#artisan gin

[noeticwanderer]

[techdriveplay]

Garden Street Gin Club - TDP Review - This Subscription Box Allows You to Sip on Gins from All Around Australia

Exploring the world of Australian gin has never been more exciting, thanks to Garden Street Gin Club. This innovative subscription box allows you to sip on gins from all around Australia, offering a unique journey through the finest small-batch, artisanal gins the country has to offer. Introduction to Garden Street Gin Club Garden Street Gin Club, an Australian-owned and made online…

[ivyblossom]

I went to the farm market this morning to pick up breakfast and decided that 10am was a great time to test out some artisanal gin.

Send help.

[sgiandubh]

Whisky, gin and beer

It was always going to be about beer, too - not only whisky and gin. And it was probably designed to be a simultaneous project, that might have been postponed for various reasons: funny how all those intelligent people across the street forget everything about COVID, when it does not fit their agendas. And by COVID, I do not mean only the prolonged lockdowns, but first and foremost the worldwide logistics crisis, with compromised supply chains and overall a huge blow on the transports' sector.

In fact, looking at those trademark websites, it becomes evident that first (now abandoned) trademark application for beer was filed in at the same time as the one for whisky, on December 28, 2018:

Separate categories, as per US regulations, need separate filings, of course. And beer is a brilliant, simple idea, with high quality local ingredients (it's really barley, water, hops and yeast) relatively easy to source. Well, spare perhaps for the hops, but that is not really a problem, anymore:

(Source: the James Hutton Institute's booklet Hops in Scotland, 2018 - well, then. The institute is based in Dundee, by the way, so I think they know exactly what they are talking about, especially after a four year long feasibility study with encouraging results: https://www.hutton.ac.uk/news/scottish-hops-viable-commercial-crop-hutton-research-finds)

As I always make a point of reminding anyone, this page does not deal in fantasy and empty, meaningless scouring of social media accounts. And cackle to your heart's content, Mordor, but S seems to have a genuine, informed interest in the industry, as shown above.

This is a different business plan and a different marketing model, based on affordable production costs and yield/volume (as compared to successive, 'limited batches' of tequila or whisky, where the accent is placed on the excellence of the product and know-how, as reflected in the final price tag). You can bottle that beer or you can sell it on tap, partnering with local bars and pubs first, then progressively extending that network. And I bet the farm it is going to be a premium, artisanal beer first, with options open for a more democratic product, once brand awareness is properly built: beer is versatile, like that.

Whisky and gin were expensive, carefully curated pet projects. Beer is a fun, easy and lucrative one, with a wider clientele and fast growing potential. And this is how that unknown, struggling Scottish actor who once was the face of Tennent's has a fair opportunity to strike it big. To be followed, which I might do. And this is also how his products could cover the entire price range, from luxury to affordable.

It is also always disheartening to see how all those bitter women congregating on certain Tumblr pages feel the need to dismiss anything he does. As I always said and I always will, many of them have no idea about the very basics of business and trade, no exposure to that world and, to be honest, no particular intellectual acuity. Plus I bet the farm many of them lie about their own circumstances: it's easy to pretend, on the Internet and always sexier (and lame, of course) to introduce yourself as a corporate whatever than a secretary. But I wonder how would they feel, in the unlikely situation they would be running their own lemonade stand, if passers by started cackling and bitching about their trade, out of the blue.

So, all in all, we seem to be dealing with some careful preparation, portfolio diversification and yes, taking much needed strides away from McGrandma. To be continued, of course...

PS: FMN Gin, still crickets? Ahhh...

[flyingwargle]

flufftober day 4: market day

amagasaki is home to several indoor and outdoor markets that appeal to different audiences. the indoor market attracts artisans and small businesses that produce household items, jewelry, and crafts. the outdoor market is where independent grocers, farmers, and most food trucks congregate, occupying parks wreathed in autumn colors, accompanied by music from local artists and bands.

osamu borrowed everything for his booth. the tent is from inarizaki’s volleyball club. the metal trays are on loan from his old home economics teacher. the folding tables are from aran, the cash box and chalk sandwich board from omimi. the disposable plastic gloves, napkins, and takeout bags are from kita. the truck that he used to transport everything is from his uncle.

it’s only his onigiri that belong to him.

he opens the tent, sets up the tables. he slides the trays of onigiri into the transparent food displays, stickers already in place with the price and filling. he places the cashbox beside it, along with a stack of business cards, which only has his name, phone number, email, and ig. the storefront will come in the near future.

atsumu joins him after he’s set everything up and takes a piece of chalk to draw on the sandwich board. in uneven letters, he scrawls onigiri miya and doodles onigiri in the corners. he takes a handful of flyers that osamu printed with the available flavors, and atsumu starts walking around to distribute them. the morning is still young; business will pick up, hopefully.

