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When I was recently asked if I would like a copy of a newly released book called The Turn Of The Screwdriver, it got my attention. This macabre book of dark & twisted literary cocktails is spooky, humorous, and very creative!  AI generated. The author, Iphigenia Jones, offers 50 delicious cocktail recipes with a bit of a twist, ingeniously naming and pairing them with classic and modern gothic literature. From literary quotes and quips to tantalizing drinks, this book is not for the squeamish, or is it?  Cover photo of book. To quote Iphigenia, “There is something about gothic literature that pairs nicely with a well-made drink. Perhaps it is the atmosphere of a cold drink in one hand while a storm rages in the novel, or the bitterness of alcohol paired with a doomed protagonist’s regret, or maybe it is the liquid courage we need in order to dare turn the pages. In this book, we provide the absolute best pairings of book and cocktail to enhance the experience of these famous tales.” When I asked Iphigenia what inspired her to write this book, her passion for both literature and cocktails was palpable. She shared, "After spending many nights with a bubbling cauldron and a favorite book, I sought to combine my two great interests into Turn of the Screwdriver, which allows one to consider the great works of the gothic canon while at the same time enjoying a delicious drink.” The sampling below is from The Turn of The Screwdriver of cocktails paired with famous gothic works. The Haunting of Highball House (The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson) The Portrait of Dorian Grey Goose (The Portrait of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde) Mexican Hot Gothalate (Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia) Her Brandy and Other Parties (Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado) Lestat's Bloody Sazerac (Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice) The Legend of Slushy Hallow (The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving)  Image from "The Turn Of The Screwdriver." Iphigenia replied to my question about what her favorite cocktail is. “My favorite cocktail varies from one stormy night to another, but I am particularly fond of our blackberry cosmo, We Always Have Cosmos in the Castle.”   Image of cocktail and page from "The Turn Of The Screwdriver." And one of my favorite cocktails from the book is “The Picture Of Dorian Grey Goose”!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss So, if you are a fan of gothic literature (especially horror) and love a good cocktail, this book is for you! The quotes, inferences, detailed recipes, and photos will surely have you shivering with fright…I mean delight! In addition, the author offers an informative chapter on “Bar Basics,” covering glassware, techniques, and brews. It is an enjoyable read, for sure! SRP: $19.95 I will share one delectable cocktail recipe to brew in your cauldron, if you dare! And I hope it inspires you to conjure up more literary cocktails from this book! “Gorman Grasshopper” paired with three gothic novels by Mervyn Peake might leave you shivering, but your palate will sing!  Image from "The Turn Of The Screwdriver." Until next time…Cheers!
Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com With summer in full swing, outdoor activities abound, including trips to the beach, picnics, backyard barbecues, pool parties, and lazy days swinging in hammocks.  Photo credit: Lionel Gustave And if you’re like me, packing a picnic basket or entertaining by the pool should be simple and scaled down from the food to the beverages! After all, it’s summer and the “living should be easy!” And what better way to serve or transport wine and spirits than in RTD (ready-to-drink) single-serve cans! Global sales for RTD canned wines and spirits are rising, and sales are projected to expand in the coming years. Many wine and spirits producers are jumping on the bandwagon to sell their version of RTD beverages. Over the past several years I have tasted and reviewed premium RTD wines and cocktails that are pretty impressive. You can read my past articles and reviews by clicking “canned wines” or “canned cocktails” in the Categories section. Recently I had the pleasure of sampling a variety pack of Two Chicks RTD sparkling vodka cocktails, and they are worthy of a shout-out!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Two Chicks is a women-owned and operated company. Meghan Hanna, co-founder, and Chief Inspiration Chick, came up with the concept in 2015 and joined forces in 2018 with Linda Cash, co-founder and Chief Executive Chick. In less than one year after they met, Two Chicks RTD cocktails in a can hit the market in the summer of 2019. Together they have become one of the top- selling RTD brands in the U.S. and the only female-owned company in the premium ($12 and up) RTD category.  