Monthly Archives

September 2020

Top 5 Bourbons Released in the Fall

By | Mixology News

Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, bottles on white, featured image

Fall is more than just that time of year when the air turns crisp and trees lose their leaves.

Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon, bottle on white

Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon

For managers of whiskey bars, it’s also when folks start coming around asking about “Van Winkle.” Yet, this time of year is more than just when Pappy Van Winkle bourbons and ryes are released. Most of the annual limited release whiskeys that enthusiasts have come to crave are released at this time, too.

Angel’s Envy Cask Strength

Amping up the port-finished goodness of regular Angel’s Envy, this cask strength version bursts with dried fruits and oaky flavors. It takes everything people like about Angel’s Envy up a couple of notches, while also being an excellent example in general of what happens when you raise the proof on a bourbon into the 120 range.

Angel’s Envy Cask Strength, bottle and package on white

Angel’s Envy Cask Strength


Buffalo Trace Antique Collection

This set of five whiskeys is a mix of bourbons and ryes that are all either cask strength (Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye and William Larue Weller Bourbon), ultra-aged (Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon and Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old), or both cask strength and ultra-aged (George T. Stagg Bourbon). As a group, they have earned more medals and awards than General Patton, while Weller and Stagg come second only to Pappy Van Winkle for desirability.

Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, bottles on white

Buffalo Trace Antique Collection


Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old and 23-Year-Old

Although at one time these two bottles were only released periodically, in recent years they have become annual releases. Both are bottled at 90 proof and take Elijah Craig Small Batch—a mature, pleasant, easy sipper—further and deeper into oak-barrel aging. Some consider the 23-Year-Old over-oaked, in fact, in the same way as Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 23-Year-Old, making the younger 18-Year-Old expression more popular with bourbon aficionados.

Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old and 23-Year-Old, bottles on white

Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old and 23-Year-Old


Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition 2018

Fans of Four Roses are obsessed with the distillery’s ten recipes of yeast and grain, and every year the distillery releases a special version of its Small Batch that blends aged versions of a handful of those recipes. This year’s edition draws on a 16-Year-Old of the fan favorite OESK recipe, plus 10-Year-Old OBSV, 13-Year-Old OESV, 13-Year Old OBSF, and 14-Year-Old OESV.

Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition 2018, bottle on white

Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition 2018


Parker’s Heritage Barrel Finish 2018

The annual prestige series for Heaven Hill, Parker’s Heritage has been all over the whiskey board. The release is a 110 proof, 10-year-old bourbon, and what makes it unusual is the orange Curacao finish. That last touch turned a traditional whiskey into a superbly yummy one.

Parker’s Heritage Barrel Finish 2018, bottle on white

Parker’s Heritage Barrel Finish 2018

The post Top 5 Bourbons Released in the Fall appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

On Location: Adele’s in Nashville

By | Mixology News

Mai Tai, classic cocktail, adeles, nashville, tennessee

Adele’s in Nashville, Tennessee celebrates vintage cocktails with their 10-cocktail takeover featuring drinks that shaped the way we drink over the past 100 years.

Mai Tai
Cosmo
Singapore Sling
Tequila Sunrise

Adele's Nashville

In a partnership between Ken Levitan, Jonathan Waxman, and Howard Greenston—of the 1210 McGavock Street Hospitality Partners—Adele’s keeps a focus on seasonal, comfort food sourced from local farms and purveyors.

However, they are inviting you to celebrate classic cocktails that shaped the way we drink. They are featuring the 10 most popular cocktails that debuted over the last decade, from the 1900’s Old Fashioned all the way to the 2000’s Cosmopolitan! Check out their retro-style menu.

Adele's Retro Cocktail Menu

Adele’s Retro Cocktail Menu

The post On Location: Adele’s in Nashville appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

4 NY Distilleries Bring Small-Batch Rye Production Back to Hudson Valley

By | Mixology News

Coppersea Floor Malt, featured image

In the early 1800s, the state of New York supplied more than half of the young nation’s rye grain—referring to the Hudson Valley area as the “country’s bread-basket.”