“hey, osamu! nice booth ya got here.”

his smile widens at the pair of familiar faces. “aran! kita-san! good morning!”

aran waves, and kita nods. “how’s business so far?” aran asks.

“the market just opened, so i haven’t sold anythin’.” he gestures at the empty park. “’tsumu is walkin’ ‘round ta advertise.”

kita picks up several flyers. “i can take a handful ta bring back ta the farm an’ distribute ta the neighbors.”

“oh, same here. my team is nowhere nearby, but it helps ta spread the word, yeah?” aran does the same, tucking them under his arm. “well, i should show some patronage. i’ll take a tuna mayo, please.”

“konbu fer me, please,” kita adds.

osamu packs their orders, deposits their change into the cashbox. “thank ya both. will y’all check out the rest o’ the market?”

“of course. we’ll come back ta say bye when we leave.” aran steps away, giving him a final nod of encouragement. "good luck!”

he sells a few onigiri, and atsumu returns to deposit the remaining flyers in hand. “didja see aran an’ kita-san?” osamu asks him.

“yeah, i saw ‘em walkin’ round. i saw akagi an’ omimi-san too, they said they’ll come by.”

as if he summoned them, their upperclassmen arrive. “look at ya, osamu,” akagi says, slightly teary-eyed. “workin’ on the other side o’ the counter fer once.”

omimi rolls his eyes, although his expression is soft. “shinsuke gave us a glowin’ review. can we get one o’ everythin’?”

“thank ya both, akagi-san, omimi-san,” osamu says, beaming as he packs their orders. “i hope ya’ll enjoy ‘em.”

“ya better,” atsumu adds. “that’s yer kouhai’s cookin’ yer ‘bout ta eat.”

“i’mma enjoy the hell outta ‘em,” akagi reassures him. “if ya aren’t sold out by the end o’ the day, i’ll come back an’ buy the rest.”

the height of the afternoon approaches, and the crowd thickens. atsumu, after a brief phone break, goes back out to advertise, and osamu continues to sell a few more. a small line forms but quickly dissipates, and he’s left with another pair of familiar faces. “gin! kosaku! yer back in town?”

“we came ta support ya!” ginjima knocks his fist against his. “it’s yer first gig at the market, yeah? it better not be yer last.”

osamu shakes his head. “i’m gonna be at two others after this. gotta balance it with work.”

“which restaurant are ya at?” kosaku asks. “are ya still at the teppanyaki place?”

“nah, the owner recommended me ta his colleague’s kaiseki restaurant. it’s been hard, but i finally got on his good side. good thing, or i woulda had ta work today.”

“hey, guys!” atsumu returns, empty-handed, knocking fists with their friends. “ya’ll came back just ta support ‘samu?”

“obviously. we gotta support, ya know?” ginjima’s eyes gleam as he takes his wallet out. “i’ll take a negitoro onigiri.”

“i’ll take bonito flakes,” kosaku adds.

the onigiri steadily decrease from the trays. business is steady, with many eager to support him online or await his physical shop. for now, they’ll have to contend with his appearances at various markets in town, until he’s able to expand further out.

“tsum-tsum! so this is where you’ve been!”

atsumu straightens from behind, stepping next to his twin at the owl-haired young man and his dark-haired companion with glasses. “bokkun, keiji-kun! nice of ya’ll ta come by.” to his brother, he introduces them. “bokuto koutarou, my teammate, and akaashi keiji, his friend.”

“it’s nice to meet you, mya-saam!” bokuto says cheerfully. “your onigiri look amazing! i could buy all of them!”

“please don’t, bokuto-san. you don’t have enough luggage space for all of that.”

“oh, that’s true! okay, i’ll take your last mentaiko and one salmon!”

“i’ll get salmon, please,” akaashi adds. “i wish your business the best of luck, miya-san.”

osamu hands them over. “thank ya. yer support means a lot ta me.”

meian, atsumu’s captain, also stops by, along with inunaki, barnes, and adriah. atsumu converses with them while osamu bags their orders, dwindling his stock further. there’s still an hour until the market ends, with three onigiri left. he wonders who’ll take the last of them.

his answer comes as soon as his brother’s teammates leave, replaced with another trio, this time led by a familiar face. “hey.” suna has his hands in his pockets, a smile on his face. “hope we’re not too late?”

“so this is the humble beginning of an empire, huh?” his companion asks. “i’m lucky to be part of it.” there’s another person lurking behind him, and atsumu immediately singles him out.

“ya lied ta me, omi! ya said ya wouldn’t come by!” atsumu shouts.

sakusa glowers at him, the lower half of his face hidden behind his face. “it wasn’t a lie. i was brought here against my will because of motoya.”

