Top Napa Wine Producers Achieving the Most 100-Point Scores for Exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon
A Napa Valley winemaker, Thomas Rivers Brown, has achieved an extraordinary milestone with 39 perfect 100-point scores for his exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the renowned To Kalon vineyard.
This remarkable journey began unexpectedly for Brown during a formal dinner where he was accompanying his girlfriend, a newly minted Rhodes Scholar. Seated at a table with notable figures such as journalist Katie Couric and the president of the University of Virginia, he felt the weight of his surroundings and humorously pondered, "Who is this dude?" Such experiences only spurred his intrigue in wine, leading him to embark on an impromptu road trip to Napa Valley just a week later.
Raised in Sumter, South Carolina—an area not known for its wine culture—Brown initially did not envision a future in winemaking. His career shift began in the mid-1990s when he joined Turley, a small winery with a burgeoning reputation. His inclination for hard work and passion for wine were recognized by the head winemaker, who valued talent over traditional lineage in the field.
By 2000, Brown was associated with Schrader Cellars, where he produced wine from To Kalon, receiving his first 100-point score in 2002. His approach emphasized showcasing the vineyard’s true essence, a philosophy that has earned him acclaim. His wines reflect a focus on the land rather than imposing his style, captivating critics with their authenticity.
Schrader Cellars initially sourced from the Beckstoffer portion of To Kalon—one of Napa’s most prestigious sites. With time, ownership transitioned from legendary winemaker Robert Mondavi to Constellation Brands, which now markets Schrader’s limited-release wines. Mondavi’s legacy is one of resilience and vision, having championed Napa Valley when it was not respected on the global stage, and normalizing extraordinary winemaking practices in the region.
The To Kalon vineyard remains a testament to this enduring legacy, known for its diverse terroirs enabling Schrader Cellars to create multiple intriguing bottlings. For instance, the "TKS" bottling comes from southern blocks characterized by unique soil composition, while the "Heritage Clone" represents a specific Cabernet Sauvignon clone renowned for its small berries and high quality.
As Brown reflects on his 25-year journey in winemaking, he attributes much of his success to the collaborative energies of influential figures like Fred Schrader and the vision they shared. Their partnership has led to a thriving legacy for Napa Cabernet, highlighted in exceptional vintages like 2023, deemed a "vintage of a lifetime."
Today’s offerings from Schrader Cellars showcase the extraordinary effects of terroir and winemaking finesse. The 2023 Cabernet selections exhibit profound flavors and complexity, showcasing notes of graphite, plum, wildflowers, and rich black cherry—a harmonious blend of old-world elegance and new-world innovation. These wines not only symbolize personal milestones but also represent the remarkable narrative of Napa Valley’s ascent that Brown and predecessors have woven together.
For more about Thomas Rivers Brown and his legacy, visit Schrader Cellars.
Raise a Glass to ‘Outlander’ Season 8: Sam Heughan’s Top 3 Cocktails to Cheers With!
As the final season of Outlander approaches, fans are eagerly preparing for viewing parties to celebrate the conclusion of Claire and Jamie’s saga. While the exact premiere date remains unannounced, anticipation is high following the prequel series, Blood of My Blood, which kept fans entertained in the meantime.
Sam Heughan, who plays Jamie Fraser, has recently published a cocktail book, The Cocktail Diaries: A Spirited Adventure. This book is rich with cocktail recipes inspired by his travels and experiences while filming Outlander. In preparation for the watch party, Heughan shares three cocktails perfect for the occasion, complete with personal anecdotes.
Whisky Highball
This refreshing cocktail was inspired by Heughan’s trip to Japan while promoting Outlander Season 2. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2oz (60ml) whisky (blended Scotch or Japanese whisky recommended)
- 4oz (120ml) soda water
- Lemon slice (for garnish)
- Ice (cubed)
Directions:
- Fill a highball glass with cubed ice.
- Add the whisky and top with soda water.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon slice.
