Summer Drinks — Off The MRKT

Annabella Pardo

The casual nature of barbecues does not have to limit the elegance of the menu. Elevate this summer’s events with a drink roster that serves as the key to unlocking the succulence of grilled cuisine.
Try these drink recommendations in your next bbq party to have an enjoyable and refreshing outdoor grilling experience. Happy grilling!

For those craving a unique whiskey-driven experience this Summer, The Beverly High Rye - an exceptional sipping whiskey revered for its balance and finesse - in collaboration with award-winning bartender and author, Jeffrey Morgenthaler have delivered the “Beverly Highball”, a refreshing cocktail that will surely elevate any occasion.

Crafted with precision and artistry, the Beverly Highball offers bright and harmonious flavors, pairing The Beverly High Rye with apricot liquor and citrus to take the classic highball to new heights. Here's the recipe to recreate this sensational cocktail at home:

Beverly Highball Recipe

Ingredients:

● 1 oz The Beverly High Rye

● 3⁄4 oz lime juice

● 1⁄2 oz 2:1 simple syrup

● 1⁄2 oz apricot liqueur

● 1 1⁄2 oz club soda

Method:

1. Combine The Beverly High Rye, lime juice, simple syrup, and apricot liqueur in a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and shake until cold.

2. Strain over fresh ice in a Collins glass, top with club soda, and garnish with a lime twist. This cocktail perfectly captures the essence of summer, delivering a captivating combination of flavors. The smooth, rich notes of The Beverly High Rye harmonize effortlessly with the zesty lime juice and the subtle sweetness of apricot liqueur. The effervescence of the club soda adds a refreshing touch, making it an irresistible companion for warmer evenings and holiday weekends.

2021 Russian River Selection Pinot Noir This gorgeous Pinot Noir opens with seductive aromas of cherry liquor, sweet tobacco, fresh fennel, rose petal and boysenberry preserves. The broad, youthful, tangy, yet complex palate offers juicy flavors of blood orange, sour cherry jam, tamarind, raspberry jerk sauce, with a hint of savory green plantains. The firm tannins and tangy acidity create a full-bodied texture, lending to the incredibly long, spicy finish.

C.L. BUTAUD Texas Mourvedre 2021 There’s nice, dark Mourvèdre color and depth to this wine, with earthy, dark fruit aromas dominated by black cherry and salty licorice. The mouthfeel is both bright and meaty, which lifts and frames the cherry chutney flavors. And I love the minerality and the tannic structure at this early stage, especially with such a long and juicy finish. This wine is ready to drink now and will age well for a decade.

ROSÉ OF TANNAT 2022 Tannat makes a delicate rosé when pressed immediately off its skins. The light color belies a rich, brambly palate with vibrant acidity.

Spirited Hive canned cocktails come in four delicious flavors (Bourbon Rosemary, Gin Lemon, Tequila Ginger, and Vodka Cranberry). The brand always uses real, quality spirits and infuses each cocktail with 100% all-natural ingredients, including honey and natural flavors sure to impress any spirits lover. Spirited Hive aims to bring everyone together to celebrate their own “hive,” and is made to be shared.

SunnyD Vodka Seltzer, the nostalgic cocktail that shook the nation, and every 90’s baby. We love that SunnyD brings back some of our best memories, SunnyD Vodka Seltzer is here to help us make some new ones this summer. Grab your friends, grab a pack of SunnyD Vodka Seltzer, and enjoy the poolside sunshine.

Delola, created by Jennifer Lopez, is the first-of-its-kind, ready-to-enjoy cocktail for your everyday imbibing. Whether you are poolside or on the Italian coast, you can easily enjoy Delola by simply opening the bottle and pouring it over ice.  

Las Californias Las Californias premium gins are a vacation in a bottle. The portfolio combine botanicals from a region known as “Las Californias,” or the strip of land that spans the Pacific Coast from the top of California to the bottom of Mexico in Cabo San Lucas.

The Community Spirit Vodka a top-shelf B Corp certified vodka for summer sipping and giving back. Every time you mix up a cocktail with The Community Spirit, you’re donating a portion of profits to charities doing work for the community.

Ron Barceló Imperial Perfect for the Father who loves to sip on delicious cocktails and rums during the summer, this super-premium l is made from the precious nectar of the best selection of Dominican sugarcane harvested in their plantations. Barceló Imperial is aged in their finest rum reserves. Naturally aged for up to ten years in the best climatic conditions, Barceló Imperial can be enjoyed alone, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails.

Keeper's Heart Irish + Bourbon A taste of Ireland in a bottle, Keeper's Heart Irish + Bourbon is crafted by Master Distiller and whiskey icon Briant Nation. This expression features the characteristic sweet taste of bourbon intertwined with notes of freshly charred virgin oak paired beautifully with the earthy spices of the single Irish pot still whiskey and the delicate butterscotch sweetness from the Irish grain whiskey to deliver a unique tasting experience.

