August 2019

National Rum Day is right around the corner, and we’re gearing up to celebrate the sugarcane spirit on August 16.

To help us observe the holiday, we turned to Ned Duggan, the Global SVP of Marketing at BACARDÍ, to learn more about the history of the brand and how they are celebrating this year. Check out our interview with Duggan below as you gear up for a day of great rum drinks this month.

Ned Duggan

Talk to us about National Rum Day. How instrumental is BACARDÍ in creating and celebrating this day?

This is an exciting year for rum. The category is on the rise, and the premium and super premium segments are catching fire, so there’s no better time to celebrate than on National Rum Day. In fact, why not celebrate all month long! Whether you enjoy a smooth sipping rum neat or on the rocks, or in an elevated, refreshing cocktail, the premium rum portfolio from BACARDÍ, HAVANA CLUB, Santa Teresa, Banks and the FACUNDO Rum Collection offers countless ways to savor the spirit this summer and beyond.

Tell us how BACARDÍ celebrates National Rum Day with its heritage and history.

BACARDÍ is the world’s most awarded rum and has more than 156 years of heritage and leadership in the rum category. The brand has been the global leader of rum culture for generations and has also been responsible for innovating rum culture, whether through cocktails or new expressions of the spirit. As a family brand, BACARDÍ is thrilled to celebrate all things rum this National Rum Day. This is a spirit that naturally evokes good times and has done so for more than 150 years.

What are some of the best BACARDÍ cocktails to mix on National Rum Day?

One of the great things about rum is that it’s such a versatile spirit, so there’s a delicious rum cocktail for everyone on National Rum Day! For those who like a classic, spirit-forward cocktail, we’d recommend trying an Old Fashioned made with BACARDÍ Reserva Ocho—it’s popular among top bartenders and spirits connoisseurs alike. For those looking for something more refreshing to beat the heat this August, a HAVANA CLUB Guayabita Daiquiri is the perfect tropical escape, regardless if you’re stuck in the city instead of the beach.

What are some of the historical traditions centered around this day?

The Bacardi family has a long culture and tradition of celebration—we like to think we know how to throw a good party! In terms of traditions, BACARDI rum has a rich history and tie to music, dating back to the 1920s in Cuba where Facundo Bacardí’s grandson, Facundito Bacardí, hosted popular fiestas with live music in the family home. In more recent years, we’ve adopted these family traditions and encouraged consumers across the nation to grab some friends, turn up some music that puts you in that ‘island vibe,’ and raise a glass in honor of the spirit.

What is the best way to celebrate National Rum Day with BACARDÍ?

Join us in toasting with rum! Across the nation, we’ll be hosting exciting events to celebrate National Rum Day. No matter where you are, you can celebrate at home with your favorite rum cocktail. Stop by bacardi.com for dozens of recipes, both classic and new and noteworthy.

As a brand, we’ll be celebrating across the nation in various ways, and we’d love to have you join us. In New York, we’re partnering with some of the top bars and bartenders in the city to highlight exclusive rum-forward cocktails all August long. In other cities, we’re looking forward to top bars putting their own spin on the holiday with exclusive rum cocktails.

What should bartenders know about National Rum Day?

We’re thrilled that rum is having such a moment with the trade right now. Rum is seeing a resurgence with dedicated tiki bars and rum bars popping up all around the world. This National Rum Day, we would be so excited for bartenders to join us in encouraging cocktail lovers to consider rum as their premium spirit of choice, whether in a cocktail or neat. Premium aged rums make for a fantastic base spirit for classic cocktails and more trend-forward recipes alike. In an Old Fashioned, rum gives the iconic recipe a special twist and pairs perfectly with the zesty orange.

Any historical fun facts you can share?

