DC is in the “FORVR Mood” with Jackie Aina for Limited-Edition Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky
Crown Royal and FORVR Mood Co-Founder, Jackie Aina, Partner to Release Limited-Edition Candle Inspired by Popular New Flavor Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky
Jackie Aina, from FORVR Mood, Partners with Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky
With bottles flying off the shelves nationwide, Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky has proven to be one of the brand’s most popular flavor offerings.
FlavRReport.com on YouTube
This is an innovative whisky blend deserving of a partner just as creative to kick off the summer. Jackie Aina, a well-respected creator and entrepreneur, whose brand, FORVR Mood, garnered a wait list of over 45,000 customers prior to its launch in 2020, was a natural choice for the brand.
Aina’s love for the new flavor inspired her curation of the limited-edition Crown Royal Blackberry x FORVR Mood candle.
Appropriately titled, Berry On Top, this delicious scent is crafted with notes of blackberry, complemented with whisky accord and vanilla.
Limited quantities of the candle will be available online at Forvrmood.com *while supplies last
This exclusive new scent will be unveiled at the Crown Royal Blackberry Stand!
The Crown Royal Blackberry Stand is an adult twist on your traditional lemonade stand , where creativity meets cocktails and spotlights business owners, via the collaboration with Jackie Aina and FORVR Mood.
With the entrepreneurial spirit of a traditional lemonade stand at its core, the Crown Royal Blackberry Stand will provide a platform for rising founders via the brand’s partnership with 501(c)(3) organization, Black Girl Ventures Foundation.
Attendees that visit the stand are invited to sip signature cocktails and shop the exclusive Berry on Top candle as they learn more about Crown Royal charity partner Black Girl Ventures Foundation.
Black Girl Ventures Foundation is an IRS § 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing underrepresented founders with access to community, capital, and capacity building to meet business milestones that lead to economic advancement through entrepreneurship.
Crown Royal’s partnership with FORVR Mood and Jackie Aina is rooted in the support of Black Girl Ventures Foundation.
To further their efforts, Crown Royal will be donating $50,000 to Black Girl Ventures Foundation from the Crown Royal Generosity Fund*, where half of the donation will support the BGV Pitch Program.
More information on the organization’s mission, programming, and ways to support the Black Girl Ventures community will be found at The Crown Royal Blackberry Stand.
“Our new Blackberry Flavored Whisky is one of our most flavorful yet!”
Hadley Schafer
VP of Crown Royal
“…It was important that we found the perfect partner to not only celebrate this exciting new release but also one whose passion for creativity and entrepreneurship aligned with our vision for The Crown Royal Blackberry Stand,” said Hadley Schafer, VP of Crown Royal. “This collaboration with Jackie Aina and FORVR Mood not only highlights this flavor profile in such a fun and unexpected way but also makes a meaningful impact by supporting the next generation of 21+ business owners.”
For more information about The Crown Royal Blackberry Stand featuring Crown Blackberry x FORVR Mood By Jackie Aina in Los Angeles on June 14th and 15th, and more juicy Crown Royal news visit @crownroyal on Instagram to sign up for the Crown Royal newsletter.
“Finding new ways to flex my creativity to craft something that I know my supporters will love is exciting for me,”
Jackie Aina
“So, when I was approached by Crown Royal for this partnership it was a no-brainer for me, especially after seeing all the hype for their new Blackberry Flavored Whisky and learning they’re supporting a cause close to my heart with Black Girl Ventures. I’m excited to partner with a brand that shares my values!”
Crown Royal Blackberry Whisky has an ABV of 35% and is available nationwide for a limited time at a suggested retail price of $26.99 for a 750mL bottle.
*Crown Royal Generosity Fund is a donor-advised fund, administered by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, a nonprofit entity organized under IRC §501c3.
