Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Chocorua Straight Rye Whiskey

Each bottle of Tamworth Distilling’s flagship spirit, Chocorua Straight Rye Whiskey goes towards its namesake, the Chocorua Lake Conservancy, based in New Hampshire. Comprised of house-made grain, locally grown herbs and botanicals and pure water, Chocorua Straight Rye Whiskey is the embodiment of Tamworth’s scratch-made ethos that gives back to the land it stems from. Each purchase of the 100% organic rye whiskey pays forward $1 to the protection and maintenance of the majestic Chocorua Mountain and Chocorua Lake Basin via donation to the Chocorua Lake Conservancy. This rye whiskey is the product of one single crop that is seasonally fermented, then batch distilled and laid in 53-gallon white oak barrels to age for over 2 years. Imbibers can expect a cherry-like nose, a slight pepper kick from the 100% rye grain, and a medium length finish.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Danica Rosé

Danica Rosé is the French cousin to Somnium, the Napa Valley estate of retired race car driver Danica Patrick. Rooted in the heart of France’s oldest and most romantic winemaking region, this fresh and elegant French rosé is made in collaboration with the Margnat family, whose winemaking tradition stretches back to the 1790s. High-elevation clay and limestone soils at the foot of the Luberon, just north of Aix-en-Provence, produce fruit with bright freshness, vivid color, and irresistible charisma. A beautiful light pink color, the 2023 Danica Rosé bursts with ripe peach aromas and notes of zesty citrus. Lush tropical fruit aromas add depth to the bright, fresh core of tangerine and white flowers, while juicy red cherry and peach notes linger on a long, clean finish.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

22 Salute’s Fig-Vanilla Bourbon

22 Salute’s Fig-Vanilla Bourbon isn’t just a standout premium spirit—it’s a bold declaration of heart and duty. This exquisite bourbon, which earned Double Gold and Silver medals at the 2023 PR%F Awards, transcends the norm by uniting the rich, earthy tones of Mission Figs with the sweetness of Madagascar Vanilla, creating a taste profile that is both sophisticated and inviting. Yet, this bourbon’s value lies beyond its award-winning flavor. The brand embodies a profound commitment to supporting the mental health of veterans and first responders. Each bottle acknowledges the sobering daily statistics of veteran suicides, extending respect and recognition to their struggles. By choosing 22 Salute, drinkers are treated to a deluxe experience that also furthers a vital cause. Drinking 22 Salute Fig-Vanilla Bourbon is more than a luxury — it’s a tribute to heroism, a toast to bravery, and a commitment to change, one glass at a time.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

1953 Tequila

1953 Tequila is an ultra-premium, additive free Añejo Tequila founded, farmed, distilled and led by women. The exquisite sipping tequila is derived from 100% pure Blue Weber agave responsibly harvested from the mineral-rich red soil of the Jalisco highlands to create an ultra-premium sipping tequila with a smooth and refined finish. It is slow roasted and aged to perfection for 15 months in vintage American Oak barrels previously used for bourbon, resulting in a sipping tequila with luxurious notes of caramel and vanilla accented with notes of citrus and chocolate. 1953 Tequila honors the year women in Mexico secured their right to vote and celebrates the courage, tenacity and boldness of those who advanced equality then and those who continue to pursue equality for women around the world today.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Amante 1530

Amante 1530 is a new Italian Amaro aperitivo produced in Rome, Italy. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a great love and a great cocktail, this innovative twist on a classic Italian Amaro is ideal in both cocktails or sipping straight. The product was produced by famed oenologist, Riccardo Cotarella, a renowned pioneer of the Italian wine industry, and later bottled at the Pallini Distillery, one of Rome’s oldest and most important distilleries. Amante 1530 is light upon entry, but immediately unfolds across the palate with medium-bodied weight and presence. With aromas of candied orange, oolong tea, ginger, honeysuckle and baked apples, Amante 1530 offers an elevated acidity that gives way to layers of citrus flavors and a more subtle, bitter finish than other aperitivos.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Aphrodise

