Cocktails to Mark the Beginning of Spring

Briana Gonzalez

As the Spring Equinox has begun and the weather becomes warmer by the day, any good Spring afternoon could be topped off with a refreshing cocktail, combining fruity flavors with your favorite alcohols. If you want to create some while relaxing at home, here are some of the best cocktails to help you feel refreshed.  

The Eastern Standard 

Created by Belvedere Vodka 

As Spring begins, welcome in the new season with Belvedere’s mixtures of garden-fresh flavors and all- natural ingredients.  

• 1.5oz. Belvedere Vodka 

• .75oz. Simple Syrup 

• 3-4 Mint Leaves 

• 3 Cucumber Slices

Method: Place all ingredients except for cucumber into a shaker and shake. Strain spritz or coupe glass. Garnish with cucumber. 

Spring Forward  

Raise a glass to sunny weather with the Spring Forward, which delicately balances Grey Goose vodka with juicy pineapple and passion fruit for a refreshing cocktail with a kick.  

• 45 ml GREY GOOSE® Vodka 

• 30 ml Pineapple Juice 

• 15 ml Aperol 

• 15 ml Fresh Lime Juice 

• 15 ml Simple Syrup  

• 7.5 ml Passion Fruit Syrup 

Method: Add all ingredients to an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with pineapple and a lime wedge. 

Hendrick’s Gin Matcha Mojito 

Created by Hendrick’s brand ambassador Mattias Horseman 

Brighten up your stay at home with a matcha infused mojito.  

• 2 parts Hendrick's Gin 

• ½ a Whole Lime 

• 2 Bar spoons Sugar (Demerara) 

• 1-part Apple Juice 

• Top with a splash of Ginger Beer 

• Garnish with Mint Sprig & Cucumber Wheels 

Method: Place half a lime, cut into quarters into the bottom of a tall glass. Add two bar spoons of brown sugar and 1 bar spoon of Matcha Tea Powder. Muddle the sugar, Matcha powder and lime until the sugar and Matcha have dissolved and mixed completely. Add mint and lightly press. Add crushed ice, Hendrick's Gin and Apple Juice. Mixing the drink using a long spoon ensuring well mixed. Add more ice if needed and top with a splash of ginger beer. Garnish with mint and English Cucumber. 

Match Point From Rocco Forte Hotels 

Created by Rocco Forte Hotels  

Opt for something a little more elegant, perfect to enjoy on your rooftop on a Spring evening.  

• 30ml Pimm's  

• 20ml Amaro Averna  

• 10ml Crème de Mure 

• 10ml Lemon juice 

• Champagne to top up 

Method:   Gently mix Pimm's, Amaro Averna and Crème de Mure together in a glass. Add the lemon juice and stir. Pour the mixture into a coupette glass and top up with a touch of Champagne. Garnish with a strawberry.  

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Tips for Choosing the Right Liquor Cabinet for Your Home- Remedy Liquor

Most liquor enthusiasts tend to have liquor cabinets. It is a secluded place where you store your liquor safely and flawlessly. So let’s say you want to have a liquor cabinet or replace the existing one you have. What do you consider to ensure that you end up with the right liquor cabinet? Below are tips for choosing liquor cabinets, which you can use to end up with the right one.

Know the design you want

Choose your liquor cabinet, depending on where you want to put your home bar and the amount of space available. There are several types of home bars and cabinets that you can adopt. The type you are going for is to determine the design of the liquor cabinet you choose. Some of the available models include the Hillsdale classic large oak wrap and the coaster Lambert traditional bar unit, among others. However, it is important to note that you don't have to stick with these popular designs. If you can't find a design you like you can turn to companies like Lovech that offer custom cabinets so you can really make it your own and design something to fit your specifications. It is also essential that it fits the space you want to place it, for you to end up having an easy time using it and accessing liquor.

Go for the right type of material

You need to come up with a design that is going to match your interior décor as well as your home bar. That is the only way the liquor cabinet is going to blend right in without any problems. You can go for a glass, wood or metallic kitchen cabinet. In case it is wood, you need to ask yourself which type of wooden liquor cabinet is going to fit. You also have to know if you want hardwood or softwood. The color also matters as well as the finish of the wood. These are only but a few things that you need to consider before making your selection.

What types of liquor are you planning to stock?

Some people tend to go for liquor cabinets without considering this factor. That is how they end up having problems fitting some types of liquors in their cabinets. You need to ask yourself, can the cabinet hold cans of grain alcohol ? Can it hold liquor that comes in one-liter bottles? If it has the type of answers you want to hear, go ahead and pick that liquor cabinet since it is going to hold most of your drinks. You should also ensure there is room for other types of bottles. That means it should not limit you to specific types of containers. You should instead be ready to stock any liquor without limitations.

What is the function of the liquor cabinet?

You should know that most home bar ideas you come up with are for a specific function. So you need to know if you want to display your collection of liquor or you want to hide it from your kids. If it is for hiding purposes, the liquor cabinet should come with a key and a door. If it is for displaying your collection of liquors to your friends and other visitors, then you need something classy with a massive amount of space. That is the only way you are going to manage to showcase all the bottles you have. You should thus make sure that the liquor cabinet is going to help you solve the problem that you want addressing.

Know the style of liquor cabinet you want

Now that you know the design of the cabinet you want, the type of liquor you wish to stock, and its secondary purpose, you can go ahead and determine the style of liquor cabinet you want. Some of the styles available include formal, casual, contemporary, and traditional. These styles come with entirely different finishes which can be ultra-modern, sleek or rustic. They also make use of different materials, including glass and wood finishes. All you have to do is decide which of the styles best suit your needs and can easily fit all the selections you made above. That is the style that you need for your liquor cabinet.

Would you prefer a combination of materials?

You can also decide whether you want a combination of two materials, such as glass and wood or metal and glass. The combination you pick should determine the type of liquor cabinet you end up purchasing. It should also end up matching your interior design or blend with your home bar. Any idea you pick is going to affect all the above selections, as well as the overall outlook of your liquor cabinet. You thus have to be strategic.