Sassenach Cosmopolitan
For a twist on the classic Cosmopolitan, this recipe substitutes gin for vodka, providing a unique flavor profile:
Ingredients:
- 1½oz (45ml) Sassenach Wild Scottish Gin
- ¾oz (22.5ml) Cointreau
- ¾oz (22.5ml) cranberry juice
- ¼oz (7.5ml) cranberry syrup
- ½oz (15ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Ice (cubed)
Directions:
- Chill a glass and set aside.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with cubed ice and add all ingredients.
- Shake well to chill and combine.
- Double strain into the chilled glass and garnish with cranberries.
Bee’s Knees
Particularly fitting for the final season, this cocktail ties into Claire’s role as a beekeeper.
Ingredients:
- 2oz (60ml) gin
- ¾oz (22.5ml) fresh lemon juice
- ½oz (15ml) honey syrup
- Orange twist (for garnish)
- Ice (cubed)
Directions:
- Chill a glass and set aside.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with cubed ice.
- Add gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup, shaking well.
- Strain into your chilled glass and garnish with an orange twist.
With these delightful cocktails, fans are sure to elevate their Outlander watch parties, setting the right mood for the final chapter of this epic tale. For more cocktail inspirations, Heughan’s book is available where books are sold.
5 Refreshing Ways to Incorporate Lemongrass into Your Cocktails
The complex flavor of lemongrass, reminiscent yet distinct from its lemon namesake, has made it a favorite among mixologists. While commonly used in cooking for dishes like stir-fries, lemongrass also shines in cocktails when prepared properly.
To incorporate lemongrass into your drinks, you can follow several methods:
Infuse Spirits with Lemongrass
Infusing spirits is an excellent way to add flavor without altering the cocktail’s texture. Vodka, white rum, or gin work best for this method. Simply cut the lemongrass stalks in half, slice them into inch-long pieces, and submerge them in the chosen spirit. In about 24 hours, you can start to taste mild flavors, but letting it sit for two weeks yields better results.
Create Lemongrass Syrup
Simple syrup can enhance cocktails by adding sweetness and flavor. To make lemongrass syrup, simmer two chopped stalks with equal parts sugar and water for ten minutes. This syrup can feature prominently in cocktails like a vodka gimlet or add depth to a Moscow mule.
Muddle Lemongrass
Muddling is effective with lemongrass due to its robust texture. Crushing the stalks releases their essential oils for a fresh, vibrant flavor. You can make cocktails similar to a mint julep or a mojito by replacing or combining mint with muddled lemongrass.
Use Lemongrass Tea
Preparing lemongrass tea involves boiling the stalks to extract maximum flavor. This tea can be utilized in tall, refreshing drinks like ginger coolers or a nice cocktail spritzer. It also serves well as a flavorful mocktail base when combined with other ingredients.
Garnish with Lemongrass
For a unique touch, lemongrass can be used as a garnish. Thin strips of lemongrass can add flair to your cocktail, and a whole stalk can function as a swizzle stick. To enhance flavor, bruise the stalk before using it in the drink.
By employing these techniques, lemongrass can elevate your cocktail game, introducing sophisticated, fresh flavors that are sure to impress.
Expert Tips from a Sommelier: How to Order Wine with Confidence on a Budget
Don’t let an extensive restaurant wine list intimidate you. Here are some expert tips for ordering a great bottle without overspending, thanks to insights from Baptiste Beaumard, a sommelier at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Daniel in New York.
Trust the Sommelier
Utilize the knowledge and expertise of the sommelier. Share your preferences regarding the type of wine you enjoy and your price range. Beaumard emphasizes that sommeliers want you to feel comfortable and find the right wine rather than pushing an expensive bottle.
Indicate Your Budget Discreetly
You don’t have to verbally state your budget; you can point to a couple of bottles within your price range on the wine list. This communicates your budget subtly while still engaging the sommelier.
Inquire About Budget-Friendly Options
Ask the sommelier for recommendations on budget-friendly wines. There are excellent wines from lesser-known regions that can provide great value, often flying under the radar compared to their more famous counterparts.
