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A Taste of Heritage: How a Winemaking Couple Celebrates Swedish Culture Through Wine and Food
Karin and Justin Warnelius-Miller, the owners of Garden Creek Ranch Winery in Geyserville, embody a different kind of love story this Valentine’s Day. Rather than dining at a lavish restaurant or exchanging gifts, they prefer quiet meals at home. According to Karin, “We don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day because every day is good,” highlighting their simple and meaningful approach to life.
Their bond runs deep, rooted in their shared Swedish heritage and an intertwined upbringing amidst picturesque vineyards in Alexander Valley. Karin’s family emigrated from Sweden when she was a child. A fateful visit to the Swedish Consulate in San Francisco led her father to a job posting at Garden Creek Ranch, where Justin’s mother had put it. This connection had deeper implications, as both families cultivated traditional Scandinavian cuisine using fresh ingredients grown on-site.
Karin recalls the rich culinary environment they grew up in: “We were so lucky to grow up with exquisite food.” Her memories include her mother experimenting with homemade cheeses, and they continue to pass down those cherished recipes, frequently filling their home with Swedish dishes distinguished by the flavors of dill, horseradish, and cardamom.
Amidst everyday meals, they enjoy Swedish cuisine beyond the typical Ikea meatballs. Karin stresses, “People have certain ideas of what Swedish cultural food is,” indicating that genuine Swedish food includes a variety of everyday comforts wrapped in the term "husmanskost." Justin even humorously mentions the hot dogs his family would fry, acknowledging their role in family meals despite their simplicity.
For special occasions, Karin draws inspiration from her collection of Swedish cookbooks, creating meals that reflect the season, often relying on robust winter ingredients. A favorite dish includes potato cakes paired with a beet salad and a delicately flavored Jerusalem artichoke soup. As a dessert, she recommends a rhubarb crumble with vanilla ice cream, creating a well-rounded midwinter Scandinavian feast.
Karin explains that their culinary philosophy resonates with the Swedish concept of “lagom,” which suggests that contentment arises from appreciating the simple pleasures in life. She states, "Enjoyment comes from sitting here with who you love and (doing) what you love to do." This mindset drives them to cherish daily life and meals with family, finding profound satisfaction in the rhythms of their shared routine.
Recipes
Toast Skagen
Ingredients
- 1 pound small, cooked shrimp (30-40 count), peeled and deveined
- Small bunch of dill
- ¼ medium red onion
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons crème fraîche
- Kosher salt
- 2 Meyer lemons, 1 cut into wedges, 1 left whole
- 1 French baguette, such as Acme Bread
- Olive oil
- Trout roe caviar
Instructions
- Finely chop ¼ cup of dill and red onion.
- Coarsely chop the shrimp, mix with onion and dill, then add lemon zest and juice.
- Stir in mayonnaise, crème fraîche, and salt. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 275°F. Slice the baguette, brush with olive oil, and toast for 10 minutes.
- Top toast slices with the shrimp mixture and garnish with trout roe and dill. Serve with lemon wedges.
Potato Cakes with Caviar and Beet Salad
Ingredients
- 2 pounds red beets, medium-sized
- Juice of 1 Meyer lemon
- Salt and pepper
- For the potato cakes:
- 1 1/3 pounds potatoes, peeled and shredded
- 4 green onions, minced
- 4 eggs
- ¼ cup quick cook oats
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- To serve:
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 1 ounce jar trout roe caviar
Instructions
- Bake beets at 350°F for about 30 minutes until tender. Cool, peel, and cube.
- Combine potatoes, green onions, eggs, oats, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet; form and fry potato cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
- Top each cake with beet salad, trout roe, and chive sour cream. Serve immediately.
Jerusalem Artichoke Soup
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Jerusalem artichokes (sunchokes), peeled and cubed
- 2 large leeks, sliced and rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 cups water
- 1 red beet
- ⅓ cup light cream
- Salt and pepper
- 1-2 cups vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine artichokes, leeks, garlic, salt, and water in a pot. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Puree the soup until smooth, return to the pot, add cream, and season.