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DC’s Apéro, Napa’s Be Bubbly, NYC’s Coqodaq: Top 10 Bars and Restaurants for Champagne from Bureau du Champagne
Napa’s Be Bubbly, NYC’s Coqodaq, DC’s Apéro: Top 10 Bars and Restaurants for Champagne from Bureau du Champagne
From Napa to DC to Manhattan and just 7 other sparkling stops!
Bureau du Champagne, USA today announced its annual list of the Top 10 Bars and Restaurants where Champagne plays a starring role. The list, now in its third year, recognizes establishments that elevate and celebrate the uniqueness of the sparkling wine that comes only from Champagne, France.
Released in advance of Champagne Day 2024, the list showcases Champagne standouts in every U.S. region. It recognizes restaurants and bars that take special care to offer Champagnes from a wide variety of producers, list them properly on their menus, and serve them with élan.
“We received nominations for spectacular bars and restaurants across the country, and selected from them a list of destinations that embody the spirit of Champagne,”
Lori Russo
Director,
the Bureau du Champagne, USA.
“While these restaurants and bars differ in style, spanning the spectrum from fine dining to fried chicken, they all have one thing in common: they understand what makes Champagne special. For that, we couldn’t be prouder to raise a glass to them on Champagne Day and the rest of the year.”
The full list of this year’s featured bars and restaurants can be found below in alphabetical order:
- Apéro, Washington, DC: Apéro’s list of more than 700 wines places special emphasis on Champagne. The intimate setting in DC’s popular Georgetown neighborhood is an ideal spot to explore an extensive list of Champagnes smartly organized by style.
- Be Bubbly, Napa, Calif.: In the heart of California wine country, Be Bubbly takes care to showcase Champagne with a menu that includes a map of the region’s five wine-producing districts and a philosophy of Champagne as a celebration of life.
- Boiler Room, Omaha: The wine list at this terroir-focused restaurant, originally conceived by a Master Sommelier, offers a broad range of Champagnes at varying price points so everyone can join in the celebration.
- Charleston, Baltimore: The wine program at Charleston emphasizes the special relationship between wine and food. The Champagne list, which spans three pages of its menu, explains the magic of Champagne along with a diversity of tasting profiles.
- Coqodaq, New York: Proving the versatility of Champagne, Coqodaq pairs the sparkling wine with both caviar and its signature bucket of Korean fried chicken.
- Coupes, Dallas: Coupes bills itself as a bar for Champagne. True to its name, its vast menu of Champagnes explains that “Champagne is a sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wines are Champagne.”
- Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar, Sacramento, Calif.: Fizz believes in celebrating everyday triumphs with Champagne. Its menus and events elevate Champagne from France and distinguish it from other sparkling wines.
- La Vie, Waikiki, Hawaii: La Vie’s emphasizes farm-to-table dining with French flair, so its large selection of vintage and non-vintage Champagnes creates the perfect complement, and the view is special, too.
- Pops for Champagne, Chicago: Known for its special events, tastings, Champagne education and a vast list of Champagnes of every style, Pops has been dazzling Chicago with Champagne since 1982.
- Sexy Fish, Miami: The extraordinary interior of this Brickell restaurant is matched only by its extensive list of Champagnes both accessible and rare.
For more information on Champagne Day or to find an event near you, visit champagneday.champagne.fr. More events will be added in the near future, so check back often.
Bureau du Champagne, USA, is the official U.S. representative of the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC), a trade association representing the houses and winegrowers of Champagne, France. The Bureau works to advance the CIVC’s mission of defending the interests of the Champagne appellation worldwide through education and advocacy. For more information, visit us online at www.champagne.us.
DC to TX for Gin: Self-made Billionaire John Paul DeJoria acquires Waterloo Gin
Self-made Billionaire John Paul DeJoria acquires Waterloo Gin
Passionate entrepreneur and philanthropist John Paul DeJoria, the self-made billionaire founder of Patrón Tequila and Paul Mitchell hair care, has announced the purchase of Waterloo Gin, the first gin brand distilled in Texas.
