Pet Alliance Unveils 11th Annual ‘My Best Friend Wine Label Contest’
Furry friends have the opportunity to be featured on a wine bottle thanks to Orlando’s Pet Alliance and their 11th annual "My Best Friend Wine Label Contest" in partnership with Quantum Leap Winery. Pet parents can submit photos of their cats or dogs for a chance to have their beloved pet grace the label of the 2024 “My Best Friend Rescue Red Wine.”
Entries are accepted until July 31, with a $5 fee for each submission. Voting for the entries opens on August 1 and runs until August 24, with each vote requiring a $1 donation, which helps raise funds for the organization.
Steve Bardy, the executive director of Pet Alliance, expressed excitement over the contest, highlighting it as a wonderful way for pet owners to support their mission. "It’s always exciting to see proud pet parents showing off their adorable fur babies and seeing all the fun photos that come in," he noted.
The winning dog and cat will have their images, names, and stories featured on the wine label. Additionally, grand prize winners will receive a case of wine and a feature in Pet Alliance’s "Wags and Whiskers" newsletter. Runners-up in each category will also earn prizes, and all winners and their families will be invited to an event at Quantum Leap, the winery set to reopen this month at a new location on Lake Fairview.
Over the years, the contest has raised nearly $380,000, significantly aiding Pet Alliance, which provides shelter, medical care, and food assistance to over 3,500 homeless dogs and cats annually.
For those interested in participating, entries can be submitted through gogophotocontest.com/mybestfriend or directly at petallianceorlando.org.
Top 10 Wine Destinations for 2025: Recommendations by European Best Destinations
Plovdiv, Bulgaria, has been named the Best Wine Capital of Europe in 2025, following a poll of over 284,000 wine enthusiasts from 82 countries. This title recognizes Plovdiv’s long-standing winemaking tradition, which dates back over 5,000 years. With its stunning scenery and unique terroir, the region produces a variety of excellent wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and local specialties like Mavrud and Rubin. The city hosts various wine festivals, making it an inviting destination for wine lovers and tourists.
Here are the other nine top wine destinations recommended for 2025:
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La Rioja, Spain:Located near Bilbao, La Rioja is celebrated for its Tempranillo grape, yielding rich red wines. The area offers numerous vineyards with accommodations, such as the architecturally stunning Hotel Marqués de Riscal.
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Bordeaux, France:Renowned for its red blends, Bordeaux is home to approximately 6,000 wine estates. Visitors can enjoy immersive experiences at the Cité du Vin and luxurious stays at properties like Château Grand Barrail.
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Douro Valley, Portugal:A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Douro Valley is known for its Port wines. Visitors can explore picturesque vineyards and stay at Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House for an enriching experience.
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Tuscany, Italy:Famous for wines like Chianti Classico, Tuscany offers scenic views and rich cultural experiences. COMO Castello Del Nero provides a luxurious stay with gourmet dining options.
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Champagne, France:The birthplace of sparkling wine, the Champagne region boasts wineries like Moët & Chandon and offers a luxurious stay at the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa.
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Piedmont, Italy:Known for Barolo and Barbaresco wines, Piedmont features rolling hills and medieval villages. The 5-star Principi di Piemonte offers a refined stay amid this beautiful region.
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Alsace, France:This region showcases the blend of French and German heritage, producing distinctive white wines. The charming villages along the Alsace Wine Route provide a picturesque backdrop for wine exploration.
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Mosel Valley, Germany:The valley is famous for Riesling vineyards and offers a combination of scenic beauty and historical architecture. Moselschlösschen Spa & Resort is a recommended spot for relaxation.
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Santorini, Greece:Recognized for its distinct wines like Assyrtiko, Santorini’s volcanic soil contributes to unique flavors. Visitors can enjoy guided tours at various wineries and luxurious stays at hotels like Santorini Secret Suites & Spa.
These destinations offer rich histories, stunning landscapes, and exceptional wines, making them must-visit spots for wine enthusiasts in 2025.
Top 10 White Wines Under $10: Winners from Leading Wine Competitions
Here’s a curated list of 20 award-winning white wines from the U.S. that cost $10 or less. Each wine has been distinguished by major wine competitions and recognized for their quality and value.