Catedral Mezcal offers 6 different mezcal expressions, all of which make excellent cocktails and are smooth enough to sip neat. The unique taste profile of Catedral Mezcal adds the perfect amount of smokiness to balance and elevate any summer cocktail- why make a regular margarita when you can make a mezcal margarita? Adding Catedral Mezcal to summer cocktails also pairs nicely with summer grilling by enhancing the natural wood fire flavors of grilled foods with the balanced hints of smoke flavors found in Catedral Mezcal.

While red wines and spirits undoubtedly pair well with grilling, we would like to offer a fresh and delightful alternative, Aladdin's exquisite collection of premium tea and coffee products, sourced directly from the heart of Turkey. Their online marketplace, Aladdin, steeped in tradition and quality, offers a variety of luxurious tea flavors that serve as the perfect refreshment during a summer grilling session. Each brew offers a unique sensory experience, whether it's the tantalizing tartness of Malak's Pomegranate Magic Tea, the traditional allure of Premium Ottoman Tea, the soothing notes of Premium Relax Tea, the floral hints of Pink Rose Bud Tea, or the enchanting blend of Magical Love Tea. For coffee enthusiasts, they also offer a curated collection from Turkey's renowned coffee brand, Mehmet Effendi. A hot cup of this rich, aromatic coffee alongside grilled delicacies would make for an extraordinary summer experience. All their teas and coffees can be shipped directly to you across the US within 6-7 days, ensuring freshness and an authentic Turkish experience.

Aperitivo Rosato from Ramazzotti is a combination of fresh and light flavours. Notes of hibiscus and orange blossom give the Aperitivo its floral, fruity flavour, making it a refreshingly graceful beverage. Aperitivo Rosato is your ideal company for your spring and summer cocktails, to discover the beauty of #ItaliaDaBere.

Rosato Spritz

Ingredients:

1 ½ oz Ramazzotti Aperitivo Rosato
3 oz Prosecco
Basil leaves

Method: Add ice to a wine glass and fill with Rosato and Prosecco. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Photo via @liquidlightwine and @thelushlife

Health is top of mind for U.S. consumers. Even the wine and spirits industry is seeing a shift as the better-for-you wine category continues to rapidly expand (up 35% in the past two years) as we head into Summer 2023. In celebration of Summer Fridays to come, Liquid Light is excited to announce the launch of Liquid Light Chardonnay, a new offering in the brand’s lineup at 95 calories. Liquid Light has been making its mark in the BFY category with its Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc offerings.

Liquid Light 2021 Chardonnay At only 95 calories per serving and no sugar added, a combination of oak and stainless-steel fermentation delivers the classic bright flavors of Washington State with the palate weight of a barrel fermented Chardonnay. Thie wine boasts note of melon, Asian pear, and star fruit, with hints of citrus zest and marzipan.

Grüvi Sangria
Grüvi, a line of non-alcoholic social beverages led by dynamic sister and brother duo, offers craft beer and wine for a hangover free tomorrow. Their Sangria is the perfect combination of fruit and spice! This Spanish-inspired sparkling bev has bright notes of blood orange, red currant, and blueberry, which are balanced with a warm touch of cinnamon and clove.

Teakoe is better-for-you fizzy tea on a mission to combine flavor with only a few delicious plant-based ingredients that are certified organic, low calorie and made with no added sugar. Teakoe's all-natural ingredients pack a serious punch of inherently healthful benefits. Made with only natural caffeine, you'll be able to get the energy boost you need in a healthier way. Teakoe combines purposeful botanicals with fizzy tea to offer specific health benefits for each flavor. Mix Teakoe flavors like Minty Pear or Honey Lemon with spirits for a low carb, low sugar cocktail, drink it straight from the can, or enjoy over ice. The versatility and refreshing flavor is making Teakoe the drink of the Spring/Summer.

Mile High Spirits, Denver's only fully operating urban distillery, offers a unique infusion of quality strawberry puree, lemonade, and their award-winning Cuidado tequila to craft their Tequila Strawberry Lemonade Canned Cocktail.

Argentina's Susana Balbo entry level Crios Malbec and Rosé are perfect choices as they are both refreshing wines that pair well with a variety of foods to grill during summer. Susana is Argentina's first female winemaker and her innovative philosophy has kept her wines at the forefront of trends while remaining loyal to Argentinean culture and tradition, which includes lots of grilling, or 'asado' in local terms!

Crios Torrontés is a crisp, refreshing and aromatic Torrontés made out of grapes born at two of the best places to grow Torrontés: the Uco Valley, in Mendoza, and Cafayate, in Salta. An excelent example of this varietal’s potential, it has notes of citrus, passion fruit, lychee and white flowers. On top of that, a lively acidity, a hint of creaminess and a long finish add depth and balance to the palate.