Choosing the right liquor cabinet is not an easy decision to make. There are various factors that you need to keep in mind before making your selection. The result should not only fit your taste, but it should also blend well with your interior design. It should also help you fulfill your purpose, whether it is to display your liquors elegantly or keep them out of children's reach.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Cocktails To Celebrate St. Patrick's Day 2020

St. Patrick’s Day is on the horizon, which means it’s time to start planning your celebrations. When people think about St. Patrick’s Day drinks, the first thing that often comes to mind is a pint of Guinness and a shot of Jameson. While those are definitely good choices (we’ll certainly be having one — or three— on the big day), St. Patrick’s Day drinks can actually be a whole lot more.

If you’re looking to shake things up this St. Patrick’s day, here are a few cocktails to try:

The Manhattan

• 2 parts The Sexton Irish Whiskey

• 1 part Vermouth

• 1 dash Bitters

• Maraschino cherry

Method: Add ice, whiskey, vermouth and bitters to a glass. Gently swirl or stir with a mixing spoon for about 20 seconds. Don’t rush this part. Add a maraschino cherry if you’d like.

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The Bing Bomb

• 1 Pint of Guinness

• 1 Shot of 8-Ball Premium Chocolate Whiskey

Method: Fill one pint with Guinness Stout and drop one shot of 8-Ball Premium Chocolate Whiskey

Fun fact: The Bing Bomb was created at the well-known Mr. Bing’s Irish Bar in San Francisco, and it's their spin on the Irish Car Bomb. The bar was even featured by Anthony Bourdain!

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The Rory McIlroy

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Hardshore Original Gin

• 1.5 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1 oz pear syrup

• 1.5 oz double-strong Irish black tea

• Mint sprig

Method:

Combine the ingredients together and garnish with mint.

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Green Bloody Mary

• 2 oz TRU Garden Vodka 

• 1.5 Tomatillos, peeled and seeded 

• 1/2 Garlic Cloves 

• 1/6 English Cucumbers 

• 1 handful Fresh Cilantro Leaves 

• 1/6 Yellow Onion

•  1/6 Green Bell Pepper 

• 1 oz Filtered Water 

• 1 oz Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice 

• Pinch Kosher Salt 

• 1/4 Jalapeno, trimmed and seeded

Method: Combine the tomatillo, garlic, cucumber, jalapeno, cilantro, onion and bell pepper in a blender and pulse until smooth. Strain Bloody Mary mixture through a metal strainer to remove pulp and seeds, then add lime juice, water and salt to taste. Combine green Bloody Mary mix with vodka and pour into a tall glass with ice. For an extra step, garnish with a deviled egg topped with a fried oyster.

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Cutwater Whiskey Mule

ginger beer, a hint of lime, and aromatic bitters mixed with our award-winning Bourbon offers a depth of flavor to redefine this classic.

Open up and drink!

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Tullamore D.E.W.’s Irish Coffee

Created Tullamore D.E.W Brand Ambassador, Donna Stewart

• 2 part of Tullamore D.E.W. Original

• Top with Freshly Brewed Hot Coffee

• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar

• Heavy Cream, Slightly Whipped

Method: Preheat a clear-stemmed glass with very hot water. Add the sugar and brewed coffee and stir well. Once sugar has melted, stir in in the whisky. Gently whip the heavy cream by shaking it in a protein shaker with a blender ball – you want a still somewhat loose, not stiff consistency. Pour the cream over the back of a hot teaspoon to top the drink (and prevent cream from penetrating the top of the drink). Finally, garnish with grated nutmeg or cinnamon for spicy finish. for spicy finish.

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Jameson Cold Brew & Cola

• 1 part Jameson Cold Brew

• 2 parts Cola

• Orange peel

Method:  Build over ice in a high ball glass and garnish with Orange Peel.

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Our favorite listing this week is 508 West 24th Street, Unit 5th Floor, home to NBA Player Carmelo Anthony. The ten-time NBA All-Star, has listed his New York City condo. The home is the largest unit in the Cary Tamarkin designed building at 508 W 24th that overlooks the High Line and is walking distance from world-class shopping and prominent art galleries.

251 East 51st Street, Unit 2M, listed on the market as a Compass "Coming Soon," is a recently renovated, perfect pied-a-terre (and ideal one bedroom for all the rest of us). What truly sets this pad apart from the rest is the dreamy outdoor terrace with endless possibilities and city views. Accessed by the living room and overlooked by the bedroom, this 24x12 outdoor space is an oasis in the center of the Midtown hustle and bustle.

Our last #openhouse roundup will you be checking out this #parkslope home? #nycrealestate #brooklynrealestate #milliondollarlistings #luxuryhomes #OffTheMRKT

DNA Development announced that closings have commenced at 350 West 71st Street, the successful Upper West Side luxury conversion that seamlessly combines two historic pre-war buildings into one stunning contemporary condominium with a classic façade. As construction nears completion, the seven-story building’s 38 elegant residences and bespoke amenities are coming to life, as DNA welcomes its first residents.

Our favorite listing this week is located at One West End, the sculptural glass residential tower designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli within Riverside Center. At $19.5 million, 29B offers 5,302 square feet of interiors space, with four bedrooms, five and a half baths, a media room, lofted library, and a double height great room leading out to a 3,000 square foot terrace with impeccable views.

9 Cocktails To Drink On Valentines Day, Even If Your All Alone

Valentines Day, is a day you can celebrate with your partner, your girlfriends (Galentines Day) or even a fine night by yourself. To celebrate the most romantic night of the year we’ve scoured some of the best Valentine’s Day cocktail recipes around. Who says you can’t have love in a drink?

Bananas For You

• 1.5 oz. Santa Teresa 1796

• 1 oz. dry Oloroso sherry

• 0.25 oz. white crème de cacao

• 0.25 oz. Frangelico

• 0.25 oz. Giffard banana liqueur

• 3 dashes chocolate bitters

• 1 dash Angostura bitters

 Stir with ice and strain. Float a very thin layer of banana cream on top. Pour into a Nick & Nora glass. Garnish with banana ash dusted across half the cream float.

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A Rose by Any Other Name

• 35 mls Rose and Almond Infused Grey Goose Vodka*

• 10 mls Crème de Cacoa Blanc

• 10 mls Rose Liqueur

• Rose Champagne or Prosecco

Stir the Vodka and the crème de cacoa, rose liqueur and vodka. Strain into a flute and top with champagne. 

*Infuse 1 bottle with 4 large tablespoons of dried rose pedals. Add in 8 drops of organic almond essence. Strain the rose pedals after 1-2 days or to taste.