Used as a winter cover crop, organic farmers reaped from the grain’s resourceful properties—capturing nutrients, enhancing soil health, preventing soil erosion, and reducing weeds without the use of herbicides. With a great abundance of high-quality rye grain, local craft distillers flourished as countless farm distilleries produced whiskey reflecting the unique terroir of the state. Then, in the 1920s, Prohibition forced all distilleries to close down, leaving the wellspring of American spirits to dry up.

In recent years, Americans have once again embraced the “spirited” properties of rye grain with reintroducing products in food and more so, drink—eventually bringing rye whiskey back to its home-state of New York.

“Because of the new grains that have come along, we’re witnessing a renaissance in the interest and production of small grains in the United States. Hudson Valley is a hotspot for small, organic farmers. We’re working to revitalize production on high-valued [rye] grains,” explains Mark Sorrels, director of the Small Grains Project at Cornell University.

Few farm distilleries have contributed to the success of bringing the 200-year-old tradition of small-batch rye production back to Hudson Valley, though with present-day approaches. These distilleries, set along the banks of the Hudson River and high above the rolling barley fields, include New York’s first distillery post-prohibition, Tuthilltown Spirits; Coppersea Heritage Distilling; Taconic Distilling, and Hillrock Estate Distillery who claims the first malt house in the states since debarment. All uphold a sustainable ‘farm-to-bottle’ practice—beginning with the locally harvested heirloom grain varieties (rye, corn and barley) that endure hardiness and richness in flavor and complexity than mass-produced types mainly used by factory malt operations.

Hudson Manhattan Rye Whiskey

Hudson Manhattan Rye Whiskey

Established in 2003, Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery was the first whiskey distillery in New York since Prohibition producing some of the country’s most-prized spirits. “When the spirits began to flow, that’s when we knew we had something very special,” says Ralph Erenzo, distiller and founder at Tuthilltown Spirits.

Hudson Maple Cask Rye Whiskey

Hudson Maple Cask Rye Whiskey

A point of reference is the recognized Hudson Manhattan Rye Whiskey—a blend of 90% rye and 10% malted barley that generates a rustic yet smooth expression. “The rye starts out with a peppery, spicy taste, but when you let it sit in a glass you discover it suddenly shifts to caramel and vanilla,” describes Erenzo.

The attention to detail starts with sourcing the rye grain from organic farmers less than ten miles away, crushing the local grain at the landmark gristmill in Gardiner, New York, then undergoing open-top fermentation allowing ambient yeasts to release extra ethanol flavors of terroir and seasonal variation to the mash—the flavors of Hudson Valley.

Coppersea Floor Malt

Coppersea Floor Malt

Another true expression of handcraft distilling, Coppersea Distilling wields a 75-acre, additive-free farm in New Paltz, New York sourcing all raw materials on-site. In early 2012, Coppersea became the first distillery in New York to floor malt its own rye and barley—enabling a commitment to 100% Hudson Valley grains.

Coppersea Bottle

Coppersea Bottle

Grain is not a fermentable material as it is made of starch. Through malting grain, starch turns into sugar, then converts into alcohol by the yeast in the mash. In this approach, Coppersea tricks the grain into thinking it is time to grow the plant. The grain is placed into a steep; spring water and air is added to the mix initiating germination. The liquid is drained, and the malt is moved to the floor. Over the course of one week, the team at Coppersea rakes and rotates the malt on the floor to create an even germination. The grain, now called ‘green malt,’ is baked in a kiln – allowing it to last longer for future distilling, make grind-able for milling, and add nutty and roasted flavors to its “spirit.”

Hillrock Malthouse (Outside)

Hillrock Malthouse (Outside)

Set in Ancram, New York, Hillrock Estate Distillery operates all floor maltings, like Coppersea, though they claim the first new malt house in the state since Prohibition. Surrounded by rolling barley fields, the elegant malt house bridges the ‘field-to-glass’ process of turning estate grain into fine whiskey.

Hillrock Malthouse (Inside)

Hillrock Malthouse (Inside)

With custom-made, copper distillation equipment, the team at Hillrock has complete control over the character and quality of each individual small-batch of premier whiskey. Every detail refined and quality steeped in the 200-year-old tradition of small-batch rye production.