Meghan Hanna & Linda Cash Photo courtesy of Two-Chicks. In addition to vodka, they offer gin, tequila, and whiskey cocktails. The packaging is festive and whimsical, with eye-catching designs that demand a closer look. Each 12-ounce can appears to be a logo of botanical-filled hearts. However, looking more closely, will disclose a creative take on the number “2.” Linda Cash said, “You have to catch people’s eye. They may initially buy it for the attractive packaging, but then they buy it again because it tastes great.” All Two Chick cocktails are sparkling with carbonation derived from adding CO2, rather than using seltzer or soda, so as not to dilute flavors. Only premium spirits are blended with all-natural fruits and botanicals for each cocktail. The cocktails are canned immediately after they are mixed to retain that “just-made” taste and freshness. Each 12-ounce cocktail is 5% ABV, 140 to 180 calories, and gluten-free and vegan-friendly! Only cans with BPA-free lining are used to avoid any metallic taste. (Two servings per can.) Two Chicks Vodka Variety 8-Pack SRP $25 This variety pack contains two of each of the following sparkling cocktails:  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Sparkling Lemon Strawberry Kiss is made with vodka, natural strawberry, lemon, and basil. Sparkling Melon Drop is made with vodka, natural honeydew, and lime. Sparkling Vodka Fizz is made with vodka and flavored with natural essence of pear and elderflower. Sparkling Watermelon Breeze is made with vodka, natural watermelon, and lime flavors. All of the above cocktails offer a unique and refreshing taste experience. They are juicy and balanced perfectly, with the right amount of vodka, fruit, and botanicals. They are also easy to drink and low in alcohol, which is a bonus. These grab-and-go RTD cocktails are perfect for any occasion and great to sip all year round. Or, grab and stay! I think a cocktail and hammock make for a perfect afternoon? How about you?  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Until next time…
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com The holidays are upon us, and there are many suggestions on the internet for what to pop open to celebrate all the festivities. So, I’ll skip the long list and keep it short and bubbly this year! As I’ve often said, one doesn’t need a special occasion to enjoy sparkling wine. And with holidays soon to be a distant memory and winter bearing down on us, let’s keep the party going! Recently, I received three sparkling wines to sample.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Having reviewed these wines several years ago, I was happy to dive into these tasty sparklers again. This time, I was provided with a creative cocktail recipe for each style of wine. Piper Sonoma was founded in 1980 by the Marquis d’Aulan family, direct descendants of the renowned Piper family. Based in Sonoma, CA, in the Russian River Valley region, Piper Sonoma has been producing sparkling wines for over 40 years. The wines are made in the Méthode Traditionnelle style, the same process used by its sister, Maison Champagne Piper-Heidsieck. Each vineyard lot is hand-harvested, fermented, and aged separately. The wines are produced in Healdsburg under the guidance and expertise of winemaker Keith Hock. The winemaking team collaborates with more than 20 growers, which include renowned families such as Dutton, Young, and Ledbetter, who, for decades, have been supplying Piper Sonoma with sustainably farmed grapes. Piper Sonoma collaborated with Sommelier Chloe Dickson to create effervescent drinks for each wine to delight the palate. - the Rosémary Spritz, Piper Sonoma “Champagne” cocktail, and Winter in Sonoma. The recipes follow each review. Piper Sonoma Brut Cuvée NV, Sonoma County This sparkling wine is a blend of 56% Chardonnay, 37% Pinot Noir, 7% Pinot Blanc, and an aged reserve blend (6%). The cuvée is placed en tirage for 19 months for secondary fermentation in the bottle before disgorgement. Finally, a small percentage of older reserve wine is included in the liqueur d’expedition, adding further complexity and texture. Nose: Orchard fruit, citrus, apple, and brioche. Palate: Lush with orange, green apples, red berries, minerality, bread dough, and creamy mouthfeel. It is a delicate mousse with a refreshing and long finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $23  Photo courtesy of Piper Sonoma  Piper Sonoma Rosé NV, Sonoma County This rosé is a blend of 61% Chardonnay, 33% Pinot Noir, 6% Pinot Blanc, and an aged reserve blend (10%). The cuvée is placed en tirage for secondary fermentation in the bottle for 32 months prior to disgorgement. Finally, a small percentage of older reserve wine is included in the liqueur d’expedition, adding further complexity and texture. Nose: Inviting aromas of floral, berries, citrus, and cranberry. Palate: Strawberry, cherry, citrus, and a touch of toast give way to a beautiful creamy mouthfeel and crisp acidity with a long finish. Alcohol: 12.6% SRP: $23  Photo courtesy of Piper Sonoma  Piper Sonoma Blanc de Blancs NV, Sonoma County The blend for this wine is 90% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Blanc. The cuvée is placed en tirage for 36 months for secondary fermentation in the bottle prior to disgorgement. Nose: Lovely notes of floral, citrus, and green apples. Palate: This is a dry and lively wine with crisp acidity and creamy texture. Notes of tart apples, citrus, and brioche linger on a long and delectable finish. Alcohol: 12.9% SRP: $23  Photo courtesy of Piper Sonoma  Whether sipping these wines by the glass or mixed in cocktails, one can’t go wrong! And the price-to-value ratio is a no-brainer! These are lovely wines to serve over the holidays, and great to drink all year long!