Aphrodise, a luxury Greek sparkling Rose, perfectly highlights the varietal character of Greece’s noble and indigenous Xinomavro grape variety. Aphrodise Rose (NV) is the first rose to be designated by Afrodis AOC, the governing body that grade and qualifies sparkling Charmat wines from Continental Europe. Each cuvee of LXL Aphrodise is curated by the cellarmaster using the Charmat method and a carefully selected blend of Xinomavro grapes, the most noble and best regarded grapes of Greece. The high altitude of Northwestern Greece where the Xinomavro grape is grown (700m) and the sandy soils of this region produce wines displaying finesse and a rare aromatic characteristic. Aphrose offers an intense mousse and a bright cherry color, with pronounced aromas of ripe strawberry and cherry. An elegant low acidity adds balance and freshness while pairing harmoniously with the discreet presence of sugar.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Birthday Sex Wine

R&B singer, Jeremih, has officially launched Birthday Sex Wine, inspired by his 2009 hit “Birthday Sex.” The Grammy-nominated artist partnered with acclaimed Napa Valley/Sonoma winemaker Russell Bevan for the sensual brand. Birthday Sex Wine is a Naked Chardonnay, described as meticulously handpicked from premier vineyards in the Columbia Valley of Washington. Each bottle offers a unique blend of vibrant fruit flavors and subtle oak nuances, making every sip a moment of joy. After spending time with Bevan, the 36-year-old gained a love and respect for chardonnay and winemaking. The two worked together on developing the flavor profile for Birthday Sex Wine as Jeremih learned the details of the process. “People might think I’m a tequila or Hennessy drinker but I’ve always been a white wine kinda guy,” Jeremih stated.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Bluebird Hardwater

Bluebird Hardwater caters to health-conscious consumers seeking clean beverages, blending premium spirits with ultra-purified water (4% ABV). Its distinctiveness lies in its purity, with no added carbonation, sugars, or sweeteners. At just 78 calories per 12-ounce serving, the lowest in the industry, each can contains only two ingredients, eliminating carbonation, preservatives, sugars, fake flavors, and artificial sweeteners commonly found in alcoholic beverages. The focus is on delivering a clean, high-quality drinking experience. Among consumer favorites is the Vodka + Water flavor, featuring clear and smooth 10x distilled vodka, offering a bright pour that highlights vodka’s clean taste without the typical burn.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Bluebird Distilling Four Grain Bourbon

Bluebird Distilling, Pennsylvania’s award-winning grain-to-glass craft distillery, boasts a bevy of premium spirits, including its flagship Four Grain Bourbon, uniquely crafted with red winter wheat, rye, corn, and barley, as opposed to most bourbons that only contain three grains. Charred in American Oak Barrels to produce an exceptionally balanced spirit, this 92-proof sipper boasts a one-of-a-kind flavor. Imbibers can expect sweet spice, oak, and vanilla on the nose, sweet corn, smoke, and vanilla on the palate, and a medium-dry finish of toffee and butterscotch.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Bumbu Rum Company

Inspired by a true Caribbean legend, the Bumbu Rum Company portfolio of three exquisite, award-winning craft rums includes its flagship Bumbu Original, which has an approachable and smooth taste of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak, Bumbu XO, a traditional sipping rum aged in bourbon barrels and selectively finished in sherry casks, and Bumbu Crème, a unique liqueur made with Panama rum and real dairy cream that brings all the beloved flavors of coquito into one effortless pour. Bumbu is best served on the rocks or enjoyed neat. All three bottles are available at your local liquor store and for delivery online.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Casa Obsidiana