Rum is a historically significant spirit and the basis for a host of iconic cocktails enjoyed globally today. With such a deep heritage around the world, there’s no shortage of interesting tidbits about the spirit. One lesser known fact is that rum was once used as currency! Later on in 1862, BACARDÍ revolutionized the spirits industry when founder Don Facundo Bacardí Massó began producing his remarkable light-bodied, smooth rum. The unique taste of BACARDÍ inspired cocktail pioneers to invent some of the world’s most famous drink recipes including the Mojito, Daiquirí, Cuba Libre, Piña Colada and the Presidente.

An interesting fact about the brand is that when BACARDÍ was still based in Cuba, it had one of the first ice plants in the country. Every person who bought a case of BACARDÍ would also receive a token to redeem for a block of ice at the BACARDÍ ice plant. This allowed bars to serve cold cocktails, which was a huge luxury at the time because there was no electricity. The classic Daiquiri cocktail (which was first made with BACARDÍ rum) thus became one of the first cocktails to list ice as an ingredient on menus. In more recent years, the Daiquiri was a favored drink for many during the mid-century. While Hemingway might be most famously associated with the cocktail, President John F. Kennedy was another fan—he drank the cocktail on his sailboat, the Honey Fitz.

The post BACARDÍ’s Ned Duggan is Helping Us Celebrate National Rum Day appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Louisville-based Copper & Kings American Brandy Co. announced its latest barrel-finished, pure copper pot-distilled American brandy limited release, Riding With The King.

The launch is timed to coincide with Elvis Week, which takes place August 9-17.

The brandy is just older than five years with 29 months of maturation in juicy King Estate Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre French oak barrels that are 60 gallons in size. This followed an original 32 months in Kentucky bourbon barrels. The distillate is 100 percent Muscat de Alexandrie and double-distilled in Copper & Kings’ Vendome copper pot stills. As with all Copper & Kings’ American Brandy, the spirit is non-chill filtered with natural color and natural flavor, unadulterated with boisé or caramel color.

Copper & Kings Riding With The King

“This is nice and crisp, a little frisky, with red wine and red fruit notes. The tannins from the French oak give it a little grip, a slight ‘chewiness’ building to a sexy dry mid-palate, and then it finishes clean and long. It’s bright with hints of savory spice, cranberry and cherries with a bit of zip. It is non-chill filtered and 108 proof, so a bit of cold water or some ice opens it up beautifully. I’m proud of it and I think that it will appeal to lovers of youthful, fruity Armagnac but also brandy drinkers, scotch drinkers and American whiskey drinkers. You can’t fence us in—we will keep taking American brandy in new directions, and that’s the joy of it.”
– Brandon O’Daniel, Copper & Kings Master Distiller

Copper & Kings Riding With The King

“We often say we don’t do passion plays, but in truth we were more than a little in love with the chance to work with the King family, and with Ed King in particular,” Copper & Kings Founder Joe Heron said in a press release. “The King family are true American pioneers, with a sly twinkle, subtle adventurousness and the directness of real entrepreneurs. It’s a proud moment for us at Copper & Kings, and we are very grateful to Ed and his family. It took a while to get in the bottle—almost three years—but wow, another unique American brandy interpretation, another adventure. I’m going to hang on to a few of these for myself.”

Copper & Kings Riding With The King is available nationally in select fine retailers and at the distillery. It retails for $65.

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Source: Mixology News

You are likely aware of how important honey bees are to the environment.

If there were no bees, there would also be no fruits, vegetables or herbs to enjoy and keep humanity alive. We know it sounds bleek, but it’s the truth, which is why we’re so excited to support the latest initiative from Aberfeldy Scotch. In celebration of National Honey Bee Day on August 17, Aberfeldy has teamed with more than 20 bars across the United States on their “Adopt-a-Bee” cocktail program. For every drink purchased, Aberfeldy will donate 12 bees in the buying customer’s name to hives at local honey bee conservancies, like Tremblay Apiaries in New York.