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Château d’Esclans is an enchanting property situated in the heart of Provence, France, northeast of St. Tropez.  Photo courtesy of Château d'Esclans In 2006, Sacha Lichine purchased the property. Sacha was born in Bordeaux and educated in America. Since age 23, he has worked in every aspect of the wine industry, including production and sales. With the purchase of Château d’Esclans, Sacha’s vision was to create the most outstanding rosés in the world. And with unerring determination, the Château is now home to the iconic rosé brand, Whispering Angel, and in its sixteenth vintage. The WineKnitter is no stranger to the beautiful rosés produced by Sacha Lichine and Château d’Esclans, which I have had the pleasure of reviewing in the past.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Today I’m delighted to give a shout-out to Sacha’s latest creation, “The Pale.” This whimsical bottle is a nod to the roaring twenties and aligns with the mid-20th century cocktail party scenes. And it comes with a very friendly price tag!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The PALE Rosé by Sacha Lichine 2021 Made with Grenache, Rolle Syrah, and Cinsault, the grapes are sourced from the best terroirs in the Vin de Pays/ IGP Var region. The vineyards are parallel to the Mediterranean coast and influenced by the fresh sea air of the French Riviera. Salty and sun-drenched soils contribute to a dry yet fruity character. Aging is on fine lees for five to eight months in stainless steel tanks contributing to a subtle creamy texture.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: White flowers, red berries, a hint of sweet citrus, and grapefruit. Palate: Fresh, dry, and lively with aromas that segue onto the palate. Notes of minerality and nice acidity mingle with honeydew, berries, and pink grapefruit on the finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $16.99 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with salads, appetizers, cheese, light pasta, or pizza. If you want to change up your rosé experience, try a spin on the classic spritz and make a rosé spritz. Or try this Provence Cooler, created by New York bartender Auriela Nossa and first published by Liquor.com.  Photo courtesy of Auriela Nossa and Liquor.com Provence Cooler
Ingredients: 3/4 ounce vodka 1/2 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed 1/2 ounce simple syrup 1 blackberry 2 basil leaves 3 ounces rosé Garnish: basil leaf Garnish: blackberry Steps: 1. Add the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a shaker. 2. Add the blackberry and muddle. 3. Add the basil leaves and ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled. 4. Add the rosé to the shaker, then strain over fresh ice into a Collins glass. 5. Garnish with a basil leaf and skewered blackberry. Happy sipping! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com When I think of calendar events in February, Ground Hog’s Day and Valentines’s Day are at the top of my list. Unfortunately, Punxsutawney Phil, the famous groundhog, made his prediction this year with six more weeks of winter to contend with. So, with that in mind, let’s move on to Valentine’s Day and comfort our hearts and souls with wine, a cocktail, and tea that are sure to please the palate and chase away the winter blues. Loveblock Wines Pinot Noir 2020 The founders of Loveblock Wines are veteran winemaker Kim Crawford and his wife Erica, who have been working in wine most of their lives. The grapes for this lovely 100% Pinot Noir are sourced from New Zealand’s Central Otago region on a 20-acre vineyard affectionately named “Someone’s Darling.” Erica said, “Loveblock is a true love story. It is one of depth and dedication.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Red fruit, cherry, earth, and spice. Palate: Juicy, rich fruit, cherry, dark plum, red berry notes, with a dash of herbs and spice. Beautifully balanced and smooth with bright acidity. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $37 Pairings: Cheese, white meat, lamb, risotto, or salmon. Gorghi Tondi Dumè Frappato Sicillia DOC 2020 Tenuta Gorghi Tondi is located in south-western Sicily, surrounded by vineyards and the sea. Sisters Annamaria and Clara Sala continue the 100-year-old family tradition of making wine here that their great grandmother Dora started with her captivation of the land, sun, and light. The grapes for this 100% Frappato are sourced from one of the estate’s youngest (6 years old) vineyards. The wine is aged in stainless tanks, on the lees for five months and two more months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Lively red fruit aromas with berries, herbs, a floral touch, and a hint of the sea. Palate: Engaging flavors of fresh red fruit, strawberry, pomegranate, rosemary, with a dab of orange peel and spice lingering on the finish. It may be served slightly chilled. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $19 Pairings: Serve with pasta dishes, fish, white meat, hamburgers, or pizza. Bubbles!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Valdo Marca Oro Prosecco DOC Rosé Brut 2020 Valdo was founded in 1926 and has been owned by the Balla Family since 1938. The grapes for this sparkling wine are sourced from the Prosecco DOC appellation in Veneto, Italy. It is 90% Glera and 10% Pinot Noir and produced using the Charmat Method. Nose: Lovely floral notes with pear, apple, and red berries. Palate: Persistent bubbles with aromas that segue onto the palate. Bright acidity and a creamy mouthfeel add to a long and refreshing finish. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $14.99 Pairings: Enjoy as an aperitif, or serve with fish, pasta, salads, grilled chicken, or dessert. Bottega Liquid Metals Rosé Gold NV This sparkling wine is produced by Bottega SpA, headquartered in Castello Roganzuolo, about 30 miles from Venice, Italy. It is 100% Pinot Noir grapes hand-harvested from vineyards in the Lombardy region. It is produced using the Martinotti (Charmat, tank) method. Sandro Bottega, third-generation winemaker and co-owner, said, “Bottega’s motto is “Fatto A Mano,” which means ‘handmade.” Its mission is to work and achieve the highest levels of quality, design, and sustainability.” The gilded bottle protects the wine from light, preserving the wine's clean and refreshing aromas. Nose: Juicy peach, mixed red berries, and floral notes. Palate: Fresh and lively with an accent on raspberry, strawberry, and peach. Dry with a fine perlage. Alcohol: 11.5% SRP: $32.99 Pairings: Enjoy as an aperitif or with light fare. Champagne Boizel Rosé NV This Champagne is produced by the Boizel House, established in 1834 and located in Épernay, in the heart of Champagne. The grapes for this rosé is a blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Meunier sourced from Grands and Premiers Cru vineyards “The still wines (vins clairs) from the year are blended with 20% of reserve wines kept from the previous two harvests, ensuring consistency. By using reserve wines within two vintages only, Boizel is able to preserve freshness in their wines, a signature trait of their winemaking style.” The wine is aged for three years on its lees, in the bottle. Nose: Delicate notes of cherry and strawberry. Palate: Creamy mouthfeel, persistent and fine bubbles with an accent on raspberry, citrus, and subtle notes of spice and minerality on a long finish. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $61.99 Pairings: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with just about anything, including dessert! Champagne Vollereaux Rosé de Saignée Brut NV Champagne Vollereaux produces this 100% Pinot Noir rosé. They are a sixth-generation family winery located in Pierry, France. “Vollereaux is one of the very few champagne wineries to use the traditional saigne method of maceration for its Rosé Champagne, which involves bleeding off a portion of pink juice during red wine production (as opposed to blending red and white wine together). This process occurs after a short contact with the grape skins and seeds.” The juice spends three years on lees, more than twice the time required by appellation rules. Nose: Strawberry and juicy red berries, vanilla, and bread dough. Palate: Strawberry, kirsch, and citrus mingle with berries and cream. It is dry with fine bubbles, has vibrant acidity and a hint of brioche and minerality that linger on a long finish. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $54.99 Pairings: Delicious as an aperitif, or with light fare and dessert. Cocktail Time! Wild Hibiscus Daiquiri This cocktail is a delicious sweet and sour blend made with Australian wild hibiscus flowers in syrup. The 250g jar includes 11 edible flower buds. There are many recipes available online, or create your own! SRP: $13 (available on Amazon)  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Wild Hibiscus Daiquiri Recipe: 3 oz. white rum 1 oz. fresh lime juice 1 oz. wild hibiscus syrup Wild Hibiscus Flower garnish Pour ingredients (minus flower) into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Strain into glass and garnish with flower. Tea Time! And lastly, for those who enjoy tea, this is not to be missed.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Adagio Teas ‘Cupid’s Cup Tea’
