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5 Summer-Perfect Wine Pairings Recommended by a Miami Sommelier
Jacqueline Pirolo shares her favorite summer wine pairings
Summer has arrived, and it’s the perfect time for enjoying backyard barbecues and leisurely dinners with loved ones, ideally with a glass of fine wine in hand.
You might be contemplating enhancing your hosting prowess or simply spicing up your outdoor dining and poolside appetizers. If so, it’s a good idea to think about your essential summer wine pairings.
No need to be a wine expert to master these combinations — however, having access to one certainly helps. Luckily, Miami’s Jacqueline Pirolo has taken a moment from her hectic schedule to share some of her top food and wine pairings for the upcoming warm months.
As the beverage director at one of Miami’s beloved dining spots, Macchialina, Pirolo possesses deep expertise in the world of wine. She manages Macchialina alongside her brother, Mike Pirolo. This Italian eatery has been a popular fixture in South Beach for over a decade, recently expanding into a larger venue that was once the Miami Hostel next door. The new space boasts a garden patio, an enlarged bar, and a vast open-plan kitchen — making Macchialina 2.0 a realization of its team’s and avid visitors’ dreams.
Amidst the challenges of designing and overseeing the creation of this impressive new venue, Pirolo has also developed a beverage program at Magie, an innovative self-service wine bar set to debut in the Little River area at the old Sherwood’s Bistro location on June 13th.
Seasonal dishes such as succulent tomatoes, crisp zucchinis, and perfectly grilled pizzas are elevated when paired with the proper wines. If you’re seeking some culinary inspiration, continue on to learn about the essential summer wine pairings that should be on your radar.
Don’t overlook making pizza on the grill this summer
“Fortunately, my brother has perfected his pizza dough recipe, so I can usually convince him to save me some extra dough after his famous home pizza parties. I love throwing it on the grill with my favorite toppings: his tomato sauce (which I also take), anchovies, and a dusting of dried oregano,” says Pirolo. “For this pizza, I prefer Lambrusco Salamino. Made in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, this varietal gets its name from the shape of the grape clusters, which resemble a salami! The versatility of Lambrusco is what makes it so special – it’s perfect for pizza, but also great with charcuterie or a bowl of Bolognese. Lambrusco Salamino’s bright acidity and rich, fruity flavor profile offer a bit more complexity and sometimes even a touch of earthiness. One of my current favorites comes from producer Fondo Bozzole, available at Macchialina for dining in or retail.”
Pirolo says this is her favorite pasta salad
“Growing up, this dish was a summer staple. We cooked penne and simply tossed it with good extra virgin olive oil. While the pasta was still hot, we added uncooked, halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh mozzarella, then topped it with basil – the heat would soften the tomatoes, breaking them down for a chewy texture,” shares Pirolo. “I always called it our pasta salad, although some people may disagree since it’s not cold – I’m unsure of the official pasta salad guidelines. For me, this pairs perfectly with a light, chilled, crushable red wine. Some fun ones I’m loving at the moment include Bbirbiciu’s ‘Brasì’, a Catarratto and Pignatello co-fermented red from Sicily or Fatalone’s ‘Teres’ Primitivo from Puglia which could technically be considered a full-bodied Rosé. Both are available at Macchialina for dining in or retail.”
Canned wines are a vibe
“This is a total beach staple for me: dress heirloom tomatoes with good extra virgin olive oil, a bit of red wine vinegar, red onion, and oregano on a quality baguette. I think the canned wine game has significantly improved in a short amount of time,” says Pirolo. “At Magies, our entire by-the-glass program features canned wine! I’ve been loving La Lata Rebujito, a refreshing canned beverage from Sevilla, Spain that honors the popular Andalucian cocktail by blending dry sherry with lemon/lime soda for a crisp and tangy taste that’s perfect for warmer days.”