Brilla! Prosecco DOC Rosé 2022 This vibrant and fresh Prosecco Rosé encloses the Italian essence in its delicate and complex bouquet and crisp, light body. While extremely well balanced; the finish is long and harmonic. Its name “Brilla!” is an invitation to “*shine on*'' and cheer every special moment. This invitation is revealed in the packaging too: the label is printed on glitter paper that envelops the bottle and recalls the vibrancy of the bubbles, while the glass is embellished with drops that resemble pear-shaped diamonds, reminiscent of high-end jewelry and elegance.

Marchesi Frescobaldi, Tenuta Castiglioni Chianti Classico 2019 Straight from the Tuscan hills in Italy, this wine is a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, and it carries the typical rich and fruity Sangiovese bouquet with notes of cherry, blackberry and wild strawberry followed by elegant Mediterranean scents. On the palate, it is soft and vibrant, making it the perfect pairing to full-flavoured dishes such as pappardelle pasta in a meat sauce, as well as roast chicken.

VecchioFlorio Dry Marsala Superiore DOC 2017 Far from the classic wine, Marsala is a Sicilian fortified wine born in the 18th century from UK's expertise on fortified wine and Sicily's outstanding grape quality. When used in mixology, it contributes great structure and complexity to the cocktail. Its aromatic profile is intense and characteristic, with defined notes of vanilla, brown sugar, stewed apricot and tamarind. Try it in a Marsala & Tonic!

Marsala & Tonic
Ingredients:

- 2 ounces VecchioFlorio Dry Marsala Superiore DOC 2017

- Chilled tonic water

Method:Add Marsala to a highball glass with ice. Fill the glass with tonic water and garnish with an orange slice.

Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc 2022 This bright and beautiful Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, NZ is exactly what you need poolside or when dipping your toes in the lake! The tropical fruits and citrus on the nose give way to a fresh, dry finish. Wonderfully expressive with a clean, dry finish. Perfect for grilled fish and vegetables. Wairau River is owned and operated by the Rose family, who’ve been farming along the Wairau River since 1870. Wairau River means “many waters” in Māori, referring to the braided nature of the river in the language of the indigenous people of New Zealand.

Cecchi Storia di Famiglia Chianti Classico DOCG 2020 Cecchi Chianti Classico is an excellent choice for grilling: Juicy, versatile, and medium-bodied, it will hold up to savory grilled meats, burgers with the works, and ribs smothered in BBQ sauce. Established in 1893, Cecchi is one of the oldest and most prominent producers in Tuscany, pioneering the growth and development of the Sangiovese grape worldwide. Cecchi embodies Tuscan authenticity.

Les Sarrins Côtes de Provence Rosé 2022 Not your basic rosé, this lovely bottle will add a touch of Provencal beauty to picnic party. Family-owned and managed by celebrated Champagne producer Bruno Paillard, his expertise has created an iconic wine that is Pure Provence and shows off the best attributes of the region with Domaine des Sarrins. Try pairing with grilled seafood such as prawns and shrimp, adding on a spread of French cheeses and tapenades for an extra special day out.

Paper Plane cocktail with Amaro Nonino Quintessentia Look sophisticated and whet your appetite over the grill with this fantastic cocktail in hand; and be sure to offer to your guests, who will be impressed with your mixology skills (little do they know how simple a recipe it is!). Made with Amaro Nonino, a liqueur created from the union of the Nonino family’s ancient recipe with their current-day expertise in the art of distillation, it is an infusion of herbs with a portion of ÙE, Nonino Grape Distillate, aged in barriques. Try it in the modern day classic Paper Plane cocktail. With National Aviation Day approaching in August 19 (Orville Wright’s birthday), mixing up this refreshing cocktail is also perfect for toasting to the holiday that celebrates the foundation of flight:

Ingredients

2,5 cl Amaro Nonino Quintessentia®
2,5 cl Aperol
2,5 cl Bourbon
2,5 cl fresh lemon

How to

Mix equal parts of Aperol, Bourbon, Amaro Nonino Quintessentia®, and freshly squeezed and strained lemon juice.
Shake over ice and strain.

Whether you’re looking for a bright, fruity rosé to enjoy by the poolside or a glass of traditional GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) red blend for a barbecue or cool summer evening by the firepit, Languedoc really has the full range to offer for summer wine. Languedoc is the most organic wine-producing region in France with some of the best value in the country.

YESLY is a 16 oz., zero calorie, better-for-you still beverage that has functional benefits like vitamins B6, B12 and C and electrolytes. YESLY is available in four flavors: Pomegranate Acai Blueberry, Lemon, Black Cherry and Kiwi Strawberry. YESLY just launched all over the New York metropolitan area this spring(including in 7-11s and bodegas through the boroughs) and will continue expanding in different markets throughout the summer. They are also currently available on Oasis Snacks. Staying hydrated is super important all summer and this is fun and easy to throw in a cooler!

ENGINE Gin is a unique Italian spirit born out of Barbaresco that is handcrafted with traditional Italian botanicals that are 100% organic, including Ligurian sage, lemon, licorice root, and damask rose. These botanicals are sourced all over the peninsula: water comes from the purest source, the Alps; the sage is cultivated in Alta Langa, Piedmont; lemons are Sicilian, while the licorice is sourced from Calabria and juniper berries are harvested in Tuscany. The freshness of these ingredients make every sip of ENGINE unique and irresistible.