This delicious tea is a love potion that is tangy, sweet, and creamy. The ingredients are rose hips, hibiscus, apple, sprinkles, rose petals, strawberry, and natural flavor. Caffeine-free. This is a loose leaf tea that takes five to seven minutes to brew. SRP: $15 So, whether you are celebrating with someone or want to have a “just because” moment, the above potations will brighten your spirits and warm your heart. Although they will chase away the February blues, they are meant to be enjoyed all year long! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Once upon a time, when I was a pre-teen, my cousins and I would take the opportunity at various family events to run around and steal sips of the grownups whiskey sours and Old Fashioned cocktails when they weren’t looking. The key motivation was not to “drink alcohol” but to savor the unusual sweet and sour flavors that danced on our palates. And yes, getting a little “buzz” and having endless giggles was a bonus. As many of you might know, I am a purist when it comes to sipping vodka and whiskey, tending to shy away from anything “flavored or infused.” So, when I received three samples of flavored whiskey, I was rather curious and a touch skeptical. But I wondered if these bottles might hold those savory/sweet flavors from my youthful days.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Old Elk Distillery launched Whiskeysmith Co in Fort Collins, CO., with the purpose of making premium flavored whiskey. Old Elk Distillery was founded in 2013 by entrepreneur Curt Richardson. According to Melinda Maddox, Beverage Director of Whiskeysmith, “We are founded in flavor and find comfort in our craft. Our platform for flavor ideation, combined with handcrafted American whiskey, creates a product that is unique in the whiskey category. Our line of Whiskeysmith Flavored Whiskeys offers something for every palate.” Whiskeysmith’s portfolio currently includes chocolate, banana, pineapple, blood orange, salted caramel, peach, and coconut. Fictional twin siblings inspired the brand with very different tastes; one, a master distiller with a taste for stiff whiskey neat, the other, a flavor aficionado, with an appetite for sweets.  Fictional twins! Photo credit: Penny Weiss Together, the twins created a product that they both could enjoy. Although the twins are fictional characters, Whiskeysmith is founded on their inspiration. As the bottle states, “Joined at the Sip.” Whiskeysmith worked with the industry’s best flavorists and tastemakers they knew to create a balanced flavor that could be enjoyed straight from the bottle or mixed in a cocktail. The whiskies sent to me are infused with enticing flavors of blood orange, salted caramel, and peach that seem fitting for the autumn months and approaching holidays. So, let’s see how they rate. The test will be how they taste neat. All of the whiskies are 60 proof and 30% alcohol. SRP: $23.99 Peach Flavored Whiskey This is made with American whiskey and a natural peach flavor. Nose: Juicy peach and vanilla Palate: Lovely balance of white peach and whiskey, resulting in a savory peach cobbler. Subtle notes of vanilla and spice blend nicely for a long and smooth finish. A nice sipper, or try it in a cocktail.  Photo credit: Whiskeysmith The Fizzy Peach Build in a highball glass 2oz Whiskeysmith Peach Splash of cranberry juice, Top with lemon-lime soda Blood Orange Flavored Whiskey Natural blood orange flavor is infused, giving this whiskey a light zest. Nose: Delicate orange notes with a hint of spice and floral Palate: This is the sweetest of the three samples, with the orange fading too quickly for my taste. However, this whiskey would be a nice addition to cocktails.  Photo credit: Whiskeysmith Beyond The Clouds INGREDIENTS: 1 oz. Whiskeysmith Blood Orange 1 oz. Mezcal 0.5 oz. Lemon Barspoon (1/8 oz) Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup (Regular Maple Syrup works too!) 1 Dash Cardamom Bitters 1 Heaping tsp. Greek Yogurt Garnish: Dehydrated Blood Orange Wheel METHOD: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a dehydrated blood orange wheel. Salted Caramel and Salt Flavored Whiskey This is my favorite of the three samples. Natural salt and caramel are used in this blend. The caramel infused with the whiskey is delicious! Nose: Lovely notes of caramel and vanilla Palate: Rich flavors of creamy caramel blended with just the right amount of salt merge beautifully with the whiskey, ending with a long, warm finish. This would be heavenly poured over vanilla ice cream or a whiskey float!  Photo credit: Whiskeysmith Salty Smith
