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Exploring the Garlicky Flavor Profile of Pizza Hut’s New Tomato Wine
I tried Pizza Hut’s new tomato wine. Tell me why it was garlicky
As a registered dietitian who enjoys indulging in a variety of foods, pizza holds a special place in my heart. It’s a culinary masterpiece that combines tangy, sweet, salty, and spicy flavors—all packed into a single slice. When I learned about Pizza Hut’s new offering, a pizza-flavored wine, it piqued my interest.
Contrary to what I hoped—a wine curated to enhance the pizza experience—this new product is, indeed, pizza-flavored. Crafted in collaboration with Just Beyond Paradise Winery from Kansas, the wine is meant to complement Pizza Hut’s signature menu items, featuring tomatoes and natural basil as the primary components.
Described as “crafted from ripe, juicy tomatoes” infused with basil, I was uncertain about how apt such a blend could be outside of a sauce. But with tomatoes being fruits and basil frequently used in beverages, I proceeded with cautious optimism. However, my excitement waned when I noticed the inclusion of garlic in the mix—garlic in a wine?
The packaging came with a bit of flair: two stainless steel glasses, a corkscrew, and a $60 price tag. Although the wine sold out faster than the last slice at a party, a waitlist is available for future orders.
Pouring a glass revealed a startling color, reminiscent of a faux-red wine mixed with an artificial hue. The aroma offered a strong punch, perhaps more akin to a strongly seasoned dish than a delicate wine. Along with tomato and basil, the flavors of oregano, garlic, and oak screamed for attention.
I chilled the bottle as instructed and, at the outset, was met with a profile more comparable to a pinot gris rather than any traditional red wine—a necessary improvement, considering the baking ingredients listed. The taste was overwhelmingly seasoned, featuring a prominent garlic presence that turned out to be its most dominant characteristic.
While it was not the pleasant sipping experience one might hope for, it could lend itself well for cooking, particularly in a rich sauce. Though the taste left much to be desired in the realm of drinkability, the experience encapsulated a whimsical culinary endeavor—a testament to how innovation can sometimes take unexpected turns.
In the end, while I wouldn’t dare serve this wine at a dinner table, it certainly has a unique place in the world of experimentally flavored liquids. What it taught me is that sometimes, products designed for enjoyment can provoke revelations instead.
For more about the collaboration, you can explore listings from Irvine Winery.
10 Festive Thanksgiving Cocktails to Elevate Your Holiday Celebration
If you’re in charge of mixing cocktails for Thanksgiving, there’s no reason to feel overwhelmed. The mixologists at First for Women have curated a list of fantastic cocktail recipes to elevate your holiday gathering. Whether you prefer something warm and cozy or a refreshing chilled drink, this selection has you covered. Here are ten cocktails that promise to make your Thanksgiving memorable:
1. Apple Cider Spritz
This cocktail combines the sweetness of apple cider with sparkling fizz, creating a delightful drink to enjoy while preparing the feast.
2. Spiced Cranberry Punch
Perfect for a large crowd, this punch features warm, fruity flavors and is infused with vodka for an extra kick. Make it ahead of time for convenience.
3. Buttered Rum and Apple Hot Toddy
When the temperature drops, a warm apple hot toddy with butter and spices can be the perfect remedy, taking just 15 minutes to prepare.
4. Smirnoff Holiday Cosmo
A festive twist on the classic cosmopolitan, this drink features a candy rim and cranberries, offering a deliciously sweet, tart taste.
5. Sparkling Elderflower Sip
Make a toast with this light and floral drink combining prosecco and elderflower liqueur. It’s perfect for pre-dinner celebrations.
6. Lemon Rosemary Refresher
This refreshing cocktail blends lemon juice and rosemary, topped with club soda for a fizzy finish that’s sure to please.
7. Cinnamon Apple-Tini
Delight in the bold flavors of fall with this spiced apple-tini, featuring a sugar rim to enhance every sip.
8. Honey Bourbon Cider Cocktail
This cocktail mixes honey, bourbon, and cider for a perfectly sweet and warming beverage, great for celebrating with family.
9. Slow Cooker Mulled Wine
Set it and forget it with this mulled wine that brews cozily in your slow cooker, offering a delicious and aromatic option.