“we have to show our support! it isn’t every day that a new onigiri restaurant is in the works,” his cousin insists. “we came just in time to snag the last three!”

it’s easy for them to decide who gets what: sakusa gets umeboshi, komori with kombu, and suna with tuna mayo. osamu slides his gloves off, satisfied that he’s sold out.

they stay to help him dismantle the stall, and promise to meet with the twins for dinner after. atsumu loads everything into the truck and climbs into the passenger seat beside osamu, clicking his seatbelt on. “that was a pretty good first day, yeah?” he says. “just wait ‘till ya get yer storefront. the line will go fer blocks.”

osamu smiles, inserting the key into the ignition. it’s so easy to imagine it, to envision the happy customers with his onigiri in hand, to visualize a full house. “i can’t wait, either. thanks fer yer help, ‘tsumu.”

“any time, ‘samu.” they knock against each other’s fists.

[abearbutch]

it’s so funny making a poll on this site bc you’ll notes that are like “i would live in a willow tree and make artisanal gin in acorn caps 🥰” and then immediately after you’ll get “what the FUCK is wrong with op kill yourself!!!”. no site like it i’m never leaving <3

[mixergiltron]

Boo!

It's that time of year again folks,when the days get shorter,the weather turns cooler,and we start watching our favorite spooky movies again. Halloween season.

Last year,the Search For Tiki did a 13 Nights of Tiki Frights where for thirteen days in a row they did a podcast with a prominent figure in the Tiki world,gave away a mug,and posted a new drink recipe featuring Plantation rum. Not only did I try most of them,but I even went out and bought the fancy rums to make them. And I can tell you folks,Plantation makes a good rum. Here's the first batch for you to enjoy.

Mix #28 Gunslinger's Grave

2oz Citadelle gin 1oz orange juice 3/4oz lemon juice 1/2oz grenadine 1/4oz passionfruit syrup 1/4oz allspice dram 2 dashes Angostura bitters 2oz soda water

Shake everything except soda. Pour soda into glass and add mix and more ice.

Reminiscent of a Saturn,this sweet gin drink has made it into my regular rotation. I can also highly recommend Citadelle,which has become my gin of choice.

Mix #64 Ferry to the Underworld

1oz Plantation Original Dark rum 1oz Plantation OFTD rum 3/4oz pineapple juice 1/2oz lime juice 1/2oz falernum 1/4oz cinnamon syrup 1/4oz allspice dram 1 dash absinthe 1 dash Angostura bitters

Shake with plenty of ice and pour into double rocks glass.

This is reminiscent of the Zombie in taste,and has almost as much kick. A Zombie light if you would.

Mix #65 Fizzy Rum & Gin

1oz Plantation Isle of Fiji rum 1oz Citadelle gin 1/2oz lime juice 1/4oz simple syrup 2 dashes Angostura bitters 4oz ginger beer

Shake everything except ginger beer with ice. Pour ginger beer into tall glass,strain mix into glass,then top with some pellet ice.

This has some real ginger burn and is basically a hopped up Dark & Stormy. If you like D&S's,or are just partial to ginger beer,you'll love this.

Mix #66 Ghostly Shadows

2oz Plantation Isle of Fiji rum 1.25oz lemon juice 1/2oz cinnamon syrup 1/4oz honey syrup 1/4oz passionfruit syrup

Shake with ice and pour into glass.

An interesting drink that bounces back and forth between honey sweet and cinnamon spice.

Mix #67 Pineapple Maze

2oz Plantation Stiggins Fancy Pineapple rum 3/4oz simple syrup 1/2oz lime juice 1/2oz grapefruit juice 1 dash Angostura bitters

Shake with ice.

With that much simple I figured this would be too sweet,but it actually has a good balance. There's a pineapple start with a grapefruit finish. The Stiggins is excellent pineapple rum;read the label for the interesting story behind it.

Mix #68 Roaming Skull

1oz Plantation Original Dark rum 1oz Plantation 3 Stars Artisanal rum 1oz apricot liqueur* 1oz lemon juice 1.5oz coconut cream

Blend with ice.

*I used apricot brandy

I expected it to have a heavy coconut flavor,but it was actually quite tart with lemon forward. Not my thing,but if you like sour give it a try.

Mix #69 Tombstone Grog

1oz Plantation XO 20th Anniversary rum 1oz Plantation Isle of Fiji rum 1oz grapefruit juice 3/4oz lime juice 1/2oz cinnamon syrup 1/4oz falernum 1/4oz allspice dram

Shake with ice and pour into glass.

This is very spicy with a cinnamon burn. Not my thing,but if you like a drink with some burn,you'll enjoy this.

So enjoy these spooky concoctions,and be sure to check out the Search For Tiki to see what they do for Halloween this year. Unpleasant dreams.