Casa Obsidiana are new ultra-premium small batch tequilas co-founded by the renowned Beckmann-Gonzalez family, owners of Tierra de Agaves, and Jean-Charles Boisset of the prominent winemakers Boisset Collection. The two families created Casa Obsidiana under a singular vision to pay tribute to the heritage art of tequila making, with an eye towards modern Mexico through its artful bottles and innovative French wine barrel finishings. Exceptionally inviting, Casa Obsidiana Reposado is an exquisite sipper for the ultimate tequila fanatic. Aged four months in French oak barrels that once held Napa Valley Chardonnay, it offers distinct aromas of hazelnut, toffee, charred peppers and stewed citrus followed by the taste of warm baking spices, caramel and earthy agave undertones. The ceramic, hand-crafted bottle of Casa Obsidiana Reposado is inspired by water’s fluid movement and ability to gently shape over time, with a color reminiscent of the Blue Weber agave plants.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Costa Tequila Blanco

Costa Tequila Blanco is unaged before being bottled. This award winning tequila was Costa’s first creation. It’s silky texture and long smooth finish is built for sipping but also pairs well with any tequila based cocktail. It is the epitome of Costa’s HI/LO ™ blend. Costa Tequila offers the world’s first lineup of HI/LO tequilas that intentionally brings together the flavor profiles from 100% Blue Weber Agave sourced in two traditionally separate tequila-producing regions in Jalisco, Mexico: “Los Altos” (the Highlands) and “Valle de Tequila” (the Lowlands). Their unique blend marries the fruity, sweet, soft notes of tequila plants from the mountainous Highlands region with distinct peppery, earthy, spicy characteristics of Lowlands tequila varietals.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

DAOU

Just in time for Father’s Day, DAOU is pleased to announce the highly anticipated vintage release of their critically acclaimed flagship Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021 Estate Soul of a Lion. Named in tribute to DAOU Founders Georges and Daniel Daou’s father, Soul of a Lion is a testament to the enduring legacy of Joseph Daou and the resilience that defines their family legacy. Exclusively sourced from the DAOU Mountain Estate in the premier Adelaida District of Paso Robles, this full-bodied wine is a harmonious expression of its terroir, characterized by ideal soils, microclimate, and elevation. The 2021 vintage displays remarkable intensity with abundant fruit aromas. The mouthfeel is concentrated and elegant, with round, vibrant tannins that carry into a commanding finish. With ultra-high phenolic levels, the DAOU Estate Soul of a Lion is an incredible wine that rivals the best Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa and beyond.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Desolas Mezcal

Desolas Mezcal is an artisanally crafted spirit that is thoughtfully produced from 100% Salmiana Agave found in the state of San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The Salmiana agave, also known as the “green giant,” is cooked in above-ground ovens resulting in a mezcal with a fresh botanical aroma and gentle smoke. Its grassy, earthy and agave-forward character are a product of the arid and chalking soil of San Luis Potosi. The female-founded, award-winning mezcal brand can be found in New York, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Colorado and California and ships nationwide.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

El Cristiano

El Cristiano recently announced the addition of its newest creation, Clase Reposado XR, the first-ever Extra Reposado tequila. El Cristiano XR is an Extra Aged Reposado, aged for 11 months in ex-bourbon American and ex-red wine French oak barrels, creating a unique and delicate blend of complexity and sweetness. El Cristiano’s dedication to producing pure and additive-free tequila is what sets them apart from other brands, with a focus on harvesting only mature agave aged for at least five years through sustainable agricultural practices. This process eliminates the need for additives that would alter the true essence of the 100% Highlands Blue Weber Agave. El Cristiano’s mission is not just to create delicious and pure tequila, but also to give back to the communities from which it is sourced. A portion of their sales is donated to the Arandas orphanage supporting 38 children between the ages of 6 months and 18 years, a donation of 50 laptops to the church of Arandas for its schools, and other honorable causes.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Emyla Añejo Tequila