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Ketel One Botanical Grapefruit + Rose Sprtiz 

Ingredients:

• 1.5oz Ketel One Botanical Grapefruit & Rose

• 3oz Soda Water

Method: Serve in a wine glass with ice and your choice of fragrant herbs, crisp citrus or other fresh fruit.

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Belvedere Luxury

Ingredients:

• 2 oz / 60 ml Belvedere Vodka

• 0.5 oz / 20 ml Dry Vermouth

• 2 Dash Chocolate Bitters 

Method: Stir all ingredients in mixing glass over cubed ice and strain into chilled coupette. Garnish with two thin truffle slices.

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Chandon Rosé Is My Jam

• 1 TBSP Raspberry Jam

• ½ oz Simply Syrup

• 1 oz Hibiscus Tea, steeped and cooled

• 4oz Chandon Rose

Method: Add jam, tea and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker and shake. Strain mixture into a flute, coupe or wine glass. Top with Chandon Rosé. Garnish with fresh raspberries for an extra treat!

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Hendrick’s Gin’s Riviera Rose

• 2 parts Hendrick’s Gin

• 1 part Giffard Pamplemousse

• ½ part Apricot Liqueur

• 1 part Fresh Lime Juice

• ½ part Egg White

Method: Combine ingredients and shake with ice, then shake without ice. Strain into a coupe and garnish with a rose petal.

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Espresso Martini

• 1.5 oz Volcan de mi Tierra Cristalino

• 1 oz Mr. Black Coffee liquor

• .5 oz Ancho Reyes Roja liquor

• .25 Vanilla Bean syrup

• 1 oz cold brew

Glass: Coupe

Method: Shake ingredients together Garnish: Toasted marshmallow

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Cocktail Bling

Created by Pam Wiznitzer, Creative Director of Seamstress (NYC)

• 3/4 oz Campari

• 1.5 oz SKYY Vodka

• 1 oz Lemon-infused Cinzano Bianco*

Method: Stir ingredients in mixing glass with ice and strain into a coupe glass over crushed ice. Garnish with edible gold flake and, if desired, Campari on the Rocks candy ring from Sweet Saba

* Lemon-infused Cinzano Bianco: Slice four lemons and let them steep in one bottle’s worth of vermouth overnight. Strain back into bottle and keep refrigerated.

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The Balvenie’s My Bonnie Lass

Photo and recipe creation by The Balvenie Brand Ambassador Naomi Leslie

• 2 oz Balvenie 12 DoubleWood

• 2 barspoons Berry Preserves

• 1/4 oz Allspice Dram

• 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• 4 dashes Molasses Bitters

• 1 Egg White

Method: Add all ingredients to tin and shake briefly without ice. Then, add ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a coupe and garnish with a lemon twist.

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Bee Mine

Created By: Aberfeldy Scotch Whisky 

• 2 oz. Aberfeldy 12 Year Old infused with Cacao Nibs

• 1 Shot of Espresso 

• ½ oz. Salted Wildflower Honey Syrup

  Infused scotch: Infuse the Aberfeldy 12 with cacao nibs overnight. After 24 hours, strain the liquid. 

  Honey syrup:  To make the honey syrup, mix 2 parts honey to 1 part water then add twolarge pinches of sea salt to the syrup.

• Cocktail: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake long and hard, and finely strain. Serve the cocktail in a coupe glass. 

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Our favorite listing this week is 508 West 24th Street, Unit 5th Floor, home to NBA Player Carmelo Anthony. The ten-time NBA All-Star, has listed his New York City condo. The home is the largest unit in the Cary Tamarkin designed building at 508 W 24th that overlooks the High Line and is walking distance from world-class shopping and prominent art galleries.

251 East 51st Street, Unit 2M, listed on the market as a Compass "Coming Soon," is a recently renovated, perfect pied-a-terre (and ideal one bedroom for all the rest of us). What truly sets this pad apart from the rest is the dreamy outdoor terrace with endless possibilities and city views. Accessed by the living room and overlooked by the bedroom, this 24x12 outdoor space is an oasis in the center of the Midtown hustle and bustle.

Our last #openhouse roundup will you be checking out this #parkslope home? #nycrealestate #brooklynrealestate #milliondollarlistings #luxuryhomes #OffTheMRKT

DNA Development announced that closings have commenced at 350 West 71st Street, the successful Upper West Side luxury conversion that seamlessly combines two historic pre-war buildings into one stunning contemporary condominium with a classic façade. As construction nears completion, the seven-story building’s 38 elegant residences and bespoke amenities are coming to life, as DNA welcomes its first residents.

Our favorite listing this week is located at One West End, the sculptural glass residential tower designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli within Riverside Center. At $19.5 million, 29B offers 5,302 square feet of interiors space, with four bedrooms, five and a half baths, a media room, lofted library, and a double height great room leading out to a 3,000 square foot terrace with impeccable views.

8 Wines to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Whether you are spending Valentine’s Day alone or with your significant other, everyone deserves the gift of a bottle of wine. Here are 11 wines that are sure to set the mood and make this special day one to remember.

Joseph Phelps

 A 2016 Pinot Noir that offers juicy raspberry and savory spices with notes of cranberry, clove and candied orange peel, guaranteed to impress your date. Retails for $85.00

Dom Pérignon Vintage 2006

Dom Pérignon latest Rosé Vintage 2006 is committed to bringing out the thrilling red characteristics of Pinot Noir, opening with dark notes of spices and coca and followed by the fruity flavors of roasted figs, apricots and candied orange. The latest rosé pairs well with simple, authentic food originating from France, Spain or Italy, playing on the mellow and rich textures which the wine complements perfectly. Retails at $349.00

2016 Solaia

The nose offers powerful notes of plum jam and berry fruit. Perfectly integrated sensations of chocolate and licorice give way on the finish to hints of fresh mint. This vintage recently obtained a 100-point score from Wine Advocate.