Hillrock Estate Grain

Hillrock Estate Grain

The rich, golden amber Double Rye Whiskey rests in new #3 char American oak casks, then in #4 char American oak casks adding layers of caramel and vanilla—complementing the traditional rye spice. Today, the award-winning whiskey is sold in 14 states and counting, and continues to pay homage to their beloved, late master distiller Dave Pickerell.

Taconic Distillery

Taconic Distillery

Similarly, Taconic’s Founder’s Rye mirrors the deep terroir of Hudson Valley—undercurrents of woodiness and spice cooled by mineral-rich, artisanal spring water, resulting in an exceptionally smooth rye. On the contrary, Taconic Distillery, which situated in Stanfordville, New York, does not chill filter to preserve the complete flavor of the whiskey, hence the slight “cloudiness” in the liquid. It is common for distillers to sacrifice a small amount of natural flavor for clarity as they chill filter the whiskey, removing some of the fatty molecules, or flavor oils.

Taconic Bottling

Taconic Bottling

Instead, Taconic imparts as much flavor to the whiskey as possible. Aging obviously plays a large part in the flavor profile of whiskey, letting the Taconic team to experiment with cask finishing: Cognac, Madeira, even maple syrup.

Taconic Bottles

Taconic Bottles

Together, these farm distilleries stand at the forefront of the craft distilling movement and continue making waves in the industry of rye—still holding the provenance of the past.

The post 4 NY Distilleries Bring Small-Batch Rye Production Back to Hudson Valley appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Last Chance to Enter and Win CASH – Van Gogh Art of the Cocktail Competition

By | Mixology News

Van Gogh Art of the Cocktail Competition, featured image

Make it a masterpiece with Van Gogh Vodka Bartenders!!

There are only ONE (1) day left to submit your entry.

Van Gogh Art of the Cocktail Competition

Van Gogh Art of the Cocktail Competition

Submit your masterpiece HERE and get selected to be the next Van Gogh Vodka Bartist in Residence with CASH prizes.

Three (3) professional and three (3) home bartenders will be selected to compete in the virtual finals, streamed live on Facebook.

The winner of the home bartender contest will receive a grand prize of $1,500.

The winner of the professional bartender contest will receive a grand prize of $2,500 alongside a $1,000 donation to a charity of their choice.

Visit ChilledMagazine.com/VanGogh-Cocktail-Art/#Competition for rules and regulations.

The post Last Chance to Enter and Win CASH – Van Gogh Art of the Cocktail Competition appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Where To-Go for RTD Cocktails

By | Mixology News

Bottled Cocktails (Island Fever), featured image

In this new world we’re all living in, getting drinks-to-go has become the norm.

For bars and restaurants, there have been many changes as take-out becomes more popular, and the dining-out experience (from the comfort of your own home) is not only necessity but sought after. Here are a few favorite cocktails to-go featured at various hotels across the country!

Mason Jar Cocktails at Hotel Valley Ho (Scottsdale, AZ)

Pre-mixed and ready to enjoy, each jar comes with a QR code to a video where beverage ambassador PJ Baron makes the drink and so you can gain some boozy knowledge as you sip.

Mason Jar Cocktails

Mason Jar Cocktails


Lily’s Lemonade at Mission Point (Mackinac Island, MI)

Enjoy favorites made to-go, such as Lavender Hibiscus Lemonade (Belvedere vodka, lavender, hibiscus syrup, club soda, fresh lemon juice) or the Michigan Blueberry Mojito (Bacardi Limon rum, simple syrup, club soda, fresh Michigan blueberries, mint leaves, lime and lemon slices) from the largest lemonade stand on the island.

Lily’s Lemonade

Lily’s Lemonade


Batch Cocktails at The Garland (North Hollywood, CA)

Allowing locals to create their very own at-home bar, their batch cocktails are created in mason jars, so all you need to do is pour over ice and enjoy! One restaurant favorite is the Cucumber Press (Bulldog gin, lime juice, cilantro, cucumber, St-Germain).

Cucumber Press

Cucumber Press


Morning Dew at Pendry San Diego (San Diego, CA)

This chic cocktail bar is offering sophisticated and fun cocktails to go, one being the Morning Dew, made with Tito’s vodka, cucumber, salted honey, Moët, and Chandon Imperial and lime.