ENGINE Gin stands out for its distinctly Italian flavors. On the nose, there are balsamic scents of juniper, completed with vivacious notes of lemon and intense sage. There is an elegant floral background with a slight bitterness from the sage on the palate, supported by sweet licorice root and damascus rose.

ENGINE is perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their cocktail creations or experiment with a fascinating array of botanicals just in time for summer!

ENGINE Gin & Tonic

2oz ENGINE Gin

3oz Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water

Garnish: Sage leaf

Method: Serve in Engine tall cup glass over ice rocks. Garnish with sage leaf.

Natalie's juices has just launched two new juice blends: Tomato Reishi, Himalayan Salt, and Black Pepper Juice (perfect for bloody Mary's!) and Tangerine, Pineapple, Aloe Juice, perfect for summer grilling. Both make great drinks for summertime!

Tulchan Gin, a luxury small batch craft ‘London Dry’ Gin from one of Scotland’s most prestigious estates. Tulchan Gin’s roots are inspired by the botanical flora and the unmatched distilling heritage of Speyside, home to the finest Scotch whiskies making it an exceptional and rare spirit - a Gin from whisky country. Tulchan Gin conveys the local Scottish flora, with sloe berries, blackberry leaves, white asparagus, elderflowers woven alongside traditional Gin botanicals such as juniper, angelica root and liquorice root.

The Wiseman Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the perfect blend of four Kentucky Straight Bourbons. The nose has a sweet caramel aroma, followed by a warming spice and a sprinkling of citrus and oak. The taste offers a bolt of allspice and caramel, with the flavors sticking around for a long silky finish of caramel and hints of oak. The Wiseman Bourbon is bottled at a proof of 90.8 (45.4% ABV). Purchase on ReserveBar here.

The Wiseman Straight Rye Whiskey is a traditional Rye made with a mash bill of 95% rye. The nose delivers a rich and spicy aroma with hints of fresh rye bread, sweet caramel and cinnamon. Tickling the taste buds, the robust spice and rye bread slowly moves towards cinnamon toast with butter finishing with a dash of English walnut. The Wiseman rye is bottled at a proof of 100.8 (50.4% ABV). Purchase on ReserveBar here.

High Rise Beverage Company, would be a great fit for your summer grilling drinks guide! Crafted with North Carolina spring water and fresh fruit juice then infused with CBD, Delta-8, or Delta-9 -- High Rise is one of the most versatile canned beverages on the market. Straight from the can or mixed into your favorite mocktail, High Rise offers all the buzz with no hangover - a great non-alcoholic alternative.

2015 Roederer Estate L'Ermitage Brut, an amazing tête de cuvée that will be just perfect for all kinds of celebration during the sunny days ahead. Whether it is a backyard BBQ, a picnic in the park, or a festive gathering with friends, this sparkling wine made only in exceptional years from pre-selected, estate-grown grapes will add a touch of elegance and a celebratory vibe to these occasions, making them feel extra special.

The fine tiny bubbles and a long lasting mousse are the usual footprints of the L’Ermitage cuvée. Vibrant acidity, with notes of Asian pear, baked green apple, and a creamy mid palate and clean acid with a dry finish make this wine incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. The L’Ermitage 2015 can complement a wide range of dishes, from light salads and seafood to BBQ meats and cheese platters. The acidity and effervescence help enhance the flavors of various summer cuisines.

Carrying on the tradition of Champagne Louis Roederer in France, Roederer Estate in Anderson Valley, California, produces its sparkling wines in the French méthode traditionelle and adds special oak-aged reserve wines to each blend. L’Ermitage debuted with the 1989 vintage. The wine for the dosage added to the L’Ermitage 2015 was a 2015 wine liquor aged for 6 years in a French oak cask. Following disgorgement, L’Ermitage 2015 was aged an additional six months (minimum) on the cork prior to release.

2019 Château de Pez, a left-bank Bordeaux that is bursting with flavors of energetic black fruits, supported by a firm foundation of ripe, grainy tannins and lovely freshness.

Although St. Estephe Bordeaux bottles are often associated with fancy cuisine, there are plenty of casual foods that can be paired with these wines. Think of a juicy burger where the tannins of the wine can help to cut through the richness of the meat and cheese, while the fruit flavors can complement the ketchup and other condiments. Pizza (which you can make on the grill!) is also a great match for a Bordeaux red, which can help to balance out the acidity in the tomato sauce. For BBQ ribs, the smoky and sweet flavors can be complemented by the fruit flavors in the wine, while the tannins will help to cut through the fat. But the list goes one and even grilled vegetables and tacos will go great with Château de Pez too.