Zucchini and Eggplant alla Scapece
“Zucchini and Eggplant alla Scapece is a new dish on the menu at Macchialina. It features grilled zucchini and eggplant after having been marinated with garlic and olive oil, finished with pine nut butter and shaved ricotta salata. I’m pairing this dish with Josef Fischer Riesling Federspiel, ‘Ried Steiger’, which we highlighted in Macchialina’s wine club during our Austria theme,” says Pirolo. “This dry, crisp Austrian Riesling cuts through the richness of the marinated vegetables and pine nut butter, balancing the dish so incredibly well.”
Varnelli Punch Fantasia
“Just in time for summer, Macch 2.0 has officially added gelato to their menu, and I’m really enjoying experimenting with different liqueurs to pour over it,” says Pirolo. “Right now, my favorite is Varnelli Punch Fantasia. It’s crafted with a sugarcane distillate from Martinique and a special blend of secret spices and botanicals. This liqueur adds a hint of cherry sweetness to the flavor profile and leaves a nutty flavor lingering afterward.”
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Brewing Made Easy: Discover the Ultimate Machine and Ingredient Kits for Homemade Beer
Posted on Jun 5, 2024 9:00 AM EDT
If you thought nothing could beat the feeling of cracking open a cold one on a hot summer day, try brewing your own beer. Years ago, that meant learning what was basically wizardry, but now you can get this all-in-one machine that makes it easier than making your morning coffee.
The iGulu brewer comes with three beer kits, but you can also try your own recipes, like kombucha. Add one to your cart and sip away at home craft beer all summer long for $699 (reg. $806.97) and get it shipped free.
Can you believe it only takes three small steps to make your own beer? Just stir the ingredients into filtered water, tell iGulu what you’re brewing, wait seven days, and pour yourself a frosty glass.
Choose from the Amber Lager, Pale Ale, or Bavarian Wheat Hefeweizen kits and enjoy a fresh gallon for up to 30 days. These are all excellent summer choices and are generally likable if you aren’t familiar with craft beers but want to try something new.
The fastest way to make it yours is by heading directly to checkout now.
For a limited time, the iGulu beer-making kit includes the Master Mode feature for free—an app-enabled option that lets you brew your own beer recipes, a value of $100. You can look up recipes online or create your own mix.
The iGulu device can also be used as a kegerator for 5-gallon kegs, providing a convenient option to chill store-bought kegs during the summer.
Additionally, the company is in the process of developing kits for brewing kombucha, allowing you to enjoy a variety of fermented drinks.
Skip to checkout and make this summer unforgettable with the iGulu brewer available for $699 with free shipping, originally priced at $806.97.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Director Robert Arsov Sells 60,000 Shares of Rumble Inc (RUM): An Analysis of Market Implications
On June 4, 2024, Robert Arsov, a Director at Rumble Inc (NASDAQ:RUM), completed a significant transaction by selling 60,000 shares of the company. This event was officially recorded through an SEC Filing. Post-transaction, Arsov retains ownership of 15,113,902 shares in Rumble Inc.
Warning! GuruFocus has detected 3 Warning Signs with RUM.
Rumble Inc, known for its video-sharing platform, offers content creators a venue to publish and monetize their videos. It stands out as a favored option for creators looking for alternatives to traditional platforms with stringent content regulations.
The shares were traded at a rate of $6.05 per share, making the total value of the transaction approximately $363,000. While this sale significantly alters the insider’s holding, a considerable amount remains under his ownership.
Over the past year, Robert Arsov has sold a total of 350,012 shares and has not made any purchases of the company’s stock. This latest transaction continues a trend of sales by insiders at Rumble Inc, with a total of 11 insider sales and no insider buys reported over the same period.
The current market cap of Rumble Inc stands at approximately $1.67 billion. The stock’s valuation metrics, including the price-earnings ratio, price-sales ratio, price-book ratio, and price-to-free cash flow, are accessible for further details on the company’s financial health and market position.
This insider sale might be of interest to investors tracking insider behaviors or those analyzing the financial stability and future prospects of Rumble Inc.