Morning Dew

Morning Dew


Bark Twice If You’re in Milwaukee at Gravity Haus (Breckenridge, CO)

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Gravity Haus embodies a Colorado experience offering an elevated eatery and bar—Cabin Juice. A favorite, Bark Twice If You’re In Milwaukee, is created with Pimm’s No. 1 cup, Breckenridge Gin, Foro Amaro, Blackberry Mint Cordial, lemon juice and Fever-Tree Ginger Ale.

Bark Twice If You’re in Milwaukee

Bark Twice If You’re in Milwaukee


The Electric Purple Jawbreaker Margarita at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino AC (Atlantic City, NY)

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City, NJ

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City, NJ

With the legendary boardwalk as its backdrop, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is nothing short of exciting. Stop by the Sugar Factory for one of their creative cocktails to go; meaning you can’t take one of their signature goblet glasses, but instead, your drink will come in two separate glasses with all the usual toppings you’d get if you were dining-in. Designated and tasted by the Chainsmokers, The Electric Purple Jawbreaker Margarita included cocktail glitter, gummy bears, and psychedelic jawbreakers.

The Electric Purple Jawbreaker Margarita

The Electric Purple Jawbreaker Margarita


Key Lime Pie Martini at Parrot Key Hotel & Villas (Key West, FL)

This signature cocktail is made with key lime liquor, vanilla vodka, and coconut for a refreshing, sweet treat, and can be taken to-go to enjoy around the pool or the beach.

Key Lime Pie Martini

Key Lime Pie Martini


Bottled Cocktails (Island Fever) at THesis Hotel Miami (Coral Gables, FL)

Guests can enjoy their bottled cocktails in their rooms or while they explore this destination. Their popular Island Fever cocktail is made from pineapple-infused rye, Benedictine, island time, sweet vermouth, Cherry Heering, and Jamaican bitters.

Bottled Cocktails <em>(Island Fever)</em>

Bottled Cocktails (Island Fever)

The post Where To-Go for RTD Cocktails appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Get Ready for Fall with Pumpkin Coffee Old Fashioned

By | Mixology News

Pumpkin Coffee Old Fashioned, featured image

Available for a limited time only, Sagamore Spirit, the award-winning Maryland-style rye distiller, introduces whiskey inspired by the flavors of the classic Manhattan cocktail.

Sagamore Spirit Distiller’s Select Manhattan Finish is bottled at a substantial 103-proof and is equally enjoyable mixed in its namesake cocktail or savored on its own.

Sagamore Spirit’s latest limited release deconstructs the flavors of a Manhattan cocktail, finishing straight rye whiskey in separate 53-gallon cherry brandy, vermouth, and bitters barrels. The final result hints at the fresh cherry sweetness, herbaceous vermouth and botanical spice of the classic cocktail, while preserving the gentle yet full-bodied character of Sagamore Spirit’s Maryland-style rye.

This standout bottle is the first in Sagamore Spirit’s “Distiller’s Select” line, an ongoing collection of Maryland-style rye whiskies aged in barrels formerly used to age other spirits. “Distiller’s Select” complements Sagamore Spirit’s “Brewer’s Select” line, a newly launched collection of barrel-aged beer-finished whiskies.

Sagamore Rye Distillers, bottle on white, manhattan

Sagamore Spirit’s “Distiller’s Select”

“Whiskey enthusiasts want to be challenged, and we’re always up for a good challenge too. It led us to try something that’s never been done before, which ultimately became Manhattan Finish,” says Brian Treacy, Sagamore Spirit president. “The process started with breaking down the flavors of a Manhattan cocktail and then building them back up again. Our distilling team spent weeks testing different combinations of our straight rye whiskey aged separately in cherry brandy, vermouth and bitters barrels to find just the right blend. The result turned out to be exactly what we wanted: a full-proof whiskey with character—not a cocktail—and one that was well worth the risk.”

As the latest innovation from Sagamore Spirit’s distilling team, Manhattan Finish follows other popular limited time offerings released earlier this year: Rye Ale Finish (aged in Sierra Nevada beer barrels) and Calvados Finish. While Manhattan Finish will only be available for a limited time, fans can enjoy Sagamore Spirit year-round with Signature Rye Whiskey and Cask Strength, the distillery’s core offerings that are leading the Maryland-style rye revival across the country.