[spiritsoffrance]

Classic Ways to Drink Gin

Written by: Mikayla Newman Made of antioxidant-loaded berries, you probably should probably think about stashing some bottles of Christian Drouin Gin in your liquor cabinet. Gin has been a popular spirit since the 17th century because it can suit a wide array of the flavour profile. It’s a favourite drink during warmer months, but if you don’t like to drink it straight, here are some classic mixes to try:  

Classic Gin Martini

These days, any beverage in a cocktail glass can be referred to as a “martini”. However, a real martini requires gin. The beauty of classic gin martini comes from its simplicity: mix gin and dry vermouth. Best stirred, but the proportions are up to you. You may want to try the Vesper Martini. The classic gin martini is the base of many other mixes and is regarded as the standard for a fine drinking experience.  

Negroni

If you’re looking for a refreshing dinner cocktail, aim for a Negroni. This cocktail can be made using gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth—all of which are aperitifs. “The Negroni is considered an acquired taste because Campari is noted for its bitter taste profile. Once you get around it, you will realise that only a few drinks work with meals. It can also be paired with various food, but Italian cuisine is the best match.”, states Shane Perry, Max Funding’s senior financial analyst. Perry travels a lot for business and has observed that Negroni is a favourite appetiser in many places. Try our Prohibition Negroni today!

Hanky Panky

There are no foolin’ around with this sweet martini. Believed to have been invented in Savoy Hotel by Ada Coleman, this dinner-worthy drink is popular among people who prefer their glasses a bit saccharine. Hanky Panky is made using gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca, an Italian herbal liquor.  

New Orleans Fizz

Speaking of icons! The New Orleans Fizz (also known as “Ramos Gin”) is the best-known member of the fizz family. The preparation of this cocktail can be challenging for beginners, but the result is totally worth it. You need gin (perhaps The Doctor from Tiny Bear?), lemon juice, lime juice, cream, syrup, fleurs d'orange, and egg white. The egg white is required to achieve the desired creaminess and bring all flavour together for a delicious mix. The first shake should be dry so that all ingredients mix well. Then, fill the shaker with ice and shake it harder for a silkier drink.

Singapore Sling

The Singapore Sling has enchanted many by its complex flavour and intriguing history. There’s a lot of debate about its origin, and numerous versions have been made over 100 years. But each version always includes gin, citrus, soda, and cherry brandy. The mix is red and is served over ice. The best thing to do is to explore various recipes until you find the best for you.   Spirits of France is dedicated to finding the spirits, aperitifs, and liqueurs that can give you the most ethereal drinking experience. Visit us now to find non-commercial, artisanal, and beautifully authentic drinks.  Written by: Mikayla Newman for Spirits of France

[oinoslogo]

KI NO BI Japanese Gin Cocktail Flight at @fitzgeralds_dc A Cherry Blossom celebration of artisanal Japanese Gins. The Kyoto Distillery is the first in Japan to be solely dedicated to making artisanal Gin. KI NO BI Gin is made using 11 botanicals sourced in its majority from the Kyoto Prefecture were the distillery is located. Another unique regional ingredient only available in Kyoto is found in its underground water source. Fushimi Spring water is renowned for its purity, softness, and mellow flavor. KI NO BI and KI NO BI TEA, the first two gins in the flight, were both elegantly smooth with classic juniper and citrus aromatics and flavors. The flagship KI NO BI is slightly fresher in its aromatics and more Yuzu forward in the palate. KI NO BI TEA delivers the similar freshness and citrusy quality, adding a layer of savory-fruity sweetness to its flavor profile. The third glass on the flight, KI NO BI Edition G, a rare and delicious treat. Edition G was aged in oak barriques sourced from the Argonne forests in Northeastern France near the Belgium border. The barrels had been previously used to mature Henri Giraud quality Champagnes in Marne, Champagne. Only 1,700 bottles of KI NO BI Edition G gin were produced to be distributed in 20 markets worldwide. A truly unique sensorial experience. Cheers! #japanesegin #kinobigin #kyotodistillery #oinoslogo #highspirits (at Fitzgerald's) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqJ_Z5ztp-z/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[frimleyblogger]

Oxford Rye Dry Gin

An excellent #gin using heritage #grains from @theoxfordartisndistillery #GinReview

The Oxford Artisan Distillery, based in Cheney Lane, Oxford, distillers of Oxford Rye Dry Gin, have a fascinating back story, offering the discerning toper the opportunity to step in time and sample the grains of yesteryear, or rather pre-1904, the turning point when the advent of modern farming methods changed the way that crops were sown and grown. By the 1880s Britain’s domestic and historic…

[keikakudori]

No one else but Shinji Hirako can appreciate the occupational hazards that come with having The Perfect Lieutenant────competition for his attention not the least among them. Sosuke Aizen is handsome, but not intimidatingly so. No one catches him making mistakes. He is talented and puts those talents to helping others. It’s no small wonder he has as many admirers as he does, ready to throw their offerings at his feet when his birthday rolls around. Some the best that their money can buy, others made from the heart seeing varying degrees of competency. All in the hopes of seeing the spell of his smile cast their way. …Kind of annoying that Shinji has to wait in line!

