This is default featured slide 1 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 2 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 3 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 4 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 5 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

31 October 2016

27 October 2016

Fall Into Flavor with Tasty Harvest Cocktails from Leading Pennsylvania Mixologists

imagePHILADELPHIA - Harvest cocktails are a new trend that has adult consumers toasting the fall season with flavorful, new cocktails.



Cocktail menus across Pennsylvania have transformed from light, fruity concoctions to spicier, woodsier offerings embodying the spirit of the harvest season. For instance, mixologists are replacing lighter spirits, such as gin and vodka, with darker spirits, like whiskey and cognac.



“Bartenders across the U.S. are experimenting with new techniques, flavors and spirits to create cocktail menus that reflect the transitioning seasons,” said Kelley McDonough, Distilled Spirits Council director of public relations. “This fall, hot drinks with frothy and nutty flavors are peaking both the interests of consumers and mixologists.”



McDonough noted that Pennsylvania’s cocktail scene is indicative of this booming trend. Pennsylvania bartenders are experimenting with new offerings and customers are intrigued by the new and complex flavor profiles. Over the past five years, consumption of distilled spirits in Pennsylvania has increase by nine percent, according to the Distilled Spirits Council.



“One technique we've been working is re-using barrels to season spirits,” said Jack Falkenbach, Rex1516 Beverage Director. “For example, we aged house-made fernet in a barrel then re-filled it with gin; another with homemade sweet vermouth, then apple brandy. The aromatics of the first liquors season the barrels and lend just enough flavor to the next spirits to enter the barrels after a few weeks. Our vermouth-seasoned brandy makes a particularly good sidecar.”



Below are cocktail recipes from some of Pennsylvania’s top mixologists to enjoy this fall season:





Sidecar by Jack Falkenbach, Rex1516 in Philadelphia, PA



¾ parts oz vermouth-seasoned apple brandy



¾ parts rye whiskey



¾ parts dry curacao



¾ parts lemon juice



1-2 dashes your favorite bitters (recommend sassafras & smoked black tea)



Shake over ice, strain into chilled cocktail glass, garnish with orange peel



Bourbon Cider by The Summit in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania



¾ parts bourbon



¾ parts applejack



Pour above ingredients into an Irish coffee mug, ladle 4.5oz cider mix, stir and enjoy!

America’s Native Spirit, Bourbon, Is Back and on Trend this Autumn Season

imageVodka keeps Russians warm on Siberian nights, and images of iconic Britons from Beefeaters to Queen Victoria adorn bottles of English gin. The Scottish Highlands are home to the world’s most marvelous malts, and fine cognac will be forever French. But Bourbon is an American original, born in the hills of Kentucky and Tennessee and proclaimed by Congress as “a distinctive product of the United States.” This autumn season, it’s the ideal beverage to warm the inner soul!



Today, this legendary “sippin whisky” is trending in watering holes across America and beyond. Sales of distilled spirits, especially top-tier Bourbon brands, are a robust $72 billion annually and outpace sales of all other liquors, according to Fortune magazine. Exports to countries such as Canada, Germany and the UK grew from $743 million in 2005 to $1.56 billion in 2015.
“America’s Native Spirit,” Bourbon, was born in the early 18th century in Bourbon County, Kentucky, and quickly became part of the American experience. Distillers, working legally and otherwise, developed their own unique brands of this corn-based whisky, usually named for the owner of the distillery. Many of these survive today, including such legendary labels as Jack Daniels and Jim Beam.



Bourbon cocktails appear in the hands of America’s favorite film stars and fictional characters. Southern Belle Daisy Buchanan sipped Mint Juleps in The Great Gatsby. Despite Prohibition, Marilyn Monroe, as Sugar Kane, always found a favorite bottle of Bourbon in Some like It Hot. Old Fashioneds were among the preferred poisons of adman Don Draper. James Bond’s hangover cure in Live and Let Die was Eggs Benedict and a pint of Jack Daniels. Frank Sinatra was a devoted fan of Jack Daniels and reportedly was buried with a bottle of Old # 7.



America’s literary lions sang Bourbon’s praises. Said Mark Twain, “Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” Mystery writer Raymond Chandler proclaimed, “There is no bad whiskey. There are only some whiskeys that aren’t as good as others.” William Faulkner needed pen, paper and a pint of Four Roses to inspire him.