In creating this list, results from several prestigious wine competitions were analyzed, including the Decanter World Wine Awards, Wine Spectator, and the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
Recommended White Wines
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Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling, Columbia Valley, Washington – $10
Known for its bright aromatic quality, this Riesling features notes of peach, green apple, and florals, with a balanced sweetness and a crisp finish. -
Barefoot Moscato, California – $6
This wine is fruit-forward and accessible, showcasing peach, apricot, and citrus flavors, with a light and refreshing sweetness. -
Cupcake Vineyards Chardonnay, Central Coast, California – $10
With aromas of apple and vanilla, this wine presents a creamy texture complemented by well-balanced acidity and light oak notes. -
Dark Horse Sauvignon Blanc, California – $9
Recognized for bold flavors, this Sauvignon Blanc includes grapefruit and lime, finishing crisp and refreshing. -
Bogle Vineyards Chardonnay, California – $10
A family-owned winery producing sustainable wines, this Chardonnay offers flavors of green apple, pear, and light oak with a creamy finish. -
Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc, California – $6
Exhibiting crisp lime, pear, and a hint of green herb, this wine is known for its refreshing qualities. -
Fetzer Shaly Loam Gewürztraminer, California – $8
With notes of lychee, rose petal, and spice, this wine is balanced with a touch of sweetness. -
Liberty Creek Pinot Grigio, California – $5
Light and drinkable, this Pinot Grigio offers refreshing notes of pear, citrus, and green apple. -
The Naked Grape Chardonnay, California – $5
This straightforward wine showcases flavors of apple and tropical fruit with a smooth finish. -
Chateau Souverain Sauvignon Blanc, California – $10
Featuring crisp lime and grapefruit along with a hint of minerality, this wine finishes clean and refreshing. -
Sutter Home White Zinfandel, California – $6
A popular pink wine, it bursts with strawberry and melon notes, complemented by refreshing sweetness. -
Gnarly Head Pinot Grigio, California – $10
Known for its value-oriented, fruit-forward profile, this Pinot Grigio includes crisp pear and citrus with a clean finish. -
Almaden Chardonnay, California – $3
With a history dating back to the 1850s, this Chardonnay is consistently good, highlighting ripe apple and vanilla flavors with a buttery finish. -
Yellow Tail Pinot Grigio, SE Australia – $6
This wine is approachable and features green apple and pear notes, finishing crisply. -
Franzia Crisp White, California – $3
Famous for boxed wine, it offers citrus and floral notes with a clean finish, making it a great value. -
Folie a Deux Menage à Trois Moscato, California – $10
Known for its bold flavors and approachable blends, it presents sweet notes of peach and apricot. -
HRM Rex Goliath Sauvignon Blanc, California – $5
This wine is easy-drinking, showcasing citrus and tropical fruit notes with a refreshing finish. -
Bella Sera Pinot Grigio, Veneto Italy IGT – $8
This Italian-inspired wine features a blend of pear, lemon, and crisp apple flavors. -
Concannon Vineyard Glen Ellen Reserve Chardonnay, California – $5
Known for quality at accessible prices, this Chardonnay offers apple, pear, and vanilla notes with a well-rounded finish. -
Flip Flop Left Coast Riesling, California – $6
This fun and approachable Riesling includes peach and floral notes with a touch of sweetness.
These selections offer excellent value and are perfect for casual enjoyment or everyday drinking.
Action Star Dolph Lundgren Unveils Hard Cut Vodka Brand
Dolph Lundgren, the iconic action star known for his performances in films such as Rocky and The Expendables, is venturing into the world of spirits with the launch of his vodka brand, Hard Cut. Drawing on his background in chemical engineering, which he earned before his Hollywood fame, Lundgren aims to create a standout vodka in a market saturated with other celebrity spirits, like those from The Rock and George Clooney.
In his pursuit of the perfect vodka, Lundgren and his wife, Emma, sampled numerous brands but felt compelled to develop their own when they couldn’t find a suitable option. He describes Hard Cut Vodka as "the perfect liquid for a vodka world gone soft," emphasizing that it should be enjoyed on the rocks.
The vodka is noted for its smooth, creamy texture with flavor hints of green apple, fennel, roasted potato, and butterscotch. Currently, Hard Cut Vodka is exclusively available in the United States, priced at $29.99 for a 700ml bottle. It can be purchased from Flaviar.com and will soon be available at BevMo locations in the US. Fans outside the US are hopeful that the vodka will be distributed internationally in the near future.
Dolph Lundgren Launches New Vodka Brand: The ‘Heavyweight Champion’ of Spirits
Dolph Lundgren is making a significant splash in the spirits industry with his new vodka brand, "Hard Cut Vodka," which launched recently in the U.S. Lundgren describes this vodka as a bold newcomer to the premium alcohol market, aiming to stand out in a space he feels has become stagnant. Sourced from Idaho potatoes and rocky mountain water, the vodka is bottled at 90 proof, offering a creamy mouthfeel and smooth finish with flavor notes of green apple, fennel, and butterscotch.
The actor has been developing this project for over five years, overseeing every detail from ingredient selection to branding and even receiving bartending training. He sought to create a vodka with character, emphasizing its high quality and versatility, whether sipped chilled or in cocktails.