Emyla Añejo Tequila, an ultra premium añejo, is the epitome of luxury in a bottle. Every aspect of Emyla’s limited production is centered on unparalleled quality. The natural spring water and Kentucky bourbon barrels used in the aging process preserve the sweet, mellow flavors of the agave, culminating in a tequila that is both bold and exquisitely smooth. This careful aging not only enhances the flavor profile but also gives Emyla its mesmerizing golden hue. Emyla Añejo Tequila is not just a drink, but an experience. Designed for the discerning palate, it is best savored neat or with minimal accompaniment, allowing its complex profile to shine. Each luxurious glass bottle of Emyla is a work of art, reflecting the sophistication of the liquid within. Based in Los Angeles, Emyla, is a California-exclusive spirit available at select retailers and can be purchased online.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Fabrizia Limoncello

Fabrizia’s new ready to serve Limoncello Spritz is made with 3 ingredients: Italian sparkling wine, Fabrizia’s award winning Limoncello (crafted with Sicilian lemons), bubbly soda water and is more than a drink; it’s a symphony of flavors that transports you to the sun-drenched landscapes of the Italian Coast. Crafted with precision and infused with the soul of Italy, every sip encapsulates the essence of summer creating a flavor experience unlike any other. Each bottle comes with dried lemon slices to be used as a garnish for a truly authentic experience. Crafted with the same commitment to excellence that defines Fabrizia, their Limoncello Spritz is a testament to their brand’s unwavering dedication to quality, authenticity, and the pursuit of beverage perfection. Fabrizia is inviting you to join the movement and let their Limoncello Spritz elevate your upcoming summer experience to unprecedented heights.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Fast Penny Spirits Amaricano

Fast Penny Spirits has created a delicious 200ml canned cocktail with amaro, coffee, chocolate, and orange bitters. Their nitro-dosed Shakerato reveals a luscious velvety texture, blending the bold coffee and amaro notes with subtle hints of cocoa, citrus, and spice. This harmonious symphony of flavors offers a luxurious experience. Perfect for those on the move, it can be enjoyed straight from the can, shaken and poured over ice, or used as a cocktail base.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Fior Scotch

Fior Scotch is the only U.S. veteran-owned Scotch, and only Black-owned Scotch, available on the market. Fior Scotch stands out not only for its exceptional quality but also for the remarkable journey that led to its creation. After a distinguished 20-year military career with three tours in Iraq and two in Okinawa, Dominijanni started to mix a variety of his good scotches into a mixture which ultimately turned into a super blend! To fulfill his dream, Major Dominijanni tapped an industry expert to help recreate it. Fior Scotch is now conveniently available for online purchase nationwide online. With each bottle purchased, a donation is given to veterans’ causes, including Operation Gratitude.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Golan Heights Winery

Golan Heights Winery is proud to announce the debut of Yarden Cru Elite, the first single-vineyard, single-block duo of wines specially crafted to commemorate the winery’s 40th anniversary. Yarden Cru Elite is produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, meticulously cultivated in individual blocks from the Bar’on Vineyard. These two exceptional wines are available exclusively as pairs and are the first to bear the prestigious “Yarden Cru Elite” designation, representing the pinnacle of winemaking quality from Israel. Golan Heights Winery has produced a limited edition of 265 pairs of Yarden Cru Elite wines with a suggested retail price of $2,000. Imported by Yarden Wines in the U.S. and available nationwide at select restaurants and retailers, as well as online.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Grand Brulot

Grand Brulot combines the finest VSOP Cognac with rich Robusta coffee from Ecuador for the ultimate palate-pleasing blend that doesn’t overpower or underplay its two key ingredients. Grand Brulot revives a 200-plus-year-old French tradition where rich coffee was blended with Cognac to create an exquisite tasting drink: The Brulôt. Hand-crafted by the Tardy family on their estate in the Cognac region of France, cellar master Christoph Tardy meticulously selects the finest ‘eaux de vie’ to craft a unique VSOP Cognac which is blended with premium Ecuadorian 100% Robusta coffee beans selected for their concentrated richness. The blend is then aged in French oak barrels to allow the melding of flavor notes over time. Launched in 2018, Grand Brulot is served in the most beloved bars and restaurants in the world.