The Ettore Rosso 2018 is an elegant and silky wine, that's is jammy and plump, with blackberry and currant flavors highlighted by savory underbrush, licorice, and smoke notes, leading to medium-grained tannins. Additionally, the Ettore winery located in Mendocino, CA is always 100% organic in their wine-production practices. Elegant and balanced, sip on alongside all your hearty grilling favorites like steak, burgers and kebabs!

Ettore 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Signature is the wine you are looking for. Dark purple in color, this wine instantly expresses rich notes of plum, blackberries and chocolate and fills the mouth with a clean smooth finish. Another great wine to accompany more of your typical backyard dishes such as nice barbecued ribs, lamb chops or even a juicy cheeseburger with some aged cheddar.

Valdo Marca Oro Prosecco DOC Made up of 75% Nerello Mascalese and 25% Glera grapes, this wine comes from the lower slopes of the Etna Volcano in Sicily, the Glera grapes coming from Prosecco. With red and black berry notes on the palate and fresh floral hints on the notes accompanied by just the right amount of "perlage" this wine is lovely, bright and refreshing.

Valdo Floral Rosé Made up of 100% Glera grapes and aged three months using the Charmat method with an extra one month in the bottle. This wine is a light straw color, with fruit forward notes on the nose and a light crisp palate, great for the summer time!

The winemakers at Pasqua have a” keenness for innovation and curiosity”, which is expressed in the wines that they create. Instead of letting history be solely a thing of the past, they embrace the traditional Italian wine making methods and bring them to life. Famiglia Pasqua Valpolicella DOC Ripasso Superiore 2020 is a great representation of this idea. This wine is made using the traditional “Ripasso method”- this technique entails a double fermentation where 70% of the grapes are crushed and fermented immediately while the remaining 30% is dried for one month or more and then added back- creating a second fermentation.

Crimson-red in color, bursting with aromas of red fruits such as currants and cherries and subtle hints of toasted characteristics. It is full bodied, robust with sweet and round tannins resulting from the “Ripasso method”. An absolutely pleasant wine that would be a great pairing for a summer barbeque or a nice roast lamb.

Famiglia Pasqua Amarone Della Valpolicella DOCG 2017 is a unique example of Pasqua’s ability to represent a classic Italian wine. Powerful and vibrant, this red is everything you would expect out of an Amarone style wine. With aromas of spice and cherry along with sweet notes of tobacco and vanilla. When it hits the mouth it offers a pleasant and velvety feel with smooth tannins and presents a long finish. It is ideal with meats, cheeses and hearty pastas.

Father’s Day is just around the corner. Why not spice it up with something a little different than the usual Father’s Day BBQ? Take Dad to Argentina with an Argentine Asado and a bottle of Unánime Signature Cabernet Sauvignon from Mascota Vineyards.

Asado, which means “roasted” in Spanish, is a time-honored Argentinian culinary tradition that celebrates the art of grilling over an open flame on a parrilla. A parrilla is a type of outdoor grill that uses long cooking times over a low heat in order to tenderize even the toughest cuts of meat. Unlike the traditional American method of smoking meat, parrilla grills are over an open flame so the cooked meats have less wood smoke flavor than meats prepared in an enclosed offset smoker.

Argentinian beef is renowned worldwide, so it’s no surprise that beef, usually seasoned simply with salt, is the main event of an asado. However, sausages (chorizo), lamb, and chicken are also often part of the traditional asado. To elevate this culinary experience, we are providing an authentic chimichurri recipe from Mascota. Chimichurri is a classic Argentinian sauce that is often served with asado as it adds a vibrant, tangy flavor to grilled meats.

Make this Father’s Day memorable with an Agentinian flare. Enjoy asado with chimichurri and Unánime Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, a perfect complement to the robust flavors of succulent slow cooked meats.

Unánime Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, represents the best of Argentine winemaking excellence. Crafted with meticulous care in the prestigious Uco Valley, this Cabernet harnesses the essence of the land and embodies the spirit of Argentina's viticultural heritage. Its deep red color entices the eye, while the bouquet of mature red fruits captivates the nose. With the first sip, the wine unveils rich tannins and a balanced finish. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a passionate lover of Argentine cuisine, Unánime Signature Cabernet Sauvignon promises an exceptional experience.

Crew® takes the complexity out of creating drinks at home. Cocktail culture can be so intimidating for beginners, but Crew’s belief in the joy of crafting thoughtful drinks from home invites everyday makers of all skill levels to embark on a fun, rewarding and remarkably simple journey to craft with confidence – no suspenders required. The best-selling infusion kits are a terrific gift! Choose from four delicious flavors for a single pack Infusion Mix, or choose from complete value-packed bundles containing everything you need to create an unforgettable infusing experience. Pour the infusion mix in the desired alcohol and craft a quality cocktail in minutes. This is the same barware you see bartenders using at locations like Disney, North Italia, PF Changs, Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, and 20,000+ spots!

