Review: Brenne French Single Malt Whiskey Barrel 261
We so rarely get to check out the whiskeys of France that when one arrives it’s always greeted with a bit of mystery and awe. Even among French whiskeys, Brenne is something completely unique. It starts as single malt, with barley harvested on the distillery’s own farm in the Cognac region of France. It is…
Recipe: Cinco De Mayo Celebration Cocktails
In 1862, the great nation of Mexico held off Napoleon’s invading forces after a lengthy battle. What better way to celebrate the most festival of occasions than with a great drink? It’s the best holiday Mexico ever invented! Here’s a few recipe ideas for your consideration during this swell symbol of spring’s arrival! Korbel Citrus…
Review: 2008 D’Alessandro Azienda Agricola “ns08” Nero d’Avola/Syrah
This monster of a wine hails from Sicily and is made with its traditional grape, Nero d’Avola (65%), blended with Syrah (35%). Results are intense. The nose is biting and quite raisiny, hinting at Port-like characteristics. On the body, tons of deep fruit notes, leather, tobacco, and a long, tannic finish. A good match with…
Review: 2011 Matchbook Giguiere Musque Chardonnay Dunnigan Hills
The giant “Musque” on the label of this wine may throw you at first, but the body will do you one worse. A 100% unoaked Chardonnay made entirely from the Musque Clone No. 809, this is an aromatic and perfumy wine loaded with muscat-like flavors (hence the name of the clone). Big orange, honey, wildflower,…
Review: OM Organic Mixology Wild Cranberry & Blood Orange Cocktail
Pre-mixed cocktails aren’t often a high-end affair, but Organic Mixology is trying to change that with a new line of ready-to-drink cocktails, courtesy of Natalie Bovis, “The Liquid Muse.” Made with certified organic ingredients, no artificial flavors/colors/preservatives, lightweight glass bottles, and packaged in 75% post-consumer recycled cases (whew!), this is high-end, eco-friendly cocktailery, complete with…
Review: Newcastle Bombshell
Curious: A blonde ale from Newcastle. The latest in Newcastle’s limited edition beer series will be available from now through July 2013. Naturally, it’s Newcastle’s most “summery” brew, though it’s still got a big mouthfeel and lots of heft to it. Nicely grainy, almost biscuity with distinct toast notes, this very light pale ale doesn’t…
Tasting Report: Wines of Howell Mountain 2013
This tasting of Cabernet-centric Howell Mountain wines is always a highlight of the wine event season, and this rundown of a few dozen wineries in the region was no disappointment. We’ve covered the event for several years now, and this year’s tasting of primarily 2009 and 2010 Cabs, plus a smattering of library wines, offered…
Julep Recipe Variations for Derby Day
For one Saturday afternoon in May, the world looks away from other sporting events and focuses its eye on the commonwealth of Kentucky for a time-honored tradition: the Kentucky Derby. The 139th running of the roses will bring another packed Churchill Downs full of loud hats and high hopes that their lucky number will come…