 

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Granja Nómada Mezcal

Granja Nómada Mezcal is a brand born out of San Dionisio, located in the Central Valley of Tlacolula, Oaxaca. Their Espadín Agave is sourced from farms in Yautepec and the Palenque belongs to Hugo Quinto. Hugo is continually inspired and his vision behind creating Granja is to be a pillar in the Mezcal making community; to work with farmers and producers that receive fair trade, pay, and are linked directly with Palenque’s as opposed to being tied to intermediaries. Granja’s growth will be that of which is done as a community, with each “Granja” (farmer) and farm involved. “Nómada” represents the idea of “Nomadic”. Granja’s approach to work with multiple farmers, is one solution to the unfair practices that exist in mezcal making today. Granja Nómada Mezcal is an introduction and opportunity to surprise and delight the richness arising from authentic craftsmanship in producing this gorgeous, perfectly balanced, mezcal.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Humboldt Organic Vodka

No, it’s not crab flavored. It’s just a fine, quadruple distilled, organic vodka made along the Emerald Coast of Humboldt County, where the Redwoods overlook the fresh waters of the Pacific. Humboldt Organic Vodka is distilled from organic sugarcane. It leads with a flash of sweetness and a clean finish. Smooth enough to sip and perfect for mixing. There are no sweeteners, glycerin, or other additives in this spirit.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Jameson Irish Whiskey is a blended Irish Whiskey. Jameson takes the best-of-pot still and fine grain whiskeys, triple distills to give its signature smoothness, and then ages in oak casks for at least 4 years. Drink Jameson any way you like, just add your mates and widen the circle.​ On the nose, Jameson has a light floral fragrance, peppered with spicy wood and sweet notes. The taste is a perfect balance of spicy, nutty and vanilla notes with hints of sweet sherry and exceptional smoothness. Smooth, lingering finish.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Juliet Rosé

Juliet is the luxury boxed wine with a lower carbon footprint, on a mission to make the wine industry more sustainable by creating pioneering products that are eco-friendly without compromising quality or design. Developed by female entrepreneurs Allison Luvera and Lauren De Niro Pipher in the Summer of 2022, Juliet’s environmentally friendly container, the Eco-Magnum™, elevates the day-to-day experience with a design forward, innovative cylinder of super premium wine that champions great taste and the environment. Juliet’s Dry Rosé is delicate, fresh and delicious, featuring hints of bright strawberry, watermelon, and floral notes reminiscent of freesia to deliver a subtle spiciness. Like all Juliet wines, the Dry Rose is produced at a Certified California Sustainable Winery using a low intervention style to ensure a clean, fruit-forward product reflective of the excellent quality grapes used.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Knob Creek®

When Sixth Generation Beam Master Distiller Booker Noe fathered the Small Batch movement more than 30 years ago, he created Knob Creek® to reflect the flavor, strength, care and patience that defined pre-prohibition whiskey. It’s a philosophy that has made Knob Creek one of the top selling Super-Premium bourbons in the world. Knob Creek Bourbon is patiently aged for nine years in charred, American, white oak barrels and bottled at an honest 100 proof. The result is an undeniably big, full flavor that strikes your palate with layers of flavor and a smooth finish. It is rich and hearty – the way true bourbon ought to be – offering a great bourbon one sip at a time.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Koloa Rum Company’s Sparkling Hawaiian Rum Canned Cocktails

Patrons can elevate their summer with Koloa Rum Company’s Sparkling Hawaiian Rum Canned Cocktails, immersing in a tropical paradise with Guava, Pineapple, Mango, and Coconut flavors. Conveniently packed in four-packs, they can enjoy the sparkling and subtly sweet Guava, the vibrant Pineapple with its light and bright finish, the perfectly balanced Mango with creamy undertones, and the Coconut variant offering a bubbly texture and natural coconut flavor. Each flavor scored above 90 in the 2022 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, with Mango receiving a Chairman’s Trophy. Since 2009, Koloa Rum Company has crafted artisanal Hawaiian rum at its Kauai distillery, inviting rum enthusiasts to savor the essence of Hawaii in every sip.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Kōloa Kauaʻi Coconut Rum

