Swirl, Sip & Savor

Wine Spotlight - French Beaujolais Nouveau Day

FToday, Nov 21st, is Beaujolais Nouveau Day in France. It is on the third Thursday in November with fireworks, music and festivals. Under French law, the wine is released at 12:01 a.m., just weeks after the wine's grapes have been harvested. Parties are held throughout the country and further afield to celebrate the first wine of the season.

​There are about 120 Beaujolais Nouveau related festivals held in the Beaujolais region.

International Tempranillo Day - Everything You Need To Know About This Spanish Grape

On November 14, the world celebrates International Tempranillo Day. Here are some fun facts wine lovers should know about this lusty Spanish grape.

You’re getting into red wine. You’re craving something different. Something savory. Enter Tempranillo, Spain’s #1 wine grape. With the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon and meaty nature of Carignan, Tempranillo is an experience to behold. When young, it can be surprisingly fresh and fruity. However, with oak and age, you’ll find more of the dust, tobacco, and leather flavors.

International Merlot Day - Everything You Need To Know About Merlot

November 7 is “International Merlot Day”. Not that Merlot lovers need a reason to open a bottle wine. But as International Merlot Day approaches, it is time to celebrate and take a look at all things Merlot.

Wine Reviews - 7 Best Buys Under $30 By Rating

If you’re a penny pincher and don’t want to spend a lot of money on wine, but want good, quality wines, then these wines will satisfy your palate and budget. All bottles listed are under $30/bottle, which constitutes a “best buy” in my opinion. I tried to include all different wine types, but a little partial to the wines of Oregon and Washington State these days. Official ratings from “Wine Enthusiast”, but I also offer my notes. Many of these wines listed are hard to find, but available through ordering. ABV (Alcohol By Volume) is the measurement of alcohol.

How to Order Drinks at the Bar Without Embarassing Yourself???

Someone once ordered a martini at a networking event. “How do you want it?” the bartender asked. I had no idea what he meant but I didn’t want to look dumb. “Uh, shaken?” I replied (because that’s what James Bond says). The bartender smirked. “No, I mean, do you want Vodka or Gin, what brand?, dry, straight up or rocks?” That patron felt dumb. Here’s how to order booze or a drink without embarrassing yourself and avoid being jeered all night.

National Bourbon Heritage Month - Classic & Modern Bourbon Cocktails

In August of 2007 the United States Senate declared that September be recognized as National Bourbon Heritage Month. While this may not have much impact with the average consumer, it is an honor for the craftsmen in the bourbon industry. The designation is designed to celebrate "America's Native Spirit" and the significant historical, economical and industrial role the bourbon industry has played in the country's history.

Seasonal Spotlight - RYS NEW Summer Craft Cocktails

Hello Everyone - Now that summer is upon us, it is time for us to release our NEW exclusive summer craft cocktails available for parties, events, and mixology parties. Due to copyright restrictions and the need to book us for events, we are not revealing the ratios and proportions of the cocktails that is no different than if you go to a bar or restaurant. These cocktails are fresh, hand-crafted, delicious, and beautiful and not available anywhere else.

Seasonal Spotlight - Celebrating Cinco de Mayo With Cool Cocktails

Don’t be afraid to spice up your ‘rita with a pinch of rosemary or cilantro, or a little jalapeño or habanero chile. But remember, less is more when it comes to herbs and hot peppers. I make a great tequila infusion using the serrano pepper in blanco tequila.

Seasonal Spotlight - Going "Green" For Earth Day

 Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd and to honor what it stands for I am offering up truly "green", farm-fresh, organic ingredients and cocktails for spring. As an added bonus, I list the best fruits, veggies, herbs, spices, and florals to be used in cocktails, infused spirits, syrups, purees, and juices for the season, best way to prepare them, and what base spirits pair best with them. Thank you to Nicole Friend and my friends from over at Sauza Tequila for contributing.

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