1 oz. Whiskeysmith Salted Caramel 1 oz. Rye .5 oz. Coffee Liqueur 3 dashes Chicory bitters Garnish with caramel and salt on the rim and an orange twist. Although these whiskies don’t exactly duplicate my “whiskey sour” memories, they definitely have a special savory/sweet thing going on. Drink them neat, over ice, or in a cocktail. And with the holidays approaching, have some fun and invent a recipe or two! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com While the bars and restaurants are slowly returning to normalcy, many would still prefer to do their socializing at home. And Nickel Dime Syrups has made it easier than ever to create fun cocktails just like the professionals. Professional bartender Jared Hirsch and entrepreneur Absinthia Vermut have put together a line of small-batch custom cocktail syrups made from all-natural ingredients. Based in Oakland, California, Hirsch is a staff mixologist at the Sidebar Restaurant and is famous for his cult cocktail, award-winning “Caged Heat.” The cocktail became so popular he couldn’t produce enough syrup in the restaurant’s kitchen to meet the high demand. That’s when he consulted Absinthia on how he might increase the production and still maintain its quality. From these discussions, Nickel Dime Syrups was founded.  Jared and Absinthia Hirsch said, “There’s tremendous demand and curiosity about craft cocktailing at home. Consumers in the US have a pent-up thirst for the kind of bold, complex cocktails their favorite bartender used to make for them. But that doesn’t mean they are willing to settle for artificial flavors or one-note mixes. Nickel Dime Syrups provide a custom cocktail experience with each pour. Your home bar will be the hottest spot in town!” The syrups are made in California and are alcohol-free, gluten-free, and approximately 100 calories per 2 oz. serving. Their portfolio includes four unique syrups with a signature cocktail recipe on each bottle.  Grab your favorite spirit and enjoy these cocktails. Caged Heat Cocktail Syrup  (Syrup ingredients: tamarind, cardamom & ghost pepper) Caged Heat 2 oz. Bourbon 1 oz. Caged Heat cocktail syrup 1 oz. fresh lemon juice Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, strain into your favorite cocktail glass. Fairy Dust Cocktail Syrup  (Syrup ingredients: fennel, anise & wormwood) Fairy Dust 2 oz. gin 1 oz. Fairy Dust cocktail syrup 1 oz. fresh lemon juice Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, strain into your favorite cocktail glass, and top with Peychaud’s bitters (optional). Cherry Bomb Cocktail Syrup  (Syrup ingredients: cherry, coffee & cacao) Cherry Bomb 2 oz. Dark Rum 1 oz. Cherry Bomb cocktail syrup 1 oz. fresh lime juice Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, strain into your favorite cocktail glass. Crimson Smoke Cocktail Syrup  (Syrup ingredients: smoked tea, cranberry & honey)
Crimson Smoke 2 oz. Mezcal 1 oz. Crimson Smoke cocktail syrup 1 oz. fresh lime juice Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, strain into your favorite cocktail glass. Nickel Dime Syrups are available nationwide. SRP: $19.99 for 15 oz. bottles SRP: $29.99 for a mini sample pack of all four varieties. Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. In its simplest terms, fortified wine is a wine in which a distilled spirit is added. It can be enjoyed neat, as an aperitif, digestif, or added to cocktails.  Photo courtesy of Pineau Acadamy A wide range of fortified wines is produced around the world. Some of the more well-known are Port, Sherry, Marsala, Madeira, and Moscatel de Setúbal. Vermouth is also a fortified wine that falls into the sub-category of aromatized wines. Aromatized wines are flavored with spices, herbs, or natural flavorings. Fortified wines are available in many styles ranging from dry to sweet. And each style tends to have specific rules and regulations set by the country, region, or appellation it comes from. Specifications might include types of base wine allowed, aging minimums and styles, and what spirits are permissible. I recently received two bottles of Pineau des Charente that drink beautifully on their own or as an added dimension to creative cocktails.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Pineau des Charente is exclusively produced in the Charente, Charente-Maritime, and Dordogne départments of France’s Cognac region. According to Comité National du Pineau des Charentes, Pineau is made with fresh grape juice must from the current year’s vintage and Cognac eau-de-vie – Cognac distilled for at least one year. Eau-de-vie translates to “water of life” in French. This blend is then aged in French oak barrels. If the wine is aged for five years, then the Pineau earns the designation of vieux (old), and if aged for ten years, it will receive the title of tres vieux (very old). Pineau is produced in white, rosé, and red styles, with an alcohol content that ranges from 16-22%. White Pineau is usually made from the traditional Cognac grapes, Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Folle Blanche. It is aged for at least 18 months, including 12 months in French oak barrels. Red and Rosé Pineau are made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, and aged for 12 months, eight months in French oak barrels. Vallein Tercinier Pineau des Charentes This family has been producing Cognac for five generations, dating back to 1850. Recipes have been handed down from one generation to the next with “the focus on creating the most pleasurable experience in the glass.