Cocktail enthusiasts can savor ‘The Spirit of Aloha’ and the essence of Hawaii this summer with the Kōloa Kauaʻi Coconut Rum – a perfect tropical getaway in a drink. This premium rum is made from pure cane sugar and pristine rainwater from the ancient Mount Waiʻaleʻale, and distilled twice at 160 – 180 ABV in an impressive steam-powered copper pot still. Quizzically dry at initial taste, the pleasant 80 proof leads to the magnificent flavor of baby coconut flesh at the front of the palate, which then finishes with light toasted coconut, hints of fresh lime zest and caramelized pineapple.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Lake Hour

In creating Lake Hour, Co-Founders Rich Peete and Wyatt Russell aimed to craft a sparkling cocktail that stood out from the artificially sweetened options saturating the ready-to-drink market. Their approach involved selecting top-shelf vodka and authentic blanco tequila as the foundational spirits, complemented by a modest 3.4 grams of natural, unrefined cane sugar. Lake Hour’s flavors bring a refreshing departure to the canned cocktail landscape, featuring vodka cocktails Honeysuckle Ginger, Peach Jasmine, and Rosemary Yuzu; and Watermelon Cucumber with tequila. Lake Hour’s variety pack features a little bit of everything, but not a drop too much, with two cans of each flavor. Rich and Wyatt’s approach extended beyond merely crafting an unforgettable canned cocktail. It was about weaving memories, drawing inspiration from their shared personal ties to idyllic childhood lake days.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

McKenzie Bottled in Bond Wheated Bourbon Whiskey

In accordance with the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, this bourbon is aged at least 4 years, and is bottled at 50% ABV. The resulting whiskey is broad-shouldered, displaying incredible balance and breadth from its robust nose through its long finish. McKenzie Bottled in Bond Wheated Bourbon Whiskey is aged for 4 years in new charred, 53 gallon Oak barrels. It is bottled at 100 proof. The mash bill is 70% corn, 20% red wheat and 10% malted barley. This is a handmade spirit with rich, complex flavor and colorful finish.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Meili Vodka

Launched in 2023 by longtime friends, actor Jason Momoa and entrepreneur Blaine Halvorson, Meili Vodka is a 9x award-winning Montana-made vodka crafted with sipping neat in mind. When creating Meili, Momoa and Halvorson embarked on a seven-year journey to find the highest quality, uncompromised natural water and ingredients to deliver a vodka that was predicated on only four core components: water, grains, single-distillation and sustainability. The result: the only vodka you will find worth sipping straight.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Oleandri Wines

The 2021 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon from Oleandri Wines comes from Napa Valley’s esteemed Game Theory Vineyard in the Howell Mountain AVA. This vineyard boasts treacherously steep slopes and volcanic ash-based soil, producing minuscule berries imbued with spicy nuances and robust tannins. Wines from this terroir become the crown jewels of any cellar, standing as a testament to the unparalleled quality of mountain fruit and structure. This wine spent 22 months of aging in new and neutral French oak, and every step was orchestrated to perfection. While the majority is Cabernet Sauvignon (94.375%), dashes of Petite Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot lend this wine complexity and elegance. Raspberry, cassis, and fig aromas segue into indulgent notes of dark chocolate, wild berries, and baking spice on the palate. The 2021 vintage, hailed as extraordinary, reveals a Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon rich in texture, with polished tannins and a lingering finish.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

OOLA’s Signature Gin

OOLA’s Signature Gin features cascading aromatics of citrus and rose petals on the nose that bloom into the subtle scent of juniper berry. Silky and light bodies on the palate, the velvet mouthfeel is a lush backdrop for a lively coriander and smoky black cardamom. The base spirit of OOLA Vodka leaves a long, finely-textured finish with notes of caramel and vanilla. After a long stint in the art world, Kirby Kallas-Lewis embarked on a new adventure and opened OOLA Distillery in 2010, named after his beloved German Shepard. Fast forward to a decade or so later, and it’s currently one of the oldest distilleries in the Seattle area with numerous awards to its name.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Pali Wine Co.