To find a bottle near you visit sagamorespirit.com/find-rye.

Pumpkin Coffee Old Fashioned

Pumpkin Coffee Old Fashioned

Pumpkin Coffee Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
  • 1/2 oz. pumpkin simple syrup
  • 1/4 oz. Mr Black coffee liqueur
  • 1 dash orange bitters
  • Orange twist (for garnish)

Preparation: Add ice to a glass pitcher. Pour in Sagamore Spirit Rye, pumpkin syrup, coffee liqueur and bitters. Stir until well chilled. Strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.

The post Get Ready for Fall with Pumpkin Coffee Old Fashioned appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Sit Back and Sip on the Sounds of Cloudy Bay on Spotify

By | Mixology News

The Sounds of Cloudy Bay, featured image

With tastings and in-person interactions on hold for the moment the wine industry is turning to unique ways of engaging with its current and new consumers.

Cloudy Bay, the iconic Marlborough New Zealand winery has created a sensory, meditative journey through its vineyards and winery with its Spotify playlist called the Sounds of Cloudy Bay Playlist.

Cloudy Bay Spotify Cover

“The Sounds of Cloudy Bay’s nature-inspired soundscapes were created to pair with and heighten aspects of our Sauvignon Blanc. Listeners are transported to the natural, calming atmosphere of the vineyard and cellar, immersing themselves in a multi-sensory experience as they taste the pure, fresh citrus and tropical notes of Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc.”  John Santos, VP, Estates & Wines.

Curious as to the how this idea came to be, we reached out for a few more behind-the-sounds details.

The Sounds of Cloudy Bay

The Sounds of Cloudy Bay

Wine experiences have always been focused on sight and taste—what inspired the idea of a playlist?

The Sounds of Cloudy Bay was inspired by our belief that the best way to truly experience Cloudy Bay is to visit us. However, this is not always possible so we decided to create a sensorial experience that will allow wine lovers to virtually experience the Cloudy Bay winery in New Zealand through the sounds of our natural atmosphere. These tracks are inspired by our wines, the flavors, the aromatics and the vineyards from which they come. Listen while tasting for a multi-sensory Cloudy Bay experience.

What do you want the listener to take away from listening?

Through the Sounds of Cloudy Bay, we hope to evoke the feeling of relaxation that our breathtaking property inspires. We also hope to educate listeners about Marlborough as New Zealand’s leading wine region and one of the finest winemaking areas in the world. Cloudy Bay works alongside nature to obtain the purity of New Zealand—both for our wines and through this project.

How were the musical compilations chosen?  

Sound influences the way we taste wines, so we created tracks that complement each of our wines. For instance, our Cloudy Bay Te Koko has a complex taste, therefore, we created a sound that was melodic and connected with the Sauvignon Blanc track, but with more depth and complexity of tone. In Te Koko’s track you can hear cicadas and crickets, wine pouring, waves on the shore of Cloudy Bay (Te Koko o Kupe) and footsteps on shingle, among other sounds.

Was the music written specifically for Cloudy Bay or are they existing pieces that are associated with the winery?

With the help of music composer Louis Lacoste, all natural sounds—the chirping of birds, running river, wine pours, uncorking of bottles, ground crunching under feet—were recorded at our winery. He also created the chordophones underlaying our natural sounds and produced the tracks of our playlist.

Can we expect to hear any more in the future?

We are open to the possibility. We are continuing to capture sounds at the winery, so additional tracks to complement our future vintages may follow in the near future.

So next time COVID chaos has you down, pour yourself a glass of Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc and let your mind escape for some self-pampering and introspection with transportive sounds recorded at the Cloudy Bay winery as well as its Marlborough and Central Otago vineyards.

Listen to the Sounds of Cloudy Bay Playlist on Spotify.

The post Sit Back and Sip on the Sounds of Cloudy Bay on Spotify appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

YES!! We Are READY TO DRINK!!

By | Mixology News

Party Can Ready-to-Drink, featured image

Significant growth of the Ready-To-Drink (RTD) category emerged long before the global pandemic arrived, but with the presence of COVID-19 firmly in place, sales of the category are soaring.