American Whiskey Aberfeldy Mint Honey

Each participating bar has created a cocktail that features Aberfeldy 12-Year-Old scotch and honey from a local bee farm. The initiative is part of the brand’s global Barrels and Bees program, which works with local beekeepers to feature their honey as the main ingredient in signature cocktails. Participating cities for this year’s National Honey Bee Day event include Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco. If you find yourself in any of these cities come August 17, make sure to pop into one of the below bars, order the listed specialty cocktail and help save the bees.

Jams Barrels and Bees

Austin

Contigo: Hive Minded

CU29 Cocktail Bar: Honey! I’m A Pink Lady

Drink.Well: Golden Dram

Half Step: Bee Keeper

Nickel City: Bees in the Trap

Odd Duck: Summertime Blues

Roaring Fork Downtown Austin: Blues Bee

Seven Grand: Queen Bee Collins

Chicago

Spilt Milk: Aberfeldy Chestnut

Dallas

HG Sply Co: Revive the Hive

Houston

JW Marriott Houston: Shortbread Sweet Tea

Los Angeles

Big Bar: I Love You, Una Bear

New York City

American Whiskey: Aberfeldy Mint & Honey

Hold Fast: Aberfeldy Iced Toddy

Jams at 1 Hotel Central Park: Barrels and Bees

Lobby Bar at The Williamsburg Hotel: Seasons in the Sun

The Hunterian: Aberfeldy Highland Smash

The-Williamsburg Hotel Seasons in the Sun

San Francisco

Bar Laszlo: The Song Remains the Same

Coin Op: Honey Highball

Drexl: Choose your own Honey Highball

Foreign Cinema: Honey Highball

The Beehive: Golden Dram

The Miranda: Aberfeldy Gold Rush

The post Drink These Aberfeldy Cocktails to Help Save the Bees appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

A decade ago, Tío Pepe En Rama was born.

This unfiltered and unfined Fino has been at the forefront of developing En Rama as a style of sherry globally. The essence of the wine dates back to the very beginnings of the Jerez region while embracing the most recent consumer trends—a wine that is drunk in its most natural state, true to its roots.

“We wanted to give Sherry drinkers the chance to try Fino Sherry in its purest state, straight from the cask,” Antonio Flores, master blender at González Byass, said in a press release. “It is at this time of year, in the early spring, that our Fino is singing! We debated and deliberated on how we could make it happen, and 10 years ago we took the risk, launching our first saca. Since then we haven’t looked back. Sales have grown and the demand for this fresh, unadulterated wine continues to thrive.”

Tío Pepe En Rama 2019 Vintage

Today, Tío Pepe En Rama is sold in 17 markets internationally and demand continues to grow as new and seasoned sherry drinkers switch on to the delights of, what has been called, the “turbo-powered, super-charged” Fino. The 2019 Tío Pepe En Rama is a selection of 67 casks from the many thousands in González Byass’ bodegas in Jerez. It’s taken from the barrel at precisely the time of year when the flor is at its thickest to ensure maximum intensity and fresh, yeastiness in the wine.

Tío Pepe En Rama is best served slightly chilled in a generous wine glass. Once opened it should be consumed within one month. When kept in cool, dark storage, the En Rama evolves, developing into a delicious wine with nutty characteristics. Despite this, it is recommended that Tío Pepe En Rama is enjoyed as close to the release date as possible in order to be able to appreciate the very special flavors and aromas of a new wine bottled straight from cask.

The post Tío Pepe En Rama Releases Its 2019 Vintage appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

As the number of U.S. craft breweries soars towards 8,000, there exists a correlating expansion in the variety of brewery atmospheres.

One can scan any social media platform and notice the increasing trend in breweries developing spaces that are just as beautiful as the beer they create. And for some establishments, that includes breathtaking views of mountains, oceans and sunsets. These 12 breweries offer patrons the most incredible views to go along with their excellent brews.