Inspired by the historical winemaking techniques of Erni Loosen’s great-grandfather, the Appassionata Riesling GG is made in the same way as the Dr. Loosen Grosses Gewächs (“Great Growth”) Rieslings he produces in
Germany. The GG designation indicates the wine dry-style produced from old vines planted in 1976 in Chehalem Mountains AVA. As Erni believes that ageability is one of the most important aspects of truly great wine, the Appassionata GG Riesling was held for five years in bottle before its recent release.

As a wine that was surely worth the wait, the Appassionata GG Riesling offers refreshing acidity, floral aromas, and flavors of lemon and marzipan, making it an excellent companion for an al fresco meal, day in the park or an impressive choice to pair with anything off the grill perfectly.

There is no comparison to the smoky essence of grilled foods, and the summer is the ideal time to enjoy them. Some guests may favor the side dishes at backyard barbecues, but Michaël Peltier, Senior Fine Wine Specialist for New York City fine wine and spirits retailer Millesima USA, is here to recommend a roster of California wines that are sure to become the stars of your next patio party.

Known for its expansive global inventory, white-glove service and wine expertise, Millesima USA is the destination for the world’s best wines, both in-store and online. The suggestions below will take any barbecue to the next level by perfectly complementing the cuisine:

The first wine Michaël recommends is Kistler Vineyards : Les Noisetiers 2021 which is produced from grapes grown in one of Sonoma County’s largest appellations. He explains, “The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is full of rich fruit, bright lemon, and white flowers; the perfect accompaniment for grilling salmon or chicken.”

Ramey Wine Cellars : Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Made in Napa Valley with care and craftsmanship that is reflective of Bordeaux, Ramay Cabernet Sauvignon is Millesima USA’s next suggestion. “An incredibly balanced, ready-to-drink Cabernet Sauvignon, ” says Michaël. “It is deep and rich with notes of dark berry fruit, cedar, leather, and licorice. The Ramey Cabernet calls for bold flavors such as a juicy filet mignon or a rustic wood fired pizza.

The final wine on Millesima USA’s list is Domaine Anderson Pinot Noir 2017. This red wine with a firm structure and elegant tannins comes from the unique region of Anderson Valley, and showcases the best of this California microclimate. Michaël states, “The cool climate of the Anderson Valley produces extraordinary Pinot Noir, and this wine’s structure and acidity create a framework for the savory and fruit-forward flavors. For anyone who loves blue cheese on a well-grilled burger, this is the wine to pair with it.”

If you are looking for perfect grilling wines, consider wines from boutique Napa winery Crosby Roamann. The proprietor Sean McBride and his wife Juliana are the proud parents of 15yo twin girls.Juliana, a literary editor, and Sean, a former film production assistant, believe that wine is a living thing that has transformative power – a bridge to the future, to the past, between people to share love, or to reminisce. For them, winemaking is a family affair – focused on making distinctive, limited allocation wines by hand with the greatest care, ensuring lively wines of character and a true sense of place.

Their passion stems from the belief that every vineyard is special, each vintage is unique, and every wine is distinct. Their hands-on, labor-intensive process ultimately creates wine with character and complexity. Here, wines are a bridge to the future – to be shared over many generations. The winery name is a melding of Sean's artistic grandmothers - Norma "Peachy" Crosby and Sally Roamann – one a stage performer in the 1920s, and the other, a poet. The team operates with the philosophy that wine is alive, and should be left to express itself, and live its unique life.

With that in mind, the winery creates sophisticated, small production wines by hand with minimal intervention from the vineyard to the cellar, where fermentation is encouraged with native yeasts, and natural winemaking techniques are exercised, forgoing most additives, filtration or fining.

The Estate Merlot comes from an old vine, dry-farmed vineyard. These big vines grow in a deep clay soil near a tributary of the Napa River. The fruit was manually sorted and fermented in stainless steel, then aged twenty months in French oak barrels, 33% new. Delicately sweet blackberry flavors with notes of soft leather and tobacco that lingers on the finish. 85% Merlot; 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Estate Cabernet is a very small production cuvee destined for eight plus years of bottle development, with at least three years to reach full maturity. With extraordinary purity of fruit, and delightful notes of cassis, dark cocoa, and blueberry, the wine finishes with a touch of spice.

If you’re a fan of grilling and wine, PEJU’S spice-rubbed grilled pork chop recipe is a must-try. The rub, made from a blend of Chef Nic’s carefully selected spices and herbs, infuses the juicy pork chop with bold, savory flavors that are impossible to resist. And when paired with a glass of PEJU Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine’s fruity notes perfectly balance out the spice of the rub. But the perfect pork chop is just the beginning – their recipe also includes a side of crispy fingerling potatoes and tender broccolini, as well as a homemade salsa verde that adds a tangy, herbaceous finish to the dish. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with a meal they’ll be talking about for weeks to come.

Camarena Tequila offers a remarkable range including the 100% Blue Agave Silver, Reposado, and Añejo. Made from the finest blue agave grown in Jalisco's esteemed Los Altos Highlands, Camarena is double distilled at a family owned distillery in Arandas. With a six-generation legacy, it embodies the pinnacle of tequila craftsmanship.