Now that Bourbon is back and bigger than ever, craft distilleries, encouraged by more liberal liquor laws, are springing up around the country and partnering with bars and restaurants to produce new, signature cocktails. Bars and restaurants at Benchmark Resorts & Hotels® and The Gemstone Collection® properties are teaming up with local distilleries this autumn to offer some new twists on America’s favorite whiskey, while looking to local traditions and ingredients. For example, Stonewall Resort in Roanoke, West Virginia, has teamed with Smooth Ambler Spirits, an award-winning craft distillery producing “Patiently Crafted Appalachian Spirits.” And Willows Lodge in Woodinville, Washington, features “small batch whiskeys” from the neighboring Woodinville Whiskey Co. The Lodge also offers the exclusive and expensive Pappy Van Winkle brand. At The Chattanoogan Hotel in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Coopers Craft Kentucky Bourbon is a favorite. Other rare brands and blends served at Benchmark & Gemstone-brand properties include Bulleit Frontier Whiskey and Breckenridge Bourbon, while icons like Maker’s Mark and Jack Daniels remain perennial favorites.



With fall weather arriving, several bars used local maple syrup for a perfect autumnal cocktail. In honor of America’s Spirit and Spirits, Benchmark Resorts & Hotels and The Gemstone Collection properties across the country offer the best of Bourbon.



The Stonewall Resort, Roanoke, WV
A Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property



Marking the passing of golf great Arnold Palmer, Stonewall Resort’s bar staff created the “Ambling Arnold”.
Ambling Arnold
2 oz Iced Tea
1 ¾ oz Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon
¾ oz Simple Syrup
¾ oz Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice SHAKE, STIR
Garnish with fresh sprig of mint and twist of citrus
Eaglewood Resort & Spa, Chicago, IL
A Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property



Eaglewood Maple Manhattan
Classic Makers Mark Bourbon teams with locally produced Sugarbush Maple Syrup for this sophisticated cocktail.

1.5 oz Makers Mark Bourbon Whiskey
.5 oz Danielson’s Sugarbush Maple
A Splash of Dry Vermouth
Garnish with Cherries
Serve Over Ice



The Heldrich Hotel, New Brunswick, NJ
A Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property



Makers Mark is also the choice of bartenders at The Heldrich Hotel, enhanced with autumn flavors of apples and maple syrup.
Bourbon Apple Cider
3 parts Makers Mark Bourbon
1 part Sour Apple Schnapps
3 parts Spiced Apple Cider
1 tsp Maple Syrup
Dash of Lemon juice
Dash of cinnamon
Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick



Chaminade Resort & Spa, Santa Cruz, CA
A Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property



Mixologists at Chaminade Resort & Spa’s signature restaurant, Linwood’s Bar & Grill, utilize Bulleit Bourbon Whisky in the “Black Pearl’ as it combines Bulleit’s bold spicy characters with the savory sweetness of blackberry puree. Those combined flavors make this the perfect savory spiced fall cocktail.

The Black Pearl
1.5 oz Bulleit Bourbon
.5oz Blackberry Puree
½ lime juice
Top with ginger beer



Cheyenne Mountain Resort, Colorado Springs, CO
A Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property



Cheyenne Mountain Resort brings a Rocky Mountain High to this special cocktail, made with Local Breckenridge Bourbon made in the world’s highest distillery with pure water from Rocky Mountain snow melt.
Zesty Breck & Blue
8 blueberries, muddled
2 ounces Breckenridge Bourbon
Splash of simple syrup
Splash of club soda
Squeeze juice from one orange wedge
Toss ingredients together twice in shaker
Serve over ice in a rocks glass
Garnish with an orange slice



The Chattanoogan Hotel, Chattanooga, TN
A Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property



Tennessee also claims a proud Bourbon heritage, honored in The Chattanoogan Hotel’s Maple Bourbon Smash, made with Cooper’s Craft Kentucky Bourbon.

