Warning: Attempt to read property "taxonomy" on bool in /home/icoholco/public_html/wp-content/themes/Grimag/archive.php on line 187
Wine lovers will find this advent calendar to be the perfect holiday gift, with its twelve nights of wine.
Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the wine lover in your life? Look no further than Vinebox’s advent calendar. While advent calendars traditionally feature chocolate or beauty products, Vinebox has taken it up a notch with their sommelier-curated wine advent calendar.
This advent calendar is not like your typical calendar; it offers a unique and exciting experience for each night leading up to the holidays. With 12 different wines from premier regions such as Italy, France, Spain, and California, this calendar is sure to please even the most discerning wine connoisseur.
Vinebox has reimagined their popular calendars with new designs and added features. The calendars now come in two options: Cozy, featuring red wines, and Chill, a mix of white, rose, and chilled red wines. You can even order both boxes for an extended 24-night experience. The packaging itself is gift-worthy, with a magnetic closure that adds an extra touch of excitement when opening each window.
Inside each box, you’ll find 12 wines, each in a 100 ml bottle. This allows for the perfect tasting portion, whether you want to try a new wine each night or host a wine tasting at home. To enhance your wine experience, the box also includes a wine guide with tasting notes and pairing recommendations. But it doesn’t stop there – each wine is accompanied by sommelier-led virtual tasting videos, giving you a deeper understanding of the flavors and characteristics of each wine.
As an added bonus, you’ll also receive a 12 Nights of Wine art print, with a different one included in each box. These prints are so charming, you’ll want to frame them and display them proudly in your home.
I recently had the pleasure of trying the Chill Collection from Vinebox, and I was blown away by the variety of wines and the attention to detail in the packaging. The opportunity to sample new wines without committing to a whole bottle was a game-changer for me. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just beginning your wine journey, this advent calendar is sure to delight.
Vinebox’s advent calendars are available for pre-sale now and will ship in mid-October, just in time for the holiday season. The 12 Nights of Wine calendar is priced at $129, while the extended 24 Nights of Wine calendar is priced at $199. So why not treat yourself or a loved one to a unique and memorable wine-tasting experience this holiday season? Cheers!
Some beer tastes like buttered popcorn for a scientific reason.
The Curious Case of Butterbeer: A Brewing Mystery
For all the beer connoisseurs out there, the concept of “butterbeer” may not be as fictional as it seems. Sure, we’ve all encountered those licensed novelty drinks at theme parks, but every now and then, you might stumble upon a beer that has a faint taste of buttered popcorn, even when it’s fresh from the tap or bottle. Intriguing, isn’t it? But how does this buttery flavor find its way into the beer in the first place? Well, let’s delve into the fascinating and somewhat surprising world of diacetyl.
Diacetyl, an alpha-diketone, is a chemical compound produced during the beer manufacturing process. It is commonly used as an artificial flavoring due to its strong buttery aroma. You might recognize its taste from microwave popcorn, movie theater popcorn, and some artificially flavored coffees. Surprisingly, diacetyl is also found in e-cigarettes and is even used to enhance the buttery taste in margarine, butter, and oil sprays. You might be surprised to learn that even real butter itself contains low levels of diacetyl.
Now here’s the interesting part: diacetyl is a natural byproduct of yeast fermentation. So, most beers produced with yeast will have some level of diacetyl during the brewing process. However, brewers usually have methods to control and eliminate diacetyl before the beer is ready for sale. If you detect that unmistakable buttery taste in your beer, it could mean that the diacetyl was intentionally left in for flavor, or there might have been sanitation issues during production.
As intriguing as butter-flavored beer may sound, it’s important to note that a hint of butter in your brew is far from harmless. Prolonged exposure to high levels of diacetyl is known to cause bronchiolitis obliterans, a severe and often fatal lung condition commonly referred to as “popcorn lung.” This condition initially came to light when it was discovered among microwave popcorn factory workers (via the American Lung Association). Even though the low levels of diacetyl found in beer and flavored foods were generally considered safe, recent studies suggest that even minimal exposure to diacetyl from consuming flavored foods can increase your susceptibility to COVID-19. Needless to say, it’s not something you want to find in your beer.