This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Verità Vodka Italiana Wins Top Award at 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
NAPA, Calif., June 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Scott Ades, president of Italian wine and spirits portfolio Dalla Terra Winery Direct, is pleased to announce that Verità Vodka Italiana ($25, 1L), which launched in the US market last year, has been recognized at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, achieving a top position among nearly 300 vodka competitors and reaching the finals for the 2024 Best-in-Class Vodka award. Verità Vodka also earned a Double Gold Medal, the highest honor at the event, and scored an impressive 97.
“Congratulations to Verità Vodka for their outstanding performance at the SFWSC. We’re thrilled to acknowledge this relatively new company as they are proving to be on the ideal track, while also presenting exceptional value,” stated Amanda Blue, President of the Tasting Alliance, which hosts the prestigious annual competition.
“Dalla Terra is dedicated to forming partnerships solely with Italian wineries and spirit manufacturers that are committed to crafting products with traditional profiles and sustainable practices,” remarked Rob Forman, Director of Spirits at Dalla Terra. “Recognition from the SFWSC panel of distinguished judges for this novel Italian Vodka brand confirms our approach to our spirits portfolio and underlines Italy’s status as a producer of some of the premier spirits in the world.”
Verità Vodka Italiana is produced for Dalla Terra by Distilleria dell’Alpe, a family-operated Italian distillery situated in the eastern Italian Alps. It epitomizes traditional Italian vodka, distilled from Italian wheat and Alpine mountain water, ensuring a remarkably smooth and pure taste. This is aided by a distinctive distillation process: Verità undergoes four rounds of distillation, the final one occurring in a traditional, wood-fired bain marie still, closely managed by master distiller Alessandro Maschio. This distilled spirit is then bottled without chill filtering, maintaining the vodka’s original flavor and texture.
In addition to Verità Vodka, Dalla Terra imports a range of wines and spirits from distinguished family-owned Italian enterprises. You can view the full list of producers they represent here.
Established in 2000, the San Francisco World Spirits competition stands as one of the elite spirits contests globally with more than 5,000 submissions in 2024. A selected panel of experts evaluates the entries blind, rating spirits, liqueurs, vermouths, and RTDs. They award bronze, silver, gold, and double gold medals, and score each entry on a 100-point scale. The top spirit in each category is honored with the Best-in-Class title.
The full range of Dalla Terra spirits, including the award-winning Verità Vodka, will be showcased at Bar Convent Brooklyn on June 11-12. Francesco Maschio, Master Distiller at Distilleria dell’Alpe, will present the spirits at the Dalla Terra booth, located at 8B-708 for attendees.
About Dalla Terra Winery Direct
Founded in 1990, Dalla Terra Winery Direct is a direct importer and national agent for an exclusive group of premier, family-owned wineries and distilleries in Italy. The name Dalla Terra translates to ‘Of the Earth’ in Italian, reflecting the company’s dedication to partnering with estates recognized for high-quality production within their regions or appellations. Dalla Terra maintains a distinctive portfolio through a highly selective process and innovative business model, ensuring they offer extraordinary Italian wines and spirits.
For press inquiries contact Kyle Elliott at 378722@email4pr.com, (310) 313-6374
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SOURCE Dalla Terra Winery Direct
Revealed: The Top Irish Whiskey of 2024, According to IWSC Experts
Bushmills, 30 YO Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml
At the 2024 International Wines and Spirits Competition (IWSC), six Irish whiskeys were distinguished with Gold Outstanding medals, while 14 others received Gold medals. This event marks a significant moment as it’s the most Gold medals ever awarded to Irish whiskey in the competition’s history, highlighting the robust revival and continued excellence of the Irish whiskey industry.
All six Gold Outstanding winners scored 98/100 points. Leading the pack in the Single Malt category were Powers Court Distillers, Fercullen Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml; Irish Distillers, Knappogue Castle, 12 YO Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 43% ABV, 750 ml; and Bushmills, 30 YO Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml, all of which use a triple distillation process. Whiskeys in Ireland can undergo either double or triple distillation.
The IWSC Judging Panel shared high praise for the Fercullen, describing it as:
The fusion of malt and oak essence subtly supports the vibrant pineapple flavours. Its tropical aroma is pleasantly understated, preserving its intensity for a powerful taste experience. The flavour profile is full and smooth, featuring delightful toffee elements and a fruity finale.