Maple Bourbon Smash
1/2 oz maple syrup
1/4 oz lemon
Dash of orange bitters
Orange wheel
Muddle
Add 1 1/2 oz Cooper's Craft Kentucky Bourbon
Top with seltzer



Willows Lodge, Woodinville, WA
A Gemstone Collection property



Woodinville Fashion
2 ounce Woodinville Whiskey
¼ ounce Cherry Heering
¼ Combier Orange liquor
1 ounce Sweet & Sour
2 muddled orange slices

Shake well, strain over ice.



Costa d’Este Resort, Vero Beach, FL
A Gemstone Collection property



Tropical flavors of coconut and fruit make Bourbon Sangria a year-round favorite at Florida’s Costa D’Este, Gloria & Emilio Estefan’s luxury oceanside resort.

Bourbon Sangria
3 Orange Slices
¼ Freshly Sliced Peach
¼ cup Blueberries
0.5 oz. Coconut Simple Syrup
1.5 oz. Bulleit Bourbon
2-3 oz. Pinot Grigio
Splash of Sprite



Coconut Simple Syrup
1.    In a small saucepan over medium/¬low heat, combine 1/2 cup of coconut water with 1 Tbsp. of coconut sugar. Heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
2.    Remove from heat and let cool. This will create more simple syrup than required for recipe.



Bourbon Sangria
1.    Add 2 orange slices cut into quarters and the sliced peach to the bottom of an empty glass (save 3-4 slices of peach for garnish).
2.    Add 0.5 oz. Coconut Simple Syrup to the same glass and muddle together.
3.    Add Bulleit Bourbon.
4.    Add Pinot Grigio.
5.    Top with ice.
6.    Shake and Strain.
7.    Skewer 3 of the blueberries and the remaining orange slice together and place to the side.
8.    Drop 3-4 slices of peach and remaining blueberries into the sangria.
9.    Stir lightly.
10.    Add a splash of sprite.
11.    Add skewer to garnish with a straw.
12.    Enjoy

19 October 2016

JustMalt Features Nightshade Partners Premium Craft Margaritas

imageWho doesn’t love a good Margarita?  I know I do; but honestly by the time I break out all the ingredients, pull out the ice and of course the blender, I usually end up opting for something else…aka something easier to make.

So what if I told you that you can now enjoy a premium craft Margarita without all the hassle and without even plugging in your blender?  Now I’ll bet I have your attention…so let me introduce you to Nightshade Partners Premium Craft Margaritas.
image

Developed by Duke & Ginny Mahl, these “mixologist-quality” Margaritas are ready-to-go at home or on the go (think parties, vacation, entertaining…) These Margaritas use a proprietary blend of true Blue Agave and natural fruit juices and NO artificial sweeteners so they really are unique and delicious.

Nightshade Partners Premium Craft Margaritas are available in five introductory flavors like Classic Lime, Hucklarita, Ruby Redarita, Choclarita and Papayarita and they are even offering a “Margarita of the Month” club to help you try them imageall.

Of course by now you’re wondering how they taste, so off we go.  As always we decided to sample them in the way recommended by the producer and in this case that was to pour the Margarita straight over ice.  Our sample was Classic Lime and it features limes, Blue Agave Silver premium Tequila, natural cane sugar and tripel sec orange liqueur.  As you can imagine by the ingredients list, Classic Lime tastes a LOT like a classic Margarita.  Right out of the bottle Classic Lime was a really nice Margarita with loads of lime & citrus flavors.  To amp it up another level, we also tried Classic Lime in a salt-rimmed glass with crushed ice instead of cubes…and I’ll admit that while I’m no Margarita expert, this version really felt and tasted like a professionally made Margarita.


We also decided to create one of Nightshade Partners signature cocktails, and of course we tried their Copa Verde.   I’ll admit it was a pretty complex cocktail, but everyone we shared it with really loved the blend.

Nightshade Partners Premium Craft Margaritas clock in at 15%-ABV so they will sneak up on you…in fact the only downside we found was that there was no mixing-delay between rounds of Margaritas, so be sure to share a bottle with friends and family.  Nightshade Partners Premium Craft Margaritas are available now in 750ml bottles and the Classic Lime flavor hits 187-calorie per standard pour…and don’t forget, Nightshade Partners Premium Craft Margaritas Classic Lime is also gluten-free (and really delicious).