Well, he could just leave the box on Aizen’s desk without a word like usual, but when it comes to this particular gift…it…bears some explaining.

❝ Happy birthday, Sosuke. ❞

The humble box fits neatly in Aizen’s large hands and has a bit of weight to it. Inside is a…clearly handmade tea cup, and not from those of an artisan, oh no. It’ll hold tea for sure, but it is slightly misshapen, crudely fortified in spots where the clay got too thin, the lip of the rim drooping. Painted sakura blossoms adorn the uneven surfaces of the cup────nothing more than pink splotches at first, but growing more confident and shapely as their journey around the circumference of the cup continues.

Only now does Shinji start to get a little bit self-conscious about his brilliant gift idea. Just a little.

❝ …’s a tea cup, ❞ as though it really needs clarifying. ❝ Hmph. Go easy on it, alright? Gin an’ I made it, we ain’t experts. I’ll…give ya somethin’ better later, how’s that? ❞

Compared to that day in the month of February which would often see one of the few days that Aizen would actively vacate the premises of the Fifth so as not to be over inundated by the enthusiasm of his admirerers, this one saw him remaining in sight and accepting gifts with polite smiles and dips of his head to those that came by to give him their well-wishes. Some brought flowers, others confessions, and still others sought to provide what they could. Some even went so far as to spend their meagre savings upon some book or item that he might appreciate, so he often found himself bestowed teas, calligraphy brushes, and ink sticks. Those ink sticks were always welcome things to his way of thinking, both for personal and professional reasons, of course.

Yet, admirers were not those that truly caught his eye; after all, the entire day seemed to have seen Shinji twitching as if trying to resist the urge to say something. Did his captain ever remain aware of it, the fact that a scant two weeks separated what their birthdays were? Aizen didn't remember the one his mother had given to him, young as he was, not always keeping track of the days as he'd clawed his way through survival in the Rukongai. And, eventually, it had been unimportant. But when he'd arrived at the Academy, they had spoken of how he needed a birthday, so he'd simply chosen that day in particular when he'd put in his application to be admitted. Nothing more than a feral foul-mouthed child, but quiet, ever so quiet.

How far he'd come from that boy that had stared with mute longing after the captain that helmed the division he was determined to join. A scant comfort there were almost none about who remembered or recalled how he'd been in those days. But the admirers didn't know that and thus neither did his captain. But how close their birthdays were, nestled so near as to nearly be able to touch. He'd gotten him a fair gift and then had expected nothing in return. It was petty, almost; he'd ever get the older man something he knew he'd enjoy, get him something practical that would be absurd to refuse beyond spite.

And always would those brown eyes seem ready to scold when the time came if Shinji seemed ready to refuse in turn.

But when the sound of his captain's voice came to him on his way back to his desk after getting up to refill his tea, he stopped and then peered down towards the shorter blonde with an inquisitive gleam in those rich brown eyes. That box pushed at him was quick to be grasped in one large hand as he turned enough to set the cup he'd been holding down before his attention returned to the box that had been so quickly pressed on him. With both care and curiosity, he worked the top off and found himself staring into it at ... a teacup.

It was absolutely handmade, little flaws and imperfections in obvious evidence that he noted as he carefully lifted it out, gazing at the patterned blossoms painted onto those sides ( -- Gin's work? It looked almost like it, going by the strokes of the brush. ) and around the whole of the cup. Even as Shinji said it was a tea cup, confirming his suspicions, Aizen found a lump of emotion filling his throat that he was slow to swallow down. Such a simple thing, a tea cup, but one made with some care. And it came from this man, the one that he had --... that he did love; it still lingered there in him, that emotion, and he found himself blinking a few times to try and clear away vision gone abruptly blurry.

❝ No--- ❞ he managed in a voice that throbbed with emotions that eddied through him and he cradled that little teacup close to himself with both hands. ❝ It's--... it's a wonderful gift, Hirako-taichou. ❞ Those eyes lifted upwards and for the first time in a long while, they were warmed to the shade of fresh caramel, gazing upon the older man with an undeniable fondness. ❝ Thank you. I --... like it very much. ❞

How that warmth filtered through him, displacing some of that growth of emotion that seemed more like vines that choked throat and chest; it burned away great swathes of it, made that tightness in his chest ease up all the more as his fingertips began to run over the rim of that little cup, feeling the way it drooped but not caring. It was a cup that had character, after all. ❝ It's---... it's a good gift. ❞

And for a few hours, he could behold this man once more with love. WIth love, instead of that growing anger, the coldness that spoke poignantly of what he could do to him ---... and how he would never see that blade coming. For a few hours ... yes, Aizen could indeed remember that softer, warmer emotion. The cup had stirred up so much in him, just by its own existence.