If you’re a novice home brewer, it’s crucial to understand how to control diacetyl in your creations. First and foremost, pay utmost attention to sanitation. While diacetyl is a natural byproduct of fermentation, it can also result from unwanted bacteria. Ensuring proper sanitation of your equipment and bottles will help mitigate the diacetyl issue and prevent any other potential contamination problems. Additionally, creating the right conditions for yeast to naturally reabsorb diacetyl during fermentation is key. This involves increasing the temperature towards the end of fermentation to enhance yeast metabolism, followed by cooling it down and allowing the yeast to rest in the bottles for a week before removing them. Furthermore, it’s essential to keep the beer cold after bottling to avoid any further re-fermentation of diacetyl during storage.
In conclusion, while the concept of butterbeer may have originated from the realms of fiction, there is indeed a scientific basis behind its flavor. Diacetyl, a chemical compound produced during the beer manufacturing process, lends that familiar buttery taste to certain brews. However, it’s crucial to ensure that diacetyl is controlled and kept at safe levels. As enjoyable as a hint of butter may be in your beer, it’s important to prioritize your health and make informed choices when it comes to consuming beverages with diacetyl.
Source: Tasting Table
It is common to serve beer in a glass that is ice cold for a reason.
Cracking open a cold one is a simple pleasure that people all over the world enjoy. There’s nothing quite like a chilled beer to cool you down on a hot day. Unlike other beverages like wine or soft drinks, beer glasses are often seen covered in frost. Have you ever wondered why this is the case? The reason is actually quite simple – it keeps the beer cold without diluting it.
Although serving a beer too cold can affect the overall experience, freezing beer glasses is a common practice. Beer experts argue that freezing glasses can subdue the subtle flavors and aromas that brewers work hard to create. The ideal temperature for serving beer is between 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the style. Most professionals in the beer industry, including brewers, bartenders, and cicerones (beer sommeliers), would advise against freezing your glass before pouring.
However, if your beer hasn’t been refrigerated, using a frosted glass is better than adding ice cubes. Ice cubes could dilute the flavor and body of the beer, which is not ideal for craft beers with complex flavors. On the other hand, frozen glasses are acceptable when serving macrobrews, the mass-produced lagers that are often enjoyed during casual occasions. These beers are not known for their complexity, so a frozen glass won’t make much of a difference.
When it comes to drinking beer at home, you have the freedom to do as you wish. If you prefer your beer served in a glass fresh from the freezer, go ahead. There are no strict rules or beer police to stop you. Just keep in mind that beer enthusiasts may judge your choice. However, it shouldn’t matter what others think as long as you enjoy your beer.
To achieve an icy glass, start with a room temperature glass, preferably a mug that is less likely to crack. Running cold water over the outside of the glass before freezing will help frost form. While some may argue against drinking a beer that is too cold, there is nothing wrong with it if it’s what you prefer. After all, you’re not freezing the beer itself or adding questionable ice cubes.
In the end, the choice is yours. Whether you follow the beer-serving best practices or not, the most important thing is to enjoy your beer in a way that brings you happiness and refreshment. So go ahead, crack open a cold one and savor the moment. Cheers!
Are you aware of the mysterious and chilling secrets that lay hidden within the confines of your freezer? It’s time to uncover the truth about what’s lurking behind that frosty door. Join me on this journey as we delve deep into the chilling unknown.
We all have that one appliance in our kitchen that we take for granted, the freezer. It’s where we store our ice cream, leftovers, and those frozen vegetables we swear we’ll eat one day. But have you ever stopped to wonder what else might be lurking in there, hidden beneath the frozen surface? The truth may shock you.
Imagine this: it’s a dark and stormy night. The power goes out, leaving your home in complete darkness. As you stumble around, looking for a flashlight, you can’t help but feel an eerie presence nearby. Goosebumps raise on your arms as the cold air from the freezer brushes against your skin. The hair on the back of your neck stands up, and you can’t shake the feeling that someone or something is watching you.