- Fry beet ribbons until curled and crispy, using paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve the soup garnished with beet ribbons, and pair with Garden Creek’s Chardonnay.
Through their culinary creations, Karin and Justin keep their heritage alive, enriching their family life with cooking that’s steeped in tradition and love.
15 Anti-Valentine’s Day Cocktails to Celebrate Solo or with Friends
Valentine’s Day can feel overwhelming for those not in a romantic state of mind. For those who prefer to celebrate their independence rather than indulge in love-themed festivities, a selection of anti-Valentine’s Day cocktails might be just the answer.
Love & Murder
At O Bar in Oklahoma City, the Love & Murder cocktail combines Campari, green chartreuse, lime, simple syrup, and salt in a martini glass. It’s a drink to toast to being single while appreciating its bitter-sweet charm.
She’s A Lady
The She’s A Lady cocktail at The Family Jones Spirit House in Denver features a spirited mix of vodka, dry vermouth, pickled carrot, and celery bitters. This bold drink offers a refreshing take on the classic Dirty Martini, ideal for those who refuse to conform to romance.
Buy Yourself Flowers
At Parker Rooftop in Vancouver, the Buy Yourself Flowers cocktail mixes Bombay Sapphire Gin with elderflower liqueur, lime, thyme, and tonic. This drink is centered around self-love and the joy of treating oneself.
Bitter Lover
In Jersey City, Bitter Lover at 143 Social is a striking combination of star anise-infused tequila and Cynar Amaro, sweetened with blood orange agave and fresh lemon. It’s a sophisticated choice for bitterness.
Jazz Age Smolder
Tell Your Friends in Scottsdale serves the Jazz Age Smolder, a cocktail that fuses rich Scotch with amaro and maple, enhanced with cinnamon and citrus smoke to create a theatrical experience.
Dragon Of The Winds
At Blu on the Hudson in New Jersey, the Dragon Of The Winds cocktail harmonizes dark rum, amaro, maple syrup, and lemon for a bittersweet yet invigorating experience.
Je T’aime, Je Ne T’aime Pas
One K Miami presents the Je T’aime, Je Ne T’aime Pas cocktail, mixing Patrón Reposado with strawberry rhubarb and grapefruit soda. It embodies the turbulent nature of love.
Black Widow
The Black Widow at Red Lantern in Foxwoods blends Kraken Black Spiced Rum with pineapple and nutmeg, a perfect choice for those looking for warmth in their cocktails.
Blues for Breakfast
At 80 Proof in Jackson Hole, the Blues for Breakfast cocktail combines Laphroaig Scotch, orange juice, and honey syrup, influenced by the legendary figures of Winston Churchill and Bob Dylan.
Strawberry Heartbreaker
Seamark Seafood in Everett presents the Strawberry Heartbreaker, a smoky margarita crafted with tequila, mezcal, strawberry, and lime—designed for independent spirits.
Boy, Bye
In Detroit, Shift Kitchen & Cocktails offers the Boy, Bye, a cocktail that champions individuality with fresh flavors of watermelon and mint, perfect for celebrating one’s own company.
Bitter Hearts
Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs has the Bitter Hearts, featuring a blend of gin, shōchū, pomegranate, and lemon juice, providing a refreshing escape from Valentine’s Day celebrations.
No Strings Spritz
Sixty Vines presents the No Strings Spritz, a playful cocktail with gin, raspberries, and honey, representing carefree fun.
Saltbae Sour
Nusr-Et Steakhouse offers the Saltbae Sour, a contemporary twist on a classic sour using premium whiskey and spices for a memorable flavor.
I Can Love Me Better
Lastly, at The Stand in New York City, the I Can Love Me Better cocktail captures the essence of self-empowerment, mixing dark spirits with fresh flavors for a vibrant experience.
These cocktails not only celebrate the spirit of independence but also offer delightful flavors that encourage savoring the moment—whether alone or with friends.