The Knappogue Castle is discerned by the Judging Panel as:
It possesses an enticing fragrance of fresh florals and rich dark fruits that glide smoothly into the taste sensation. The sweet and dry spices meld perfectly, creating a harmonious flow on the palate ending in an impressive finish.
Further, the Bushmills 30 YO, one of the oldest Bushmills single malt selections ever released, was noted by the Judging Panel as:
Rich Sherry and brown sugar aromas envelop the senses, leading to a juicy exotic fruit palate with considered cask undertones. The palate is harmonious and graceful with a hint of straw and a spiced close. A well-made and composed sip.
Also winning Gold medals in the Irish Single Malt Whiskey category were Teeling Whiskey, Blackpitts Peated Cask Strength, Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 56.5% ABV, 750 ml; Powers Court Distillery, Fercullen 21 YO Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml; Tullamore DEW, Rouge 13 YO Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml; and Irish Distillers, Knappogue Castle, 16 YO, Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 43% ABV, 750 ml.
The Teeling whiskey is double distilled. All of the other single malts are triple distilled.
Ireland has a long history of producing single malt whiskeys, although the practice declined with the imposition of the malt tax in 1785. To reduce the burden of the tax on malt, Irish distillers began to use unmalted barley for a portion of the mash bill. The combination of both malted and unmalted barley in the mash bill gave rise to Irish pot still whiskey as a separate style and category of whiskey.
According to the guidelines of the Irish Whiskey Association, a single malt whiskey is required to be made from 100% malted barley, while a pot still whiskey needs a minimum of 30% malted barley and 30% unmalted barley, with up to 5% allowed for other grains such as oats, wheat, or rye.
Irish Distillers, part of the Pernod-Ricard conglomerate from France, is the biggest producer of pot still whiskey in Ireland. It has a major influence over this category. Remarkably, the three Gold Outstanding medals for pot still whiskey were awarded to Blue Spot 7 YO Cask Strength Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, 59% ABV, 750 ml; Powers, Three Swallow Release, Single Pot TO; Redbreast, a frontrunner in many international spirit awards, is particularly noted for its continual success in competitions. Determining which particular variant will garner top honors remains a point of discussion.
The IWSC Judging panel had high praise for the Blue Spot 7 YO, noting:
A fragrant and complex beverage demonstrating exceptional skill in its creation. The initial subtle aroma, when enhanced with a dash of water, unfolds to reveal captivating scents of incense and deep fruit, leading to a richly spiced blend of bold apple, pear, and stewed pineapple flavors when tasted.
The judging panel remarked on the Powers, Three Swallow release:
Characterized by a vivid and inviting aroma intertwined with distinct tropical fruit and honey notes, which persist through to the taste. The flavor profile is remarkably precise and well-balanced, offering a harmonious mix of fruit and spice that stays through the finish. This whiskey is both delightful and skillfully made.
Meanwhile, the Redbreast 27 YO was noted for:
An indulgent and rich winter spice character with bold polished oak undertone. The palate is a symphony of flavour, with layers of plump raisin, sponge cake and dark brown sugar notes. A warming offering with an evolving tropical fruit note which develops on the finish.
Five Irish pot still whiskeys took Gold medals with the Irish Distillers Redbreast taking Gold for its 12 YO, 40% ABV; 18 YO, 46% ABV (not yet released); Cask Strength 12 YO, 40% ABV; and Lustau Edition, 46% ABV. In addition, Green Spot, Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml took the remaining Gold medal. All five expressions are also produced by Irish Distillers.
Three Irish Blended whiskeys took Gold medals. Kinahan’s, The Kasc Project (B) Blended Irish Whiskey, 43% ABV, 750 ml was the top-rated blended whiskey with 96/100 points. The IWSC Judging Panel described the Kinahan’s as:
Incredibly fragrant nose with indulgent caramel and spice aromatics. Velvety cocoa notes follow, unveiling a tapestry of evolving aromas of vanilla, milk chocolate, roasted coffee, and raisins. Delight in the sweet and lingering finish – a beautiful finale.