Be sure to try Nightshade Partners Premium Craft Margaritas in all of the new varieties, or better yet join the “Margarita of the Month” club and try them all.

18 October 2016

Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey Returns with Art, Beats and Lyrics National Tour Fusing Urban Art and Hip-Hop Under One Roof

imageLYNCHBURG, Tenn., Oct. 18, 2016 Art, Beats and Lyrics, the national art and music tour presented by Jack Daniel'sTennessee Honey and Cult Creative, is back for the 12th year, and will visit more cities than ever. Launched by Cult Creative in 2004 as a local art show in Atlanta, Art, Beats and Lyrics combines an affinity for urban art and hip-hop culture. Now one of the largest traveling lifestyle experiences of its kind, the tour was created to provide a platform for upcoming visual artists and hip-hop acts to gain exposure and reach.

Art, Beats and Lyrics brings together upcoming and seasoned veterans from both the visual arts and music worlds. The new tour returns to staple cities such as Charlotte, Atlanta and Birmingham, and brings this one of a kind experience to new cities, including New York and Chicago, for the first time. Guests in each city can expect to be engaged and inspired by the interactive, visual art installations, while being entertained by performances from top hip-hop acts and enjoying Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey cocktails.

"Art, Beats and Lyrics is an amazing experience that showcases creativity in urban art and hip-hop today," says Casey Nelson, Brand Director, Jack Daniel's Flavors. "Jack Daniel's is a brand that has always had a strong connection to arts and entertainment, and Art, Beats and Lyrics is an opportunity for us to celebrate emerging talent across the country."  

Over the years, the tour has featured works from globally renowned artists, such as Miya Bailey and Frank Morrison, along with tour curator and co-producer, Dubelyoo. Recurring hip-hop headliners throughout the years have included legends such as, Scarface, Twista, Mystikal and more. Music performers are typically announced within a week of the event, to create an element of surprise for guests. 

"Looking back, upcoming artists didn't always have as many outlets to showcase their craft, especially in the urban space," says Dubelyoo, Art, Beats and Lyrics curator and co-producer. "Art, Beats and Lyrics has grown to be much larger than we could have ever imagined, and we are proud to be able to provide this platform for upcoming artists." 

Art, Beats and Lyrics kicked off its 2016-17 tour in Charlotte, and will travel on to Atlanta, New York, Chicago and Miami through December. Upcoming cities and dates will be announced in 2017.

 

For more information and event details, please visit www.JackHoneyABL.com.

17 October 2016

14 October 2016

Jack Daniel’s - Southern Peach Flavored Malt Beverage

image
Yes this is actually a flavored malt beverage (no actual Whiskey involved).  This is Jack Daniel’s Southern Peach and this “flavored beer” will hit 4.8%-AbV.  This is the 10oz bottle.
image

13 October 2016

Woodford Reserve Releases Master's Collection Finished in Brandy Casks

imageLOUISVILLE, Ky., Oct. 13, 2016 Woodford Reserve announces the release of its latest expression in the limited edition Master's Collection -- Brandy Cask Finish -- which will hit shelves in November. As the first whiskey to be finished in an American brandy cask, this new expression is yet another product of Woodford Reserve's continued appreciation and commitment to innovation and craftsmanship.

Marking the eleventh release in the Master's Collection, Master Distiller Chris Morris began with fully mature Woodford Reserve bourbon which was then finished in brandy casks for nearly two years. Upon completion of the maturation period, the finished casks were batched together to create this one-of-a-kind whiskey with crisp caramel and dried fruit notes. Finishing fully mature Woodford Reserve in these brandy casks accentuated Woodford Reserve's rich dried fruit and nut characteristics developed from the grain recipe and fermentation process.



Brandy, a spirit distilled from wine or fruit, is often aged in oak barrels. Unlike bourbon, brandy does not have the new, charred barrel requirement allowing their barrels to be used multiple times. Therefore, this release is technically not a bourbon but rather a finished whiskey.



"As with every Master's Collection release, this expression highlights Woodford Reserve's creativity and dedication to innovation. I'm extremely proud to say we've yet again done something very special," said Master Distiller Chris Morris. "Among Woodford Reserve's many flavors include fruit and spice notes which the brandy casks emphasize. Both products showcase rich, intense vanilla notes from their barrel maturation making the combination of the two a true success."