Pali Wine Co. is a family-owned winery with a passion for crafting exceptional wines in Santa Barbara County and the mission of bringing the California Central Coast to each of their outposts. Available for national shipping, Pali’s deep love for the region propels its three unique brands with three distinct wine making approaches: Pali Wine Co., Tower 15 and Neighborhood Winery, all of which are made from sustainable, organic or biodynamically sourced grapes, crafted with as little intervention as possible. The original Pali Wine Co. brand crafts world class, critically acclaimed, site specific Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, from entry-level to esoteric vineyard and clonal-specific. This perfectly balanced estate grown Pinot Noir is barrel-aged in 50% new French oak and 50% neutral French oak barrels for 540 days before being bottled. All of their vineyard designated wines express the nuanced characteristics discovered on remarkably unique and excellent vineyards.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Poggio Torselli

Initially founded in the 15th century by the Da Casavecchia family as a remarkable villa overlooking the rolling hills of Tuscany playing host to the likes of the Machiavelli and and Antinori families, Poggio Torselli was painstakingly restored in the early 2000s, not only bringing the historic villa back to life but resurrecting age old vineyards and olive groves. Today, Poggio Torselli produces award-winning Chianti that is only recently available in the U.S. The Chianti Classico Riserva, which earned a 92, is dark ruby red with vibrant highlights towards garnet with aging. Plump and mellow, on the nose is complex and elegant, with a generous array of red berries, Morello cherry, rose petals with intriguing green pepper and sweet spice notes; those parting to reveal an elegant balmy undertone and subtle minty hints. Complex, mouth filling and elegant with silky tannins and a balanced freshness on a background of subtle and sleek oak; all coming to a long, generous finish. Full bodied with a good structure, this is a wine of great balance and longevity.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Saint Spritz

Saint Spritz is an Italian-inspired RTD brand bringing together your favorite iconic spritzes in a can, created by sisters-in-law JoJo Fletcher (former ABC’s Bachelorette) and Mallory Patton. Saint Spritz’ flagship flavor, Amalfi, launched in June 2023 direct-to-consumer on their online platform. Amalfi is an expertly crafted, bittersweet, orange spritz. Saint Spritz is your ready-to-drink spritz solution; made with orange wine, natural juices, and the perfect amount of bubbles (and absolutely no Red Dye 40).

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Sipwell Wine Company

Sipwell Wine Company is a female-founded and black-owned company based in Southern California that makes vibrant, award-winning canned wine. Owner, Hilary Cocalis is passionate about the planet which is why the single-serve, aluminum cans are infinitely recyclable and all of the wine is sourced from organically and sustainably farmed grapes in California’s Central Coast. Launched in May 2021, Sipwell’s four award-winning wines are available for sale at retail and online, shipped in packages of 6 or 12. A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Tiny Victories smells like lemon curd, Fuji apple, and chamomile. The bubbles bring out some biscuit-y notes, balancing out its refreshing tartness.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Somnium