10. Berry-Orange Sangria
Redefine your idea of sangria with this berry and orange-infused recipe, ensuring a refreshing sip any time of the year.
For more delightful cocktail ideas, explore options for Christmas or try a flavorful Coquito recipe that’s creamy yet egg-free. Enjoy crafting the perfect drinks for a fantastic Thanksgiving celebration!
Temecula’s Wine Country Faces Shift as Baby Boomer Vineyard Owners Choose to Sell
Temecula’s wine country is facing significant challenges as an increasing number of vineyard owners—including previous Baby Boomers—are moving to sell their properties. This trend is primarily driven by retirement and rising debts, which are posing risks to the region’s winemaking economy.
Many vineyard owners, who had sustained their businesses through years of labor and investment, are now at a crossroads. With the costs associated with winemaking ever-increasing, coupled with the pressures of aging, many owners find themselves grappling with difficult decisions. The wine region, once flourishing, appears to be hitting a financial skid as the demographic of ownership shifts.
As vineyard owners deliberate over their futures, the impacts of these sales could disrupt the local economy reliant on wine tourism and agricultural production. This situation raises concerns not only for the viability of individual vineyards but for the greater health of Temecula’s wine industry moving forward.
For more information, visit OC Register.
Whiskey the Labrador: A Miraculous Survival Story After a Plane Crash берегed with Tragedy
A puppy named Whiskey survived a plane crash in Upstate New York that tragically claimed the life of the pilot, Seuk Kim, and another dog on board. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening around 6:10 PM. Kim, a dedicated dog rescuer, was flying the animals to a no-kill shelter in Albany from high-euthanasia facilities in the South.
In addition to Whiskey, another dog named Pluto was saved despite being initially thought to be dead. Pluto suffered some bruising but is expected to recover fully. Whiskey was found with two broken hind legs and is currently receiving treatment at Pieper Memorial Emergency & Specialty Hospital in Connecticut. Veterinarians have said they are optimistic about his recovery and have scheduled surgeries for his injuries.
Kim’s family mourns the loss, remembering him as a passionate advocate for animal rescue. As a licensed pilot, he had dedicated his time to flying dogs for adoption, having completed many successful missions prior to this devastating accident. His family members expressed their heartache on social media, urging others to appreciate their loved ones more deeply in light of this tragedy. Donations to assist with Whiskey and Pluto’s veterinary care have been encouraged by the shelter staff.
As an active part of the animal rescue community, Kim’s loss is felt profoundly, and many have come forward to acknowledge his tremendous commitment to saving animals’ lives. The NTSB is currently investigating the crash, which occurred under clear sky conditions, with no adverse weather reported at the time.
Ask the Expert: Tips for Discovering Fantastic Budget-Friendly Wines
Whether you’re new to wine or searching for an affordable bottle, it’s possible to discover great wines without overspending. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to pay exorbitant prices to enjoy quality wine. To aid in this quest, sommelier Cara Patricia from San Francisco’s DecantSF shares tips on how to find excellent wines without breaking the bank.
Understanding the Difference: Cheap vs. Value Wines
Cheap wines might come at very low prices, but their quality is often questionable. Value wines, however, span a range of prices and provide exceptional quality for the money spent. Patricia emphasizes that if a bottle seems too good to be true, it probably is. While wines can be cheap, they usually come with hidden costs.
Strategies for Buying Great Value Wines
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Shop Local:Seek out boutique wine shops where knowledgeable staff can offer personalized recommendations based on your budget. They often have their own favorites, which may just align with your taste. Local shops frequently conduct tastings that allow you to sample before you buy.
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Know Your Price Point:Be honest about your budget when speaking with wine professionals. They appreciate transparency and can guide you to options that fit your financial range. Using wine apps can help ensure you aren’t overpaying.
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Avoid Wine Trends:Be cautious of popular wines heavily marketed on social media, as they often come with inflated prices. Instead, focus on quality producers who prioritize the wine itself over marketing gimmicks.
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Utilize a World Map:Familiarize yourself with wine regions outside of the well-known ones. For instance, if a Bordeaux wine is too pricey, consider similar options from regions like Chile or Washington state, which may offer better value.