Brandy Cask Finish will be available for purchase in select markets within the United States and in limited international markets beginning in November with a suggested retail price of $99.99 (varying by market) for a 750ml bottle presented at 90.4 proof.



Originally introduced in 2006, the Master's Collection has become an acclaimed addition to the Woodford Reserve portfolio, with the Collection gaining its inspiration from the tradition and rich heritage that today surrounds the historic distillery. Though individually unique, each Master's Collection release encompasses the distillery's one-of-a-kind production capabilities, combined with Woodford Reserve's focus on contemporary style and straightforward presentation.



Tasting Notes for Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Brandy Cask Finish



Color: Warm red ochre.



Aroma: A medley of chocolate, maple syrup and caramel drizzled over toasted hazelnuts, dark raisins and dried cranberries. Soft notes of oak and spice linger in the depths.



Taste: Toffee-covered dried fruit and toasted hazelnuts warmed by delicate wood spice notes.



Finish: Long and warm with a touch of caramel lingering on.

12 October 2016

11 October 2016

10 October 2016

07 October 2016

Celebrating the Passion and Dedication of Five Generations of Master Blenders, Chivas Regal® Presents Chivas Regal Ultis™

imageNEW YORK, Oct. 6, 2016 - Chivas Regal®, the world's first luxury whisky, has launched Chivas Regal Ultis™, the first blended malt Scotch whisky from the House of Chivas. Created in tribute to the passion and dedication of five generations of Master Blenders, Chivas Regal Ultis captures the essence of Chivas Regal by using only five of the most precious signature single malts to represent the style and diversity of the prestigious Speyside whisky region.



Since 1909, only five men have ever mastered the iconic Chivas Regal house style, and Chivas Regal Ultis salutes the strength of vision, commitment and mastery of the brand's Master Blenders. Chivas Regal Ultis is a luxury whisky with complex flavors, a glorious golden hue and a commanding, rich aroma, creating an ideal spirit to celebrate shared success with friends.



From the millions of casks in the Chivas Brothers inventory, only 1% has been hand-selected by the expert blending team to create Chivas Regal Ultis. This traditional method of individually nosing each cask ensures the blend's superior quality. The distillation process takes place exclusively in copper pot stills, capturing the essence of the smooth and generous character of Chivas Regal's signature style. The latest release has been crafted with hand-selected malts from Tormore, Longmorn, Strathisla, Allt A'Bhainne and Braeval.



"By working together, our blending team has masterfully brought five unique single malts from across the Speyside region to create an exceptional blend which is truly the essence of Chivas Regal Ultis," said Colin Scott, Custodian Master Blender. "Each individual malt and each individual blender has added an element of expertise to the whisky, which is unique to the blend, ensuring it is the ultimate embodiment of shared success."



Chivas Regal Ultis will be available in limited cities across the U.S. at a suggested retail price of $200.



Tasting notes

  • Nose: The aroma presents ripe peach and red apples with accompanying cinnamon, fudge and honey infusions.
  • Taste: Tasting reveals a smooth vanilla texture, brimming with clementine and apricots, before giving way to a background of soft caramel, spicy cloves and ginger.
  • Finish: A bold finish is long with a warm hint of heather, leaving a satisfyingly full experience.

Chivas Regal Ultis personifies the brand's belief in the power of shared success and launches alongside the next generation of the brand's Win the Right Way campaign. The next phase is being showcased through a 360-degree advertising campaign demonstrating the power and impact of working together to achieve success.



The campaign delves into the stories of successful social entrepreneurs from across the globe and stars Javier Bardem, one ofHollywood's most in demand actors. The cast featured in the campaign brings to life the Win the Right Way campaign by exploring the stories behind the people and experiences who have helped them to achieve success.



"At the heart of Chivas Regal are the values of sharing success, supporting local communities, and investing in social business," said Shefali Murdia, Brand Director, Chivas Regal, Pernod Ricard USA. "The Win the Right Way campaign brings these values to life by reinforcing the brand's focus on entrepreneurialism and generosity."



To find out more about the Win the Right Way campaign and Chivas Regal Ultis, visit www.chivas.com.