Explore Specific Sections of the Wine List
Look for sections that traditionally offer better value, such as sparkling wines that may emulate Champagne without the high price tag. Regions like Spain and Australia, as well as lesser-known French regions like Savoie and Loire Valley, often produce fantastic wines at lower prices.
Leverage Wine Apps
If you have a smart device, don’t hesitate to use wine apps like Vivino or Wine-Searcher to read reviews and tasting notes on the bottles available. However, rely on the sommelier’s expertise for the best guidance when selecting a wine.
Be Honest About Your Preference
When tasting the wine, if it doesn’t appeal to you, let the sommelier know. Many establishments will allow for a bottle to be exchanged if it doesn’t meet your taste, ensuring your overall experience remains enjoyable.
Consider Ordering By the Glass
To reduce the risk of being stuck with a bottle you don’t like, consider choosing a wine that is also available by the glass. This offers you the chance to taste it first and ensures that the restaurant can use the opened bottle for other guests if needed.
By employing these strategies, you can confidently navigate a restaurant wine list and find a bottle that complements your meal and suits your budget.
Open Thread: Spurs Reintroduce the Jack Daniel’s Whiskey Barrel Tree for Its Second Year
The San Antonio Spurs have announced the unveiling of a unique Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey Barrel Tree at the Frost Bank Center during their game against the Houston Rockets on November 7. This special tree is one of only 13 whiskey barrel trees in the United States and is part of an initiative to create excitement and promote the spirit of giving throughout the holiday season. The display will be in the outdoor ULTRA Club and is set to remain until January 7.
Mike Brown, Senior General Manager for Brown-Forman Texas, expressed pride in partnering with the Spurs to bring this tradition to the community. He emphasized the initiative’s aim to raise funds for Operation Ride Home, which helps military members reunite with their families during the holidays.
Fans attending the game will have the opportunity to purchase barrels from the tree, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to Operation Ride Home. Additionally, the Spurs and Jack Daniel’s plan to host sampling events and branded giveaways while honoring military families at select home games throughout the holiday period.
Sippin’ Santa and Miracle Holiday Cocktail Pop-Up Menus Bring Festive Cheer to Bars in New Orleans and Beyond
It’s a bit early for holiday festivities, but cocktail enthusiasts can already enjoy seasonal drinks with the arrival of the Sippin’ Santa and Miracle pop-up cocktail menus. This year, Jeff "Beachbum" Berry has launched the Sippin’ Santa experience at his French Quarter bar, Latitude 29, just ahead of Thanksgiving.
The Sippin’ Santa menu includes new cocktails like "Wreck the Halls," which combines Caribbean overproof rum, tawny port, lime, maple and vanilla syrups, along with figgy bitters. Another highlight is the "Nui Nui New Year," a sharing drink that mixes vodka or rum with allspice liqueur, lime, orange, and a spice mix of cinnamon and more.
In addition to these new offerings, longtime fans of Berry’s tiki-style drinks can expect a range of cocktails featuring Caribbean rum, tequila, bourbon, and vodka. Returning favorites include "Jingle Bird," which consists of bourbon, Campari, pineapple, and lime, and "Holiday on Ice," made with vodka, cold brew, condensed milk, and ancho chili liqueur. There are also Secret Santa specials and two non-alcoholic options available.
The Sippin’ Santa menu will also be available starting November 17 at Pelican to Mars in Baton Rouge and at more than 60 locations across the U.S., from Florida to California.
On a larger scale, the Miracle menu, renowned for its festive twist on classic cocktails, will be featured at Barrel Proof and nearly 200 bars nationwide. This year’s offerings include "Dancing Sugarplums," which architects a blend of gin, plum wine, limoncello, plum milk syrup, and nutmeg, alongside returning drinks like the "Koala Lalala," melding blanco tequila with dry vermouth, apple liqueur, tamarind, and mint.
The Miracle cocktails can be enjoyed at Barrel Proof beginning November 18 and will also be featured at One Thirteen in Hammond, The Station in Baton Rouge, and Pamplona Tapas & Bar in Lafayette.
For further details on Sippin’ Santa, visit the official website. For the Miracle menu, check out their website.