Saldo 2017

Deliciously smooth, this dark ruby red Zinfandel is filled with bold aromas of black licorice, black pepper, cherry and baking spice. Its distinct quality and rich palate make it perfect for cold weather sipping and paired alongside Valentine’s Day menus of flavorful red meat and chocolate covered desserts. ($32 SRP),

2016 BV Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

 The latest vintage of Napa’s ‘first cult cabernet’ is bursting with a bouquet of cassis, blueberry, blackberry, violet and wild sage; lingering flavors of dark blackberry, root spice, chocolate and molasses. SRP: $145

2018 SLW Viognier Napa Valley

This wine has racing acidity and a steely minerality which adds to its crispness and complexity. Layers of white peach, hints of lemon grass and raw almond are plentiful on the palate, leading to a long, elegant, delicately floral spiced finish. SRP: $32.00

Bonterra 2018 Rose

Bonterra 2018 Rose celebrates the fresh, lively spirit of the organic viticulture practices that Bonterra adheres to and reflects their unwavering commitment to sustainability and the environment. Honestly, if Bonterra was a person, you would want to date them. Refreshing on its own, but also the perfect accoutrement to a bouquet of roses or a light Valentine’s Day dinner. (SRP: $16, available nationwide and on Bonterra.com)

Rotari Brut Rosé 2014 

Rotari showcases the charming duality of Pinot Noir with a touch of Chardonnay and is filled with intense flavors, delicate aromas, and persuasive perfumes. This sparkling wine is reflective of the Dolomite territory, which is uniquely expressed in each glass. Pop open this elegant, complex offering to celebrate this milestone. 

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

What Is The Official Cocktail Of The Golden Globes By LaQuan Smith?

Alexandra Reconco

Ever wondered what your favorite celebrities were drinking at the Golden Globes? Well, this year,  Moët & Chandon — the official champagne of the Golden Globes for over a quarter-century — has announced the official cocktail of this year’s ceremony: The Moët Golden Hour, created by acclaimed fashion designer LaQuan Smith.

Inspired by one of his favorite moments of any big night, LaQuan captures the colloquial ‘golden hour’ atmosphere of ideal lighting and glamour in The Moët Golden Hour cocktail. Made with fresh pineapple juice, pink grapefruit-infused vodka, and garnished with pineapple smoked salt (see recipe below), the Moët Golden Hour is the perfect sip to toast the 77th Golden Globes before, during, and after the ceremony.

For the first time ever, viewers can pre-purchase a limited-edition Moët & Chandon Champagne box to help craft The Moët Golden Hour cocktail at home. The box (SRP: $100) is on sale on Giftagram.com from December 16, 2019 through the 2020 Golden Globes ceremony and includes a 750mL bottle of Moët Impérial Brut, two (2) Moët Impérial minis, two (2) Moët Mini flutes, two (2) elegant, oversized gold stemmed Moët & Chandon champagne coupes,  6 golden cocktail skewers and The Moët Golden Hour recipe card.

 The Moët Golden Hour by LaQuan Smith

• 1.5oz Moet Imperial Brut

• 0.8oz Belvedere Pink Grapefruit Vodka

• 1.1oz Fresh Pineapple Juice

• 0.35oz simple syrup

• Garnish: Pineapple sprinkled with Smoked Salt

• Served: Coupe glass

Preparation: Combine and shake the vodka, pineapple juice and simple syrup in a shaker. Pour mixture into a coupe and top with Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut. Garnish with a fresh pineapple chunk sprinkled with smoked salt

About LaQuan Smith

A native New Yorker, Smith grew up in Queens with an innate passion for fashion and design. His passion developed in his early adolescence when his grandmother passed on her old Singer sewing machine, which resulted in Smith designing and creating his own garments. In 2007, he graduated from the High School of Art and Design and began his career in fashion. While he was denied from the Fashion Institute of Technology and Parsons School of Design, Smith forged ahead in his pursuits and a year later created his own self-titled designer brand. In 2010, he made his NYFW debut at the Society of Illustrators headquarters in Upper East Side and the rest is fashion history. Since then, Smith’s brand has skyrocketed thanks in part to the A-list stars (Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian-West, Cardi B, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez) donning his designs, and the iconic designers who support and uplift his work – a huge advocate being Tom Ford. Now, Smith has his eyes set on a new partnership that will amplify and honor his work and the work of other pioneers pushing the culture forward.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Printer’s Punch - Favorite Beverage of Benjamin Franklin

As we get closer to Christmas, one thing many of us will be doing is drinking a lot of alcohol! If you are looking to serve drinks at a party with a bit of history, why not consider Printer’s Punch? This was Benjamin Franklin’s favorite drink, and in this post, we are going to reveal everything you need to know about it.

Benjamin Franklin was one of the United States' Founding Fathers. He was a well-known polymath, which means he excelled in several different subject areas, and thus he was known as a leading author, diplomat, statesman, scientist, postmaster, politician, civic activist, inventor, political theorist and printer. You don’t need me to tell you about the history of this incredible man, as there are thousands of articles online exploring his colourful life and achievements. 

But, as we love all things cocktail related, one thing I am particularly interested in is Franklin’s favourite beverage, which was the Printer’s Punch. This is a unique cocktail, and there have been a lot of different variations created. There are also some mocktail versions, which are definitely worth looking into. This is especially the case if you have any guests that have been to facilities like Bali Beginnings. It is so important to make sure they feel comfortable and welcome and not like the odd one out, which is why making mocktails of the cocktails you’re serving comes highly recommended. 

According to a recipe from Poor Richard’s Almanack, from June 1737, the recipe for Printer’s Punch is as follows… ‘Boy, bring a bowl of China here. Fill it with water cool and clear. Decanter with Jamaica Ripe, and spoon of silver, clean and bright. Sugar twice-fin’d in pieces cut, knife, sieve and glass in order put. Bring forth the fragrant fruit and then we’re happy till the clock strikes ten.’

Nowadays punch is a term that is used for a wide variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The only consistent is that some form of fruit juice or fruit is present within the drink, aside from that the ingredients differ considerably. The term punch was first recorded in 1632 in British documents. But, as Benjamin Franklin was alive from 1705 to 1790, the recipe stated is most likely to be similar or even identical to the one Franklin followed. 

Aside from Printer’s Punch, some of Franklin’s favourite foods included Parmesan cheese, turkey, ginseng, potatoes, pickles, cranberries and apples. He is also responsible for introducing scotch kale, rhubarb and tofu to the colonies. 

It is always interesting to learn about the history of some of the world’s most famous drinks. So, if you want to create a cocktail to remember, why not make your own version of the famous Printer’s Punch?