Gold medals in the Irish Blinded Whiskey category were awarded to Irish Distillers, Jameson Bow Street 18 YO Blended Irish Whiskey, 55.3% ABV, 750 ml and Kinahan’s The Kasc Project, Blended Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml.
Teeling secured both Gold medals in the Single Grain Irish Whiskey category with Teeling Whiskey, Single Grain Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml and Teeling Whiskey, 15 YO Single Grain Irish Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. Consistently, Teeling Whiskey earns accolades for its single grain offerings.
The IWSC’s Irish whiskey judging is highly recognized, ranking just below the Irish Whiskey Awards in terms of whiskey assessments. This year’s Gold medalists represent a mix of long-established and newly established Irish whiskey producers. As of 2024, there are 47 active whiskey distilleries in Ireland, with an additional 35 approved but not yet operational—a stark contrast to 40 years ago when only two distilleries were operational in Ireland.
Do not miss the chance to toast to the remarkable revival of the Irish whiskey sector next time you enjoy a glass!
Sláinte
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Rum Jungle Hits the Road: 2024 Regional Australian Tour Announced!
Newcastle-based band Rum Jungle is set to embark on a regional tour across Australia, performing for fans in 22 major cities from Adelaide and the Gold Coast to regional Wagga, Townsville, and Torquay.
The tour comes on the heels of their latest single, “Did The Morning Let You Down,” and their critically acclaimed EP, Hold Me In The Water. This EP has catapulted the band to new heights, culminating in sold-out shows in major cities and a successful stint in the UK.
Rum Jungle’s regional tour is a testament to their rising popularity and dedication to reaching fans in all corners of the country. The four-piece band from Newcastle, affectionately known as “Newy,” is known for their energetic performances and catchy tunes that resonate with a broad audience.
Tickets for this highly anticipated tour are on sale now. Fans eager to catch Rum Jungle live can visit the band’s website for more information and to purchase tickets.
This tour is set to be an unforgettable journey. Explore the tour dates and specifics below to find out when Rum Jungle will be performing in a city near you.
Experience the thrill of seeing one of Australia’s top bands perform live!
Friday, 19th July – Adelaide Showground, Kaurna Lands, Adelaide, SA
Saturday, 20th July – Beach Hotel, Bundjalung Lands, Byron Bay, NSW
Sunday, 21st July – Miami Marketta, Gubbi Gubbi Lands, Gold Coast, QLD
Thursday, 25th July – UC Hub, Ngunnawal Lands, Canberra, ACT
Friday, 26th July – King St Bandroom, Awabakal Lands, Newcastle, NSW
Saturday, 27th July – Ocean View Beach Club, Darkingjung Lands, Wamberal, NSW
Thursday, 1st August – Jungle Duke Hotel, Wiradjuri Lands, Wagga Wagga, NSW
Friday, 2nd August – Marlin Hotel, Yuin Country, Ulladulla, NSW
Saturday, 3rd August – Avalon RSL, Eora Lands, Avalon, NSW
Thursday, 8th August – Haba, Bunurong Lands, Rye, VIC
Friday, 9th August – Torquay Hotel, Wadawurrung Lands, Torquay, VIC
Saturday, 10th August – Volta, Dja Dja Wurrung Lands, Ballarat, VIC
Friday, 16th August – Solbar, Kabi Kabi Lands, Maroochydore, QLD
Saturday, 17th August – Cleveland Sands Hotel, Quandamooka Lands, Redlands, QLD
Thursday, 22nd August – Seabreeze Hotel, Yuwibara Lands, Mackay, QLD
Friday, 23rd August – Otherwise, Bindal Lands, Townsville, QLD
Saturday, 24th August – Edge Hill Tavern, Yirrganydji Lands, Cairns, QLD
Friday, 30th August – The River, Wadandi Country, Margaret River, WA
Saturday, 31st August – Indian Ocean Hotel, Nyoongar Lands, Scarborough, WA
Sunday, 1st September – YMCA HQ, Whadjuk Noongar Lands, Perth, WA
Friday, 6th September – Republic Bar, muwinina Lands, Hobart, TAS
Saturday, 7th September – Royal Oak Hotel, palawa Lands, Launceston, TAS
Tickets via the band’s website
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The post Rum Jungle Announce 2024 Regional Australian Tour appeared first on Music Feeds.