According to Nielsen, RTD sales (year-to-year) increased 22% leading into the spring lockdowns. However, that number has since climbed to a whopping 90% growth. And there seems to be no sign of that trend slowing down. According to Marketwatch.com, “The [global RTD alcoholic beverages] market is expected to garner a value of approximately $32 billion by the end of 2024.”

Some familiar RTDs have been available for some time, namely flavored malt beverages such as Seagram’s Escapes and Smirnoff Ice. But market trends have pushed even those brands to include new, canned items. The malt beverage category is only part of the story. Multiple large and small distillers have profoundly increased the quality of RTD drinks, as well as their diversity.

Whether its big-name whiskey, rum, or vodka brands, an abundance of choices now exist within the RTD category. Jack Daniel’s responded to the trend by canning fan favorites such as Jack & Cola and Jack Honey and Lemonade. “Each drink is perfectly balanced to highlight the flavors of our charcoal-mellowed whiskey in a drinkable and convenient format; this is real Jack, and it’s ready to go,” says Lisa Hunter, Jack Daniel’s Flavors brand director.

Jack Daniels Canned Cocktails

Jack Daniels Canned Cocktails

Absolut offers a trio of RTD cocktails: Mango Mule, Berry Vodkarita and Grapefruit Paloma. “Made with original Absolut Vodka, the new line of ready-to-drink vodka sodas and cocktails meet a consumer demand for convenience without compromising quality,” says Regan Clarke, vice president of millennial connector brands at Pernod Ricard USA.

Absolut Vodka Canned Cocktails

Absolut Vodka Canned Cocktails

Finally, Malibu sells Pina Colada Rum and a 4-pack of Malibu Lemonade Cocktail. “There’s been so much love and demand for these ready-to-drink cans to date, and appetite has only increased given the current environment and shift towards at-home and on-the-go drinking,” says Simon de Beauregard, Malibu Engagement Director.

Meanwhile, Kahlúa’s latest product launch, the Nitro Cold Brew RTD, consists of rum, coffee liqueur and 100% Arabica cold brew coffee. The new coffee cocktail complements the Kahlúa Espresso Martini RTD, which launched in 2019. At just 80 calories, the new Nitro Cold Brew pairs well with health and wellness lifestyles. RumChata is no stranger to the spiked coffee game, either.

Kahlúa Nitro Cold Brew Can

Kahlúa Nitro Cold Brew Can

In its 11th year on the market, RumChata has grown into one of the most popular RTDs around.  Most recently, the brand introduced FrappaChata, a blend of coffees and RumChata, making it the first (and only) premium alcoholic iced coffee. A recent switch to 200ml four-packs and the addition of a FrappaChata Mocha and Cold Brew variants have added to the brand’s success.

The global pandemic has led to a surge in online alcohol purchases. As a result, customers are more able than ever to connect with smaller distilleries throughout the nation.

Forbes listed You & Yours founder and master distiller Laura Johnson on its “30 under 30” list in 2018. The Texas native and University of San Diego graduate said, “I traveled for the better part of a year, immersing myself in the distilling/craft spirits industry, taking every distilling course, tour, tasting experience, education, etc. I could find this side of the Atlantic.” You & Yours now sells various flavors of its gin and 100%-grape-based vodka RTDs online.

Meanwhile, Chicago Distilling recently won the New York International Spirits Competition awarded Chicago Distilling the Illinois Pre Mix Cocktail Distillery of the Year. “[Gin] wasn’t something we had put at the forefront of our portfolio, but it quickly became the leader of the pack once we developed it.” says co-founder Noelle DiPrizio. The gin is composed of 11 botanicals that offer distinct floral notes of hints of lemon; this is not your grandfather’s gin.” Chicago Distilling also produces a host of fruit-flavored cocktails and a new line of low-cal Sparkling Vodka Spritzers.

Brooklyn’s Courage & Stone sells two classics online: Manhattan and Whiskey Old Fashioned. Their motto speaks to what’s made RTDs so enticing. They offer the “highest quality, carefully mixed with premium American-made ingredients to taste perfect, right from the bottle, every time. No mixing, no measring, no recipes, no mess – just a perfectly balanced cocktail you can enjoy anywhere, anytime.”