Somnium is a dream come true for retired race car driver Danica Patrick, who fell in love with wine on a visit to Napa Valley. Her CCOF-certified organic estate vineyard is located in the Crystal Springs area, just below the boundary with the Howell Mountain appellation. Making Somnium is 100-point superstar Julien Fayard, known for his ability to express Napa Valley terroir with French flair. The 2021 vintage of Somnium Napa Valley Cabernet is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot that unites luscious fruit with luxurious textures. Inviting aromas of sun-warmed berries and forest floor open into layers of rich cherry, blackberry, marionberry and mocha on the palate. Soft, graphite-infused tannins and gentle herbal notes of dried thyme and garrigue provide graceful support for the curvaceous fruit core. Waves of indulgent chocolate, vanilla, red fruit and berry bramble carry the wine through a long, raspberry caramel finish. 312 cases made.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Stage Seven tequila blanco

Even though the Stage Seven tequila blanco is great on its own, it’s the perfect partner for margaritas or a classic ranch water. Flavor notes include green pepper and a hint of sweet citrus. Shipped from a family-owned, award-winning distillery in Tequila, Jalisco in Mexico, the process by which this tequila is made includes centuries old traditions which make Stage Seven an authentic and delicious tequila for everyone to drink with joy.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Summer Water

The quintessential rosé of the season, Summer Water has garnered critical acclaim in recent years as a wine characterized by natural acidity and year-round drinkability. The highly-anticipated 2023 vintage, meticulously crafted by longtime Winemaker Ryan Zotovich, boasts a vibrant blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Syrah grapes, with notes of minerality and acidity boosted by bright flavors of strawberry, guava, pink grapefruit, and lime zest. The quality of the 2023 Summer Water Rosé is a testament to the distinct and vibrant terroir of California’s Central Coast combined with Zotovich’s principles of minimal intervention winemaking. Best enjoyed chilled, Summer Water evokes the essence of summer in a bottle, effortlessly transporting consumers to a laid-back state of mind with every sip. The 2023 Summer Water Rosé is available in retailers nationwide.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

SummerFall

SummerFall is an easy and odd, sparkling sake—uniquely made with locally sourced California rice and enriched by wine fermentation methods. After earning global recognition for his creation of WAKAZE—the #1 sake in France—SummerFall founder Takuma Inagawa has expanded his mission of “sake for everyone” to the US, the most developed sake market outside of Japan. Handcrafted in California, SummerFall is made with white koji (vs yellow koji) and wine yeast (vs sake yeast), leading to a higher-acidity, easier-to-pair sake, seamlessly bridging cultures and introducing the 2000+-year-old beverage to a curious, yet notably newer, audience. Intentionally served in a can, the bubbly sake can be enjoyed anywhere and everywhere—from backyard barbeques to the beach—and pairs well with everything from a five-course meal to your favorite takeout menu. Low ABV, sustainably crafted, and free of additives and sulfites, SummerFall allows for casual, stress-free sipping.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Tenango Rum

Tenango is a new spirit that honors Founder Sofia Deleon’s familial legacy and the culture and flavors of Guatemala. Authentically made in a Guatemalan distillery, Tenango is an homage to family, good times, and the entrepreneurial spirit. The rum is a vessel for cultural celebration and sustainability, and aims to support in the empowerment of Guatemalan communities via employing women and craftspeople to hand-make the vibrant covers that adorn each bottle. The traditional Mayan sheaths are woven on a traditional foot loom by a Guatemalan Kik’che’ Women’s co-op that specializes in this cultural practice.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Veuve du Vernay Ice Rose

Veuve du Vernay Ice Rose is the America’s favorite French sparkling with its sweet and vibrant mouthfeel, made from a blend of premium quality red grapes. This sparkling is well-balanced and full-bodied that perfectly matches the tangy notes on the finish given a pleasant freshness that leaves you wanting more. Drink it over ice.

 

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits (May Issue 2024)

Von Payne Black

Von Payne Black is a 90-proof award-winning Premium Blended Whiskey infused with Natural Black Currant, crafted to have a unique taste that fills your senses with unexpected pleasure. Slightly tart and subtly sweet, it goes down smoothly with the rich taste of Black Currant and a warm wave of a 90-proof premium blended whiskey. With its stunning gargoyle pour spout, you are sure to capture the attention of everyone around.