Top 10 Cabernet Sauvignons to Celebrate Father’s Day: A Special Selection
Every year, we delve into Napa Valley’s finest red wines to offer recommendations ideal for Father’s Day gifts. These selections might be pricier, but we believe this special day deserves an exceptional wine.
You might consider sharing the expense with your siblings to keep it within budget. Just don’t expect to get a taste — June 16 is dedicated to Dad.
If these are out of your price range, we have several excellent alternatives. Below are our top 10 cabernet sauvignons for Father’s Day:
Chappellet Hideaway Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($175). Originally designated for chenin blanc, the Hideaway vineyard shifted in 2007 when six blocks of cabernet sauvignon were planted over the 13-acre secluded terrain. Since this change, the wine produced from this mountain vineyard has been consistently exemplary. Phillip Titus, the winemaker, remarks, “Mountain-grown cabernet, when cultivated correctly in suitable soils, delivers increased complexity, power, and tannins.” This wine is notable for its deep concentration of black fruit, complemented by herbal and peppery undertones.
Flora Springs Napa Valley Trilogy 2021 ($100): After selling their historic St. Helena winery in 2019, the founding family retained 20 acres of prime vineyards. They focused on reducing production to enhance quality. The Flora Springs Trilogy, a blend of cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, and malbec, is crafted from these vineyards, particularly the illustrious Komes Ranch in Ruthford. This nearly four-decade old label features rich black fruit flavors accompanied by undertones of mint, coffee, and cola.
Turnbull Amoenus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($145): Although most vineyards managed by this esteemed Napa Valley winery are located in the Oakville AVA, the Amoenus Vineyard lies within the rolling landscapes of Calistoga. It produces a cabernet sauvignon characterized by floral and spicy scents leading to a lush profile of ripe blackberry and cherry, all framed by silky tannins.
Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 ($175): Renowned for wines that mature beautifully over the years, Beringer’s 2020 vintage upholds its legacy. It exudes aromas of flowers and blueberries, alongside a robust palette of dark cherry, plum, currant, with a touch of vanilla and spice. These elements make it an ideal pairing for a hearty grilled steak.
Beaulieu Vineyards Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 ($160): Since its first release in 1940, BV’s private reserve has been a must-have for collectors. Having enjoyed various vintages since the 1980s, including some that were aged for decades, this wine consistently impresses. Its profile is rich and intricate, dominated by dark cherry and plum flavors typical of Napa Valley’s exceptional offerings.
Double Diamond Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($90). A compelling yet accessible wine produced by Schrader, characterized by bold black fruit and cassis scents with flavors of plum, black cherry, and nuances of tea, soil, and vanilla.
Acumen Mountainside Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($85). This Napa Valley wine features a remarkable selection of cabernet sauvignons, extending from this particular wine to the rich and luxurious PEAK Edcora Vineyard. Regarded as a relatively good value, the Mountainside is notable among its competitors.
This wine exhibits a more pronounced character compared to the more traditional PEAK variants, reminiscent of the durable cabernets from the 1970s known for their aging potential. The Mountainsie showcases a fruit-driven approach enhanced by merlot and malbec to soften the tannins. Flavors of ripe plum combine with notes of chocolate and mocha, alongside floral and violet aromas accenting the black cherry profile.
Ehlers Estate Jean Leducq Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($160). Influenced by the French philanthropists Jean and Sylvia Leducq, this high-caliber wine from St. Helena represents power delicately encased in sophistication. Only crafted in exceptional years, this wine promises longevity but is also enjoyable presently. It was tasted in conjunction with the concentrated 1886 Cabernet Sauvignon ($120) of the same year, with the 1886 marking the establishment year of the winery by Bernard Ehlers, which was later acquired by the Leducq Charitable Trust in 1996.