Lundgren’s transition from Hollywood action star to spirits entrepreneur feels natural to him. He draws parallels between the intensity of his film career and his approach to crafting vodka, defining Hard Cut Vodka by its strength and refinement, qualities he embodies himself.
Expressing his vision, Lundgren shared that Hard Cut Vodka is not just a product but also a reflection of his life philosophy. He sees this venture as a potential legacy, hoping it inspires others to pursue boldness in their lives. The name "Hard Cut" is a nod to filmmaking terminology, symbolizing progress and determination, much like Lundgren’s career trajectory.
This vodka represents a new challenge for him, combining creativity and entrepreneurship in a way he hasn’t explored before. He aims for Hard Cut Vodka to resonate with consumers, aspiring to make it a celebrated name in the spirits category.
Mondial du Rhum: Highlights from a Thriving Second Edition Celebrating the World of Rum
The Mondial du Rhum event marked its second edition from February 12-14, 2025, at the Palais Brongniart in Paris, and was themed "Humans at the Heart of the Rum Ecosystem." This year’s summit went beyond merely tasting rum, incorporating significant cultural experiences and fostering essential business connections.
The event was attended by over 300 industry professionals and connoisseurs, with buyers showing a pronounced interest, particularly in the mornings. This trend contributed to increased sales, especially in the event’s store, highlighting the appeal of exotic rum products. Patrick Loger, the organizer, emphasized the event’s growth into a vital international platform for the spirits industry.
Culturally, the summit featured various performances, including a fashion show by the haute couture house Zaady and musical interpretations from artists like Axelle Saint-Cirel. In addition, the "Théâtre des Saveurs" tasting area, arranged by Gault & Millau, allowed attendees to sample different rum products and discover new creations.
The summit received support from several institutional partners, including the General Direction of French Overseas Territories and Business France, which collaborated to highlight exhibitor expertise. Furthermore, a new initiative called "spiritourism" was launched by Atout France to promote tourism linked to the spirits industry.
Additionally, producers aligned with the summit’s theme formed a group called Ecorum, focusing on promoting agricultural rum production and enhancing its representation. The event showcased the rum industry’s social and economic significance and alluded to its promising future.
For more details, visit the official site: Mondial du Rhum.
Top Rums from Around the Globe for Crafting Perfect Cocktails
Rum is a vital component of any home bar, beloved for both sipping neat and as a base for cocktails. Here are five exceptional rums, recognized by the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), that are essential for crafting perfect rum cocktails. Each of these premium selections is available in the U.S. and ranges in price from $40 to $180 per bottle, with tasting notes provided by the 2024 IWSC judging panel.
Foursquare Rum Distillery 14 YO Equipoise Port Cask Finish Rum
- ABV: 61%
- Price: $162
- Tasting Notes: The 2024 IWSC Rum of the Year, this rum achieved an impressive 99/100 points. It offers enticing aromas of leather and olive oil, transitioning into flavors of citrus peel, cinnamon, and dark chocolate with a lingering dry, tangy finish of caramel and banana bread.
2011 Foursquare Rum Distillery ‘Vintage’ Single Blended Rum
- ABV: 60%
- Price: $125
- Tasting Notes: This blend features a bold introduction of apricots and coconut leading to tropical flavors of dark chocolate and vanilla ice cream, culminating in a rich finish resembling treacle and tobacco.
Foursquare Rum Distillery Exceptional Cask Selection ‘Covenant’ 18 Year Old Single Blend Rum
- ABV: 58%
- Price: $178
- Tasting Notes: Aromas of toffee and tropical fruit open before revealing an oily vanilla richness, expertly balanced with toffee and caramel, ending with a flavorful finish of sawdust and coffee.
These aged rums, rich in depth and complexity, are perfect for classic cocktails. Consider using them in a rum Old Fashioned or a Mai Tai to elevate the drink’s overall complexity.
Phraya Deep Matured Gold Rum
- ABV: 40%
- Price: $61
- Tasting Notes: Hailing from Thailand, Phraya is celebrated for its blend of rums aged 6 to 12 years, presenting aromas of milk chocolate and dried stone fruit. The palate reveals caramel and chocolate, finishing with baking spices and coconut.
This rum shines in cocktails like a rum-based Negroni, where its sweetness balances the bitterness of Campari.
Desert Diamond Distillery, Gold Miner 11 YO Barrel Reserve
- ABV: 40%
- Price: $41
- Tasting Notes: This craft New Mexico rum features floral aromas of roses and violets paired with decadent chocolate. The palate is balanced with coffee and caramel, leading to a lingering tropical fruit finish.
Gold Miner rum is an excellent foundation for cocktails such as a Daiquiri or a Planter’s Punch, enhancing the drink’s complexity.