Savoring the Spirit: The Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Enjoy Beyond Dry January
Dry January has come to an end, but there’s a growing selection of non-alcoholic beverages that offer enjoyable alternatives throughout the year. Increasingly popular choices include non-alcoholic beers, spirits, zero-proof cocktails (or “mocktails”), and even beverages infused with CBD and THC, catering to the sober-curious and those looking for hydrating options to pair with their alcoholic drinks. For example, opting for a St. Agrestis Phony Negroni or BERO N/A beer is a great way to stay refreshed and hydrated, especially when pacing yourself during social events.
Here are some of the standout non-alcoholic drinks that emerged during Dry January that you may want to keep enjoying:
10. Ritual Zero Proof Rum
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $30
This drink features great vanillas and caramel tones with the ability to work in cocktails as a 1:1 replacement for rum.
9. WhistlePig Sex, Drugs, Rock & Dry
- ABV: 0.5%
- Price: Average Price: $50
Despite containing a small amount of alcohol, this non-whiskey offers intriguing flavors like citrus and ginger, making it a refreshing cocktail alternative.
8. Seedlip Garden 108
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $32
Known for its herbal notes from peas and traditional garden herbs, Seedlip is praised for its ability to mimic the texture of alcoholic beverages.
7. BERO Noon Wheat
- ABV: 0.38%
- Price: Average Price: $16 six-pack
Created by actor Tom Holland, this beer is crisp and flavorful, making it a hit among non-alcoholic options.
6. Athletic Brewing Run Wild IPA
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $14 six-pack
Athletic Brewing is a leader in the non-alcoholic segment, and Run Wild IPA expertly balances hoppy bitterness and refreshing citrus flavors.
5. St. Agrestis Phony Negroni
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $63 twelve-pack
This popular drink captures the essence of a real Negroni with a blend of organic ingredients, providing herbal and citrus notes typically found in the cocktail.
4. WYNK Black Cherry Fizz
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $36 six-pack
This refreshing seltzer is infused with THC and CBD, offering a balanced beverage that is enjoyable in moderation.
3. Lyre’s G(in) & T(onic)
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $18 four-pack
This mocktail emulates a classic Gin & Tonic, combining a zero-proof gin with tonic for a delightful and refreshing drink.
2. Nowadays Micro Dose
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $40
This tropical drink features a slight THC content, making it versatile for drinking solo or mixing into cocktails.
1. The Pathfinder Spirit Hemp and Root
- ABV: 0%
- Price: Average Price: $40
This unique drink is crafted from fermented hemp and infused with botanicals, resembling a flavorful amaro.
With these options, non-alcoholic drinks prove they’re not just substitutes but enjoyable and versatile choices for any time of the year.
Blooming Spirits: How a Minneapolis Distillery is Infusing Flowers into Whiskey
A Minneapolis distillery has created a perfect way for couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day. O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co. has set up a floral gate in collaboration with Martha’s Gardens Floral Studio, inviting guests to express their affection. Located next to the floral installation is a free love letter station, complete with stationery and pens, encouraging attendees to write and anonymously send their love letters.
The initiative aims to spread messages of love throughout the venue, with selected notes to be shared publicly. This unique setup not only provides a romantic experience but also supports local artistry and engagement. Garden Guy Dale K. recently visited the distillery to enjoy the charming floral display and experience the ambiance firsthand.
Big Easy Whiskey Unveils 24 Unique Natural Infusions: A New Era of Flavor
NEW ORLEANS – Big Easy Spirits Company (BESCO) has announced the launch of its flagship product, Big Easy Whiskey, in New Orleans. This 5-year-old straight whiskey is uniquely crafted from a Bourbon mash and infused with a variety of botanicals and fruits, enhancing its rich flavors.
Big Easy Whiskey is designed to be an accessible spirit, perfect for sipping neat, on ice, or as the base for cocktails. Its versatility is appealing to whiskey enthusiasts of all levels, adding complexity and depth to traditional cocktail recipes.
"Big Easy Whiskey brings the essence of New Orleans to the bottle," stated Kieran Walsh, COO and Master Blender of BESCO. “Our aim was to capture the city’s distinctive flavor, embodying both its laid-back charm and sophisticated edge.”
This whiskey is made from 100 percent American distillates sourced from Kentucky and Indiana. The mash bill comprises 81 percent corn, 15 percent rye, and 4 percent barley. After aging in used bourbon barrels for five years, the whiskey achieves a smoother taste with less of the influence from new wood, resulting in a rich, full-bodied profile infused with over two dozen herbs, spices, and fruits.