Sullivan Coeur de Vigne Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($100). Located at the historic Sullivan Rutherford Estate, this impressive wine showcases the essence of Napa Valley. Comprising 80% cabernet sauvignon, with the remainder merlot and petit verdot, it presents a harmonious and structured taste. The flavor profile includes blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry. It’s ready to drink now, offering immediate enjoyment without the need for further aging.
Priest Ranch Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($60). This wine is highlighted by its abundant red cherry scent, along with dark fruit flavors, licorice, and mocha notes.
Affordable alternatives include:
Hahn Family Wines California Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 ($16). Known for its good value, this wine features cherry scents, a touch of leather, and mature black fruit tastes.
True Myth Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($24): This affordably priced cabernet sauvignon from California offers a good daily drinking option. It’s approachable and features lush, smooth red fruit flavors.
Tenuta Luce Lucente 2021 ($29): Consistently a top pick, this super-Tuscan combines merlot and local sangiovese grapes, creating a luscious wine with rich berry notes that pairs well with meats like ribs and burgers.
Domaine Bousquet Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 ($13): Offering exceptional value, this wine impresses with its vibrant, juicy red berry tastes and gentle tannins, making it a great choice for pairing with grilled beef. Produced in Argentina, this wine represents some of the best value available today.
Querciabella Chianti Classico DOCG 2019 ($32): A superb example of Tuscan red, featuring flavors of plum and dried cherry wrapped in soft tannins. It drinks well now and promises potential for aging.
Quinta da Fonte Souto Branco White 2022 ($27). Originating from the Alentejo region in Portugal, this wine showcases the quality associated with Symington. Predominantly crafted from arinto grapes, it undergoes fermentation and lees stirring, enhancing its soft texture and showcasing the fruit flavors that might otherwise go unnoticed. It offers a notable complexity.
J. de Villebois Sancerre Rosé 2023 ($30). This semi-dry rosé from Sancerre is filled with the essences of strawberry and raspberry. It suits those who prefer a slightly sweeter wine.
Garofoli Podium Anniversario Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi 2021 ($30). Hailing from Italy’s Marche region, this verdicchio is both enjoyable and drinkable, featuring refined citrus flavors.
Tom Marquardt and Patrick Darr have been crafting a weekly, syndicated wine column since 1985. For more insights, visit their blog at moreaboutwine.com. They can be contacted at marq1948@gmail.com.
New York Beer Project Gears Up for the Grand Opening of Beer Lodge in Orchard Park
New York Beer Project is preparing to launch its fourth venue, situated in Orchard Park, named the “New York Beer Project Beer Lodge.”
JetBlue Elevates Its In-flight Experience with ALB(R) Vodka: Celebrating a Spirited New York Collaboration
ALB® Vodka Joins Forces with JetBlue as the Exclusive Vodka Selection on Board
ALB® Vodka is thrilled to announce its collaboration with JetBlue, celebrated for its superior service and as New York’s Hometown Airline®, now featuring ALB® as its exclusive vodka partner. This partnership highlights a shared ethos and commitment to enhancing the inflight experience with a superior selection of beverages, now available on all JetBlue flights, in both Mint and core experience sections.
“JetBlue, representing the spirit of New York, is excited to incorporate a local favorite, ALB Vodka, into our passenger experience,” commented Jayne O’Brien, JetBlue’s head of marketing and customer support. “Offering ALB Vodka enriches our carefully chosen beverage menu, providing top-notch options in Mint and an outstanding liquor choice for our core seating passengers.”
Originating from Albany, New York, ALB® Vodka has not only captured the hearts of New Yorkers but has also seen a marked increase in sales nationally, extending into major restaurant chains, luxury hotels, sports arenas, and even expanding into the Caribbean markets. This expansion points to ALB® as a leading figure in the spirits industry today.
“This significant collaboration with JetBlue, a leader in aviation and customer experience, marks an exciting new p for us. We remain dedicated to our partners, customers, and especially to producing premium vodka,” said Brian Grimsley, National Sales Director.