Developed by Treaty Oak Distilling in Dripping Springs, Texas, near Austin, Waterloo Gin was launched in 2009, named after Austin’s original name – Waterloo – before the city was rechristened in the 1830s for Texas pioneer Stephen F. Austin.
Waterloo is known for its exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and unique flavor profile that blends fruits and botanicals that perfectly capture the Texas Hill Country.
The brand’s flagship Waterloo No. 9 Gin (94 proof) is crafted in the New American style, distilled with nine local botanicals including lavender, grapefruit, and pecan. The other expression in the Waterloo portfolio, Waterloo Antique Gin (also 94 proof), spends two years in first-use medium char American white oak barrels, matured under the hot Texas sun to develop rich wood flavors that complement the herbal notes of the base Waterloo No. 9. Both Waterloo Gins are naturally 100% gluten, carb, and additive free.
“Waterloo is an extraordinarily high-quality, innovative and world-class spirit, a gin I’m certain that people will enjoy,” says DeJoria, who founded Patrón Tequila in 1989 and built it into a $5.1 billion business when it was sold to Bacardi in 2018.
“I’m very honored for the opportunity to help grow this incredible brand, and share Waterloo Gin with more bartenders, retailers, and consumers all across the country.”
The company will be led by CEO Justin Meigs, who was previously an original member of the Empress Gin executive team that launched and grew the brand to over 260,000 annual case sales in 5 years, prior to the company’s exit in 2022.
“I’m incredibly excited about this new chapter for the Waterloo brand, now in the capable hands of John Paul DeJoria and his talented team of spirits industry veterans,” says Daniel Barnes, the founder of Waterloo at Treaty Oak. “Their deep industry experience and passion for cultivating and growing brands gives me great confidence that Waterloo will continue to flourish and reach new consumers everywhere.”
Though the recipe, production process, and brand name for Waterloo Gin will not change, the brand packaging and imagery will undergo a comprehensive refresh, with expanded national distribution, early next year.
Currently, Waterloo is available through Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) in Texas and Breakthru Beverage in Florida.
Additionally, customers in other states can purchase Waterloo online at www.waterloogin.com/shop-gin.
DC Seizes Tonight: Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Launches “Seize Tonight”
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey released an engaging new commercial to support the recently launched “Seize Tonight” which encourages fans of Larceny to unleash their carefree spirit and get into some “good mischief”.
The brand will also extend its reach with Community Ambassadors who embody this same spirit in the gaming, music and food scenes to create compelling content which highlights the craftsmanship behind Larceny Bourbon and their respective passions.
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Launches “Seize Tonight” Screenshot
The “Seize Tonight” campaign is centered around the idea that the most memorable moments happen when you let curiosity get the best of you and take a little risk – much like John E. Fitzgerald himself.
On the heels of its successful premium packaging redesign, the brand will debut an engaging new ad on premium streaming platforms directed by award-winning commercial film director André Betz.
The spot shows how Larceny can be the catalyst for turning an ordinary evening into a memorable one.
The hero seizes the opportunity to liven his friends’ night out by playing the piano after seeing a compelling vision of a keyhole ignite on the instrument. The crowd is surprised to hear the piano play, partly because the hero is so good, but also because the piano is clearly off limits. The spot reaches a pivotal moment when the stern bartender walks over to tell off the hero, only to reveal that she’s there to pour him a glass of Larceny in appreciation of his spontaneity.
Both the 30-second video, as well as 15-second version, will be streamed on Connected TV and Online Video.
The “Seize Tonight” campaign’s manifesto will be brought to life by expanding the brand’s reach and appeal beyond the traditional bourbon drinker through influential Community Ambassadors in the gaming, music and food scenes.
LP Giobbi is a celebrated DJ, producer, pianist, and activist, known for her innovative sound and impactful contributions to music and advocacy.