Flavor notes for Big Easy Whiskey highlight the classic toasty taste of American whiskey, alongside baking spices including vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, complemented by herbal hints of cedar and lemon balm.
Founded by New Orleans locals and spirits industry veterans, BESCO aims to provide a premium product that avoids the pitfalls of being overly kitschy or pretentious. The company is dedicated to honoring the unique spirit of New Orleans through its offerings.
Looking ahead, BESCO plans to introduce Le Grand Négociant in Spring 2025, a Kentucky bourbon that will finish in French Armagnac, Calvados, and Cognac brandy casks.
Jameson Irish Whiskey Celebrates the NFL’s Historic Arrival in Dublin!
The NFL season concluded with the Philadelphia Eagles’ impressive victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX. Looking ahead, Dublin, Ireland will host its first regular-season NFL game, a moment celebrated by Jameson Irish Whiskey.
In 2023, Jameson initiated a campaign called "Touchdown in Dublin" to promote the city as a viable game venue. They enlisted former New England Patriots player Julian Edelman, who famously visited the NFL headquarters in New York City in a bus adorned with team helmets, advocating for the city’s inclusion.
The efforts paid off as it was officially announced that a game would occur in Dublin during the next season, featuring the Pittsburgh Steelers. The exact date and opponent will be revealed in May alongside the NFL schedule.
Johan Radojewski, the Vice President of Marketing for Jameson, expressed excitement, emphasizing the global passion for the sport and the anticipation of celebrating this moment with fans.
As Dublin prepares for this significant event, excitement builds for the inaugural NFL game in the city, marking a landmark moment in the league’s international expansion.
The Importance of the Lincoln County Process in Crafting Your Favorite Whiskey
If you’re a whiskey enthusiast, you may be familiar with Tennessee whiskey, particularly the famous Jack Daniel’s. One of the key elements that distinguish Tennessee whiskey from bourbon is the Lincoln County Process, a unique method that adds a refined smoothness to the final product.
The Lincoln County Process Explained
The Lincoln County Process involves filtering whiskey through charcoal before it ages in barrels. This not only imparts a signature smoothness but also differentiates Tennessee whiskey, which shares a similar mash bill with bourbon, typically made from grains like corn, rye, and barley.
This process is named after the county where Jack Daniel’s established his distillery in the 19th century. Interestingly, although the distillery is now located in Moore County due to historical boundary changes, the process remains integral to the definition of Tennessee whiskey.
How It Works
After the whiskey has been distilled, it’s slowly pumped through vats filled with sugar maple charcoal—a method that can take several days. The charcoal acts as a natural filter, capturing impurities and softening any harsh flavors.
Different distilleries have their own variations of this process. For instance, Jack Daniel’s allows the whiskey to trickle for up to ten days through ten feet of charcoal, while George Dickel chills their whiskey before filtering to enhance the mellowing effect. This attention to detail helps create a velvety texture and sweeter flavor profile, making Tennessee whiskey notably smooth.
Key Differences from Bourbon
While both Tennessee whiskey and bourbon must follow certain production guidelines—such as being produced in the U.S., aged in new charred oak barrels, and containing at least 51% corn—the Lincoln County Process is what sets Tennessee whiskey apart. Critics may argue that this filtering complicates the whiskey’s character, but aficionados will insist that the smoothness and refinement it brings are essential attributes.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
The Lincoln County Process is steeped in history and craftsmanship. It is said that the technique could not have existed without the contributions of Nathan “Nearest” Green, an African American distiller who trained Jack Daniel in the art of whiskey making. Today, Green’s legacy is honored through the Uncle Nearest whiskey brand, which also adheres to the Lincoln County Process.
Why It Matters
Understanding the Lincoln County Process is crucial for whiskey drinkers, particularly if you prefer your whiskey neat or in cocktails. It contributes to why you might find Tennessee whiskey smoother and sweeter compared to others. Whether you favor bourbon or venture into Tennessee whiskey, acknowledging this unique process adds depth to your appreciation.
