April 2018

Brockmans Gin has announced the appointment of Michael Rose to the position of Massachusetts Market Manager.

In this role, Michael will work with MA Distributors, Horizon Beverage and Ruby Wines, Inc., to grow Brockmans retail and on-premise distribution and sales, secure displays, sampling activations and menu features and provide staff education. Michael will report to Lisa Panteleakos, National Field Director responsible for overseeing the growth of super-premium, new style Brockmans Gin in the U.S.

Michael, who officially joined the Brockmans team on April 1, 2018, previously worked as the Patron Tequila Portfolio Manager covering MA and Craft Accounts Sales Representative in Boston for Horizon Beverage. Prior to that, Michael spent 10 years as a bartender and bar manager in a variety of accounts and was an instrumental member of the start-up team for seven Boston restaurants.

“I am thrilled to work with the Brockmans Team and help grow this exceptional brand in this market. I look forward to applying my experience and intimate knowledge of the Boston and MA market to take Brockmans Gin to a new level through expanded distribution, special events and an increased social media presence.”
– Michael Rose, Massachusetts Market Manager, Brockmans Gin

Michael Rose

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the team. Michael’s enthusiasm and experience have allowed him to hit the ground running. We look forward to a very exciting and successful 2018 for Brockmans in this critical market.”
– Lisa Panteleakos, National Field Director, Brockmans Gin

Brockmans Gin was recently awarded Gold Medals in three prestigious international competitions including the inaugural Global Spirits Awards, the 2017 SIP awards and the 2017 International Craft Spirits Awards. Brockmans is available in 40 countries and has seen tremendous growth around the world. In the U.S., Brockmans sales and marketing are managed by Next Level Marketing, based in Westport, CT. Next Level specializes in programming—Brand Ambassador, Consumer Sampling, Special Events and Consulting Services—that build premium brands in the U.S. market.

Brockmans Gin is available in 750 ml at an SRP of $34.99. For more information, visit BrockmansGin.com.

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Source: Mixology News

WHAT’S THE DEAL?

This isn’t some lazy contest where you can slap together any old fantastic Bedlam cocktail and call it a day. Oh, no, no, no, friends. THIS is a true test of your skills, not just as a master mixologist, but as a true brawling bartender. Four semifinalists from each state will be selected based on the strength and creativity of their submitted cocktail. On June 26, 2018, those selected will be invited to Atlanta, GA, put up in a swanky hotel, and expected to bring their full bartending A game for the events that proceed.

MORNING ROUND: THE BLOODY MARY

Contestants will be tasked with creating the ultimate Bedlam Bloody Mary … but there’s a twist. You must incorporate a secret ingredient revealed only just before the round is about to begin. The top three Bloodys (as voted on by our panel of judges) will decide the three finalists moving ahead to the Gala Competition that night.

The Inaugural Bar Fight Competition

EVENING GALA ROUND 1: FAST & FURIOUS FISTICUFFS

The speed round. Each finalist will try to outdo the competition by making four predetermined cocktails in the least amount of time. Leave the recipes to us—all you need to do is bring your fists of fury. The judges will score the drinks based on time, cleanliness, and taste.

ROUND 2: SCUFFLE

We couldn’t let you progress without messing with you a little! We also can’t tell you exactly what the challenge is because we want you unprepared, but we can tell you it will keep you off-balance … and we may be laughing. But we’re laughing with you. Honest. Judges will score this round based on speed and coordination.

FINAL ROUND: THE ALTERCATION

Your challenge will be to present an original Bedlam Cocktail in the time allowed. Perhaps you’ll choose to present the cocktail that got you into the competition in the first place. Perhaps you’ve been inspired again since we first received your entry and have some new wizardry to reveal. You’ll have 10 minutes to make four full cocktails and present them to the judges, as well as tell the story of your inspired creation and how you would promote this cocktail to consumers. Points are awarded equally on creativity, taste, aroma, technique, and relevance.

WHAT’S THE PRIZE?

$10,000. Seriously. Ten thousand dollars. Of course, you also get a custom bartending kit and a seat on the judging panel for the next year’s competition, plus your employer gets an amazing WWF-style bar fight (and the option to display the belt wherever)! But that cash, though …

For more information and to register, visit BedlamBarFight.com.