Ketel One Vodka’s Latest Release Declared a ‘Must Buy’ by Enthusiastic Fans
Ketel One Vodka has introduced a new addition to its popular lineup with the launch of the Ketel One Lemon Drop Martini. This ready-to-serve cocktail aims to make it easier for consumers to enjoy this classic drink without the hassle of mixing ingredients.
The Lemon Drop Martini, characterized by its citrusy flavor reminiscent of lemonade, is not just a summer treat; fans appreciate it year-round for its bright notes that can lift spirits in any season. This new product is part of Ketel One’s effort to expand its offerings of flavored and sugar-free spirits, as well as ready-to-serve cocktails.
The ready-to-pour cocktail combines real lemon juice with a hint of sweetness from triple sec, presenting a perfect balance of tartness and smoothness. To enjoy, it is recommended to chill the drink before serving. Simply shake the bottle, pour it into a martini glass, and add a lemon twist for garnish.
Available in two sizes—350 mL and 750 mL—with prices around $13.99 and $25.99 respectively, the Lemon Drop Martini offers four to eight servings per bottle. It has received positive feedback from consumers, who are already labeling it a "must buy."
You can find the Ketel One Lemon Drop Martini at liquor stores nationwide, including Total Wine and The Bar.com.
Uncork the Joy: The 8 Best Wine Advent Calendars to Gift in 2025
As the festive season approaches, wine advent calendars have gained popularity, providing a grown-up twist on the childhood excitement of daily treats leading up to the holidays. With the hustle and bustle of year-end activities, from travel to family gatherings, many find enjoyment in winding down with a glass of wine each evening—especially since studies suggest that alcohol consumption tends to spike during the holiday season.
This year’s offerings range from 12-day to 24-day calendars, including unique options like canned wine collections and themed selections from well-known brands, creating opportunities to relive nostalgic moments while also simplifying your gift-giving. Here’s a look at some of the noteworthy wine advent calendars to consider for this holiday season:
1. Just Enough Wines Advent Calendar
- Details: Features 12 cans (8.5 oz each) of wines sourced from Central Coast California.
- Price: $124.99
- Just Enough Wines
2. Total Wine Adventure Advent Calendar
- Details: Includes 24 single serve (187ml) bottles with a variety of wines from around the globe.
- Price: $79.99
- Total Wine
3. In Good Taste’s Wine Advent Calendar
- Details: Offers 24 mini bottles (187ml) from Chile, California, Argentina, and Australia, complete with educational emails for recipients.
- Price: $149.99
- In Good Taste
4. Laithwaites 2025 Wine Advent Calendar
- Details: Contains 24 glass mini bottles (187ml) curated to showcase diverse wines without repeats.
- Price: $159.99
- Laithwaites
5. Maker Wine 12 Days of Canned Wine
- Details: Featuring 12 premium canned wines sourced from small winemakers, with each can paired with a guide.
- Price: $139
- Maker Wine
6. Vinebox’s 12 or 24 Nights of Wine
- Details: Customers can choose between 12 or 24 nights of curated wines presented in glass tubes, with a blend of red, white, and rosé options.
- Price: $129 for 12 nights, $199 for 24 nights
- Vinebox
7. Costco Wine Adventure Calendar
- Details: A local find with 24 half bottles (375ml) from various regions, including popular wines from Italy and France.
- Price: $99.99
- Costco
8. Hallmark Channel Wines Advent Calendar
- Details: This calendar features a selection from the Hallmark Channel, spotlighting festive themed wines.
- Price: $129.99
- Hallmark Channel Wines
With various options available, these wine advent calendars can serve as fun gifts for loved ones—or a special treat for yourself during the chaotic pre-holiday days. To ensure delivery before December 1st, it’s essential to order early while stocks last!
The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Best Irish Whiskeys: Insights from the Irish Whiskey Awards
The 12th Annual Irish Whiskey Awards recently took place at Teeling Distillery in Dublin, celebrating the best of Irish whiskey amidst an evening of camaraderie and spirited competition. The event saw a total of 20 awards given for various categories, highlighting the diversity and quality of this beloved spirit.