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Top 5 Wines Under $30 According To Wine Spectator

Alexandra Reconco

Wine Spectator editors have revealed their Top 100 wines of 2019. The editors survey all kinds of wines over the previous 12 months and select the Top 100 based on quality, value, availability, and excitement. From this list, we have compiled the top 5 of the wines that are priced under $30, which is perfect for all the upcoming dinners and gatherings this holiday season.

2015 Tenuta Bibbiano Chianti Classico Riserva (Price: $30)

This wine is a flavor explosion of cherry, plum, some floral notes, wild thyme and iron aromas that all highlight this complex, vibrant red. This red wine is beautifully balanced and has well-integrated tannins and lively acidity that allows for the wine to age well.

2016 Sans Liege The Offering Santa Barbara County (Price: $29)

This wine is distinctive, refined and offers strong flavors of black cherry, cigar box, green olive, and cured meat accents that builds on the richness of the wine.

2016 Bodegas Mas Alta Priorat La Vilella Alta Black Slate (Price: $23)

This red wine features a round, soft texture that has ripe black fruit flavors, licorice, toast, and earth notes. This wine is pretty floral and has a cinnamon flavor on the finish.

2017 Castellare di Castellina Chianti Classico (Price: $22)

This wine has flavors of pure cherry and blackberry fruit which defines this intense, racy red. This red wine is firm and tensile, with fine balance and a lingering aftertaste of vibrant fruit, graphite and tobacco flavors.

2017 Petra Toscana Zingari (Price: $15)

This wine has notes of dark cherry, black currant, and blackberry that truly make this wine, a wine for everybody. With accents of fresh earth, thyme, and rosemary, this wine has depth but has a wonderful balance.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Champagne To Ring In The New Year

Although apple cider [whether spiked or plain] is a fall favorite, it isn’t uncommon for people to come back to the elegant classic that is champagne; and not just during the fall-winter season. Think engagement parties, weddings, bachelor/ette celebrations and any other significant life event, they all have the classy touch of the bubbly drink.

With New Years coming up, we wanted to share with you the best champagnes to ring in the New Year with.

There is, really, no known reason why people chose it as the trademark of an important moment, other than it being delicious, meeting the Gold Standard [for its golden appearance] and being an over-all drink to serve to guests. The popularity of it peaked dyring the ‘20s, when the New Rich made a point of bringing the house party scene to a climax.

Among the most popular brands we have Moët & Chandon, a French branch that prides itself in the quality of their products. Krug founded by Joseph Krug in 1843,s one of the famous Champagne houses that formed part of the Grande Marques. And Martini & Rossi an Itialian prosecco that is sure to delight guests and hosts alike this winter – without breaking the bank!

Moët Brut Rosé

Moët Brut Imperial

Veuve Clicquot Colorama

Moët Brut Imperial

Martini & Rossi Prosecco DO

Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte’s Palmes d’Or

Meiomi Sparkling

•  Moët Imperial Rosé — At a retail price of $49.99, this sparkling pink drink is aromatic and savory, beautiful to look at and fun to serve at parties.

• Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 - Crafted from Chardonnay grapes from the Clos du Mesnil plot in 2004, it’s an ideal pour for a truly special holiday. Clos du Mesnil 2004 offers expressive aromas of toffee apple, caramel, ripe citrus fruits, and lightly toasted nuts. On the palate, initial hints of brown sugar, candied ginger, and pecan give way to notes of citrus fruits as it bursts into an explosion of freshness enhanced by a very long and elegant finish. At $850 this bottle is perfect for a New Years toast.

• Veuve Clicquot Colorama Collection - A unique case offering for Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label and Non-Vintage Rosé, inspired by Veuve Clicquot’s iconic yellow and pink hues that have long been synonymous with the brand. Shaped as traditional paint tubes, Veuve Clicquot Colorama Collection pays homage to the aesthetic of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and keeps your 750mL bottle of Yellow Label making it the perfect gift for your favorite party host or Champagne enthusiast. SRP $60.00+

• Moët Brut Imperial — ($39.99) And, of course, the all-time favorite couldn’t be missing from the lost. The Brut Imperial is the most sold Moët product in the world. SocialVignerons.com rates it as a 91/100, which pretty much gives away the excellent quality of the product. .

• Martini & Rossi Prosecco DOC - ($14.99) Unique to the Veneto-Friuli area in Northeast Italy, this versatile bubbly is deliciously dry with a fruit-forward style. Aromas of apple, pear and thyme are complimented by a refreshing, crisp acidity. An ideal hostess gift, this prosecco can effortlessly carry a meal from appetizers through desserts.

• Meiomi Sparkling - ($26.99) On the nose, aromas of green apple are laced with hints of peach nectar. Flavors of crunchy pears, zesty citrus, and honey layer over a slight yeastiness and a fresh minerality. Enjoy this sparkling wine with fresh oysters topped with a classic mignonette sauce, sushi, warm brie, or a fresh mixed berry tart.

• 2006 vintage of Palmes D’or - ($136) Offers the finest crus in champagne and is aged for at least six years to further enhance its delicate flavor. The bottle has hundreds of distinct dimples, mirroring a disco ball – perfect for New Year’s eve!

Have something you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Unique Wines & Spirits To Get This Holiday Season

The holidays are the perfect excuse to break out that top bottle of whiskey or rare stout. And giving one as a gift never fails. Here, we picked the whiskey, beer, tequila, and more we'd want to give to others over the holidays that we'll try not to just keep for our own home bar.

BERTOUX Brandy

A Solera-style blend of pot-distilled California fine brandies aged 3 to 7 years in French and American oak, BERTOUX Brandy shines in classic cocktails and modern creations

BERTOUX Brandy was designed for mixology by a first-of-its-kind collaboration between top bartender Jeff Bell (PDT and Legacy Records) and acclaimed sommelier Thomas Pastuszak (The NoMad), who serve as Consulting Master Blenders

Rémy Martin XO limited-edition bottle designed by celebrated French Atelier, Steaven Richard

A globally celebrated French metalsmith and artist who has worked with major figures in contemporary art and architecture, such as Jacques Garcia, Pierre Yovanovitch, Karl Lagerfeld and Jean Nouvel. Rémy Martin’s desire was to combine the world of cognac with the world of an extraordinary artist. During the collaboration process, Steaven Richard immersed himself in the story behind Rémy Martin and found inspiration from the vineyards in Cognac to create the refined design.

Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut 150th Anniversary Limited Edition Bottle & Gift Box

Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut was first created in 1869, named Impérial in honor of Napoleon, a close friend of the Champagne House’s Moët family. A gift that exudes history and elegance, this limited-edition bottle or gift box will resonate with loved ones this holiday season. As the premiere champagne of excellence, the “I” emblazoned at the center adds a touch of inspiration as the year closes out. A graceful golden straw yellow in color, this wine has a lively palate combined with finesse with bright fruity aromas of apple, pear, white peach and citrus and notes of floral nuances.

The Macallan Edition No. 5 (SRP: $120)

The Macallan Edition No. 5 celebrates The Macallan’s extensive natural colour spectrum and the intricate whisky making process, in partnership with masters at the Pantone Color Institute™ to create a unique shade of purple that features on the packaging.

Inniskillin 2017 Vidal Icewine

Made from the premier Icewine grape in Ontario, this wine is known for its rich flavors and fruit filled aromas, notably ripe peach and lively citrus. A perfectly balanced acidity, results in a wine of the highest quality, with a long fruit filled finish.

Inniskillin 2017 Cabernet Franc Icewine

 (SRP $84.99/375 ml; available nationwide). A luscious (and rare) red Icewine, this Cabernet Franc bursts with flavors of strawberry and cherry with hints of fresh cream. This sweet indulgence is the perfect gift for the wine aficionado in your life.

Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet Sauvignon

Has notes of berry, peppercorn, and olive which fill the palate and lead to a long, lingering finish. The rugged mountain conditions on Napa Valley’s Mount Veeder produce grapes with concentrated dark fruit notes and a supple mouthfeel.

Double Diamond Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

(SRP $69.99; available nationwide). This character-driven cabernet is crafted by Thomas Rivers Brown, the winemaker behind cult-status winery Schrader Cellars. A full-bodied red with a bold fruit flavor and fine-grained tannins, this vintage opens with black and blue fruits balanced by a light oak spice, that is mirrored on the nose. It’s captivating fruit flavors pair easily with grilled steak or barbequed ribs.

Ten To One

o The white rum is a versatile, mixological game-changer, thanks to its higher proof and pronounced ester content. It blends Dominican column still rum with high-ester Jamaican pot still rum

o The dark rum expression is suitable for sipping or mixing. It is a masterful blend of column still Dominican, Trinidadian and Barbadian rums combined with high-ester Jamaican pot still rum

• Brainchild of Marc Farrell, born and bred in Trinidad, a life-long rum aficionado and formerly Starbucks’ youngest VP

PATRÓN Extra Añejo 10 Años

A remarkably rare, limited-edition offering that was aged for 10 years. Aged in a blend of American oak and hybrid American and Limousin barrels, it’s Patrón’s oldest release in the brand’s history. $349 for a 750ml bottle

D'USSÉ XO

The second cognac expression from the D'USSÉ portfolio, D'USSÉ XO (SRP $230) is an exquisite ultra-premium blend championing the category. Born from the prestigious Château de Cognac, D'USSÉ XO incorporates over 200 years of tradition with the inspiration of a passionate Cellar Master, Michel Casavecchia. The hand-selected eaux-de-vie used in D’USSÉ XO are aged a minimum of 10 years in French oak casks and the result is an uncompromising cognac that delivers complex flavor and culminates in an exceptionally balanced finish. D'USSÉ XO starts with a fruity bouquet on the nose, bringing notes of hazelnuts, nutmeg, apricot, orange, wood, and subtle warm spice on the palate. A statement wherever it rests, the exceptional bottle design – inspired by the liquid it contains – is both class and modern bearing the Cross of Lorraine: a symbol of honor, courage, and perseverance. The bottle is available at Totalwine.com and additional local retailers nationwide.

The Racing Series Gift Pack

This luxury set showcases Adobe Road’s newest line of four ultra-premium California wines paying homage to founder Kevin Buckler’s history on the track, as race-car driver and CEO of the winningest privateer racing team in North America, The Racer’s Group.

The winning team of highly-rated wines is named for an element of the sport, and the blends are as exciting to taste as the sport they honor. Available in gift set and individually on TheRacingSeries.com, The Racing Series includes: Apex, Redline, Shift & The 24.

Shochu - iichiko Saiten

iichiko, Japan’s leading barley shochu brand, today unveils iichiko Saiten, a pioneering, higher-proof shochu that is optimized for mixology and targets bartenders at the vanguard of the U.S. craft cocktail scene. Produced on Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island and the cradle of shochu, iichiko Saiten (pronounced SIGH-ten, meaning “colorful sky”) is the first-ever shochu developed with insights from top U.S. bartenders with exceptional palates and deep cocktail knowledge. A unique clear spirit, iichiko Saiten is rich in flavor and umami character, resulting in genuinely innovative cocktails.

Espolòn Añejo X

Añejo X is secretly laid to rest for six long years. The extra aging creates a tequila of rich, complex flavors and uncommon character. Beautifully rich and subtly smoky. The taste is prominent in vanilla with notes of nutmeg and white peppercorn joined by hints of cocoa nibs, bitter chocolate, rich roasted fruits. A rich mouthfeel lingers traces of dark chocolate, cheery, tobacco and honey. This is the one you’ll stash and bring out to enjoy straight on special occasions.

Bonterra Merlot

For the 2017 Merlot, the lots were fermented separately and underwent full malolactic fermentation before being combined to create the final blend. Additional complexity comes from the small additions of Petite Sirah and Malbec. The wine was aged for twelve months using a combination of French and American oak of which 45% was new.

The resulting wine has aromas of black currant, black cherries and a touch of wood smoke with flavors of plums, dark berries, toasty oak and vanilla spice. In the mouth, this wine has an elegant and restrained style with nice structure and balance, soft tannins and a long finish.

Anchor Brewing Company’s 45th Annual Christmas Ale

Released yearly on November 1 since 1975, Anchor Christmas Ale (6.9% ABV) is a smooth and velvety spiced ale with rich flavors of roasted malts, toffee and Mexican chocolate. This was one of the very first holiday beers produced in America, and the tradition carries on with an ever-changing, secret recipe wrapped in a different label each year. This winter warmer is available in most major retailers nationwide.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Cocktails To Sip On This Thanksgiving

It’s no secret that there are specific signature flavors that people look forward to in their annual thanksgiving meal – from stuffing to cranberry sauce to mash potatoes, the traditional flavors of a thanksgiving feast are second to none. This Thanksgiving, serve an accompanying cocktail that enhances these beloved flavors with fresh and inventive additions, elevating the sensory experience of the meal as a whole. While you may not know what to cook for the meal, you can be the mixologist of the night with these approved cocktails.