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Source: Mixology News

“Veni, Vidi, Bocce” Sponsorship and Activation Program Pairs Two Italian Classics, Birra Moretti and Bocce.

Birra Moretti, Italy’s #1 selling beer* made in the traditional way since 1859, is once again teaming up with Bocce, the country’s beloved pastime, to encourage LDA+ consumers to come together and enjoy these two great Italian classics with friends, family and fellow patrons at their favorite local bar, at home or at other outdoor social gatherings this summer.

“This summer, we are building on the successful launch of our 2017 Bocce program in a big way. Through increased event and Bocce league sponsorships, consumer sampling and enhanced retail and on-premise support (where legal), our 2018 activation will amplify excitement and participation at Bocce tournaments and special events, as well as at participating retail and on-premise accounts throughout the country.”
– Amberly Hilinski, Senior Brand Manager for Birra Moretti, Five Points Trading Company

Birra Moretti Bocce Ball Program

To activate “Veni, Vidi, Bocce,” Birra Moretti “The Official Unofficial Beer of Bocce” is sponsoring an expanded list of events and local tournaments in 2018 including Chicago Gourmet, Taste of Italy L.A./IAMLA, and Tampa’s Festa Italiana. In addition, the brand is expanding its league sponsorships with Major League Bocce in Boston, Austin, Pittsburgh and Cleveland and the American Bocce Co. in Chicago and Austin. Moretti is also returning to sponsor the Vigilucci Beach Bocce World Championship July 14th and fly league spring season tournament winners to San Diego to compete among 420 of the best bocce baller teams.

On-premise (where legal), custom scoreboards, tote ball kits, custom table tops, coasters, and key chains will be available to elevate the consumer experience and encourage patrons to join in the fun of a friendly bocce competition with a cold Birra Moretti. At retail, POS materials along with bocce kit display enhancers will invite consumers to choose Birra Moretti and bocce to enhance their social gatherings whether at home or other outdoor locations.

“Birra Moretti is crafted in appreciation of timeless Italian culture and traditions. We are thrilled to expand on the success of our program in 2017 year and celebrate our partnership with bocce again this year.”
– Amberly Hilinski

The post Birra Moretti Announces Return of Bocce Ball Program appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

The Spirit of Adventurous Mixing with Mamont Vodka, Part 5.

In creating this drink, I was inspired by a food pairing ritual found in Siberia called Stroganina, a delicacy of frozen fish that is freshly caught, naturally frozen and finely sliced. The polar appetizer is then served with Mamont Vodka. I think a little side dish of rice with dried cranberries and sunflower seeds would be a nice accompaniment to the strong flavors. “Garnir” is Russian for side dish so I’ve called my drink the Garnir Saketini.

Using flavors complementary to both wheat and rice, I came up with a refreshing cocktail that incorporates Japanese sake but lets the Mamont shine through.

Garnir Saketini

Garnir Saketini

By David Roth

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Dried Cranberry Infused Mamont Vodka
• 1 oz. Medium Dry Sake (I Used Momokawa Silver)
• 6 dashes Sunflower Tincture

Preparation: Infuse 6 ounces of Mamont Vodka with 2 ounces dried cranberry for 48 hours. Infuse 2 ounces of Mamont Vodka with rinsed sunflower kernels for 48 hours. This gets any excess salt off. When ready, combine in a mixing glass the cranberry infused Mamont Vodka with the sake. Add 6 dashes of sunflower tincture, more or less to taste. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. Float a few tiny drops of sunflower oil on top as a garnish and serve with a side of salted sunflower kernels as a snack.

Mamont Vodka

Meet David Roth

CHILLED 100 Member, New York

David has been bartending for 25 years and still enjoys the creative process. He is currently the head bartender at Covina in New York City.

David Roth

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Source: Mixology News

KINKY® Beverages has announced the release of the newest addition to their flirty lineup—KINKY Aloha—a delicious fusion of tropical flavors and super-premium vodka.

Inspired by sultry summer weather, KINKY Aloha delivers the perfect addition to your next hot escape. Infused with pineapple, coconut and lime flavors, KINKY Aloha is delicious on its own or mixed with cranberry juice, orange juice, or vodka.