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Explore Entry-Level Wines:Renowned wineries often produce more affordable bottles that still reflect their prestigious winemaking standards. For example, try a less expensive varietal from a favored producer instead of their top-tier offerings.
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Consider a Wine Club Membership:Joining a local wine club can provide access to discounts and special selections tailored to your preferences. However, be cautious of online wine clubs that promise overly cheap options—they may not deliver the quality you’re seeking.
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Buy in Bulk:Purchasing multiple bottles at once usually results in savings. Many local shops offer discounts for buying in bulk, which can help lower your overall cost.
By applying these strategies, you can enhance your wine selection while remaining budget-conscious. Exploring value wines doesn’t mean compromising on quality, and with the right approach, you can enjoy a delightful wine experience without overspending.
Unwrapping the Mystery: The Role of Whiskey in “Christmas Thieves
Tom Sandoval and Tom Schwartz, stars of "Vanderpump Rules," have decided to close their bar, Schwartz & Sandy’s, after just two years of operation. The decision comes amid a backdrop of turmoil that began with the explosive "Scandoval" controversy, where Sandoval faced backlash for having an affair with Raquel Leviss while dating Ariana Madix.
The closure marks a significant shift for the duo, whose bar was featured prominently on the Bravo reality series. Schwartz mentioned that the closure was a difficult decision for them to make, indicating that they had put significant thought and consideration into the move.
The bar, which opened in 2022, was meant to be a new venture for the pair, providing a place for fans to connect with them. However, ongoing controversy and the challenges of running a hospitality business after being in the public eye have likely contributed to their decision to close its doors.
The closure reflects the broader struggles within the reality TV realm and the impact of public scrutiny on personal and professional endeavors.
Top Lagers of the World: Highlights from the Great International Beer, Cider, Mead & Sake Competition
The recent 26th annual Great International Beer, Cider, Mead & Sake Competition unveiled the best lagers of 2024, as judged by a panel of experts in Norwalk, Connecticut. On November 9, judges evaluated 303 entries, awarding top spots across multiple categories, which included six types of lagers as well as pilsners.
This competition is notable for its wide reach, drawing submissions from both local New England breweries and those from around the world. This year’s winners showcased diversity, featuring a lager from Spain, two from Vermont, two from Connecticut, and one from Wisconsin.
While it’s important to note that many exceptional beers might not enter competitions, the praised lagers tend to stand out for their quality. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting two award-winning Connecticut lagers and can confirm their exceptional flavor.
Lagers are experiencing a surge in popularity within the craft beer market. Christopher Sanzeni, head brewer and co-founder of Broken Symmetry in Bethel, Connecticut, shared that lagers have become the second best-selling style at his brewery. Among the winners this year is his dark lager, Midnight.
Here’s a summary of the top lagers from this year’s competition:
Best Helles Lager
Pirate’s Cove Helles, McFleshman’s Brewing, Appleton, WI
This light lager, celebrating a bar that once existed on the brewery’s grounds, is grainy and sweet, appealing to both casual drinkers and adventurous spirits.
Best Lager: Continental Dortmunder
Walkin’ The Dog, NewSylum Brewing, Newtown, CT
This German-style pilsner, crafted using Hersbrucker hops, is crisp with a solid malt backbone, making it a neighborhood favorite ideal for dog walkers.
Best Premium Lager
Estrella Damm, S.A. Damm, Barcelona, Spain
Brewed since 1876, this lager is lighter than many central European varieties, designed to complement the Mediterranean climate.
Best Vienna Lager
Vienna, Von Trapp Brewing, Stowe, VT
Known for their exemplary lagers, Von Trapp Brewing offers an Austrian-style amber lager rich in malt flavors, complemented by floral hop notes.
Best Amber/Dark Lager
Trösten, Von Trapp Brewing, Stowe, VT
With a name meaning "comforting," this lager features smoked malts, perfect for cold winter evenings in Vermont.
Best Schwarzbier
Midnight, Broken Symmetry Brewing, Bethel, CT
Despite its stout-like appearance, this midnight lager has a lighter body and offers a crisp, refreshing taste comparable to iced coffee without the cream or sugar.
For more insights on beer rankings, check out other articles from Forbes on the world’s best pilsner and the best IPAs.