CHIVAS REGAL® Ultis ™ Blended Scotch Whisky.  40% Alc./Vol. (80 Proof).

06 October 2016

The Macallan Unveils Double Cask 12 Years Old

imageOct. 6, 2016  The Macallan, the world's ultimate luxury single malt Scotch whisky, proudly introduces The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old to its core range in the U.S. today. The distinctive new whisky marks the first time the distillery has used American Oak Sherry-seasoned casks as the most prominent flavor style in an expression of The Macallan, which creates a complex yet approachable flavor profile. With traditional Sherry-seasoned casks from both sides of the Atlantic, and defined by an unmistakable American Oak style, Double Cask brings a unique new style of The Macallan to complement the existing core range.



To create Double Cask, The Macallan brings new oak from America thousands of miles to Spain, where the oak casks are crafted and Sherry-seasoned before traveling to the Macallan's distillery on Speyside to mature for at least twelve years. These whiskies are then harmoniously united with those aged in exceptional Sherry-seasoned European oak casks. The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old is 100% Sherry seasoned, and 100% Natural Color, in keeping with The Macallan's tradition, but unique in the fact it is defined by the unmistakable prominence of the American Oak style. American Oak has less tannin and allows more vanillin to shine through, giving off sweet and fresh fruit flavors, which creates a refreshing style of whisky unique to Double Cask, which is ideal for all occasions.



"By combining wood influences, we have been able to produce a new Macallan which sits perfectly between our existing Sherry Oak and Fine Oak ranges," explains Bob Dalgarno, The Macallan Master Whisky Maker. "The delicate flavor of American Oak – vanilla, citrus and fresh oak — is at the forefront, along with the traditional Macallan character of dried fruit and wood spice. Fresh and approachable in style, this expression of The Macallan is rich in flavor, honeyed and indulgent, and has a full, viscous mouthfeel, which makes it a great complement to The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old."



The whisky was also recently awarded 95 points ("Exceptional") in the 2016 Beverage Institute Tastings competition. Described as "A superb sherried highland malt that is a sheer pleasure to drink," Double Cask was the joint-highest placed Scotch whisky this year.



With a suggested retail price of $65 per bottle, The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old is available now at your local fine spirits purveyor. For more information, visit www.themacallan.com.



Tasting Notes



  • Color: Harvest Sun
  • Nose: Creamy butterscotch with a hint of toffee apple, candied orange, vanilla custard and newly felled oak
  • Palate: Deliciously honeyed, wood spices and citrus, balanced with raisins and caramel
  • Finish: Oak lingers, warm, sweet and drying
  • Strength: 43% ABV
  • SRP: $65 (Varies by market)

Boondocks American Whiskey Launched by David Scheurich, 40 Year Industry Veteran and Whisky Advocate Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

Boondocks American Whiskey 95 Proof and Cask Strength 127 Proof expressions from Master Distiller and Whisky Advocate Lifetime Achievement Award winner Dave Scheurich.NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2016  Royal Wine Corporation is proud to introduce Boondocks American Whiskey, a creation from Whisky Advocate Lifetime Achievement Award winner Dave Scheurich who has helped to create some of America's most recognized whiskeys over the last 40 years. Available in both 95 Proof and Cask Strength 127 Proof, the brand's entrance into the rapidly growing spirits category marks a new level for American whiskey, introducing a brand that could just be Dave's crowning achievement



Boondocks American Whiskey 95 Proof and Cask Strength 127 Proof expressions from Master Distiller and Whisky Advocate Lifetime Achievement Award winner Dave Scheurich.



"Royal Wine Corp. has a rich legacy of producing spirits, dating back to the early days of Baron Philip Herzog," said Mordy Herzog, CEO of Royal Wine Corporation. "We produced beer, wine and spirits in the 1800's and now nine generations later, we could think of no better individual to get back into the spirits game with thanDavid Scheurich, a man with similar ethos and perspective as our organization and family. We are honored that he agreed to come out of retirement to oversee the development of the Boondocks brand as our master distiller."



"Boondocks is an exciting project to be a part of," said Dave Scheurich, Boondocks' Master Distiller. "With the development of this brand, we wanted to bring a superior product with exceptional taste to the market, but most importantly we wanted a whiskey that delivered an ultra smooth finish—something easy to enjoy."