“The vibrant floral packaging will tempt our consumers to try KINKY Aloha, and its summery flavors will make them feel like they’re sipping a delicious cocktail in a tiki bar on the beach.”
– Kelly Tomek, KINKY Beverages Brand Manager

Prestige Beverage Group launched KINKY Pink Liqueur in 2011 and since then has experienced continued success and growth—becoming one of the Top Ten Liqueur Brands* in the United States. KINKY Beverages has added several fabulous friends to its flirty lineup, including Blue, Red and Green Liqueurs, KINKY Vodka, KINKY Cocktails, EXTRA KINKY and X. KINKY is distributed by wholesalers throughout the country and is available at major retailers and on-premise accounts nationwide.

KINKY Aloha is available nationwide May 1st, 2018, with an SRP of $19.99. For more information about KINKY Beverages and KINKY recipes, visit KinkyBeverages.com.

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Source: Mixology News

Fueled By Explosive Popularity of the Negroni in America, the Iconic Italian Spirit Broadens Consumer Awareness with Campaign as Unique and Stimulating as the Brand Itself.

Campari®, Italy’s iconic bittersweet red aperitif and cornerstone ingredient in the Negroni, unveiled its new ad campaign, Go A Sip Beyond. A nod to visionaries Gaspare and Davide Campari, the inventor of Campari and his son who helped popularize the liqueur in America, the campaign encapsulates their progressive spirit while drawing inspiration from the brand’s heritage and cutting-edge vision, all of which has transcended time for nearly 160 years. Developed by Yard NYC, Go A Sip Beyond takes shape in the form of a short film that entices and enthrals as viewers are taken on a journey of discovery finding that not everything is as it seems, and there is always more beyond a first impression. The spot can be viewed through digital video platforms and Campari social channels.

“With American’s current obsession with bitter flavors in the form of coffee, IPA beers, brussel sprouts, and Negroni cocktails, it’s the perfect time to raise awareness for Campari and immerse drinkers in our world. Campari has always had a strong, bitter flavor that might not be for everyone, but that’s what makes it so intriguing. Even native Italians say you need to try Campari three times before you acquire a taste for it. Though, if you are enticed to go beyond the first (or even second) sip, you’ll be handsomely rewarded. Its aroma is intense, the bittersweet flavor captivating, and the overall experience transcends the glass. Go A Sip Beyond perfectly captures that essence, taking viewers on a journey into our world sip by sip.”
– Richard Black, Vice President of Marketing, White Spirits & Cordials, Campari America

For 158 years, Campari has kept itself at the forefront of advertising, collaborating with at-times radical and innovative artists, designers and filmmakers to create some of the most iconic and timeless advertising campaigns; the famous 1965 Campari ad by Bruno Munari now hangs in the New York Museum of Modern Art, for example. Go a Sip Beyond is no different. The film was directed by Arnaud Boutin, who is known for his diverse experience in foreign films, photography and editorial work. His passion for mystery, captivation, and enchantment helped create the campaign, continuing the forward-thinking approach to advertising Campari is known for.

The seductive narrative introduces the viewer to a world that increasingly becomes more fascinating as they explore three scenes inspired by the distinctiveness that is Campari—as if to recreate those crucial first three sips. Each scene brings the viewers on a curious journey, culminating with the final scene. It’s in this moment they realize that Campari is a spirit that cannot be judged by the first sip or even the second because, like their journey, each experience with Campari introduces something new and enchanting.

“Go A Sip Beyond answers the call of all adventure seekers who are looking for something new, different and interesting. From its nearly 160 year history to the secret recipe that has been passed down for decades, Go A Sip Beyond encompasses a delightful element of surprise, stimulation and pleasure. It literally goes beyond expectations and takes a risk that only Campari can rightfully own. To Go A Sip Beyond is to inspire passion, pleasure and open-mindedness in a contemporary way. We chose French Director, Arnaud Boutin, to collaborate and ultimately create our films for this campaign. With diverse experience in foreign films, photography and editorial work, Arnaud’s passion for mystery, captivation and enchantment helped us create a campaign that stood apart from the rest.”
– Stephen Niedzwiecki, Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer, Yard NYC

For more information visit Campari.com

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Source: Mixology News

Premium Vodka Brand Continues Ice-inspired Design Tradition.