The crowded market has forced brands to create unique cocktails to stand out amidst a sea of new RTDs. An example of that trend exists at Litchfield Distillery, who developed a signature cocktail in cans that symbolized their maple-friendly Northwest Connecticut home. The Litchfielder is made with bourbon, locally produced maple syrup, and lemon juice.

Some brands are capturing the imaginations of those who not only miss their local bars, but bars found throughout the world. Most recently, Don Ciccio & Figli, the Italian herbal liqueur sourced from within the United States, announced a new series of RTD cocktails—La Perla, intended to provide a sense of wanderlust and exploration to consumers. Variants include Negroni Classico, Negroni Bianco Oro and Ambrosia Spritz, with Cherry Manhattan, Walnut Old Fashioned and Fennel Sarezac expected to launch this autumn.

“La Perla cocktails will be one to remember,” said Francesco Amodeo, President and master distiller. “It is a celebration of finding the extraordinary in the ordinary or finding a wild adventure in the place you call home. Derived from our Washington cocktail bar, Bar Sirenis, La Perla Cocktails will whisk you away to a whimsical world of mermaids, magnificent blue waters, and pure escape.”

Also coming this fall, Tanqueray Gin announced Tanqueray Crafted Gin Cocktails in a can, a new range of versatile cocktails that are ready to pour over ice or sipped from the can. Inspired by Charles Tanqueray’s original recipes, Tanqueray Crafted Gin Cocktails use real Tanqueray, natural flavors, and are finished with tonic water or the brand’s signature sparkling soda. Available in three variants including Tanqueray Gin & Tonic, Tanqueray Rangpur Lime Gin & Soda, and Tanqueray Sevilla Orange Gin & Soda.

Tanqueray Crafted Gin Cocktails

Tanqueray Crafted Gin Cocktails

Even bartenders are jumping onto the RTD bandwagon. Using a recipe developed by award winning bartender Scott Baird of San Francisco’s Trick Dog, Cocktail Courier’s Scott Goldman introduces Party Can Triple Spice Margarita, the first-ever, ready-to-drink, craft cocktail in a large format, resealable can that serves up to 12 full-sized Margaritas! With the cocktail already ready to drink using 100% blue weber agave tequila, premium orange liqueur, fresh lime juice, and a triple spice mix of real ginger, cinnamon and chili pepper—plus, the easy-pour bottle minimizes interaction between bartender and sipper, making it perfect for today’s environment.

Party Can Ready-to-Drink

Party Can Ready-to-Drink

All told, RTD growth exists as one of the few bright spots for the liquor industry during the global pandemic. Brands of all sizes have increasingly added RTDs to their portfolios. But, it’s important to note that the category expanded well before COVID appeared, and most expect that trend to continue well into the future. While the appeal of convenience and portability remains strong within the RTD category, the liquid has grown noticeably diverse, creative and more elevated in quality than ever before.

The post YES!! We Are READY TO DRINK!! appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Brockmans Gin Gift Pack to Celebrate this Fall and the Holidays

By | Mixology News

Brockmans Gin Holiday Gift Pack

Brockmans Gin Gift Pack Includes a Spanish style copa glass, recipe booklet and a 750ml of super-premium Brockmans Gin.

Brockmans Gin, the super-premium, new style gin ‘like no other,’ is introducing the ultimate gift pack just in time for the fall and holiday gift-giving seasons.

Brockmans Gin Holiday Gift Pack

Brockmans Gin Holiday Gift Pack

“Brockmans Gin is the quintessential spirit to celebrate with this season and a perfect centerpiece for any celebration,”
– Guy Lawrence, managing director, Brockmans Gin

“Brockmans’ signature taste is created with a blend of botanicals including blackberries, blueberries, coriander, bittersweet orange peel and juniper berries. The resulting gin is intensely smooth offering an exquisitely complex taste experience. Brockmans has experienced tremendous growth around the world and continues to build impressive momentum in the U.S. as more and more bartenders and consumers embrace the gin like no other.”