In essence, the Lincoln County Process embodies the traditions and meticulous craftsmanship that define Tennessee whiskey, offering a drink that is both rich in history and flavor.
Sip into Spring with Our Drink of the Week: The Strawberry Kiss Cocktail
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – For this Valentine’s Day, Brett Butler showcased a delightful cocktail recipe called the "Strawberry Kiss." This drink features Hard Truth’s Toasted Coconut Rum Cream, known for its silky texture and tropical flavor, making it a perfect choice for a romantic occasion.
Hard Truth has crafted a unique toasted coconut rum, infusing it with a creamy twist that adds versatility to cocktails. Butler also highlighted Prairie Vodka, produced by the Prairie Distillery in Princeton, Minnesota. This vodka is celebrated for its smoothness and organic production methods, using 100% USDA-certified organic corn and no additives, resulting in a cleaner taste.
Strawberry Kiss Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum Cream
- 1 1/2 oz Prairie Vodka
- 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
- 2 Medium Strawberries
- 1 Dash Cinnamon
Directions:
- In a bar shaker, add Prairie Vodka and 1 strawberry. Muddle the strawberry thoroughly.
- Add the Hard Truth Coconut Rum Cream.
- Cover and shake to chill the mixture.
- Single strain the cocktail into a glass.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry and a dash of cinnamon before serving.
Celebrate this Valentine’s Day with the perfect blend of sweetness and spice, raising a glass to love and flavor!
Susan Holmes McKagan Discusses Duff’s Vodka Struggles and Her Journey as a Writer
Susan Holmes McKagan shared insights about her life with her husband, Duff McKagan, the bassist of Guns N’ Roses, and discussed her literary work in a recent interview. In her conversation, she reflected on Duff’s struggles with alcoholism, describing his battle as extreme—he once consumed a gallon-and-a-half of vodka daily. While Susan didn’t know him during his active addiction, she has been a significant support throughout their 25-year marriage.
She noted that Duff had only relapsed once in the early 2000s during his time with Velvet Revolver. That relapse was a critical moment when Duff recognized he needed help and began the journey back to sobriety. Susan expressed her fear during that time but also her confidence in Duff’s ability to overcome his challenges. She revealed that many people have reached out to Duff since he published his memoir, sharing how his story inspired them.
Transitioning to her own achievements, Susan’s novel, "The Velvet Rose," published in 2019, is said to carry autobiographical elements, rooted in her experiences navigating a challenging, male-dominated music industry in the ’90s. Instead of opting for non-fiction, she chose fiction for its creative freedom, allowing her to explore themes beyond strict autobiographical boundaries. The protagonist, Scarlett, mirrors aspects of Susan’s life, with aspirations for the novel to be adapted into a film or series.
In addition to discussing her literary journey, Susan elaborated on her writing process, emphasizing the importance of reading widely and having a structured routine. She noted that writing can be an arduous path filled with rejection and subjective critique from editors. Her dedication to storytelling, perseverance, and embracing a hopeful outlook were central to her narrative as both a supportive partner and a budding writer.
For more insights from Susan Holmes McKagan, you can explore related articles on her experiences with Duff McKagan and her writing journey.
T-Pain Takes Center Stage at Captain Morgan’s Super Bowl Weekend Rum Street Party
Captain Morgan hosted a vibrant pre-Super Bowl party on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on February 8, transforming the iconic area into "Rum Street." This event attracted various celebrities, including Victor Cruz and Winnie Harlow. The highlight of the night was an electrifying performance by GRAMMY® Award-winning artist T-Pain, who energized the crowd with his hit songs in anticipation of the big game.
T-Pain expressed enthusiasm for the night, stating, "Captain Morgan is taking Bourbon Street to another level," emphasizing the unique party experience. Anne Nosko, VP of Captain Morgan, noted that the event was the culmination of their efforts to create memorable adventures for fans throughout the NFL season, celebrating the biggest weekend in sports.
With such a festive atmosphere, the party served as a lively kickoff to the Super Bowl celebrations, ensuring attendees experienced a night to remember on one of America’s most famous streets.