Brown-Forman Finland unveiled a new package design for Finlandia Vodka, a brand known for its pristine and smooth taste and innovative bottle design. Conceived to capture the premium and dynamic essence of Finlandia Vodka, the design continues the brand’s half-century tradition of ice-inspired bottle designs—influenced by Finland’s global reputation for quality and pure natural environment.

“With this next evolution of ice, we added details, providing entry points into stories that give the brand meaning.”
– Carmen D’Ascendis, Senior Vice President, Global Brand Director, Finlandia Vodka

Finlandia New Package

The new bottle features premium elements, including a distinctive bottle shape with embossed imagery, an enhanced colour palette, and vibrant new branding. The bottle’s distinctive “Flowing-Ice” design allows the natural quality of the vodka to shine through while drawing inspiration from Finnish heritage, with the reindeer and Midnight Sun, embossed on the bottle’s shoulder. With a bold blue capsule, neck wrap and label, along with striking copper detail noting “Vodka from the Land of the Midnight Sun,” the new  Finlandia Vodka bottle design stands out on the shelf and back bar.

Embodying the best of Finland, Finlandia Vodka is made from pure, glacial spring water and the finest Suomi barley, grown under the 72 days of Finland’s “Midnight Sun.” State-of-the-art distillation transforms these untreated, natural ingredients into the smooth, crisp taste of Finlandia Vodka.

“Designed by Cartils Branding & Packaging Design, the new Finlandia Vodka packaging is a beautiful next step in the evolution of our award-winning design work, that reflects the premium vodka within.”
– Carmen D’Ascendis

Evolution of Ice Inspired Bottles

The new Finlandia Vodka bottle will be available for wholesale and retail purchase starting early summer, 2018. Poland, Finland and Czech Republic will receive new packaging starting June 2018. Select countries in Europe will begin receiving the new packaging in December 2018. The U.S., Russia and other markets will begin receiving the bottle in June, 2019.

For more information, visit finlandia.com.

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Source: Mixology News

To celebrate the addition of the first Boeing 737 MAX 8 to its fleet, Icelandair has released a special edition beer dubbed the 737 Transatlantic Icelandair Pale Ale (7.37% ABV).

Now, beer lovers can enjoy a fun twist on the most popular craft beer style while en route to one of Europe’s hottest destinations.

The newly introduced Icelandair Pale Ale was brewed by Boyne Brew-House in Ireland. Inspired by the new aircraft, the Transatlantic Iceland IPA is made with hops from the Pacific Northwest, the region where Boeing planes are built, and European malts which pays homage to the journeys the new fleet will make.

737 Transatlantic Icelandair Pale Ale

The 737 Transatlantic IPA is the perfect toast to the new Icelandair fleet, which were built to enhance transatlantic travel with completely redesigned cabin space and larger windows for better in-flight viewing of Iceland’s famous aerial landscape. The beer will be available onboard all Icelandair flights and in the Icelandair Saga Lounge at Keflavik International airport through end of year.

Icelandair’s Boeing 737 MAX 8 will operate on routes between Reykjavik and European destinations including Billund, Berlin, Hamburg, Paris, and Copenhagen, seating 160 passengers across Saga Premium and Economy classes. All of the new planes are named after areas of Iceland’s spectacular natural beauty, and the new Boeing 737 MAX 8 is named Jökulsárlon for the beautiful Jökulsárlon Lagoon.

The post Icelandair Releases Special Edition 737 Transatlantic IPA appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Percy Rodriguez is currently the Beverage Director for L’Amico and The Vine in New York City.

Percy started working the bar years ago at Otto under the tutelage of Dennis Mullally. He started getting his feet wet as a program director by creating the beer and wine program at the Washington Heights neighborhood gem Taszo. Percy helped open Babbo Boston in 2015, and later that year found his way to working for Chef Laurent Tourondel.

Percy Rodriguez

Here are four things we can learn from Percy:

Beverages need to match the focus of the restaurant. 