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The grape juice must for this wine is 75% Ugni Blanc and 25% Montils, and the blend is aged for three years in French oak barrels. A lovely golden color opens to aromas of citrus, sweet fruit, and dried raisins. This smooth wine fills the palate with soft fruit, citrus, honeysuckle, and a long finish of almonds and candied lemon. Alcohol: 17.5% SRP: $28 Château De Beaulon White Pineau des Charentes Château De Beaulon is a family-owned estate dating back to 1712. As it states on the back of the bottle, “Château De Beaulon Pineau is produced today as it has been for generations. Faithful to the oldest family traditions passed on through the centuries.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The grape juice must is made from Semillion and Sauvignon Blanc. This fortified wine is gently matured in French oak barrels for five years, giving it the classification vieux (old). The color is soft amber with heady aromas of floral notes, apricot, and mandarin. It is fresh and smooth, with vanilla notes, dried fruit, honey, and nuts on the palate. Alcohol: 18% SRP: $20 I love drinking Pineau neat, but I am looking forward to making Pineau des Charentes’ Signature cocktail recipes created by some very talented bartenders. You can find the recipes at https://pineauacademy.com
These fortified wines are intense, elegant, and made with love. They are gently sweet, allowing the palate to enjoy all of its nuances, including acidity and subtle oxidation. They are complex but so easy to drink! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It seems that every weather forecast of late is either snow, freezing rain, ice, or frozen tundra temperatures. So one can imagine my delight when I received a one-way ticket to a magical island where the sun always shines, and tropical breezes soothe the soul.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss My virtual airline ticket also included some delightful island cocktails in a can for easy transport to the beach. Biza calls it “a vacation in a can.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Biza is a brand developed by a group of friends aimed at catering to the millennial generation. (Those who fall in the range of 23 to 38 in 2019). However, Biza has also captured the attention of those beyond this group. These ready-to-drink vodka-based cocktails in a can are NOT “flavored malt beverages.” Biza cocktails are made with premium vodka produced from winter wheat and corn from southern Idaho. The drinks are naturally sugar and yeast-free. A touch of carbonation is added to give a little oomph to the cocktail. These sparkling cocktails are available in four flavors: Passion Fruit Peach, Coconut Pineapple, Pomegranate Vanilla, and Mango Jalapeño. My vacation package included all except for the Passion Fruit Peach.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Coconut Pineapple As listed on the can, the ingredients are Premium Vodka, Sparkling Water, Natural Flavors & colored with Beta Carotene. Aromas of coconut and pineapple segue onto the palate with the slightest effervescence and minimum sweetness. This is absolutely delicious! Where’s my beach chair? Alcohol: 6% SRP: $12.00/4-pack  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Mango Jalapeño As listed on the can, the ingredients are Premium Vodka, Sparkling Water, Natural Flavors & colored with Beta Carotene. Aromas of mango and other tropical notes tease the nose and set the stage for a surprise explosion of spice in the mouth. Yes, the jalapeño makes its presence known and blends well with the fruit. Minimum sweetness and light effervescence add to this light and refreshing cocktail. Alcohol: 6% SRP: $12.00/4-pack  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Pomegranate Vanilla As listed on the can, the ingredients are Premium Vodka, Sparkling Water, Natural Flavors and colored with Fruit and Vegetable juice. Strawberry and a hint of cherry are present on the nose. Vanilla and pomegranate come through on the palate with a little more sweetness than I prefer in a cocktail. However, it is light and a perfect quaff for the day at the beach. Alcohol: 6% SRP: $12.00/4-pack  Photo credit: Penny Weiss For added entertainment, just scan the QR code on the back of the cans. It will redirect you to the Biza Spotify page for a delightful playlist that will surely have you moving! Relax, sip, listen, and enjoy this virtual vacation!