Chilling Revelations Surround Laos Methanol Poisoning: The Vodka Linked to Six Tragic Deaths
New details have surfaced regarding a tragic mass poisoning incident in Laos that has claimed the lives of six tourists, including British lawyer Simon White, aged 28. The situation has raised serious concerns about the safety of alcoholic beverages in the region, specifically after it was suspected that methanol may have been mixed with vodka consumed at a hostel in Vang Vieng, a popular backpacking destination.
Methanol, a toxic substance sometimes converted into illicit alcoholic drinks, is believed to have been involved in this case as victims allegedly ingested the dangerous cocktail. In Vang Vieng, Tiger Vodka is readily available for as little as 36p (1000 Kip) in retail stores, with reports suggesting that bars might purchase even cheaper, locally produced spirits that are blended and distilled in Laos.
The findings have provoked critical questions about why hostel and bar staff would resort to using methanol. Currently, there remain 11 additional foreign nationals hospitalized in serious condition due to similar poisoning cases. Among the deceased were Australian teenagers Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, alongside American James Louis Hutson, and Danish students Anne-Sofie Orkid Coyman and Freja Vennervald Sorensen.
Local sources speculate that the incident may be attributed to a production error within a government-operated facility, as the Laotian government holds an 90% stake in the alcohol industry. In response to the unfolding tragedy, police in Laos have detained the hostel manager and owner for questioning.
The Laotian government expressed profound sadness over the deaths and is conducting investigations to identify the causes of the incident and bring those responsible to justice. Simon White’s family issued a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of their beloved son and extending their sympathies to the other affected families.
Although no charges have been filed yet, authorities have detained several individuals as a precaution while investigations continue. The Nana Backpacker Hostel involved remains operational but is not accepting new guests during this inquiry. Meanwhile, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is providing consular support to those impacted by the tragedy.
End of an Era: Popular Detroit Beer Bar to Close by Year’s End 2024
A well-known beer establishment in Detroit’s Cass Corridor, 8 Degrees Plato, has announced that it will be closing its doors at the end of 2024. Located on Cass Avenue near Peterboro, this popular bar and store have been serving the community for nearly a decade.
Owners Tim and Brigid shared their decision through a heartfelt Facebook post, revealing that after much deliberation, they have chosen to retire from the beer business. They expressed gratitude for the experiences gained over the last nine years in Detroit, noting the store’s important role as a destination for beer aficionados and fans attending events at nearby Little Caesars Arena.
In their message, they mentioned a purchase agreement to sell the store that fell through, leading them to realign their focus with other personal goals. Although they will cease operations on December 31, 2024, they plan to maintain regular business hours leading up to the closure and will keep customers updated via social media regarding any changes.
8 Degrees Plato has garnered a reputation for its unique beer selection, offering a variety of local and international options. The venue previously had another location in Ferndale, which closed a few years back, and its impending closure marks a significant change in the local beverage landscape.
Cachaça vs. Rum: Understanding the Key Differences
Cachaça and rum are two distinct spirits that often confuse consumers due to their similarities. Both are derived from sugar sources, but their production processes and cultural significances set them apart.
Cachaça, Brazil’s national liquor, is made from fresh sugarcane juice, giving it a unique flavor profile that is sweet and raw compared to rum, which is typically produced from molasses or various sugarcane derivatives. The first recorded sugarcane mill in Brazil dates back to 1516, leading to the creation of cachaça from the distillation of fermented sugarcane juice. While it can be bottled immediately or aged in wooden barrels, the aging process allows for a variety of flavors, influenced by the diverse woods used.
Rum, on the other hand, boasts a range of production methods that can drastically alter its taste. It can be distilled from sugarcane juice, similar to cachaça (known as rhum agricole), but is more commonly made from byproducts like molasses. This variability results in a wide variety of styles, flavors, and colors, from light to dark, sweet to rich and complex.
While some might argue that cachaça falls under the rum category, this oversimplification overlooks the spirit’s rich history and its pivotal role in Brazilian culture. For those eager to explore these differences, tasting both spirits reveals the unique qualities that each brings to the table, whether in cocktails or enjoyed neat.
For further reading, check out the original article on Chowhound.