Mountain Views

Bonfire Brewing, Eagle, Colorado

Located in the small but quickly growing town of Eagle in the majestic Vail Valley, Bonfire Brewing offers beer fans a new, expanded patio abound with great views of the nearby mountains. In fact, the outdoor space has been regularly voted as one of the best in the region. The brewery also sits within earshot of the Eagle River, so don’t be surprised to find a few kayakers around, too. While on the patio, possibly with a bonfire going, patrons can enjoy beers ranging from experimental sours and malt liquors to fruited and coffee ales, and everything in-between. There’s a little something for everyone at Bonfire.

Bonfire Brewing, Eagle, Colorado

Elevation Beer Company, Poncha Springs, Colorado

Located in the rural mountain town of Poncha Springs, Elevation Beer Company has an expansive view of the Collegiate Mountain Range in the increasingly popular Arkansas Valley. The mountains are at the southern end of Colorado’s most concentrated chain of 14,000-foot peaks, including Mount Elbert, the state’s tallest mountain. The tasting room features up to 16 beers on tap, including “a regularly rotating cask beer on a hand engine,” according to Elevation. The beers will surely hit the spot after a day of hitting the slopes on nearby Monarch Mountain.

Elevation Beer Company, Poncha Springs, Colorado

Oskar Blues, Brevard, North Carolina

Oskar Blues, which was the first craft brewery to can its beer in 2002, proudly proclaims that its beer is “mountain crafted.” That description speaks to an attitude that embraces nature, beer, music and otherwise enjoying life. Oskar Blues operates five locations in Colorado, Asheville, North Carolina and Austin, Texas, many of which include stunning views. But, for a unique setting, try its North Carolina venue, which is quaint, cozy and opens up to both the countryside and nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. In typical Oskar Blues fashion, the brewery hosts local and regional bands five nights a week. Pisgah National Forest is a 10-minute bike ride away, so you can check out some nature with your pals before meeting back at the brewery for a pint.

Oskar Blues, Brevard, North Carolina

Water Views

Woods Beer Company Island Club, San Francisco, California

“We have beach chairs available on a first-come-first-served basis, but you are also welcome to bring your own chairs.” That statement from Woods Beer Company says all you need to know about the atmosphere. The Woods Island Club location sits on the lovely Treasure Island in the San Francisco Bay between San Francisco and Oakland. Along with palm trees and sand to squish between your toes, one can enjoy excellent beer, like an IPA flavored with minty, herbal South American tea or something from the experimental barrel room. And the beers pair well with the empanadas and deep-dish pizza on the menu.

Woods Beer Company Island Club, San Francisco, California

Metropolitan Brewing, Chicago, Illinois

In 2008, Metropolitan emerged as Chicago’s first brewery to open in a decade, and it did so with a passion for lagering. In addition to the golden beers, Metro’s Black Lager—a Schwarzbier that’s roasty and rich but wonderfully light on the tongue with a dry finish—won the 2016 World Cup. In 2017, Metropolitan Brewing took over a former tannery and turned it into a brewery that offers heavenly views of the Chicago River. One can take in the sights by sitting in the taproom and peering through the floor-to-ceiling windows or by embarking on an outside stroll around the brewery. The trees that line the river provide the perfect canvas for both fall foliage and winter scenery that rival any Ansel Adams photograph.

Metropolitan Brewing, Chicago, Illinois

Whetstone Station Restaurant and Brewery, Brattleboro, Vermont

The Vermont-New Hampshire border runs smack-dab through the Whetstone Station Restaurant and Brewery. While this is unique, it’s the Connecticut River that makes one take notice of the space. The gorgeous beer garden sits above the river and has a bridge and abundance of trees in full view, perfect for giving customers a chance to enjoy those famous New England autumnal colors. In addition to the tasty food menu and 60 available brews, Whetstone operates an exploratory nano-brewery where they never brew the same beer twice.