You cautiously make your way towards the freezer, the only source of light being the soft glow of the moon outside. You place your trembling hand on the handle, slowly pulling the door open. As you do, a gust of frigid air rushes out, sending shivers down your spine. And there, amidst the frozen goods, you spot it. Two glowing red eyes piercing through the darkness.
At first, you dismiss it as a trick of the light. But as the eyes grow brighter, you realize that something is terribly wrong. In a panic, you slam the door shut, but the eyes continue to burn into your memory. You can’t shake the feeling that whatever is in there is relentless and hungry.
Days turn into weeks, and the memories of those glowing eyes haunt your dreams. You try to forget, to go about your daily life as if nothing happened. But deep down, you know that the presence in your freezer hasn’t left. It’s waiting, patiently biding its time until the perfect moment to strike.
You become obsessed with finding answers, searching for clues that might explain the mysterious entity in your freezer. Late nights are spent scouring the internet for stories of similar occurrences, desperate to find someone who has experienced the same terrifying ordeal.
And then, one fateful evening, you stumble upon an article. The headline reads: “Lurking in Your Freezer: Uncovering the truth behind frozen hauntings.” You click, your heart pounding with anticipation, hoping to finally find the answers you’ve been seeking.
As you read through the article, a sense of both relief and dread washes over you. It turns out, you’re not alone in your chilling experience. Many others have encountered similar phenomena, with reports spanning across the globe. Theories range from vengeful spirits seeking refuge in the cold, to interdimensional beings that can only manifest through frozen portals.
One thing becomes clear – the mystery of the freezer lurker is far from solved. But armed with knowledge and the support of a newfound community, you feel a renewed sense of determination. You no longer feel like a helpless victim, but rather a brave explorer, ready to face the unknown.
So, the next time you open your freezer and feel that icy chill run down your spine, remember that you’re not alone. Somewhere out there, someone else is facing the same fear, the same uncertainty. Together, we can shine a light on the darkness and uncover the truth behind what’s lurking in our freezers.
The beer party in October 2023 was the largest Oktoberfest ever held.
The world’s largest celebration of beer, Munich’s Oktoberfest, broke records in 2023 with a staggering 7.2 million attendees. This year’s festival, which ran from September 16th to October 3rd, was extended by two additional days to coincide with the German Unity Day national holiday. The attendance numbers surpassed previous years, with 5.7 million people in 2022 and 6.3 million in 2019.
What is interesting, however, is that despite the record-breaking number of attendees, the thirst for beer seemed to have dwindled. Surprisingly, only an estimated 6.5 million measures of beer were served this year, which amounts to less than one per person. In comparison, 7.1 million measures were served in 2020, and 7.3 million in 2019.
Instead of reaching for the traditional amber elixir, festival-goers seemed to have a different agenda this year. Sales of non-alcoholic beverages saw a whopping 50% increase, indicating a shift in preferences. It appears that people are opting for healthier, non-alcoholic alternatives, which aligns with the rising trend of health-conscious living.
But it wasn’t just the beverages that saw a change in consumer behavior. Sales of food also experienced a boost, with a 15% increase compared to previous years. It seems that attendees were more interested in satisfying their culinary cravings rather than indulging in copious amounts of beer. This could be attributed to the growing popularity of food as an integral part of the Oktoberfest experience, with attendees seeking out traditional Bavarian delicacies and exploring a diverse range of culinary options.
The 2023 edition of Oktoberfest also had its fair share of intriguing tidbits. Beyond the attendance and beverage statistics, the festival witnessed numerous entertaining moments. From yodeling contests to bratwurst-eating competitions, there was no shortage of fun and games. Visitors were treated to a diverse range of attractions, including live music performances, traditional Bavarian dances, and mesmerizing firework displays lighting up the night sky.
Oktoberfest has always been synonymous with beer, but the 2023 edition showcased a new dimension to the festivities. The surge in non-alcoholic beverage sales and the emphasis on culinary experiences highlights an evolving consumer landscape. As people prioritize their well-being and embrace healthier choices, it is clear that the Oktoberfest experience is adapting to cater to these shifting preferences.