BlackKrystel is a dominant force in in the world of gaming and has made her mark as an efficacious voice for carefree, authentic fun.
Fabrizio Villalpando is a no-holds-barred home cook whose bold attitude towards entertaining through food has left a mark in the culinary scene.
Justin Sajda is a self-described “average guy who makes above average cocktails” whose creative concoctions elevate the spirits he serves behind the bar and on social media where he can be found @thirstywhale_.
Unlike many other bourbons, Larceny is made with wheat instead of the traditional rye, using a mashbill of 68% corn, 20% wheat and 12% malted barley. The use of 20% wheat as the secondary flavor grain is 25% more than the leading competitor, resulting in exceptional smoothness. Larceny Small Batch is available nationwide at a SRP of $27.99 and the new, premium packaging is now shipping. Individual batches of Larceny Barrel Proof are released nationally on an allocated basis three times annually at a SRP of $64.99 and will be bottled in the new packaging starting this fall.
Fans of Larceny are encouraged to enjoy it straight, on the rocks or in the classic Paper Plane cocktail.
ABOUT LARCENY BOURBON
The story of Larceny begins with John E. Fitzgerald, a bonded U.S. Treasury agent with a penchant for thievery of the best Bourbon.
Using his keys to let himself into rickhouses at night, the “Fitzgerald Barrels”, as they came to be known, became one of America’s most beloved whiskeys after Prohibition with the launch of Old Fitzgerald.
Today, the John E. Fitzgerald story continues through Larceny, an incredibly smooth and exceptional small batch Wheated Bourbon. First brought to market in 2012, Larceny is one of the most successful new-to-the-world Bourbons in the past decade.
Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the brand offers Larceny Small Batch and Larceny Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Since its inception, Larceny has been an award-winning, best in class Bourbon receiving accolades such as Double Gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year in 2020. F
or more information, please visit www.larcenybourbon.com.
Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”
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Ready for Romance, Southern Charm and Delicious Food? Visit Greenville South Carolina.
Ready for Romance, Southern Charm and Delicious Food? Visit Greenville South Carolina.
You’re looking for a new trip?
…A great foodie adventure?
…Big city perks
…But a mix of quaint and calm.
…inspiring scenery
…maybe a full-on spa weekend?
And let’s be honest, it needs to be easy to get to.
Not too much to ask for, right? LOL
Southern Charm at Greenville, South Carolina
Well, Greenville South Carolina hits all of those spots and more!
Southern charm with big city amenities. From flavor to fun to flirty.
Greenville, South Carolina is Southern charm with big city amenities.
The right amount of outdoors, arts, charming people watching and of course food. Different flavors and lots of it!
That’s Greenville. Plenty of South Carolina Southern Hospitality with a kick of sass and did we mention the food?
Fun Days and Starry-Filled Nights in Greenville South Carolina
From March through July, the town square stays busy with free concerts twice a week and at night catch a movie in the park.
Fun days in Greenville South Carolina
The center of town is just a short walk from most hotels, where you can wander Main St. and window shop at artisanal stores, book stores and coffee shops on the way to your next meal.
Reedy River
After a light bite, take a stroll along the park at Reedy River. Their new development is gorgeous and cozy. Several great spots for Instagram-worthy selfies.
Love a tasty cocktail?
Kinda curious how the whole whiskey process works?
Highly recommend Six and Twenty Distillery’s tour and tasting experience.
Six and Twenty Distillery’s tour
From malting to mashing to distillation. You can even pose for pictures with their giant pot still and become instagram famous.
It’s a fascinating process, but even more – meet the team. These folks love their work and it shows!
If you’re lucky enough to get a tour from Owner David Raad, he’ll help you fall in love with their process as they create just the right flavor for you.
And speaking of flavor.
You should get a tasting.
If Benjamin Balaban is behind the bar, you’re in for a treat. Curious drinkers, ask about the flavors, the garnishes, how his mixes are so balanced and flavorful.