Whetstone Station Restaurant and Brewery, Brattleboro, Vermont

Oasis Texas Brewing Company, Austin, Texas

This brewery’s website lists the local sunset time, and that should provide a clue about one of Oasis Texas Brewery Company’s chief amenities: watching the sun settle beneath gorgeous Lake Travis and the Texas Hill Country. Of course, it helps to enjoy that view while sipping on award-winning beers, enjoying food served from its craft kitchen or venturing into the barrel room for hand-crafted cocktails. And if that’s not enough, live music is routinely offered at Oasis. The view, aromas, tastes and sounds make for a true sensory experience to be had here.

Oasis Texas Brewing Company, Austin, Texas

Farm Views

Two Goats Brewing, Hector, New York

Operating out of a renovated 19th-century barn, Two Goats Brewing gives its patrons a breathtaking view of Seneca Lake, complete with spectacular sunsets. It seems appropriate that one can enjoy a New York beer in this type of setting, as the state once served as the nation’s hop farm leader, selling more than three million pounds annually in the mid-1800s. At Two Goats, it’s not hops that are king, but rather their signature dish—a roast beef sandwich made with naturally-raised beef from nearby Schrader Farms. Meanwhile, Two Goats is known for brewing its farm-style beers with only high-quality ingredients, and there’s plenty of styles from which customers can choose.

Two Goats Brewing, Hector, New York

Piney River Brewing Company, Bucyrus, Missouri

Joleen and Brian Durham bought a farm and dug a deep well in 2010 to obtain better water, and then they started brewing in 2011. Neither knew what to expect, but before long, they were distributing their beer and winning a slew of medals at the U.S. Beer Championships, Great American Beer Festival and World Cup. The refurbished barn (aka BARn) is now part of an expansive farm and brewery that’s evolved into a craft-beer destination. Piney River exists in a rural region, deep within the heart of the Ozark Mountains. The views include a big sky and tons of trees, removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Piney River Brewing Company, Bucyrus, Missouri

Garden Views

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, Escondido, California

Stone Brewing serves as a craft-brewing juggernaut, with locations both in the United States and overseas. The Escondido locale is the epitome of tranquility—the taproom is one-half brewery, one-half Garden of Eden. The bistro, complete with an open-air patio and acre-sized organic beer garden, is how Stone became “the largest restaurant purchaser of local, small-farm organic produce in San Diego County.” Along with refined dining options and an extensive beer menu, they also offer an impressive wine list.

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, Escondido, California

Karl Strauss, San Diego, California

As if it wasn’t good enough to brew multi-award winning beers in a city known for its fabulous weather, the Karl Strauss Sorrento Mesa location sits next to a picturesque koi pond. A few young couples have even chosen to make it the backdrop for their wedding pictures—not a bad way to start a marriage. But you don’t have to plan a wedding to fully enjoy the Karl Strauss pond-side location. Every Sunday, the brewery hosts a brunch that is something to behold. Along with a large, chef-prepared buffet, there are plenty of Karl Strauss brews and beer-tails to pair with the food.

Karl Strauss, San Diego, California

City Views

Rhinegeist, Cincinnati, Ohio

Rhinegeist just celebrated its sixth anniversary, growing from a small start-up in 2013 to the 28th largest brewery in the country, which is awfully impressive when you consider the nation now supports more than 7,500 brewing operations. The brewery possesses plenty of accolades and awards for its beer, and its expansive brewery and taproom is perfect for hosting a myriad of events (imagine seeing a large motorcycle show inside a brewery). But now Rhinegeist offers its patrons a stunning view. The rooftop overlooks a mix of rolling hills, the Queen City’s skyline and the historic Over the Rhine district. One can enjoy it while sipping on cocktails, wine, cider or one of its delicious brews.

Rhinegeist, Cincinnati, Ohio

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Source: Mixology News

Attention pro bartenders: Van Gogh Vodka has just launched a cocktail competition in honor of International Artist Day on October 25.

On that day, Van Gogh is hosting a special event in Charleston, South Carolina titled The Art of the Cocktail that will bring together three bartender finalists to compete live. If you’re interested in becoming Van Gogh’s BARtist in Residence, keep reading.