Despite the changes, one thing remains constant – the enduring spirit of camaraderie and celebration that permeates through the festival grounds. Whether it’s raising a glass of beer or indulging in delicious food, Oktoberfest continues to unite beer lovers from around the world in a joyous and unforgettable experience.
Whiskey (AKA Luke – Courtesy Post) –
Introducing Little Luke: A Heartwarming Tale of Second Chances
Once upon a time, in a small town shelter, a tiny Chihuahua named Luke found himself on the dreaded “euth list.” He was just a little pup, picked up as a stray and left with no hope of a future. Little Luke was scared, alone, and in desperate need of a miracle.
That miracle came in the form of a kind-hearted family who decided to visit the shelter one sunny afternoon. Harper and Kendall Murray, two young siblings with hearts full of love, were instantly drawn to the vulnerable pup. They couldn’t bear the thought of Luke’s life coming to a tragic end. So, they made the life-changing decision to bring him home and give him a second chance.
Luke’s transition into his new home wasn’t easy. He was cautious and unsure, having spent most of his life surviving on the streets. But Harper and Kendall showered him with love and patience, creating a safe haven for him to heal and grow. Gradually, Luke’s fear began to subside, and he embraced his new life with joy and gratitude.
The Murray family watched in awe as Little Luke transformed from a timid pup into a confident and loving companion. He quickly became a cherished member of their family, bringing laughter and warmth into their lives. Luke’s journey inspired Harper and Kendall to fight hard in their own lives and never give up, just as their father had taught them.
But there was one crucial lesson that Luke had yet to learn – the lesson of resilience in the face of adversity. This is where Matt Rhule, the head of the family, came in. Rhule understood that for this family to truly thrive, they needed to embrace the difficult moments and find strength even in defeat. He knew that teaching them to hate losing would be the key to their success.
Meanwhile, in Nebraska, a talented defensive back decided to make a bold move. Recognizing that his journey on the football field needed a new path, he entered the transfer portal. This unexpected development shook things up within the team and set the stage for an intriguing season ahead.
As the Nebraska football season unfolded, it became clear that it was a tale of two seasons. On the surface, the scoreboard displayed wins and losses, victories and defeats. But beneath that, there was a deeper narrative – a story of growth, determination, and resilience.
Looking ahead, big changes await Nebraska football. The upcoming schedule promises both challenges and opportunities. And as fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead, one thing remains certain – this season is about more than just the final score. It’s about the lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the triumphs celebrated along the way.
So, as the story of Little Luke and the Murray family continues to unfold, we invite you to join us on this inspiring journey. Let us celebrate the power of second chances, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring love between a family and their four-legged companion. Together, we can learn to embrace life’s challenges, fight hard, and never give up.
Europe’s largest rum distillery is DropWorks, the brand behind it.
**Lewis Hayes and the Rise of DropWorks: A Revolutionary Rum Distillery**
In a world where rum has long been misrepresented and misunderstood, Lewis Hayes, the founder of DropWorks, is on a mission to change the narrative surrounding this beloved spirit. Over the past two decades, the 37-year-old industry expert has dedicated his life to educating bartenders, owners, and producers about the true essence of rum – its quality, craftsmanship, and rich history. And now, Hayes is taking his passion to new heights with the launch of DropWorks, Europe’s largest rum distillery, situated in the idyllic surroundings of the Welbeck Estate in Nottinghamshire.
DropWorks Distillery, spanning an impressive 17,000 sq ft, is not your typical rum production facility. Not only does it boast state-of-the-art equipment and innovative techniques, but it also houses a unique underground storage space, a three-mile tunnel originally constructed by the 5th Duke of Portland in the late 1800s. With a £1.8m investment, DropWorks has secured its position in the heart of Sherwood Forest, a historical treasure trove that now supports local artisan businesses.