Six and Twenty Distillery’s tasting experience
Keep the Flavors Coming with Oil & Vinegar
Stop in and say hello to Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Owner Chef Veera Gaul who will introduce you to the flavors, aromas and blends of oilsl like you’ve never realized before.
Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Owner Chef Veera Gaul
As a dipping sauce.
As a salad dressing.
In your health shake.
There’s a lot of ways to enjoy olive oil.
Taste through: The fruity and robust Nocellara EVOO. The deliciously oily Puglia. The vibrant Basil EVOO. The perfect to mix Mango Vinegar.
And that’s why visiting Oil & Vinegar on Main St. is so fun.
Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Greenville SC
Their tasting helps you fall in love with the magic and find a new flavor to take home with you.
From Family Fun to Romantic – Greenville’s Dinner Options
Greenville offers a feast of foodie options from down home to innovative chefs and world-class menus.
With more than 110 restaurants in downtown alone, and more than 1,000 throughout the County, Greenville, South Carolina’s abundant and tasty restaurant scene is garnering national attention.
Nose Dive Restaurant in Greenville South Carolina
Nose Dive is an innovative gastropub were their chefs to craft dishes that are both delicious and exciting. The culinary team is dedicated to inventive fare and attention to detail to create an eating experience.
Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza
Right next to the NOMA plaza on Downtown’s North Main Street in downtown, Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza is one of the city’s most popular pizza parlors, serves up authentic NY style pizza and Italian cuisine.
Foothill Foodie Tours is a one of a kind foodie experience in Greenville with a chance to experience a wide selection of curated tours designed with you in mind.
Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant
Enjoy the rimmed signature drinks and house made cordials at Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant that re-imagines what intimate dining can be. All with desserts as the main event.
Next Day Get Inspired By Greenville’s Nature
Greenville is all about scenic beauty. Five gorgeous state parks perfect for a stroll or to break a sweat.
The 22-mile Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is one of Greenville’s most popular. There’s Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville’s downtown green space, waterfalls, flowers, and walkways. Cleveland Park, the city’s largest park and home of the 14-acre Greenville Zoo
Want even more? Greenville’s got it!
Over 60 outdoor obstacles and ziplines, Treetop Quest Greenville’s aerial adventure park will thrill you. Paris Mountain State Park’s Four lakes, a swimming area (complete with kayaks, canoes and pedal-boats for rent), playground, 15 miles of hiking and biking.
Lake Jocassee
Head north to stop at Marci Jo’s Olde Mountain Store, a quaint local spot between Jones Gap and Caesars Head State Parks
Wildcat Branch Falls near Greenville SC
There’s over a 100 more parks within just a few hours’ drive.
Speaking of Serene. Looking for a retreat?
Greenville’s Grand Bohemian
Greenville’s Grand Bohemian is a luxurious boutique hotel perched along the Reedy River. Whether you’re stopping by for a handcrafted cocktail, spending the night in one of their suites or attending a conference, it’s sure to be a cozy delight.
Dripping with Southern Charm
Hotel Hartness near Greenville SC
Hotel Hartness is the luxurious destination just outside the city.
Spa weekend? Dream wedding? Elegant event space. The extraordinarily intimate experience of 69 suites in the main hotel and 4 spa suites.
You’re looking for a new trip.
A great foodie adventure?
With a mix of big city with quaint and calm and mountains of inspiring scenery
And it’s easy to get to.
Greenville is a must-visit destination that makes visiting easy, delicious and memorable. From food to local culture, exercise, romance and calm vibes that the South is best known.
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Flavor! Fire! Expand Your Hot Sauces Collection with Truff Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce
Fiery yet Refreshing! Flavor! Fire! Expand Your Hot Sauces Collection with Truff Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce
Truff expands hot sauce with Truff Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce
TRUFF, the truffle brand known for reimagining and elevating pantry staples, releases TRUFF Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce, its newest hot sauce variation.