[nwbeerguide]

Supporting regional ingredient producers, Alesong Brewing & Blending release five new beers this May.

image courtesy Alesong Brewing and Blending

Press Release

Eugene’s Alesong Brewing & Blending is releasing five new barrel-aged blends on May 5th, kicking off the spring with their second major release of the new year. This release features new versions of some Alesong favorites and a few brand-new beers:  

Mocha Rhino Suit: Mocha Rhino Suit takes our flagship, bourbon-barrel-aged imperial milk stout and gives it a heavy dose of Colombian coffee and cocoa nibs from the local artisans at Coffee Plant Roasters and Chocolate Alchemy, taking an already decadent and chocolatey beer to new heights of deliciousness. 

Valley Preserves: An ode to the bounty of Willamette Valley harvest, Valley Preserves is a refreshing and jammy ale aged on biodynamically grown blueberries from our neighbors at King Estate and Oregon cherries from Hood River. Luscious fruit character explodes from this vibrant magenta-hued beer! 

Stony Point Saison: A rustic, unfiltered farmhouse ale brewed almost entirely with Oregon-grown ingredients: malts from Goschie Farms, grains from Camas Country Mill, hops from Crosby Hops, and honey from our neighbors at Queen's Bounty. Join us as we continue our quest to capture terroir through the lens of beer. 

Beergarden Bramble: Brewed in collaboration with our friends at Beergarden to celebrate Eugene Beer Week, this beer was inspired by a refreshing and spritzy blackberry bramble cocktail and is a blend of sour ales fermented on Oregon-grown blackberries and aged in Old Tom gin barrels from Oregon’s Ransom Spirits.  

Double Barrel Maestro (Club Exclusive): Although Maestro already showcases wonderful barrel character from its year in Heaven Hill barrels, we thought we’d really up the ante with a second round of aging in 10-year Henry Mckenna barrels. What we’re left with is a robust expression of bourbon and barrel character: toffee, vanilla, charcoal, and a mild alcohol warmth to remind you of the scale of this massive barleywine. 

Alesong will host a release party for Blender’s Circle members at their country brewery on the weekend of May 5-7 and the beers will be available for all at Alesong’s downtown tasting room that same weekend. Mocha Rhino Suit and Valley Preserves will also be available at retailers throughout the Pacific Northwest. For more information on Blender’s Circle membership, visit www.alesongbrewing.com/join. More information on all of the new beers can be found at www.alesongbrewing.com/beers. 

ABOUT ALESONG BREWING AND BLENDING: Alesong Brewing and Blending is a small artisan brewery based in the heart of Southern Willamette Valley wine country with a second tasting room in downtown Eugene. The all-barrel-aged brewery crafts unique and small-batch beers, brewing both wild and non-wild styles that span the flavor spectrum. Once the beer in barrels has matured, the team samples and selects each barrel individually to blend. Paying homage to old-world Lambic blenders and artisan winemakers, Alesong believes that the final, balanced blend of a barrel-aged beer is much more complex and satisfying than the sum of its parts or each individual barrel by itself. www.alesongbrewing.com. 

from Northwest Beer Guide - News - The Northwest Beer Guide https://bit.ly/44m4eas

[merrybrides]

Bridal Shower Theme Ideas to Inspire Your Perfect Celebration

If you're in charge of planning and hosting a bridal shower, chances are you've been giving possible themes a great deal of thought. This is a party the bride-to-be will remember for the rest of her life, so it makes sense that you want it to be both unforgettable and special. So, how do you throw a bridal shower to remember? Ultimately, your goal should be to plan a party that's reflective of the guest of honor while also pleasing a multi-generational crowd.

Doing so ultimately begins with choosing the right theme. While there's no rule that says you need a theme, having one helps inspire your color palette, décor, games, food, and more. So, if you need inspiration, let these perfect bridal shower theme ideas get your wheels turning.

Champagne Brunch

Your guests will be lining up to say "I do" to a waffle bar and sparkling mimosa station. Serve up beautiful bowls of fruit, fresh pastries, and plenty of chilled champagne.

Nautical Affair

Whether the bride and her shipmates are staying dry on land or heading out on a yacht, you can pull off a nautical bridal shower theme with navy blue hues, stripes, anchors, ship wheels, and sailor's hats. Make sure to add Bobby Darin's "Beyond the Sea" to the playlist.

Beach Bonanza

Like a nautical bridal shower, a beach bridal shower has coastal vibes—but this one is all about sand and sunshine. Create a color palette with aquamarine hues and incorporate seashells and starfish.

Black-Tie Glitter and Glitz

For the bride who loves dressing to the nines, invite guests to get dolled up in their fanciest outfits. Decorate with anything sparkly and glittery, and score definite bonus points if there's a chandelier involved.