Aged for 11 years in American white oak barrel in Kentucky,Boondocks American Whiskey 95 Proof is made from corn, rye and malt. Light in color but rich, nuanced and complex, fruitiness and exotic spices enhance some of the subtler aromatic characteristics like the toasted marshmallow oak barrel notes. Mouthfeel is creamy and buttery with long pleasant finish. Overall, the whiskey is spicy and warm but does not burn and is sweet like cotton candy. Boondocks American Whiskey 95 Proof has already garnered several accolades including a Gold Medal /90 Points from the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition 2016 and was named a Finalist in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2016, receiving 92 Points.



Boondocks American Whiskey Cask Strength 127 Proof has distinctive aromas of rich caramel and vanilla. A robust and pleasantly aggressive palate is highlighted by fall spices and oak that leaves a long lasting finish. This expression received a Gold Medal/91 Points in the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition 2016 and Best of Category in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2016.



A limited edition expression will be added to the Boondocks' portfolio later this year followed by further marques in 2017. From Dave's perspective, the brand vision is clear, "With each expression of Boondocks, our intention is to share unique, complex and flavorful spirits that will interest and satisfy consumers."



Boondocks' iconic packaging is elegant and timeless, reminiscent of a pocket flask with a slight indent on the front and back to allow for easy handling. The brand's bold print logo is front and center, adorning the breast of every bottle, with Dave Scheurich'ssignature featured prominently as his seal of approval on every bottle. To round out the design with a bit of whimsical humor, consumers are reminded that no compromises were taken in the production of the product with a surprise "compromise is for politicians" quote on the back of each bottle.



Boondocks American Whiskey 95 Proof (SRP $39.99) and Cask Strength 127 Proof (SRP $59.99) are currently available in limited release in Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Texas through Royal Wine Corporation. Additional markets are expected to open in 2017. 

05 October 2016

Joseph Magnus Bourbon Returns

image“A descendant of Joseph A. Magnus discovered a bourbon bottle from the 1890’s with an amazingly good seal on the enclosure. He then helped bring together master distillers and industry experts to evaluate the spirit inside. After carefully extracting the nearly 120-year-old whiskey, they found it to be surprisingly tasty–and with that, the concept for a new bourbon was born. The new recipe is largely based on the opinions of the experts and distillers who sampled the old bourbon.”

Designed by Studio 32 North
image

04 October 2016

Redbreast® Partners with Bodegas Lustau to Produce the First Expression with a Sherry Finish: Redbreast Lustau Edition

imageNEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2016  Celebrating the iconic sherry influence found throughout the range, Redbreast Irish Whiskey adds a new permanent expression to its decorated Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey family - Redbreast Lustau Edition. Finished in hand selected, first-fill sherry butts from the prestigious Bodegas Lustau in Jerez, Spain, this expression offers a new, compelling experience within the Single Pot Still category.



Created by Master Blender, Billy Leighton, the fifth offering in the Redbreast range is born out of the longstanding relationship between the Midleton Distillery and the world-renowned sherry house, Bodegas Lustau. The two respected entities share a mutual respect for artisanal production processes, tradition and camaraderie. 



After the process of triple distillation in Midleton's iconic copper Single Pot Stills, Redbreast Lustau Edition is initially matured in a combination of exceptional bourbon and sherry casks. The new expression is then uniquely wholly finished for one year in prized sherry butts, seasoned with Oloroso sherry from the unrivaled Bodegas Lustau in Jerez, the sherry capital of the world. 



The result is a new interpretation of the signature Redbreast family, which boasts a variety of expressions including Redbreast 12 Year Old, which is regarded as the definite expression of Irish Pot Still whiskey. While each offering within the Redbreast range is full of aroma and flavor, Redbreast Lustau Edition features a distinctive twist, offering a nose of dark fruits, prunes and marzipan, an exceptional creamy texture on the palate with iconic Redbreast spices, and a long, enduring sweet finish complemented by notes of distinctive Spanish oak and Oloroso sherry.



