Category Archives: CULTURE + HAPPENINGS

A BAR ABOVE: Cocktail Sets That Will Cause A Stir

November 21, 2023

Stirred cocktails, like Martinis & Manhattans, are some of the most iconic drinks in any mixologist’s repertoire. With the right tools and techniques, anyone can start creating restaurant-quality stirred cocktails at home.

So what are these tools, and how can you be sure that you are getting the best value for your money?

Enter A Bar Above, a family-run premium mixology brand co-founded by Chris Tunstall, a professional bartender & bar manager. A Bar Above’s products are wallet-friendly, durable, and stylishly designed, making them a must-have for any home bar. In addition to offering top-quality tools, the brand also offers a suite of courses that cover everything you need to know to get started and expand your skills in mixology.

You can find A Bar Above on Amazon! There you’ll find several sized Craft Cocktail Sets. They also offer really cool Bar Basics Course which is such a fun creative gift.

Instagram: @abarabove
TikTok: @abarabove
YouTube: @abarabove
Facebook: @abarabove

Ward 8 Cocktail Ingredients

To craft this delicious cocktail, gather the following simple ingredients:

  1. Rye Whiskey: Opt for a quality rye whiskey, known for its robust and spicy character. This helps balance the Ward 8’s sweet and sour flavor profile.
  2. Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemons rather than store bought juice to infuse your Ward 8 with natural, bright citrus notes.
  3. Grenadine: A sweet and tangy pomegranate syrup, a hint of grenadine for sweetness adds depth to the cocktail.
  4. Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice imparts a delightful, citrusy tang that complements the other flavors, especially when the two citrus juices are mixed together.
  5. Maraschino Cherry or Orange Slice: A maraschino cherry or orange slice (or even a piece of orange zest) serves as a classic garnish, although it’s also common to skip a garnish on this one.

 

oranges and lemons for a classic whiskey cocktail in a chilled glass

Photo by Levi Meir Clancy via www.unsplash.com

 

How to Make a Ward 8

In this week’s video, Chris not only makes the classic Ward 8 cocktail but also shows you his Ward 8.1 version using his secret ingredient… Limoncello! Check it out here:

 

Ward 8 Variations

Chris himself offers two variations today; before we riff on this Boston classic, let’s look at the basic recipe:

  • 2 ounces rye whiskey
  • 1/2 ounce lemon juice
  • 1/2 ounce orange juice
  • 1/4 ounce Grenadine

While this vintage cocktail is really yummy with its citrus flavor and signature sweetness, here are a few variations to explore:

  1. Ward 9: Swap out the rye whiskey for bourbon, adding a smoother and slightly sweeter profile to the cocktail.
  2. Ward 8 Royale: Top off your Ward 8 with a splash of sparkling wine or champagne for a touch of effervescence.
  3. Winter Ward 8: During the colder months, add a dash of aromatic bitters, such as Angostura or cinnamon bitters, to bring warm notes to your drink– This plays well with the rye mixture.
  4. Tropical Ward 8: Experiment with incorporating a splash of pineapple juice or coconut water for a fruity, refreshing twist. It will play with the other citrus flavors and add a tropical feel.
  5. It’s also popular to use fresh lime juice instead of lemon.
  6. If you’re feeling ambitious and/or creative, make your own homemade grenadine instead of using the overly-sweet store-bought version. Create your own pomegranate simple syrup of sorts by combining equal parts pomegranate juice and sugar with a splash of orange flower water or 1 ounce lemon juice. Note: This natural grenadine won’t produce the same bright color of traditional sweet tart syrup from stores. Don’t be surprised if your final cocktail doesn’t look like our photos!

 

craft cocktail in a chilled glass

Photo by Alex Kubsch via www.unsplash.com

 

Gotta Love This Classic Whiskey Cocktail

The Ward Eight is a classic rye whiskey cocktail that brings together whiskey, citrus, and grenadine for a balanced drink.