Produced using world-famous New York water and charcoal-filtered for purity, ALB®’s process ensures a premium product that celebrates its New York roots and illustrates its dedication to excellence. The brand’s commitment to authenticity and quality aligns seamlessly with JetBlue’s vision, making this partnership a natural evolution for both New York icons.
This partnership adds more customer-centric options to JetBlue’s inflight experience and also solidifies ALB®’s position, not only as the spirit of New York, but also as the next generation’s vodka.
ALB® Vodka and JetBlue are excited to embark on this journey together, offering customers a taste of New York’s finest as they travel to destinations far and wide. As two brands rooted in innovation, quality, and the New
York spirit, this partnership promises to elevate the inflight experience to new heights.
About ALB Vodka:
ALB® (/ā’el’bē/) Vodka is a top-tier, gluten-free vodka distilled from 100% American corn and crafted in Albany, New York. It’s celebrated for its genuine, original narrative and its commitment to quality and affordability. Embracing the vibrant essence of New York, ALB® Vodka is rapidly becoming established in prominent places and is recognized as one of the quickest ascending independent spirit brands across the nation and internationally. For further details visit albvodka.com.
Contact Information
ALB Vodka Corporate Communications
Hello@albvodka.com
SOURCE: ALB® Vodka
View the original press release on accesswire.com
The Ultimate Gift Guide for Rum Enthusiasts
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Every year, we all encounter the simple yet puzzling challenge of finding the ideal gift for those who claim to need nothing or are difficult to shop for.
Fortunately, we have a straightforward solution to this timeless dilemma: alcohol.
Alcohol, or alternatively some type of food for non-drinkers, serves as the perfect continuing gift, allowing the recipient to enjoy it on their terms and ensuring it’s a pleasure to receive rather than another item taking up space.
Duppy Share’s rum is a particularly striking choice that not only catches the eye but also becomes a celebrated fixture in one’s home, perfect for any social gathering, whether it be a poker night or dinner celebration.
The celebrated brand known for its Caribbean rum has introduced a new range of gifts, perfectly timed for Father’s Day, though ideal for any enthusiast of rum.
Available options include Duppy Share Aged Rum, which is a harmonious mixture of Caribbean rums that have been aged; Duppy Share Spiced Rum, infused with accents of pineapple, kola nut, and exotic island spices; and Duppy Share XO Rum, a luxurious blend of rums aged five, eight, and 12 years from Barbados, offering a rich and indulgent taste experience.
Each rum selection is packaged in an attractive gift box and includes an engaging backstory of the brand’s origins.
George Frost, the founder, shared in a recent interview that the idea for the name “Duppy Share” emerged from a conversation he caught while vacationing in Barbados.
“I heard the bartender explaining to someone that in whisky production there’s something known as the angel’s share, which involves the evaporation of whisky that supposedly ascends to the heavens. However, he mentioned that in the Caribbean, they have a different belief,” Frost recounted.
“They imagine that mischievous spirits, called duppies, sneak in to steal the rum, then throw a grand celebration. Curious, I asked what that phenomenon was called. Surprisingly, he told me it was known as the duppy’s share, a term he wasn’t often asked about.”
This was the inspiration behind the creation of a new brand.
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You can find the full Duppy Share gifting range here, and find out more about the gift packs, below.
Including the Duppy Share Aged Rum 70cl, this award-winning blend of aged Caribbean rums is sourced from two of the world’s most prestigious distilleries. The Duppy Share blend contains a mix of three-year-old 100 per cent Pot Still Rum from the Worthy Park Distillery in Jamaica and the five-year-old Column Still rum from the Foursquare Distillery in Barbados.
The Duppy Share Spiced Rum 70cl combines two-year-aged rums from Jamaica and Barbados, featuring flavors of pineapple, kola nut, and island spices. This blend has garnered recognition with two stars at the Great Taste Awards and is ideally suited for mixing.
The Duppy Share XO Rum 70cl is crafted from a mix of five, eight, and 12-year aged column still rums from Barbados. Offering a luxurious experience, this rum presents a blend of velvet caramel, tamarind, toasted coconut, and violet. It is excellent when served neat or in an old-fashioned cocktail.
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