"This new expression is a fantastic addition to our decorated Redbreast family and Irish Whiskey portfolio overall," said Sona Bajaria, VP, High End Irish Whiskey, Pernod Ricard USA. "Redbreast Lustau Edition was made possible thanks to the great friendship between Midleton distillery and Bodegas Lustau. We're thrilled with how well the bold, rich flavors of the sherry complement the classic, smooth profile of Redbreast to bring a new dimension to the classic style of Irish Whiskey we embody."



Redbreast is the largest selling Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey in the world, and Redbreast Lustau Edition joins this range of extraordinary expressions, which currently includes Redbreast 12 Year Old, Redbreast 12 Cask Strength, Redbreast 15 Year Old and Redbreast 21 Year Old.



Redbreast Lustau Edition™ is best enjoyed neat, with added water or ice to taste, with a suggested retail price of $69.99, available in select markets, including California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York and Texas.



For additional information please visit: http://www.singlepotstill.com/redbreast



PLEASE TASTE RESPONSIBLY. REDBREAST® Lustau Edition Irish Whiskey. 46% Alc./Vol. (92 Proof). Product of Ireland. ©2016 Imported by Pernod Ricard USA, Purchase, NY

03 October 2016

The Lost Distillery Company Celebrates the Launch of Three New Scotch Whiskies in the U.S. Market

imageThe Lost Distillery Company, a boutique Scotch producer committed to creating handcrafted whiskies styled on long-closed distilleries, has announced the launch of three new whiskies in the U.S. market. The new blended malt whiskies – Benachie, Towiemore, and Lossit are a part of the Classic Selection.



In the last century, nearly half of all Scotch whisky distilleries were forced to close due to economic pressure, prohibition, and competing corporate globalization. The Lost Distillery Company uses an innovative approach to bring forgotten Scotch whiskies back to life with a modern interpretation. Founders Brian Woods and Scott Watson worked together with their archiving team which includes renowned Scotch whisky historian, Professor Michael Moss at the University of Glasgow, to revive historic whiskies that showcase the diverse regions of Scotland; Highland, Speyside, Lowland, Campbeltown and Islay.



“We are excited to launch our new whiskies, Benachie, Towiemore, and Lossit, in the U.S. and honor Scotland’s history,” said Brian Woods, Founder of The Lost Distillery Company. “With the addition of the three Scotch whiskies to the Classic Selection, we aim to introduce consumers to whiskies that reflect the heritage of long-forgotten distilleries and also have a modern twist.”   



The foundation for each rediscovered whisky is comprised of archives, historical records, and analysis of 10 key components, with the four most critical being water source, peat, still and wood. The other key components that influence and define each original character include era, locality, barley, yeast, mash tun and wash back.



After nine months of meticulous historical research, the archivist team unfolded the story of each distillery and analyzed the 10 components to deduce how the whisky would have tasted when it was last distilled over 100 years ago. By locating the original source of water they can note the mineral content and whether it was hard or soft. Another element is to review which type of wood was used to store or transport the spirit and what the barrel had in it before the whisky. Once the background and components have been collected and reviewed, the archivists and whisky makers bring the spirits back to life by blending single malts from different distilleries to echo the long-lost whiskies.



The bottles are coated in black to represent the color of the glass used in the Victorian period. Each bottle showcases a unique history with the label reflecting the story of the namesake distillery.



The Benachie Distillery was founded by William Smith in Nether Jericho, Aberdeenshire in 1822 and closed in 1913 due to isolation; the Towiemore Distillery opened in 1898 by Whisky Entrepreneur Peter Dawson in Botriphnie, Dufftown, Speyside and closed in 1931 due to water supply issues; the Lossit Distillery was originally created by Malcom MacNeill in 1817 in Ballygrant, Islay and closed due to isolation in 1867.



The Lost Distillery Company’s scotch whiskies are available in 750-ml expressions: Benachie Classic Selection (SRP $43), Lossit Classic Selection (SRP $43) and Towiemore Classic Selection (SRP $43). The Lost Distillery Company is imported by Park Street and is available nationally.



For more information about The Lost Distillery Company, please visit http://www.lost-distillery.com. Join in the conversation with The Lost Distillery on Facebook at /LostDistillery and follow @thelostdistillerycompany on Instagram and @lostdistillery on Twitter.