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Media Noche

Ingredients:

•  2 oz- D’USSE VSOP Cognac

• 1.5 oz-Chilled Café Bustelo Espresso Shot

• .5 oz- Simple Syrup

• 1 oz- Half & Half (or Almond Milk)

• Glassware: Martini

• Garnish: Shaved Chocolate Ribbons

  Method: Add D’USSE VSOP Cognac, Espresso, Simple Syrup and Half & Half into a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled Martini glass. Garnish with chocolate shavings.

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Spiced Apple Tea

• 50ml (2 parts) Bombay Sapphire

• 15ml (½ part) MARTINI Bianco

• 50ml (2 parts) good quality cloudy apple juice – ‘eager’ brand recommended

• 20ml (¾ part) freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 125ml (5 parts) water

• 1 bar spoon orange blossom honey

• 3 thin slices of green apple (eg: Granny Smith)

• 1 cinnamon stick; 3 cloves; 1 cardamom pod – broken open

• 1 black tea bag (eg: Twining’s Assam)

• 1 orange peel twist – gently spritzed

Method: Toast the dry spices & spritzed orange peel in the bottom of a dry pan for a few seconds then add the water, honey, apple juice & apple slices. Allow to warm up to a simmer then add the Assam tea bag. Infuse for 4 minutes then gently squeeze & take the tea bag out. Add the Bombay Sapphire, MARTINI Bianco & fresh lemon juice, carefully swirl the pan to mix all the ingredients together then strain off the liquid into pre-warmed cups. Take the cinnamon stick & the 3 apple slices from the infusion & add to the cup. Finally, grate some fresh nutmeg over the drink. Enjoy!

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Rye Carre

Credit Belvedere Vodka

• 1oz Belvedere Vodka

• 1.5oz Hot Water

• 1oz French Fortified Wine

• 1oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• .5oz Honey

• Cinnamon Stick, Orange Wedge, Clove, Nutmeg

Method: Stir all ingredients over cubed ice in mixing glass and strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube.

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The Warm and Toasty

Recipe:

• 1.5 Santa Teresa 1796

• 0.5 Smoky Rhubarb Amaro

• 0.25 Cherry Herring

• 1 Martini Sweet Vermouth

• 2 dashes of orange bitters

Method: Stir and strain into a coupe garnish with an orange peel and brandied cherry.

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Grey Goose Gingerbread Martini

Ingredients

• 1.5 parts Grey Goose La Poire vodka

• 0.5 parts Disaronno liqueur

• 1.5 parts Sparkling Apple Cider

• + pinch of Pumpkin Pie Spice                

Method: Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a martini cocktail glass.

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Chandon Smoke & Bubbles

Ingredients

• 3.0 oz. Chandon Brut

• 0.5 oz Rosemary Honey Syrup

• 0.5 oz. Lemon Juice

• 1.25 oz Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Scotch Whisky

• 2 Dash Celery Bitters

Method: Combine Ardbeg, lemon, and rosemary honey syrup in a shaker and add ice.  Shake and strain into a coupe. Top with 3 oz. Chandon Brut. Garnish with rosemary & lemon peel. 

Rosemary Honey Syrup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Fresh Rosemary Leaves, roughly chopped

• 2 cups Honey, clover or other mildly flavored

• 1 cup Water

Method: Pour honey and water into a saucepan and place over very low heat. Add rosemary leaves and simmer, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes, until mixture is fragrant. Remove pan from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Using a fine mesh strainer, carefully pour the honey through a sieve. Discard the rosemary leaves. Let mixture cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Transfer rosemary honey to an airtight container. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary to the honey. Store at room temperature for 24 hours, then place in the refrigerator.

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Cranberry Apple Spritz

Carafe Serves 6

Ingredients:

• (Carafe- serves 6)

• 2 cups Martini & Rossi Prosecco

• 8 oz St-Germain French Elderflower Liqueur

• 1 cup cranberry-apple juice

• 1 cup soda water

• Apple slices

• Mint sprigs

Method: Add all ingredients in a shaker without ice. Dry shake then add ice and shake again. Strain into a coupe and garnish with cinnamon with mint.

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The Moët & Chandon Impérial 1869

• 15ml Agave Syrup

• 2 Dashes Grapefruit Bitters

• 1 Dash Orange Flower Water

• 100ml Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut

Method: Pour all the ingredients into the Moët Impérial 150th anniversary Coupe and top with Champagne. Garnish with a sprig of “Queen Anne’s Lace” (also known as “wild carrot”)

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Wines To Sip On This Thanksgiving

Wine can break or make a meal even with some of the best food prepared. Being able to bring together the right flavor, tannins, notes and acids can add new layers to your meal making it the best Thanksgiving meal you’ve had in years. With different appetizers or even main courses planning a pairing can be difficult, (Food & Wine Pairings To Try This Thanksgiving) but these approved bottles will find the perfect match, pleasing even the toughest of crowds.

From The Times Square EDITION's Amy Racine recommends ruet "Domaine St Vincent" Brut Rose (New Mexico) - Bubbles are a nice way to welcome guests on Thanksgiving. It's also something great to sip on to get the appetite going before the big meal.

Related: 3 Unique Thanksgiving Spots

While Major Food Group's John Slover recommends Caduceus Cellars ’Nagual de la Naga’ (Arizona) - It is a decadently fruity red reminiscent of rich, jammy Shiraz, and would pair nicely with dark meat turkey and cranberry sauce.

See below wines to serve on Thanksgiving

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New Limited-Edition Harvested Under the Stars Brut Bottle

To celebrate this holiday season, Chandon will be launching a limited-edition bottle (available in both standard and magnum sizes) of their signature Brut varietal. Chandon harvests under the stars each year because the cool California night protects the quality of Chandon’s grapes. The acidity and aromatic finesse of the fruits are preserved when gathered under the twinkling California sky. Chandon is bringing that magic to your home with this festive bottle to celebrate all season long. This bottle will be available from October 1st through the end of the year.