Hayes’ vision for DropWorks extends far beyond merely producing exceptional rum. He aims to become a beacon of quality production, committed to transparency and accessibility. To achieve this, DropWorks will implement an open-door policy, inviting head bartenders to collaborate in creating their own unique blends. Acting as a type of cooperative, the distillery welcomes creativity and individuality, allowing bartenders to experiment with different cuts and concoctions. Furthermore, DropWorks has formed a partnership with Heriot-Watt University, offering apprenticeship opportunities to students enrolled in their esteemed brewing and distilling course. This collaboration not only aids in groundbreaking research but also ensures the future growth and development of the rum industry.
Hayes predicts an imminent rum revolution reminiscent of the Britpop movement. He believes this shift is long overdue, as rum has been overshadowed by other spirits for far too long. With its diverse nature and countless variables, rum possesses a vast untapped potential. Contrary to popular belief, rum is not solely tied to pirates and tropical hideaways; it can be expertly crafted from stable raw materials and shipped worldwide. Hayes’ passion for rum is palpable, evident in his ownership of multiple cocktail bars in London, one of which boasts an impressive collection of 800 sipping rums.
While gin currently dominates the spirits market, Hayes sees potential for rum to surpass it. Unlike gin, which has become saturated and diluted over time, rum remains unregulated in terms of flavorings and spiced variations. Hayes recognizes the need for education and standardization within the rum industry, advocating for a reevaluation of the current norms. By encouraging consumers to appreciate rum as a standalone spirit, he aims to elevate its status alongside the likes of brandies, whiskeys, and tequilas.
DropWorks has not only embarked on a journey of production but also embarked on immersive distillery tours to provide a firsthand experience of the craft. Looking to expand further, the company is focusing on scaling its backend operations, including website management, marketing, and sales teams. Additionally, they plan to establish a network of rum ambassadors nationwide, spreading the word about the exceptional quality and craftsmanship behind DropWorks rum.
While currently aligned with the UK market, DropWorks has the capacity to produce two million bottles of rum annually, creating up to 10 barrels of rum per day. This impressive output positions DropWorks as a player to watch as the rum renaissance gains momentum. With Lewis Hayes at the helm, DropWorks is set to revolutionize the rum industry, bringing it back into the spotlight and proving that rum can truly compete with the finest spirits the world has to offer.
Title: The Revolutionary Rum: DropWorks Challenges Drinking Norms and Bartender Dilemmas
In a world dominated by massive corporates and generic liquor brands, one company is daring to shake up the industry and offer an alternative. DropWorks, a small-scale distillery in England, has introduced a unique product that has already caught the attention of bartenders and rum enthusiasts alike.
What sets DropWorks apart is their innovative approach to rum production. Utilizing a hybrid molasses and double retort still, a first of its kind in England, they are able to create a rum that stands out in terms of flavor and quality. But it’s not just about creating a superior product; DropWorks is on a mission to change drinking habits and challenge the status quo.
Ben Hayes, one of the founders of DropWorks, understands the power of pricing when it comes to making an impact in the market. By being able to affordably price their product, DropWorks aims to make their rum accessible to both supermarkets and bartenders. No longer will their bottles gather dust on shelves; instead, they can be used in innovative cocktails that highlight the unique qualities of their rum.
While DropWorks doesn’t aim to engage in a price war with the large corporations, their ultimate goal is to educate both consumers and professionals about the quality and affordability of their rum. Hayes believes that by showcasing their product side by side with well-known brands, bartenders will face a dilemma in their minds. Suddenly, there is a choice between the generic and the exceptional.
DropWorks sees itself as a pioneer in the industry, leading the charge towards a new era of drinking habits. They firmly believe that there is a place for alternative rum options that offer both quality and accessibility. Through education and a dash of fun, they hope to garner support and enthusiasm for their unique brand.
In an era where consumers are increasingly seeking out unique and flavorful experiences, DropWorks is positioning itself as a game-changer. They are challenging the notion that only the big brands deserve attention and recognition. By embracing the possibilities of a different kind of rum, DropWorks is primed to capture a loyal following and revolutionize the way people enjoy their drinks.