Brockmans Gin has been awarded 20 medals in a variety of prestigious international taste competitions. Most recently, Brockmans won Platinum at the 2020 SIP Awards, the only awards platform judged entirely by consumers. Brockmans also won Double Gold at the inaugural U.S. PR%F Spirit Awards and Gold Medals at the UK-based Spirits Masters Awards and U.S.-based Artisan Spirits Awards.

Brockmans’ value-added gift pack with 750ml bottle will be available beginning in September 2020 for a suggested price of $34.99. For more information and to discover a range of deliciously smooth Brockmans cocktail recipes to serve this season, visit BrockmansGin.com.

The post Brockmans Gin Gift Pack to Celebrate this Fall and the Holidays appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

How We Derby Differently: Guide to At-Home Celebrations

By | Mixology News

Cinco de Derby, featured image

The stands at the Kentucky Derby this year will be empty, but here’s how we celebrated from home.

Embrace the unconventional of 2020 and do Derby Differently. TSaturday, September 5th, Derby parties were celebrated from home. Here are some tips from Seri Kertzner, of Little Miss Party who created the ultimate guide to throwing a Covid-safe party, filled with fun food ideas, decor, games and more!

Food

Seri proposes having your guests come over early for brunch. “I always set out some bowls of chips and nuts for snacking. I made a Kentucky Hot Brown dip, served in a cast iron skillet, but for brunch I’ll keep things simple. I love to get a variety of bagels, spreads and toppings, which I’ll display on a large board. My favorite brunch trick is to pre-cut bagels and stack them on my paper towel holder. Add some fresh fruit and you’re done!” Seri also suggests buying a yummy dessert to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. “This year, a Bourbon Pecan Pie shipped straight from Kentucky!”

Decor

You can always go out and buy decorations, but Seri enjoys repurposing items around her home. “I created a winning centerpiece for my brunch tablescape by arranging red roses in a trophy style vase, which you can probably dig up somewhere in the garage. We also have some toy horse figurines my children no longer play with, so after a coat of black and metallic spray paint they’ll make the perfect custom place cards or decorative accents.”

Style

Seri says to shop in your own closet and create a look outside of the norm. “The Derby is such a fun excuse to get dressed up, but let’s be honest, nobody is putting on a seersucker suit and a giant hat for a viewing party at home.” Why not flip the traditional?

Games

Keeping your guests entertained doesn’t have to be hard. Seri says to put on an upbeat playlist. “You can purchase or DIY a fun backdrop and props, set out an instant camera and let guests strike a pose.”

Most importantly, you can’t forget the drinks! Seri stocks up on G.H. Mumm Champagne for her get togethers. She suggests putting out glassware before the guests arrive. She also recommends the G.H. Mumm Cloupe—a hybrid between a flute and a coupe glass, perfect for sipping champagne.

Ken-Tiki Derby Julep

Ken-Tiki Derby Julep

Ken-Tiki Derby Julep

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon Champagne
  • 1 1⁄2 oz. Jameson Black Barrel
  • 1⁄2 oz. lime juice
  • 1⁄4 oz. pineapple syrup
  • 4-5 mint leaves

Preparation: In a highball glass, combine mint, pineapple syrup, and lime juice. Gently muddle the ingredients and add in the Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey. Add crushed ice and light stir to combine ingredients. Top with G.H. Mumm Champagne and add in more crushed ice. Dash 2-3 of angostura bitters on top. Garnish with pineapple leaves and mint.


Cinco de Derby

Cinco de Derby

Cinco de Derby

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon Champagne
  • 1 1⁄2 oz. Avion Blanco Tequila
  • 1⁄2 oz. blackberry cinnamon syrup*
  • 1⁄2 oz. fresh lime juice

Preparation: Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker, and fill with ice. Shake to chill and strain into a rocks glass over ice. Top with G.H. Mumm Champagne. *Blackberry cinnamon syrup: Combine 1 cup of water, 1 pack of blackberries, and 2 cinnamon sticks broken up in a small saucepan. Warm the ingredients on medium heat until the blackberries start to split and release juice. Add in 1 cup of sugar and gently stir to dissolve. Allow the syrup to cool down, then strain out the solids. Garnish with fresh mint, lime, and fresh grated cinnamon.

The post How We Derby Differently: Guide to At-Home Celebrations appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News