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Napa Valley Sparkling Blanc de Blancs

Pop the bubbly! This Blanc de Blancs is a glistening pale straw color in the glass with ribbons of fine bubbles. Aromas of green apple, lemon citrus, pear and lemon cream offer a fresh palate with fruit forward flavors, zippy acidity and a creamy finish. Made from 100% Chardonnay and gorgeously effervescent, it’s the perfect wine for toasting the season.

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2016 Mullan Road Cellars Red Blend

A Bordeaux style blend of Cabernet, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. It is a bright, full wine that leads with dark aromas of black cherry, cassis, vanilla bean and juniper berry, making way for deeper scents of sweet black cherry pie, blackcurrant and a touch of spice. This is the perfect accompaniment to a Thanksgiving or Holiday meal or alone as a host/hostess gift. (SRP: $45)

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Hampton Water

Hampton Water, the perfect rosé for all seasons and occasions, is a must-have Thanksgiving bottle. Hampton Water is slightly aged, which is atypical for rosés, allowing the body of the wine to pair perfectly with any Thanksgiving course from a cheese platter hors d’oeuvres to the main event, turkey and stuffing, and a delicious piece of cake or pie for dessert.

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2015 Sterling Vineyards Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon

When that special moment arrives, this wine delivers dense, dark elegance and serious poise. Bing cherry, cassis and mocha notes are layered with flavors of caramel toffee, roasted hazelnuts and black pepper spice. A memorable bottle to open at an elevated soiree or intimate gathering.

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Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau

This young and vibrant wine is celebrated as the first wine of the harvest and released each year on the third Thursday of November. Just in time for the holidays, Beaujolais Nouveau’s bright fruit flavors make it the perfect plus one. Best served with a light chill, the time-honored wine is versatile and pairs perfectly with all manner of cheese, charcuterie, roast turkey, and ham. Available starting November 21 at most wine retailers nationwide.

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Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2017

This perfect rich red wine is hand-harvested between March and April, Terrazas’ signature Reserva Malbec is synonymous with very intense colors, aromas of fresh fruit, flowers, and spices. This vintage is kind, aromatic and fresh. Its precise tannins provide great softness and presence in the mouth.

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The Vice Single Vineyard 218 Pinot Noir “Bruce Wayne’s Batch” (SRP: $36)

2018 BruceWayne’s Pinot Noir jumps off the glass with aromas of berry bramble, mulberry with hints of lilac and violet. The palate is round and generous with layers of mouth-enveloping ripe berries, rhubarb, dried cherries and equally imposing tannins.

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Campo Viejo Tempranillo

Campo Viejo Tempranillo is fermented in stainless steel vats at a controlled temperature and maceration with skins for approximately 12 days. The wine spends 4 months in American oak casks before rounding off its aging in the bottle. The result is a cherry red color, suggestive of a vibrant Tempranillo wine. It’s rich aromas have a pronounced intensity with an initial scent of ripe fruit followed by gentled sweet notes of vanilla and spices. It is perfumed, soft and fresh with a long finish with notes of suits, vanilla and cocoa.

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KTW Rkatsiteli Qvevri, 2013

100% Rkatsiteli, literally "red stem" is made using Georgian traditional wine making method. Using a qvevri, a clay, egg shaped vessel buried under ground. This “orange wine” (referring to its amber color as a result of prolonged skin contact) acquires a full body texture and drinks more like a red. Bouquet of dried healing herbs and honey on the nose walnut notes on the finish. Food pairing: mediterranean style chicken or pork.

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Swanson 2017 Merlot, Napa Valley

Subtle nose of red fruits, a hint of milk chocolate and a touch of parsley. On the palate intense plums, strawberries and briar rush across the palate. As the wine opens up, blueberry notes become evident. The tight acidity helps maintain the structure of the wines which balanced against moderate tannins drive the finish. Pure, well rounded and delicious.

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Tamarack 2016 Firehouse Red, Columbia Valley

Crushed gently and dropped into 1.5 ton bins, cold soaked 24 to 48 hours, then inoculated with a variety of yeasts, handpunched and pressed directly to barrel, where the wine finishes both primary and secondary fermentation. Only after one year in barrel do the individual lots of wine that compose the Firehouse Red get blended.

Aromas of dried cherry and graham cracker pie crust that waft from the glass. On the palate, flavors of blueberry, cranberry and dried oregano are followed by nicely integrated oak and mellow tannins.

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Joseph Phelps 2017 Chardonnay, Pastorale Vineyard

A blend of two Chardonnay blocks from our Pastorale Vineyard with a focus on heritage clone Maro, clone 76, Old Calera, New Calera, Montra and Mt. Eden. Grapes were whole cluster pressed cold and barrel fermented slowly over several months, followed by malolactic fermentation. Barrels were stirred as needed, resulting in a focused, concentrated, richly textured wine.

The 2017 Pastorale Vineyard Chardonnay boasts delicate aromas of citrus blossom and gardenias met by Meyer lemon and tangy spices, making for a richly round and vibrant wine with touches of vanilla and toasted brioche in the lingering finish.

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Joseph Phelps 2016 Pinot Noir, Pastorale Vineyard

A singular Pinot Noir expression from our Pastorale Vineyard highlights select blocks planted to clone 777, Calera and Swan. Clusters were hand-sorted in order to separate the best for whole cluster fermentation. The 2016 vintage was 24% whole cluster fermented, adding spice, texture and structure, and 25% of the grapes were then selected for fermentation in oak-top fermenters, lending a rich, round mouth feel to the finished blend. Gentle punch downs were performed during fermentation until a desired taste and texture was achieved in each tank.

This latest release highlights juicy raspberry and savory spices with well-integrated tannin structure and inviting cranberry, clove and candied orange peel notes. Fresh and focused with a lingering red fruit and dried sage finish.
Related: NYC Thanksgiving Parade: Where and Where not to Watch

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Erath 2016 Oregon Pinot Gris 

Before reaching for another bottle of pinot grigio, try serving a better version of the same grape from Oregon. Pinot Gris is a descendant of pinot noir and is a perfect white wine to balance your Thanksgiving meal – no matter how many helpings of mac and cheese or spinach mornay you put on your plate.

Notes: Fragrant white flowers, nectarine, melons with a hint of Key lime lay the aromatic path to this wine. Pleasing plushness bolstered by engaging natural acidity combine to support lush flavors of banana, melon and apricot finishing on a long, clean and clear high note.