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or impress guests at your next gathering, the Ward 8 offers a delightful blend of flavors and a touch of American history. So, gather your ingredients & your cocktail shaker and perfect your shaking technique– It’s time to make the Ward 8!

famous drink Ward 8, a classic whiskey cocktail, with 1 ounce orange juice

Copyright A Bar Above

 

Ward 8

A twist on the classic cocktail, this surprisingly bright & bitter is a tasty way to use orange juice in a non-sweet drink, adding Limoncello & subbing in single malt whiskey to round out the drink.
5 from 2 votes

 Print  Pin  Rate

Course: Drinks

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 oz Single Malt Whiskey
  • 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 oz Limoncello
  • 1/2 oz Orange Juice
  • 1/4 oz Grenadine

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake for 10-15 seconds.
  • Use your Hawthorne cocktail strainer and fine strainer to double strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  • Optional: Garnish with an orange peel and/or cocktail cherry.

Indulge in Radiance: Ultaceutical’s Ultra BAM Facial Experience At The Fairmont Spa

November 20, 2023

Embark on a journey of indulgence and rejuvenation, prep your holiday skin, or get red-carpet ready with Fairmont Spa Ultra BAM Treatment for Radiance & Glow. Nestled within the luxurious confines of the Fairmont (more on this EPIC spa later!!), this oasis of serenity beckons you to unwind, relax, and treat your skin to the ultimate pampering.

Today, I experienced the Ultra BAM for Radiance & Glow Treatment facial! –  truly a skincare experience that unveiled a radiant and glowing complexion like never before. Let’s call it transformative as I left more than refreshed and revitalized, I am truly radiant!

The secret weapon is the legacy Australian brand used: Ultraceuticals.

The Ultraceuticals philosophy is a ‘progressive rather than aggressive’ approach to a consumer’s skin journey. They focus on formulations that are results-driven without compromising on texture and aroma, and that’s what makes them unique in the cosmeceutical skin arena.

Onto this HOLIDAY GLOW treatment!
  • Goals are to restore skin from premature aging or sun damage with high-strength Brightening Accelerator Mask featuring Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s), Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Vitamin B3 combined with a powerful blend of brightening agents.  (YUM!!)
  • Onto, corrective cosmeceutical serums infused with UltraINFUSION work in synergy to diminish dark spots and hyperpigmentation to reveal a brighter, clearer complexion.

It was divine – and I am deeply in love with this line – (Also how am I just discovering it??). I also loved Ingrid, my aesthetician.

Can’t make it to the Fairmont?

Here are some great gift sets curated for this gift-giving season.

Limited Edition Holiday Skincare Kits:

The Luminous Skin Gift Set ($105)

The Optimal Hydration Gift Set ($145)

The Soothe and Calm Gift Set ($165). 

This legacy brand (started 25 years ago) uses only the highest quality active ingredients, innovative delivery systems like their trademarked Ultra-RETI™ and MicroElastin® technology, while focusing on repairing and maintaining a healthy skin barrier, resulting in the brand being the preferred cosmeceuticals skincare line in over 600 professional salon, clinics, and medi-spas around the globe.

EFFICACIOUS

Each Ultraceuticals product is carefully researched, formulated and tested in a variety of environments as well as extensive panel testing before going to market. An Ultraceuticals formulation focuses on innovating delivery system technology for optimum performance.

FORMULATION TESTING

Absolutely. Before any product goes into market, extensive and strict panel test trials are conducted using a range of volunteers over 90 days to ensure the product’s efficacy and safety. Results are documented using an advanced professional skin scanning camera technology. Ultraceuticals stands behind all its products and claims.

CRUELTY FREE

Yes. Ultraceuticals is proudly certified cruelty-free with the Choose Cruelty Free (CFF) organization and PETA. This means that they do not test any of their products on animals and none of the ingredients used in their products are tested on animals. Ultraceuticals proudly conducts internal panel tests on willing and enthusiastic human participants.

A little back story about this storied Australian brand:

Started in 1998, Founder, Dr Geoffrey Heber and his highly skilled team of Australian and international formulators are dedicated to creating potent, effective products under the Ultraceuticals brand. Ultraceuticals is Australian-owned and use the latest and proven available ingredients and technologies to consistently release new products and improve existing ones. With a combination of sophisticated, patented delivery systems and potent renowned anti-aging stars like Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), each product is formulated with safety and maximum effectiveness in mind, so you get results that you can actually see. By collaborating with renowned universities and leading researchers, Ultraceuticals crafts a simple regimen of products that deliver fast-acting and discernible results to reveal healthy, firm, glowing, beautiful skin.