Truff Expands their Hot Sauces with Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce
This vibrant green sauce boasts an entirely new flavor profile – and color – from the brand’s line of luxurious hot sauces.
It offers a harmonious blend of fiery green jalapeño peppers and refreshing lime with TRUFF’s namesake ingredient, the black winter truffle.
“Our goal with TRUFF has always been to create products
so unique that they offer a flavor experience like no other,”
Nick Ajluni
Co-Founder and Co-CEO at TRUFF
“This time, we are taking inspiration from the rich, vibrant, and colorful culture of Latin cuisine to create a flavor profile that has yet to be explored.”
Truff’s Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce
TRUFF has brought truffle-infused products to a broad consumer base through its premium condiments line spanning hot sauce, pasta sauce, mayonnaise, oil and salt. TRUFF’s hero product, its hot sauce, is a leading seller in the natural channel and the fastest-growing hot sauce in conventional grocery.
The new TRUFF Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce is the brand’s latest addition
“We dove deep into Latin cuisine, indulging in endless tacos, ceviches, aguachiles and chilaquiles. We noticed that two ingredients – green jalapeño and lime – were commonly used to complement and enhance dishes,” says Nick Guillen, Co-Founder and Co-CEO at TRUFF.
Truff’s Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce
“We pursued these bold flavors and the result is a sauce that is both elevated and celebratory in nature. Whether drizzled over dishes from your local taco truck or added to a Michelin-starred culinary creation, the TRUFF Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce is designed to elevate any meal.”
TRUFF Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce will be available in 6-ounce bottles
TRUFF’s new Jalapeño Lime Hot Sauce will be available in 6-ounce bottles topped with TRUFF’s distinctive truffle-inspired cap in a captivating green. It will launch exclusively at Whole Foods Market this January and will be available online at TRUFF.com starting January 11, 2024.
TRUFF has experienced groundbreaking company growth since its launch in 2017. The brand’s distinctive flavor, high-quality ingredients, new product innovation, and social following have helped it build a significant base of loyal consumers, an impressive list of collaborators, and accolades.
The brand’s latest partnerships include launches with Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and The Super Mario Brothers Movie. In November of 2023, it was announced that SKYY Partners— Jay Sammons and Kim Kardashian’s private equity firm focused on high-growth, market-leading consumer brands — had acquired a significant minority stake in TRUFF.
For more information please visit TRUFF.com or @sauce on Instagram.
TRUFF’s lineup of luxury pantry staples is designed to elevate the dining experience.
TRUFF’s lineup of luxury pantry staples is designed to elevate the dining experience. Originally founded through a popular food and lifestyle Instagram blog called @sauce, TRUFF immediately propelled into social media virality with the release of its hot sauce in 2017.
The brand quickly became the fastest growing company in the hot sauce space due to its distinctive flavor profile, pristine bottle, Truffle Inspired cap, and of course the coveted Instagram account @sauce that makes tagging a no-brainer. Taking inspiration from the flagship black truffle experience, TRUFF has expanded its family of products to include other popular favorites like Pasta Sauce, Mayonnaise, Oil and Salt.
You can find TRUFF’s variety of products in stores nationwide and around the world in the UK, Australia, Kuwait, and South Korea. TRUFF is gluten-free and non-GMO. Visit www.TRUFF.com for more information and recipes.
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Bring Great Flavors to your DC Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough
Bring Great Flavors to your DC Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough.
Thanksgiving is coming up fast, and you just have a few days left, do not panic just yet.
Most people are not “hosting” a Thanksgiving; instead, they are guests. Whether its family, friends, or you are the plus one, it is always better to make a good impression – and what better way than with an exceptional wine or two?
Bring Great Flavors to your DC Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough
Wine can be inexpensive; our winemaker suggested a few wines between $15-$45.
Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough
Brian Cheeseborough has more than 20 vintages of wine experience and made 90+ point wines in 6 different regions worldwide (California, France, New Zealand, Argentina, and more). He is an expert at pairing flavors and (more importantly) how to fix sour or off flavors – think dry turkey. (yikes!)
Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough shares Delicious Wine Pairings for Your Thanksgiving Feast
Take it away, Brian!
Thanks for having me. I’m excited to share these ideas because there are two goals: if the food is incredible, we want a wine that matches it and makes it even better (think like a dancing partner), and secondly, if the food is not great, we want a way to elevate the experience and fix the mistake.
Bring Great Flavors to your DC Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough
Wine can do that! Most of these wines are from vineyards I have worked with or fellow Fresno State alums, some of whom I sat in a lecture with about all things wine. Can’t find the exact bottle? There are numerous producers for these wines under $50 and some below $20 – follow the varietals.
So, let us get started.
Alexander Valley Vineyards – Gewürz, 2021 Mendocino County
Alexander Valley Vineyards – Gewürz, 2021 Mendocino County
This Gewürz can solve many problems. It is a great wine to start the night; It’s also great when you’re eating something dry or bland. Yes, it is on the sweeter side. The aromatics are floral, with enticing notes of apple, grapefruit, and citrus; the mouth is silky and rich. This will pair well with any course. I like it with turkey best!
Buy it here: AVV 2021 Gewürz – Organically Grown
Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough
Willamette Valley Vineyards 2021 Estate Chardonnay
Willamette Valley Vineyards 2021 Estate Chardonnay
Another great option to start the party. The nose is a fresh bouquet of apricot, lemon, lime, and honey. The mouth is rich and supple with flavors of golden apple, caramel, and vanilla, with a nice round, refreshing finish. You can easily pair this with rich seafood dishes like shrimp alfredo and crab-stuffed lobster tail. Also, creamy potatoes or spiced pumpkins. (If you end up with pumpkin or squash on your plate and try a glass of this, you will thank me later.)
Buy it here: Willamette Valley Vineyards – Estate Chardonnay
Pine Ridge Vineyards 2021 Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend
Pine Ridge Vineyards 2021 Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend
One more light suggestion to start off your feast! This is crisp, bright, and full of life. The nose is a bouquet of honeysuckle, and orange blossoms, with a twist of ginger spice. The mouth is full-bodied with refreshing acidity. Flavors of tangerine, lime, and green apple. It’ll pair great with a light salad, goat cheese, and olives.
Buy it here: Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend – Pine Ridge Vineyards
Now, let us go to the Reds!
Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta 2019
It has a gorgeous fruit-driven nose with aromas of red fruit, cherry, and plum. The mouth is sleek and silky, medium body with flavors of black currant and blueberry, with lush and velvety tannins. It would pair well with turkey, venison with traditional gravy, or cranberry.
Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta 2019
Buy it here: Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta
Dutton-Goldfield’s 2020 Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir
Dutton-Goldfield’s 2020 Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir
The nose starts telling you this is something extra special; classic rich blackberry, pomegranate, and a touch of vanilla to round out the aromas. The mouth is super juicy and decadent, full of bright red cherry and cola with a baking spice finish. You want this with your main entree – turkey, ham, and stuffing. The people at your party drinking this will be glancing at each other, smiling between bites – they will know why!
Buy it here: Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir
Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River – 2019
Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River – 2019
On the nose, red fruit notes with cherry and plum. On the mouth, medium body with moderate oak, black currant, and blueberry, with delicate tannins. This pairs well with lean meat.
Buy it here: Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River
The critical thing to remember is that regardless of your budget, you can find a great flavor to pair with what you are eating. Also, the wine can “save” the day, just in case it ends up a little (or a lot) dry or bland. You are not the chef du jour for Thanksgiving, but you can still contribute to the sharing.
Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough from FermForge
Brian Cheeseborough is currently the Director of Winemaking at FermForge in West Texas.