New Amsterdam Vodka 5x distilled, 3x filtered vodka delivering a crisp, clean taste and unparalleled smoothness. New Amsterdam comes in an array of award winning expressions, including: our signature 80 Proof Vodka, 100 Proof Vodka, Peach, Pineapple, Raspberry, Apple, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mango, Red Berry, Coconut, Orange.

RumHaven is an uncomplicated spirit made with premium Caribbean rum, real coconut water and pure cane sugar offering a clean and refreshing taste without artificial flavors or preservatives, bottled at 42 proof.

COCO-POLITAN

Ingredients:

-1 oz. RumHaven Coconut Rum

-1.5 oz. New Amsterdam Lemon Vodka

-1 oz. Cranberry Juice

-Squeeze of Fresh Lime Wedge

Add ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously to combine/chill. Strain into chilled martini glass and garnish with expressed orange peel.

Hand-crafted Argento Single Vineyard Altamira Malbec is from Argento's organic estate vineyard high in the Uco Valley subregion of Mendoza. Very aromatic, fresh and vibrant with red fruits and herb notes. Rich and juicy across the palate with mineral notes and a long finish. Ideal for grilling.

Bodega Argento is an argentine winery, focused on organic and sustainable wines, located in Cruz de Piedra, Maipu, Mendoza, at the foothills of the Andes mountain range. It was founded in 2012 with the premise of leading the production of organic and sustainable wines to preserve in each bottle the best of this region. The vineyards are located in the traditional region of Mendoza and the Uco Valley. Each place is unique and has a story to tell, that's why they work considering climate and soil to preserve everything that gives identity to their wines.

Osmosis crafts premium wines made from sustainably-farmed, estate vineyards located in Agrelo and Alto Agrelo, Mendoza in Argentina. The winery is changing the game by creating wines with 85-90 calories per 5oz serving with zero sugar and low alcohol, all while maintaining fresh and full flavors. Sustainability is a key pillar at Osmosis, where the team is committed to regenerative farming, and only utilizes high-quality bio compost. The wines are certified gluten-free and vegan.

The Osmosis Red Blend 2021 is made from an estate blend of Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Bonarda harvested at different times the wine is fresh with intense aromas of red fruits and notes of vanilla followed by a silky tannins.

Ramón Bilbao, founded in 1924, has built a reputation for crafting elegant wines that embody notable characteristics of Rioja with a twist, by following nine principles. From utilizing traditional ingredients with a re-envisioned approach, to incorporating a racking system, cement vats, and conducting extensive yeast research, the winery is always seeking innovation.

Ramón Bilbao Crianza 2019 This 100% Tempranillo wine is grown in vineyards all around the Rioja region. The Ramón Bilbao Crianza is fruit forward with notes of fresh cranberry, ripe cherry, and vanilla from 14 months of aging in American Oak.- perfectly suited to pair with steak at a summer barbecue.

Located in Valpolicella, the Zenato estate is run by the sibling pair of Nadia and Claudio Zenato who took over the operation from their father Sergio. The region is home to native grape varieties that the Zenato estate continues
to showcase and utilize in their wines. They blend modern philosophies with traditional techniques to create wines that are complex, full-bodied, and authentic to the region.

One Zenato wine that we feel is deserving of inclusion with the Best Red Wines is Zenato Alanera Rosso Veronese 2019. The name Alanera translates to black wing which is an homage to the raven (which is corvo in Italian). This reference corresponds with the native Corvina grape that is indigenous to the Valpolicella
region and a huge part of this wine. Brilliant ruby in color, Alanera delights the senses with a variety of aromas and flavors that include fresh and dried cherries and prunes, sweet spice, and hints of coffee and tobacco. On the palate, Alanera is full-bodied with elegant and velvety tannins. Vibrant acidity brings balance and freshness, and supports a long and harmonious finish.

Schöfferhofer Watermelon Mint, the newest flavour sensation in our portfolio, brings a pure summer feeling! A refreshing blend of 50% sparkling Schöfferhofer Unfiltered Hefeweizen Beer and 50% Watermelon drink with natural mint flavor. It is the perfect combination of smooth bitter, sweet and sour and a touch of minty coolness.

On The Rocks, (OTR), a line of premium ready-to-drink cocktails born with convenience and bar-quality in mind. Between the brands Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita (made with Tres Generaciones Plata Tequila) to the Aviation Cocktail (homage to the brand being born in the friendly skies), there's something for everyone this season. All you need to do is pour over ice and enjoy.

Our Favorite: OTR Margarita Cocktail One of the most recognizable and sought after cocktails in the world, our OTR Margarita cocktail offers a perfect balance between tequila, tart lime, and triple sec. Uncork and pour over ice!

1924 Double Black Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon Layered with suggestions of blackberry, vanilla and warm spice with notes reminiscent of Bourbon: caramel, butterscotch and charred oak. Pairs well with beef tenderloin!