Until next time, Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Summertime usually brings with it lots of get-togethers with family and friends and fun activities such as outdoor concerts, swimming parties, barbecues, sporting events and beach time. However, this summer we have an intrusive and uninvited guest, COVID19. And, unfortunately, this pandemic brought a whole new meaning to the word “socializing”. Even though it’s going to be a bit more challenging, there are still many activities that can be enjoyed solo or in small groups.  Courtesy of everydayhealth.com Happily, food and drinks will always continue to be part of most festivities. So, with that in mind let’s shake things up a bit and introduce a few spirits and cocktails into your summer fun. Whether you’re watching a sunset from the comfort of home or enjoying a backyard picnic, these spirits are palate pleasers! Tequila Bribón Blanco This tequila is produced from one of the top three tequila families in Mexico. Fully matured seven to ten-year-old agaves are hand-harvested and cooked for 18 hours at 100°C. The agaves are then shredded and the juice is fermented in tanks and then double distilled.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This 100% agave tequila is un-aged, clear in color and has subtle aromas of floral, pepper, fruit notes and savory. These aromas continue onto the palate with coconut, pepper and a trace of floral on the finish. Enjoy on the rocks or in your favorite cocktail. Margarita anyone? Alcohol: 40% 80 proof SRP: $24.99 Tequila Cherry Sunrise. Cocktail recipe courtesy of Bribón. Fill glass with ice and pour the following into it. 1.5 oz Tequila 1.5 oz orange juice 1.5 oz Cherry Heering (pour this to the side, not directly on top)  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva Rum Diplomático is an independent family-owned company located at the foot of the Andes in Venezuela. This rum is a blend of exclusive rum reserves that are aged up to 12 years. It is carefully crafted with attention to detail from the selection of the purest sugar cane honey to fermentation, distillation, then barrel aging, and finally blending the matured spirits.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Seductive aromas of caramel, vanilla and candied orange peel float onto the palate with hints of cinnamon, ginger and toffee. This is a smooth and elegant rum that I feel is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. I have included a cocktail recipe recommended by Diplomático for your tasting pleasure. Alcohol: 40% SRP: $42.99 Signed & Sealed created by Jon Lister, Brand Ambassador UK  Image courtesy of Diplomático Add all the ingredients to a stirring glass, fill with ice, stir and strain Ingredients 40 ml Reserva Exclusiva 30 ml Strawberry infused Cocchi Rosa 3 dashes of Lavender bitters Serve straight up Grace O’Malley Blended Irish Whiskey This is the first Irish Whiskey to be named after a woman. Grainne Ni Mháille/Grace O’Malley was a 16th century Irish Pirate Queen. She was born into Irish nobility and was a natural leader, gifted negotiator and a fearless mariner. Grace was far from ordinary, just like this whiskey, which has 46% malt content, one of the highest in the blended whiskey category. It is a special blend that combines whiskeys with age statements from three to ten years old. Each batch of whiskey is aged in a range of barrel types including French oak, ex-bourbon, and ex-rum casks.  Photo is courtesy of Grace O'Malley Aromas of caramel, honey, nuts and orange zest segue onto the palate with hints of malt, vanilla and toasted oak. This is a smooth whiskey that keeps on talking in a long finish. Enjoy neat, over ice or in a cocktail. Below is a cocktail recipe taken from the Grace O’Malley website. Alcohol: 40% SRP: $34.99 MANHATTAN SMOKE SHOW WITH GRACE O’MALLEY BLENDED WHISKEY The Manhattan Smoke Show is a variation of the classic Manhattan. This is a boozy cocktail by nature and this version is no different in that respect. The Manhattan Smoke Show uses different spirits from around the world. The base ingredient is Grace O’Malley Blended Irish Whiskey. Cherry Liqueur complements the currant and vanilla notes in the whiskey. Vermouth is included and is typical of a Manhattan cocktail. The smokiness in this version comes from the Mezcal, while the Ancho Chile Liqueur also adds a subtle smokiness, spiciness and sweetness to this drink.  Image courtesy of Grace O'Malley MANHATTAN SMOKE SHOW 30ml Grace O'Malley Blended Irish Whiskey (1oz) 20ml Mezcal (.75oz) 15ml Ancho Chile Liqueur by Ancho Reyes (0.5oz) 20ml Heering Cherry Liqueur (0.75oz) 15ml Sweet or Amber Vermouth (0.5oz) Stir all the ingredients together with ice. Strain into a small coupe-style glass and serve. Disaronno Velvet Disaronno is a liqueur made in Italy. It has a very distinct aroma and delicious flavors of almonds called Armelline (the seeds of apricot stone), sweet fruit, Madagascar vanilla and pure caramelized sugar. Disaronno Velvet has all the familiar flavors of the classic version, but it is also creamy and smooth with a touch of chocolate and vanilla.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This is a refreshing and perfect “cooling off” drink to enjoy throughout the summer. And thanks to its low alcohol content, this cream liqueur is a great alternative to other spirits. The best way to enjoy Disaronno Velvet is to serve it over ice. A dash of Disaronno Velvet in iced coffee is delicious as well! Enjoy! Alcohol: 17% SRP: $29.99  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Please share your original cocktail recipes with me and I will be happy to publish them! In the meantime, put a smile on your face, rise to the challenge and let’s embrace the summer of 2020.
Until next time, Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com |
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