Among the notable winners, the Dunville’s 24-Year-Old Palo Cortado Single Malt was recognized as the Irish Whiskey of the Year, marking its second consecutive win in this prestigious category. Echlinville Distillery’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation has established it as a leader in the sector, with their distinctive offerings setting modern standards for Irish single malts.
The awards were organized by the Celtic Whiskey Shop and included a range of categories covering blends, single malts, pot stills, and more. This year’s ceremony highlighted the resilience of the Irish whiskey industry, which has faced challenges, particularly with a noted decline in US exports.
One of the unique aspects of the awards is the community involvement; results are determined through blind tastings conducted by panels from over ten whiskey societies across Ireland, rather than by a select group of judges. This method ensures a comprehensive evaluation reflective of the wider whiskey community.
Key award highlights included:
- Irish Whiskey of the Year: Dunville’s 24-Year-Old Palo Cortado Single Malt
- Best New Irish Whiskey: Hinch Warehouse 3 Exclusive – Virgin American Oak
- Single Malt 11 Years and Under (High-Priced): Copeland Double Distilled Pino Hogshead
- Single Pot Still Whiskey 12 Years and Over: Redbreast 15-Year-Old
- Cask Strength Whiskey: Dunville’s 24-Year-Old PX Cask Strength
The event also supported charitable initiatives, with proceeds benefiting Mary’s Meals, a charity that provides meals for children in need worldwide, illustrating the spirit of community and support that exists within the industry.
The Irish Whiskey Awards continue to showcase the passion, talent, and artistry present in Ireland’s whiskey-making scene, inspiring fans and newcomers alike to explore the rich flavors and heritage of this iconic spirit.
For more insights on the latest Irish whiskeys, check out:
Soho Chicken and Whiskey: A Modern Twist on Classic Cleveland Comfort Food
Soho Chicken and Whiskey has reopened its doors after relocating from Ohio City’s West 25th Street to a new spot on Lorain Avenue. The popular soul food restaurant made its debut at 4211 Lorain Avenue, in the former space of Xinji Noodle Bar, on October 30. Since its reopening, it has quickly filled up with patrons eager to experience its signature comfort food and inviting atmosphere.
The new location maintains an intimate feel with cozy nooks and exposed brick, while also incorporating new enhancements. The owners, Nolan Konkoski and Molly Smith, took their time to ensure everything was perfect, resulting in what they describe as a "well-established version" of Soho, keeping the same charming energy at its core.
We visited about a week after the reopening to a lively dining scene ahead of a Cavaliers game. The bar area is still prominent, leading into a main dining area with a slightly more open kitchen layout. Decor includes nostalgic pieces from the previous Soho location and a cheerful “Welcome Back Y’all” sign.
The drink menu is diverse, featuring both classic and seasonal cocktails alongside select wines and craft beers. We sampled the “Untitled,” a robust bourbon drink, and the “Psycho Killer,” a refreshing gin-based concoction—both reflecting Soho’s commitment to quality beverages.
No visit to Soho is complete without their deviled eggs, a must-try on the menu, praised for their creamy texture and the option to upgrade with smoked trout and caviar. The snack menu also highlights fried green tomatoes, which we enjoyed topped with street corn fixings, offering a delicious blend of flavors.
For our main courses, we opted for the iconic fried chicken, served with two sides, and the unique Carolina “fried rice,” which consists of griddled grits, Wagyu bologna, yams, and kimchi. The melding of these flavors made for a satisfying meal.
Desserts include freshly fried beignets, described as a doughy delight reminiscent of pancakes, which we couldn’t resist adding to our meal.
Soho Chicken and Whiskey has returned with an energy that promises to reinvigorate the Greater Cleveland dining scene, inviting patrons to relish not just the food but the memories that accompany it. Reservations are available for those eager to visit, and the restaurant plans to reintroduce brunch and special events soon.
For more details, visit Soho Chicken and Whiskey’s website or make reservations via Resy.