Backyard Bliss

Paradise awaits in your own backyard. Transform an outdoor space into a cheerful and relaxed setting for a casual bridal shower. Incorporate fun floral arrangements, twinkle lights, and traditional picnic food. Plus—this is the perfect excuse to give your backyard a makeover.

Tea Party

For the girl who loves all things floral, delicious, and dainty, you should definitely consider a bridal tea party. You can keep it classically British or switch it up with a Mad Hatter theme. Either way, serve a refreshing assortment of artisanal tea, scrumptious scones, and tasty cucumber sandwiches.

Paris Romance

Celebrate love with a shower that pays homage to the city of light and love. Incorporate the Eiffel Tower into the decorations and serve up French wines, cheeses, and desserts. The final touch? Press play on an Édith Piaf recording.

All-White Bridal Shower

The day is fast approaching where the bride is going to wear all white. Get in the spirit with an all-white shower.

Gatsby Bridal Shower

Throw a bridal fête fit for Daisy Buchanan with flapper dresses and feathered headbands. Serve up classic Prohibition cocktails like sidecars (made of cognac, triple sec, and lemon juice) and Gin Rickeys (a combo of gin, lime juice, and seltzer).

Glam Pajama Party

Remember how much fun slumber parties were as a little girl? It'll be an awesome girls' night in, complete with pizza, drinks, candy, games, and a movie (we're thinking Bridesmaids). You can host this at your own home or up the ante and reserve a suite at a hotel for the ultimate chill out session, with the option of spa access to boot (and you won't be the one cleaning up popcorn the next day).

Shabby-Chic

Channel romantically rustic vibes with delicately distressed décor, tea served in mason jars, hand-drawn signage, and baby's breath centerpieces. Add some homemade treats (pie would be oh-so perfect) for a personal touch. You can include the bridesmaids or the whole guest list by inviting everyone to bring their favorite desserts à la a potluck dessert table.

Love Is Sweet

Love is sweet and the bridal shower will be, too. A candy-centered bridal shower lends itself to bright, colorful decorations. Bring on the dessert bar filled with candy and treats. Remember to have some sugar-free candy for any guests with food sensitivities. You can also get customized M&M's in the bride's wedding colors, with her name, or "I Do," or whatever you choose—even an image of the bride (or her spouse-to-be).

Country Chic

For a country-lovin' bride, ask guests to don their cutest cowgirl attire and decorate your space with hay bales, horses, and horseshoes.

Coed Jack and Jill Shower

Who says a bridal shower has to be ladies only? Some couples want to do every wedding activity together, right down to the bridal shower, and there's nothing wrong with that. Make it a coed affair with a Jack and Jill shower. The more the merrier, right?

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Thoughtful Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her in 2025

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to show your love and appreciation for her. Whether you’re celebrating a new romance or years of togetherness, finding the right gift can make the day even more special. From romantic Valentine’s gifts for her to personalised keepsakes, here are some creative ideas to inspire you.

Romantic Gifts for Her

Romantic gestures never go out of style. Choose gifts that show your thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

Jewellery with Meaning: A heart-shaped pendant or an engraved bracelet is a timeless Valentine’s gift for her.

Love Journals: Write down your favourite memories or reasons why you love her.

Candlelit Dinner: Surprise her with a home-cooked meal and a cosy evening together.

Unique Valentine’s Gifts for Her

If you want something out of the ordinary, consider these unique ideas:

Star Registry Certificate: Name a star after her to create a lasting memory.

Personalised Song: Commission a musician to write a song just for her.

Experience Gifts: Book an adventure like a hot air balloon ride or a pottery class.

Affordable Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

For those on a budget, thoughtful doesn’t have to mean expensive.

Photo Collage: Create a collage of your best moments together.

Handmade Crafts: Knit a scarf, paint a picture, or make her favourite treats.

Plant with a Note: Gift her a potted plant symbolising growth and love.

Luxury Valentine’s Gifts for Her

If you want to spoil her, opt for luxury items that she’ll treasure.

Designer Accessories: Handbags, watches, or scarves from her favourite brand.

Spa Day: Book a luxurious spa experience for her to relax and unwind.

Premium Gift Hampers: Choose hampers with gourmet chocolates, fine wine, and beauty products.

Personalised Valentine’s Gifts for Her

Customised gifts show extra effort and thought.

Name Necklaces: Elegant jewellery featuring her name or initials.

Custom Artwork: A portrait or illustration of the two of you.

Engraved Keepsakes: Items like a jewellery box, picture frame, or a locket with a personal message.

Fun and Playful Gifts

For a more lighthearted approach, consider these fun ideas:

Quirky Gadgets: Unique gadgets or accessories that match her interests.

Funny Books: Hilarious romance novels or lighthearted self-help books.