With their hybrid molasses and double retort still, DropWorks is more than just a rum producer — they are pioneers of change. Their commitment to quality, affordability, and above all, to challenging industry norms, sets them in a league of their own. So, let’s raise a glass and join DropWorks on their mission to teach people about the exceptional world of alternative rum. Cheers to progress and enjoyment!
Massachusetts’ whiskey revolution has made Nantucket’s ‘liquid gold’ a significant part of it.
The whiskey industry is on the verge of a revolution. The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission is challenging the notion that Scottish distillers are unmatched in their craft. This movement has gained support from Triple Eight Distillery, a member of the Cisco Brewers family based in Nantucket, Massachusetts. With this development, Massachusetts is positioning itself to render Scotch Whiskey obsolete.
According to Bryan Jennings, the lead distiller at Triple Eight, everything begins in Massachusetts. He is captivated by the region’s distinctive seasons, which he believes can be tasted in their whiskey. The salt air, crashing waves, howling wind, and the lingering effects of Tropical Storm Ophelia create a climate that rivals Scotland. This unique environment lends an air of mystique to the whiskey aging in their colossal oak barrels.
The stakes are high, as the alcoholic beverages market is projected to exceed $4 billion by 2029. Moreover, distilled spirits have experienced a 12% surge in sales as the nation emerges from the grip of the pandemic. Jay Harman, the CEO of Cisco Brewers, proudly refers to their whiskey as the “biggest best-kept secret.” Distributors often wonder if they are consuming it all. However, this exclusive “Notch” brand comes with a hefty price tag, with bottles selling for north of $400. Nonetheless, its quality has garnered recognition, including the prestigious “Liquid Gold” award.
Cisco Brewers doesn’t solely focus on high-end products. They offer a range of more affordable drinks, such as flavored spirits, beer, wine, and Nantucket craft cocktails. These have been particularly popular this summer, with their “Nantucket Blue” concoctions flying off the shelves. But for the Massachusetts-based company, it’s more than just selling drinks. They are taking on industry giants who have been rattled by the winds of change. Craft brewers are experiencing a nearly 5% growth, while major players like Bud Light are faltering and losing market share.
At present, Cisco Brewers employs around 300 individuals on Nantucket and in their beer gardens located in the Seaport district, New Bedford, and Portsmouth. They are even considering expanding operations to Newport, Rhode Island. Harman describes the company, composed of Triple Eight, Cisco Brewers, and Nantucket Vineyard, as a tight-knit “family” with an island vibe. However, they are poised to become something greater. Just as Sam Adams and Harpoon Brewery achieved explosive success, Cisco Brewers aims to capture the essence of Nantucket and attract customers from across the country to this exclusive island.
Finding accommodation on Nantucket can be almost impossible, and the ferry ride can be treacherous. Yet, amidst the towering stacks of oak barrels, shared by distillers from Kentucky’s Buffalo Trace to wineries far and wide, you can sense the birth of a new brand. The dedication to their craft is admirable, as the term “single malt” signifies that the whiskey is sourced from a single distillery and the barrels are meticulously blended by distillers trained by true masters of the trade. A sip of an as-yet-unreleased blend will leave a lasting impression of pristine sharpness. It’s akin to the long-awaited embrace of a cherished lover. This is the essence of what is being cultivated in Massachusetts today.
WhistlePig is releasing a new whiskey that has been created with the late legendary rocker Robbie Robertson.
Robbie Robertson, the renowned musician and leader of The Band, sadly passed away earlier this year at the age of 80. However, his legacy lives on not just through his remarkable catalogue of music, but also through an exciting collaboration with Vermont distillery WhistlePig. Together, they have created a special rye whiskey called Robbie’s Blend.
Commemorating the 45th anniversary of the Martin Scorsese concert film The Last Waltz, WhistlePig is releasing Robbie’s Blend. It is a 12-year-old Canadian rye whiskey that has been finished in three different types of casks: madeira (76 percent), port (19 percent), and sauternes (five percent). This unique combination of casks imparts a symphony of flavors, including citrus, cedar, walnut, oak, and white pepper, making each sip a memorable experience.