I have different programs for each outlet, each with their own voice. L’Amico is our flagship restaurant, and as it is an Italian outlet, the beverage needs to match that focus. The wine list focuses on indigenous varietals that celebrate the different regions of Italy, with lots of hidden gems spread throughout. The spirit program is deep on amaro, the always surprising Italian digestivo. The beer offerings will vary from sours to accessibly hoppy to dark and malty, from all over the world.

Inspiration comes from all over.

It can come from a need for a holiday, it can come from food I’m eating at home, anywhere. If anything, cocktail development is more about being open to making mistakes, because when you make a bad drink, there has to be a cause for its quality (or lack thereof). Too much of one ingredient, or wrong combination of liquors, maybe it should be served over different ice or in a different glass; the variables are countless. Navigating the research and development of a cocktail is work, but it’s also pretty exciting when you hit upon a great recipe.

Your program needs an identity.

A successful program is one that is profitable while having an identity. You need to decide if you’re running a program with a higher cost percentage (lower markups) but you plan on going through quantity, or a lower cost percentage (higher markups) while assuming lesser quantity. Once you decide on that direction, make a plan on its identity. Will you be more of a sports bar with a beer focus? Will you strive for high-end craft cocktails? A Chartreuse only bar? The choices are limitless, but the more concise you are with your decision, and being able to stick to it, the better.

You need a great staff.

Finally, you have to hire quality staff that you can trust. You can’t do everything all the time. And having a team you can rely on allows you as a beverage director to focus on big picture needs.

The post Four Things We Can Learn From Beverage Director Percy Rodriguez appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Heineken® USA has introduced Blade, it’s innovative countertop draught system, at the 17th annual Tribeca Film Festival, presented by AT&T April 18-29, 2018, in New York City.

Blade is designed to deliver a premium draught beer experience at any kind of venue and one as fresh as the films the festival celebrates. Tribeca Film Festival is the leading cultural event that brings visionaries and diverse audiences together to celebrate storytelling in all its forms, including film, TV, VR, gaming, music, and online work. Blade will deliver premium, buzzworthy experiences that drive awareness among the influential consumer set and provide education on the new system’s benefits to the on-premise trade channel.

“We are delighted with the opportunity to introduce and showcase Blade at Tribeca Film Festival. The planned activations will not only enhance the beer experiences at the festival but will give on-premise operators a firsthand look at the system’s unique features and benefits. Measuring 11.4” wide x 18.5” deep x 23.2” high, Blade requires space smaller than most commercial espresso machines, needs only an electrical socket to be fully functional, guarantees brewery-fresh draught for 30 days, requires no cleaning or maintenance, no installation, and weighs only 38 pounds. We expect Blade will be a perfect fit for small bars and restaurants currently without a draught beer program or for accounts with one or two taps looking to maximize profitability and remove the hassle of traditional draught systems.”
– Raul Esquer Lopez, Heineken Brand Manager

Heineken “Blade” Tabletop Draught System

Blade activations throughout the Tribeca Film Festival will provide guests with a custom Heineken brand experience. Starting with an official Blade launch event for retailers on April 19th at the Tribeca Festival Hub at Spring Studios, guests will interact with Blade ambassadors to learn more about the system’s technology and will be invited to serve their own brewery-fresh beer.

Additionally, informational stations throughout the event space will educate the trade on the technology and purchase options. Spring Studios is a state-of-the-art event space equipped with best-in-class technology and the utmost in comforts to provide the ultimate experience. The space is home to the Festival headquarters, to which all Tribeca Film Festival passholders have access. Additional Blade activations include the Tribeca late night hosted by Heineken at Public Arts in Public Hotel on April 22nd, and the Heineken Innovation Session at Freddy’s Café in Soho House Meat Packing on April 25th.

“The Tribeca Film Festival brings together film aficionados to enjoy great film experiences and now, with Blade, great beer experiences. We think that once consumers get a taste of the brewery-fresh draught beer that Blade delivers, and on-premise operators get a hands-on experience with the system’s features and benefits, Blade’s debut at Tribeca Film Festival will mark the beginning of a new era for draught beer.”
– Raul Esquer Lopez

For more information, visit HEINEKENUSA.com.

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Source: Mixology News