready-made options like canned Saint Spritz serve to bring the spritz experience to more casual settings.
Since the spritz relies heavily on Prosecco, selecting a quality base is essential. Dawson recommends La Marca Prosecco for its bright notes that enhance the overall cocktail experience. Vittorio Marzotto from Santa Margherita emphasizes the balance and freshness provided by quality prosecco, which is crucial for a refreshing drink that invites repeated enjoyment.
When selecting Prosecco, the recommendation is to look for the Prosecco DOC label, as it ensures both authenticity and quality. According to Arianna Pizzolato from the Prosecco DOC Protection Consortium, choosing wines with this designation guarantees they come from specific regions and production guidelines, contributing to the cocktail’s desired freshness and effervescence.
In summary, the spritz cocktail is more than just a summer drink; it has transformed into a versatile, all-year beverage that reflects current social drinking trends. With numerous variations on the classic recipe and a focus on quality ingredients, the spritz continues to enchant aficionados and newcomers alike.