1924 Buttery Chardonnay Crafted with full-bodied Chardonnay, this liberal wine is golden in color with rich and creamy flavors of vanilla, honey, and butterscotch. Pairs well with seafood or pork spareribs.

1924 Double Black Cabernet Sauvignon Intense aromas of black cherry, violet, black peppercorn and smoky charred notes, complemented by concentrated flavors of blackberry jam, black currant and spicy clove. Pairs well with barbecue brisket, spicy chorizo chili, or garlic chicken wings.

Crafted in small batches from an extract of fresh elderflower blossoms, St. Elder Natural Elderflower Liqueur brightens up every cocktail with notes of sweet citrus and floral honey. Check out some delicious cocktail inspirations below and discover how St. Elder Artisanal Liqueurs can "Refresh Your Spirit."

St. Elder-Rita

2 oz. Grand Mayan Silver Tequila

1 oz. St. Elder Natural Elderflower Liqueur

½ oz. Fresh Lime Juice

Shake all ingredients with ice & strain into glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Elderflower Lemonade

1.5 oz Grainger’s Deluxe Organic Vodka

1 oz St. Elder Natural Elderflower Liqueur

2 oz Lemonade

Stir all ingredients in a glass with ice & garnish with a lemon wheel.

Watermelon Cooler
2 oz Gin Lane 1751 Cucumber Watermelon Mint Gin
¾ oz Watermelon juice
¾ oz Lime juice
½ oz Simple syrup
Club Soda
Shake all ingredients (except club soda) together with ice. Strain into an ice-filled glass & top with club soda.

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro Produced only in outstanding vintages, Riserva Ducale Oro is made from grapes harvested by hand, mostly from Ruffino’s Gretole estate in the Chianti Classico appellation. This wine expresses a distinctive Tuscan bouquet of violet, cherry, and plum, with aromas of chocolate and spice. Pairs with BBQ favorites such as grilled ribeye and roasted vegetables.

The 2019 vintage of Double Diamond offers intricately woven layers of decadent flavor, complemented by exotic spice components and a refined tannin structure. It highlights all the best attributes of what defines Oakville as the epicenter for Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Aging for 17 months in French oak Barrels (52% new). Enjoy this wine with a grilled ribeye steak topped with fresh salsa verde.

Malfy Gin Rosa We think it’s time for an aperitivo, don’t you? Malfy's elegant fusion of Sicilian pink grapefruits, Italian lemons, fine botanicals and handpicked juniper creates the ultimate bright and sophisticated gin.

Monkey 47 Distiller’s Cut Edition 12 Each year, the Monkey 47 team searches across the global for that very special 48th ingredient to go into their annual Distiller’s Cut release. They didn’t need to search far for the 12th Edition of the acclaimed limited-edition series. This year, they found the perfect ingredient in Woodruff from the Black Forest.

Ink Grade Napa Valley Andosol 2018 This field blend (made up of 89% Zinfandel and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon) is a walk in the sun and a meant to be enjoyed in its youth. A unique perspective of the Ink Grade Estate, the Andosol is terroir-driven and has intensity and depth, with incredible aging potential. The Andosol contains floral aromas including lilacs and roses, with ripe black cherries and strawberries and a note of pink peppercorn that lingers on the palate.

Heitz Cellar Lot C-91 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 Always made in the classical style that Joe Heitz pioneered in the early 1960s, the fruit comes only from prized single vineyards. This historical cuvée, with origins dating back to 1969 and revived again with the 2016 vintage, is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced exclusively from the renowned single vineyards of Heitz Cellar and showcases a most unique expression of the terroir of the Napa Valley.

Robert Mondavi Winery Estates Red Blend Oakville 2019 A true reflection of place, this wine boasts rich, complex flavors and is made up of grapes primarily from To Kalon Vineyard, the special site that Robert Mondavi chose for the winery in 1966. This red blend is made up of 49% Cabernet Franc, 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and aged for 21 months in French oak barrels (100% new). Aromas of blackberry, cherry, toasted almond, bay leaf and mocha, lead to a palate of luscious ripe cherry and cassis with savory notes of dried herbs.

Mezzacorona DiNotte Red Blend 2019 This Red Blend expresses the aromatic richness of two noble varietals of the Dolomites, Teroldego and Marzemino, combined with an international varietal, Merlot, for elegance and softness. Pair with: Grilled or roasted meats.

Founded in 1849 and located in the heart of the Barossa region of Australia, Yalumba has been a family-run winery for over a century. The Yalumba Y Series Shiraz-Viognier 2020 is a unique Turkish twist on Australia's favorite grape variety. With bright Crimson color and luscious aromas and flavors of Turkish delight, red cherry, and boysenberry, this brilliant Shiraz-Viognier blend exudes rich and opulent notes. Its enjoyable velvety tannins perfectly complement the wine’s cherry and chocolate finish, showcasing beautiful synergy between the two varieties.

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