Art of the Cocktail

To submit your masterpiece, you need to create a custom cocktail using Van Gogh Vodka, inspired by a Vincent Van Gogh painting. After creating your signature libation, submit the recipe, along with a photo and the name of a charity you’d like to support. Cocktails will be judged on taste, creativity (think homemade ingredients, ice and glassware) and presentation of the drink with a garnish. The top 25 entries will be chosen for the voting round to compete in a spot for the final three. If you’re one of the chosen three, you’ll be flown down to Charleston for a three-day, two-night trip to compete in the live finals.

Art of the Cocktail

The winner will receive a grand prize of $2,500, a feature recipe book spread, $1,000 to give to an art-based charity and the title of Van Gogh’s BARtist in Residence. If you think you have what it takes to create a truly beautiful and delicious Van Gogh Vodka cocktail, check out our contest page for the official rules. Good luck!

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Source: Mixology News

Mezcal has long been a beloved spirit as well as a popular cocktail ingredient that has now brought new life to the classic Dirty Martini.

Bartender and Mezcal El Silencio Brand Ambassador Federico Lozano shares his take on a new and improved smoky Dirty Martini.

Federico Lozano

What’s in an El Silencio Dirty Martini and what inspired the drink?

My Mezcal Dirty Martini consists of Mezcal El Silencio Espadin, vodka, olive juice, jalapeno tincture and olives. Experimenting and wanting to try something new inspired the drink. It’s like oysters with mezcal. It’s so good, but not many people have tried it yet. This is a drink that people will love once they give it a try.

What does mezcal bring to the classic Dirty Martini?

Mezcal pairs well with the brine, and makes the drink rounder and more interesting.

Is any particular ingredient key?

Yes—the Castelvetrano olive juice has a really specific flavor that I really like for Dirty Martinis and that complements the profile of the mezcal.

We’ve heard of a Dirty Oaxacan, which substitutes mezcal for vodka, but you didn’t do that. Your drink calls for mezcal and vodka. Why did you do that?

So it would still be considered a Martini. I just wanted to make it better.

Have you tried gin instead of vodka in your El Silencio Dirty Martini? 

I have not, but you just gave me a really good idea.

Dirty Mezcal Martini

El Silencio Dirty Martini

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Mezcal El Silencio Espadin
• 1 oz. Vodka
• .75 oz. Castelvetrano Olive Juice
• 1 dash Jalapeño Tincture (Optional)
• 3 Castelvetrano Olives (to Garnish)

Preparation: Combine spirits, olive juice and jalapeño tincture in a small cocktail shaker, and give it a good shake with ice. Fine strain it into a coupe glass, and garnish with olives.

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Source: Mixology News

Puerto de Indias announced it is expanding distribution of its flagship Strawberry Gin this summer to new U.S. markets, including Connecticut and Georgia.

The expansion follows the highly successful launch of the company’s nonconforming and innovative strawberry flavored gin in New York, Florida and Illinois. Puerto de Indias has appointed Slocum and Sons as its distributor in Connecticut and Savannah Distributing in Georgia to lead the charge for growth in these two important markets.

“We are thrilled to see the momentum of our best-selling Strawberry Gin build here in the U.S. since we first launched in New York, Florida and Illinois in February,” said Jose Sedano, International Development Director for Puerto de Indias, in a press release. “And now, we are very excited to work with Slocum & Sons and Savannah Distributing, two highly reputable distributors, to introduce bartenders and consumers in Connecticut and Georgia to our unconventional gin that is sure to change the way they think about the category forever.”

Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin

Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin is crafted through the expert blending of delicate citrus and juniper Gin with freshly distilled strawberries. The result is a truly distinctive and wonderfully accessible gin with a deliciously fresh and subtle taste of strawberry and a visually stunning color that dares to be different. Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin is produced at the Los Alcores de Carmona Distillery located just outside Seville. The distillery was founded in 1880, making it one of Spain’s oldest and most traditional distilleries. Brothers Jose Antonio and Francisco Rodriguez Fernandez purchased the distillery to restore and preserve it and to distill superior quality spirits befitting the history and craftsmanship of the region.