Mitch Mahar, the master distiller at WhistlePig, has a long-standing tradition of watching The Last Waltz on Thanksgiving. He expressed his gratitude for being able to collaborate with Robbie Robertson himself and create a whiskey that pays homage to the film’s legacy. Robbie personally contributed to the blend, ensuring that it offers a bespoke and unparalleled taste profile.
To further celebrate the release of Robbie’s Blend, The Last Waltz will be reissued on vinyl. Additionally, a launch party is being held at Analog in Nashville. Fans of WhistlePig and Robbie Robertson can purchase this limited edition whiskey for $175 from the WhistlePig website or select stores in Tennessee.
In addition to Robbie’s Blend, WhistlePig offers a diverse portfolio of whiskeys that cater to different preferences. If you’re interested in exploring their other offerings, you can find the entire range available for purchase on ReserveBar.
To complement your enjoyment of Robbie’s Blend or any other whiskey, you may consider pairing it with a heritage turkey for the upcoming Thanksgiving celebration. Robb Report recommends a heritage turkey as the best Thanksgiving bird and provides a guide on how to obtain one. If you are looking for other wine options, Robb Report also suggests nine stellar West Coast Pinot Noirs and the ten best wines to pair with steak.
Stay up to date with the latest news by following Robb Report on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And don’t forget to sign up for their Newsletter.
Robbie Robertson may have left this world, but his spirit lives on through his music, and now, through Robbie’s Blend. Let us raise a glass to toast the incredible talent and unforgettable contributions he made to the world of music and whiskey. Cheers!
Whiskey revolution in Massachusetts includes Nantucket’s prized ‘liquid gold’.
**Redefining the Whiskey Game: A Tale of American Single Malt Distillers**
Whiskey enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a revolution brewing in the whiskey business. The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission has set out on a mission – to elevate U.S. distillers to the same level as their Scottish counterparts. And leading the charge is Triple Eight Distillery, a proud member of the revered Cisco Brewers family that calls Nantucket home. Yes, you heard that right. Massachusetts is now poised to overshadow Scotch Whiskey. Bryan Jennings, the talented lead distiller at Triple Eight, recently shared his excitement with the Herald during our visit to Nantucket. “Everything starts here,” he exclaimed. “I love the seasons here, and that’s what people say they can taste.”
What makes Triple Eight’s whiskies so enigmatic, you may wonder? It’s the influences of the salt air, the majestic waves, the caressing wind, and even the remnants of Tropical Storm Ophelia that once fiercely whipped this enchanting island. These elements create a climate reminiscent of Scotland, infusing the whiskey aging within the colossal oaken barrels with an unparalleled mystique. As the alcoholic beverages market is projected to surpass $4 billion by 2029, according to industry estimates, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Triple Eight’s portfolio boasts a whiskey that has been hailed as the “biggest best-kept secret.” Cisco Brewers CEO Jay Harman proudly stated, “Distributors have asked, ‘Are we drinking it all?'” Though the demand is high, these bottles do come with a price tag north of $400. However, their exquisite quality has not gone unnoticed. The whiskey has garnered numerous awards, including the prestigious title of “Liquid Gold.” Moreover, alongside their premium offerings, the company also caters to a wider audience with their range of flavored spirits, beer, wine, and their summer sensation, the invigorating “Nantucket Blue” craft cocktail.
Yet, this story is more than just about products and profits. It is a tale of Massachusetts-based businesses boldly taking on industry giants amidst a period of immense change. Craft brewers are flourishing, with nearly 5% growth, while the major players, such as Bud Light, stumble and lose market share. Employing around 300 individuals on the island and at beer gardens in the Seaport, New Bedford, and Portsmouth, N.H., Cisco Brewers doesn’t just exude a “family” atmosphere, but also possesses a distinct island vibe. However, their ambitions go far beyond. Just as Samuel Adams and Harpoon Brewery broke barriers, Cisco aspires to capture the spirit of Nantucket within a libation that will entice customers from every corner of the country.