Couple’s Games: Interactive games designed to spark laughter and connection.

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her in the UK

If you’re in the UK, take advantage of local experiences and products:

Romantic Getaways: Book a weekend escape to the countryside or a boutique hotel.

Personalised Hampers: Include British favourites like afternoon tea goodies or craft gin.

Local Artisanal Goods: Handcrafted jewellery or unique pottery pieces from local markets.

Finding the perfect Valentine’s gift is all about reflecting your feelings and understanding what makes her happy. From unique Valentine’s Day gifts for her to luxury and personalised options, this guide offers something for everyone. This Valentine’s Day, make her feel truly cherished with a thoughtful gesture she’ll always remember.

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need, 15 ml Triple Sec/Orange Liqueur, 15 ml Fresh Lime Juice, 45 ml Vodka, 20 ml Swa Summer Berries Syrup & Ice Directions: Add the ingredients with some ice into a shaker. Shake and strain into the glass. Garnish with berries or orange peel. Add to Cart Add to Cart Add to Cart Add to Cart Customer Reviews — 4.1 out of 5 stars 41 3.5 out of 5 stars 60 4.0 out of 5 stars 49 3.3 out of 5 stars 63 3.6 out of 5 stars

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The Evolution of Whiskey Cocktails: How Bourbon and Rye are Revolutionizing Mixology

Whiskey cocktails have undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, evolving from simplistic concoctions into intricate works of art. At the heart of this evolution are premium straight bourbon whiskey and straight rye whiskey, which have taken center stage in modern mixology. Bartenders across the globe, particularly in the United States, are harnessing these versatile spirits to craft both contemporary creations and reimagined classics. This movement underscores the influence of the premium spirits market, where innovation and tradition intertwine. The role of Whiskey Distillers USA in this evolution cannot be overstated, as they continually push boundaries in whiskey craftsmanship.

A Historical Perspective on Whiskey Cocktails

Whiskey cocktails trace their origins back to the early 19th century, with simple yet iconic drinks like the Old Fashioned and Whiskey Sour. These classics relied on basic ingredients to highlight the whiskey’s robust flavors. Over time, bartenders began experimenting with additional components, such as bitters, liqueurs, and fresh ingredients, paving the way for the diverse range of whiskey-based cocktails we enjoy today.

The modern cocktail renaissance has further elevated straight bourbon whiskey and straight rye whiskey, with bartenders embracing their unique flavor profiles. Bourbon, known for its rich sweetness, lends itself perfectly to cocktails like the Mint Julep and Boulevardier. Meanwhile, rye, with its spicy and bold character, shines in drinks like the Manhattan and Sazerac.

Modern Mixology: Redefining Bourbon and Rye Cocktails

The resurgence of whiskey in the cocktail scene can be attributed to the creativity of bartenders and the quality of spirits produced by distilleries like Shankar Distillers - Premium Whiskey Distillers in USA. These professionals are reinterpreting traditional recipes and inventing new ones that highlight the distinct qualities of bourbon and rye.

Bourbon Whiskey Recipes

Bourbon Smash – A refreshing blend of bourbon, lemon, mint, and sugar, this cocktail is a contemporary favorite that balances sweetness and acidity.

Smoked Old Fashioned – A modern twist on a classic, the smoked Old Fashioned incorporates smoked glassware and artisanal bitters to enhance the bourbon’s depth.

Rye Whiskey Recipes

Rye Negroni – Swapping gin for rye whiskey in this Italian classic adds a spicy complexity to the drink.

New York Sour – This variation of the Whiskey Sour uses a red wine float, perfectly complementing rye’s bold flavors.

The Role of Craft Distilleries

Craft distilleries are key players in this cocktail revolution. By producing small-batch, high-quality spirits, they offer bartenders a diverse palette of flavors to experiment with. Shankar Distillers - Premium Whiskey Distillers in USA exemplifies this trend, delivering exceptional straight bourbon whiskey and straight rye whiskey that are ideal for crafting innovative cocktails.

The Future of Whiskey Cocktails

The future of whiskey cocktails lies in sustainable practices and inclusivity. Bartenders are exploring eco-friendly ingredients and methods to reduce waste, aligning with the global push for sustainability. Additionally, they’re crafting zero-proof and low-proof versions of whiskey cocktails to cater to a wider audience, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the artistry of modern mixology.

Conclusion

The evolution of whiskey cocktails is a testament to the ingenuity of bartenders and the quality of premium spirits. Whether through classic bourbon whiskey recipes or inventive rye whiskey recipes, whiskey continues to inspire and redefine the art of mixology. With contributions from distilleries like Shankar Distillers - Premium Whiskey Distillers in USA, the possibilities for innovation are endless. As bartenders continue to push the boundaries of flavor and presentation, whiskey’s role in mixology will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of the cocktail world.