“The birth of our prized strawberry gin was truly an accident that made history. While also experimenting with Seville’s world-renowned fresh strawberries, the brothers added some distilled strawberry mash to the gin they were crafting. The product was so delicious they bottled a few hundred cases and the rest is history.”
– Jose Sedano, Puerto de Indias International Development Director

Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin is available in a 750ml bottle and retails for a suggested price of $26.99.

The post Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin is Now Available in Connecticut and Georgia appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

NEFT Vodka, a premium vodka crafted in the Austrian Alps that’s quickly garnering accolades throughout the United States, has announced a shift in leadership direction, with U.S. Director’s Jeff Mahony and Scott Sutherland advancing strategic investment following triple digit growth for the brand.

Under a more refined GTM strategy, NEFT Vodka will see more than a 300 percent investment increase during the next 12 months, focused on both sales and marketing in the United States.

As part of this new direction, NEFT Vodka has secured a highly experienced executive management team comprised of business professionals with diverse backgrounds in sectors such as technology, finance and spirits. As part of this growth, NEFT recently hired 10 full-time, and 13 part-time employees in marketing, social media, content development, event operations and sales, and is expected to fill 10 to 20 more roles within the next year. A recent move to the prestigious Pacific Design Center’s 14-acre campus in West Hollywood, California—where they will run operations and conduct trainings—solidifies the brands commitment to growth. In addition, in keeping with the NEFT’s charitable commitment, approximately three percent of every unit sold will be donated to local and national charities. The board has been and continues to be particularly dedicated to supporting children related causes.

NEFT Vodka

NEFT Vodka was conceived of by Alexander Kuzmina, a third generation petroleum engineer from Western Siberia who saw first-hand the sacrifice and endurance displayed by the Siberian oil pioneers of the 1970s. Paying tribute to these trailblazers, Kuzmina was determined to make a product of pristine quality for which the original workers would not only be proud, but would thoroughly enjoy. He sought the most organic ingredients available and settled on the mountainous Vorarlberg region of Austria, where the pristine Alpine spring water and distillation methods produce some of the best spirits in the world. Critics agree, with NEFT Vodka recently receiving a second Double Gold Medal from the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) where, along with its first Double Gold medal, it also took “Best in Show” in the vodka category in 2018, and The Tasting Panel Magazine recently awarded NEFT an impressive 98 point score.

NEFT Vodka uses four different strains of non-GMO rye grain grown in the arable regions of Austria—Rapidly, Amato, Pollino, and Askari—delivering a distinct flavor profile with a natural, slightly sweet finish. This grain selection, combined with the pristine, oxygen-rich Alpine spring water sourced underground from the Rätikon Massif mountain range (known for its rich geological diversity consisting of limestone and slate), NEFT’s multiple-distillation process, and carbon-layer filtration produces an unmistakable vodka of exceptional purity and a smooth, refined taste that consumers everywhere can enjoy. NEFT (Russian for “oil”), is a bold vodka available in a unique oil barrel vessel, further honoring it’s heritage.

Under new direction, NEFT Vodka has gained a level of investment and innovative thinking needed to catapult the brand to the top of the ultra-premium vodka category. With the development of a new sleek glass bottle, NEFT is steadfastly moving to solidify this position, targeting high-end on-premise accounts, as well as “nighttime” consumer consumption as they focus on increasing distribution and developing rapid growth in states across the region. NEFT is currently available in select accounts in NY, CA, and UT. NEFT Vodka has a SRP of $36.99 (750ml barrel); $44.99 (1 liter barrel); and $9.99 (100ml barrel).

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Source: Mixology News

Before departing on a recent trip to La Paz, Mexico, I heard about a mythical spirit called damiana liqueur.