Undoubtedly, reaching this goal won’t be easy. Nantucket, known for its exclusivity, offers scarce housing options and a ferry ride that can turn choppy on a whim. Yet, amidst the oaken barrels, towering from floor to ceiling, one can sense the dawn of a new brand. As distillers from Buffalo Trace in Kentucky to wineries far and wide contribute to this vibrant tapestry, one cannot help but be captivated by the unwavering devotion to the craft. “Single malt” signifies a whiskey sourced from one place, with barrels intertwined and blended by distillers who have learned from true masters of their trade. A single sip from a blend that has yet to grace the market lingers in your memory, its clean sharpness dancing on your palate for days to come. It is akin to a long-awaited kiss, an experience that awakens the senses. And this, my friends, is precisely what is being created right here in Massachusetts.
So, let us raise a glass to the revolutionaries at Triple Eight Distillery, the pioneers of American single malt whiskey. They are rewriting the whiskey game and challenging the long-standing reign of Scotch Whiskey. With each meticulously crafted batch, they beckon whiskey aficionados from across the nation to embark on a journey to Nantucket’s shores, one of the most exclusive and alluring islands of the world. Amidst the swirling mists and whispered secrets of their aging barrels, a new brand is born – a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to defy tradition and embrace the allure of untapped potential.
At Sound On Sound, Redemption Whiskey and other brands stand out.
Reliving the Music Festival Vibes: Sound on Sound 2023
Last weekend, I had an unforgettable experience attending Sound on Sound, a festival that brought together world-class music, local cuisine, wine, craft beer, and cocktails in Bridgeport, Connecticut. As I reflect on the two-day event, I can’t help but reminisce about the fantastic drinks that were on offer. Let me take you on a journey through some of the standout beverages that we had the pleasure of sampling.
Redemption Whiskey, a brand that prides itself on its pre-Prohibition style rye forward whiskey cocktails, was present at the festival, delighting attendees with their expertly crafted drinks. With offerings like the Redemption Old Fashioned and the Redemption Mule, they invited us to “drink like it’s 1919.” And let me tell you, these cocktails were nothing short of delightful. The bold and spicy rye whiskey gave them a distinct edge, making each sip a truly special experience. To enhance the vintage atmosphere, Redemption even set up an old-fashioned photo booth, adding another layer of enjoyment to their activation. This was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the festival!
As we moved on from Redemption Whiskey, our next stop brought us to the Dos Hombres truck. Famous for their excellent Mezcal cocktails, Dos Hombres showcased their smooth and flavorful Mezcal in a variety of drinks. One standout was the Mezcaloma, their unique twist on a Paloma, featuring Dos Hombres Mezcal, grapefruit juice, soda, and lime. It offered a refreshing and vibrant flavor profile that left a lasting impression. Another noteworthy offering was the Watermelon Margarita, with Dos Hombres Mezcal, Lillet Blanc, watermelon, lime, and a touch of agave. The combination of ingredients resulted in a perfectly balanced and enticing cocktail. Dos Hombres truly brought their A-game to the festival!
Before the Red Hot Chili Peppers took the stage, we couldn’t resist stopping by Josh Cellars for a glass of their sauvignon blanc and their delightful prosecco rosé. These wines proved to be the perfect accompaniment to the lively atmosphere, and I can confidently say they should be on everyone’s go-to list for festivals and parties. And then, it was time for the music to begin!
As we eagerly await Sound on Sound 2024, we can already plan ahead and ensure we don’t miss out on the next edition by getting on the festival’s update list. In the meantime, why not recreate the festival vibes at home? Try making a Redemption Old Fashioned tonight. It’s the perfect way to transport yourself back to those magical moments.
Final Thoughts
Sound on Sound 2023 was a thrilling experience, filled with incredible music, delectable cuisine, and, of course, unforgettable drinks. Redemption Whiskey and Dos Hombres showcased their expertise in crafting unique and enticing cocktails, while Josh Cellars provided the perfect wines to elevate the festival experience. These brands are all exceptional choices to enjoy at home, ensuring the festival atmosphere lives on even when we’re sitting in our living rooms. So, why not raise a glass and toast to the memories made at Sound on Sound? Cheers!