These five rums are not only exceptional in flavor but also widely available, making them perfect choices for any rum enthusiast—whether enjoyed straight or as a key ingredient in cocktails. For those looking to explore further, see The Caribbean’s Gold Medal Winning Rums and The World’s Best Rum According to the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America.
Kibble and Cocktails: A Guide to Paw-some Pet Parties!
Kibble and Cocktails is an upcoming fundraiser hosted by NBC 5, Telemundo 39, and DFW Rescue Me, scheduled for Sunday, April 13, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Legacy Food Hall in Plano. This event promises an enjoyable atmosphere at the beautiful Lexus Box Garden, featuring a silent auction, live music, and delicious food. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet various adorable dogs looking for their forever homes.
Proceeds from the event will benefit DFW Rescue Me, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming lost, abused, and abandoned dogs in the Dallas area. They rely heavily on community support to fulfill their mission.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, April 13
- Time: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Location: Legacy Food Hall, 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano
For more information, visit DFW Rescue Me.
Spring Cleaning for Your Home Bar: Refreshing Cocktails for the New Season
As the spring equinox approaches, it’s a perfect time to shift from winter drinks to refreshing spring cocktails. Inspired by the concept of Oktoberfest, where beer is celebrated at the end of the season, why not create a Marchfest? This idea encourages us to use up our winter stock of spirits and citrus before fully embracing the lighter flavors of spring.
Winter drinks typically include richer flavors such as red wine, whiskey, and brandy, whereas spring brings cocktails like gin and tonics. As we transition between these two seasons, here’s an opportunity to blend both; a perfect time for a "spring cleaning" for cocktails.
Below are four reimagined winter cocktails well-suited for this Marchfest celebration, utilizing local ingredients that can help offset potential tariffs on imports.
New York Sour
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Sausalito Liquor Co.’s Unsinkable Bourbon
- 1 ounce fresh-squeezed Meyer lemon juice
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- ½ ounce aquafaba
- 1 ounce leftover red wine
Directions
- Combine bourbon, Meyer lemon juice, simple syrup, and aquafaba in a cocktail shaker. Shake until cold and foamy.
- Strain over ice in a serving glass and gently layer leftover red wine on top for a beautiful presentation.
The Meyer lemon adds a subtle orange flavor, reducing the need for additional sweeteners in the drink.
Sonoma Sazerac
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Griffo Distillery’s Barrel 151 reserve brandy
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- 2 dashes Bitter Girl Bitters’ Garden Party bitters
- ¼ ounce Barber Lee Spirits’ Absinthe Blanche
Directions
- In a shaker, combine the brandy, simple syrup, and bitters with ice. Shake vigorously until cold.
- Coat a chilled glass with absinthe, then discard the excess. Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass and garnish with an orange twist.
This classic cocktail returns to its cognac roots with California’s exceptional brandies.
An Almost Naked and Almost Famous
Ingredients
- ¾ ounce Santo Spirits’ Mezquila
- ¾ ounce Geijer Spirits’ California Amaro
- ¾ ounce Accompani’s Flora Green
- ¾ ounce Meyer lemon juice
- ½ ounce aquafaba
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake until chilled and foamy.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass, piling the foam high on top.
Flora Green offers a lighter alternative to traditional liqueurs, making this a fresh addition to your cocktail repertoire.
Perfectly Clear Spring Manhattan
Ingredients
- 2 ½ ounces Griffo Distillery’s White Whiskey
- ½ ounce Alessio Vermouth Bianco
- ½ ounce Vya Whisper Dry Vermouth
- 1 Bada Bing stemmed all-natural cherry
Directions
- In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey and vermouths with ice. Stir until thoroughly chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass, garnishing with the cherry.
This light yet flavorful twist on the Manhattan presents a unique contrast with the dark cherry garnish.
These cocktails celebrate the season’s shift, encouraging creativity and sustainability while enjoying local spirits. Cheers to a refreshing spring!
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Seattle Sips: Crafting Cocktails with Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey
Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey recently showcased its versatility by hosting a cocktail-making segment for St. Patrick’s Day on Studio 13 Live. The event highlighted various cocktail recipes that celebrate Irish traditions and flavors.
During the segment, bartenders demonstrated how to craft several unique cocktails using Tullamore D.E.W. This included a refreshing twist on classic recipes, making them more suited for festive celebrations. The cocktails not only featured the whiskey but also incorporated fresh ingredients to enhance the drinking experience.
As audiences prepare for St. Patrick’s Day festivities, the event aimed to inspire both novice and experienced mixologists to indulge in the rich flavors of Irish whiskey. Through these cocktail recipes, viewers could take a bit of Ireland home with them, making their celebrations more special and memorable.