Always interested in herbal remedies and tinctures, I was eager to taste and learn more about this liqueur made from the damiana plant that grows well in Baja California Sur’s desert climate. It’s said that the damiana plant has certain medicinal properties. Locals sip the liqueur either neat or mixed in cocktails to cure ailments such as stress, insomnia, and aches and pains. But its most sensational claim is that this sweet, herbal liqueur is an aphrodisiac. I knew I wanted to taste it for myself.

Damiana Liqueur Margarita at Sea Side

What is Damiana?

Damiana is a small shrub that can be found in the rocky hillsides of Mexico and other desert regions. In addition to its amour-enhancing benefits, the herb is said to improve digestion, treat constipation, and create an overall sense of well-being. The aphrodisiac aspects of the remedy are believed to come into play because the herb stimulates the intestinal tract, bringing oxygen to the genital area for both men and women. As there isn’t any scientific data behind these benefits, mainly what you’ll hear when you ask about the plant are tall tales of love found after ingesting the liqueur.

According to Healthline, damiana (Turnera diffusa) is a low-growing plant with yellow flowers and fragrant leaves. In addition to Mexico, it’s native to subtropical climates like southern Texas, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Its medicinal uses predate written history. Healthline says that “by the time the Spanish crossed the Atlantic, indigenous cultures had been using it for centuries as an aphrodisiac and bladder tonic.”

Spanish missionaries noticed that native tribes would brew a damiana tea with sugar to stimulate sexual performance. Although there aren’t human studies, laboratory tests performed on rats showed increased sexual performance in both males and females, but in particular those with sexual dysfunction. Still, both sexes exhibited increased sexual activity. Although the damiana plant is generally safe and nontoxic, like any herbal remedy, it shouldn’t be consumed during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or by anyone with diabetes.

Damiana’s Uses in Drinks

The damiana plant creates a sweet, minty, woody liqueur. Locals like to sip it on the rocks, take it as a shot, or in place of triple sec or simple syrup in Margaritas. Many consider it the perfect “secret ingredient” to the drink, and others profess that the original Margarita was created using damiana liqueur. You can purchase the liqueur straight, or some distillers are mixing the essence of damiana with a tequila base for a more potent drink.

As I have an interest in tinctures, I was excited to learn how to extract the essences from damiana to create a homemade tincture. Simply fill a jar with the leaves of the herb, cover with a liter of vodka, and let sit for at least 10 days. I like to give the jar a good shake each day and keep it out of direct sunlight. After a couple weeks, strain the mixture through a coffee filter to remove the plant pieces. You can use the tincture to make a cup of tea by placing one dropper-full of the alcohol in a cup of hot water with honey. To make a liqueur, add the vodka to 500ml of water. Warm the infused water and add one to two cups of honey until dissolved. Bottle the liquor to enjoy at your leisure. If you’d rather not go to the trouble to create the liqueur yourself, you can purchase a bottle or find a version with tequila or whiskey base.

Damiana Plant

Heading back to the states after my visit to La Paz, I stopped at the airport liquor store to ask about damiana liqueur. The gentleman quickly offered me a sample. I told him I’d heard stories about its potent aphrodisiac qualities and said it might not be the best drink to taste before boarding an airplane. He told me, “Oh, drink it and find out. I’m single!” (Now that’s a good salesman.) He poured me a small shot of Agavero, a blend of 100 percent agave reposado and añejo tequilas with added damiana flower essence. It was sweet and woody, but I only took a small sip, still worried about the consequences. The gentleman allayed my fears and told me in confidence that it’s really a myth. He said tradition has it that guests would give the bride and groom a bottle of damiana liqueur as a wedding present to enhance their honeymoon and increase the odds of fertility. Whether it’s based on lore or not, people who enjoy the liqueur believe in its benefits.

Now distributed in the United States, you don’t have to visit Mexico to sit on the beach and sip this sweet, mythical liqueur. But it might be worth a trip south of the border, just for the experience.

The post Damiana Liqueur: Herbal Aphrodisiac or Urban Legend? appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News