 

The founder: DR GEOFFREY HEBER:

Dr Geoffrey Heber is a Fellow of the Australian College of Cosmetic Medicine and also a Fellow of the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australia. He completed his medical degree at the University of NSW and has an MBA from the University of Sydney. He has spent well over twenty years as a cosmetic physician. His passion for innovation in the cosmeceutical skincare arena saw him launch the first Australian brand, Ultraceuticals, with a superior vitamin C skin serum in 1998.  Today, the Ultraceuticals founder and cosmetic physician, Dr Geoffrey Heber, is considered a pioneer in Australia for leading the way in effective skincare products that offer real visible results.

Elevate Your Holiday Celebrations With Kiva

November 16, 2023

 

The holiday season is here, and if you’re looking to add some magic to your festive gatherings, Kiva’s got your back some fresh data around entertaining with cannabis*:

  1. 17% of American winter party hosts plan to serve cannabis products at their parties
  2. While three in ten Americans aged 21+  prefer consuming cannabis to drinking alcohol at parties.
  3. However, 65% of Americans say one of the keys to a great party is inclusivity (e.g., making sure everyone has their preferred food/drink/cannabis product).

Isn’t it time to start offering cannabis as an alternative to alcohol for a more inclusive holiday celebration?!

To also aid in the holiday cheer, Kiva is offering two different discounts! Thanksgiving weekend (Green Wednesday – Cyber Monday) Kiva is offering 1-4 for $40 on all Camino products. Additionally, they are offering a stock and save on Kiva products: buy any 2 Kiva products and save 30%, or buy 2 get 1 of equal or lesser price!

Groomed LA’s recommendation? Grab your favorite Kiva products and try any of these festive activities while you’re experiencing the most lovely balanced effects of Kiva!

  1. LA Zoo Lights: A Wild Wonderland – Step into a wild and whimsical world at LA Zoo Lights. The zoo is transformed into a dazzling holiday wonderland with over a million lights, immersive displays, and seasonal attractions.
  2. Yuletide Cinema Land: Outdoor Holiday Movie Magic – Experience the magic of outdoor holiday movie screenings with Yuletide Cinema Land. Enjoy classic holiday films under the starry Southern California sky while savoring Kiva edibles. It’s a cozy and festive way to celebrate the season with friends and family.
  3. Christmas Nights at 123 Farm: Join in on a whimsical ride around Christmas Nights at 123 Farm. This charming farm offers festive food and drinks, tractor wagon rides, s’mores pits, and even a visit from Santa. The farm is adorned with over a million lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

Haunted in LA: Blood Orange Camino Sours And Classic Halloween Haunts = Halloween FUN

September 26, 2023

Spooky season is right around the corner and we know the best way to celebrate…on a high note. Some fun tips and ‘tricks’ on how to have a Halloween to remember.

This Halloween, LA is your gateway to a uniquely thrilling blend of treats, chills, and magic. Grab some limited-edition: Camino Sours Blood Orange gummies at any, Erba store to elevate your adventure. It’s a spooky season like no other, where your senses will be heightened, and your adventure unforgettable.

Camino gummies

  1. California’s Halloween celebration is only complete with a trip to the iconic West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval. Dress to impress and let your imagination soar as you take in the incredible costumes. It’s the perfect place to showcase your creativity and admire the artistry of fellow Californians. Don’t forget to explore the Emerald Village, where you can indulge in your favorite edibles like Camino Sours Spirited gummies.
  2. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Cinespia and enjoy classic spooky films under the starry night sky. Join this cinematic journey, and let the silver screen magic take you on an extraordinary adventure, enhanced by a touch of Halloween edibles.
  3. Haunted Little Tokyo undergoes a thrilling transformation every year, bringing a spooky atmosphere to the neighborhood with Halloween-themed pop-ups, eerie tours, and captivating performances. This season, brace yourself for the Little Tokyo Ghost Club’s free 21-plus block party, featuring DJs, a costume contest, and a full bar to elevate the spooky fun.
  4. The Nature Gardens are turning into an interactive, illuminated wonderland for all ages to enjoy. If you’re familiar with the longstanding Boney Island tradition, expect to witness skeletons performing enchanting rope tricks, levitating through hoops, and engaging in mesmerizing shadow puppetry. This year, the NHM is adding its own mystical touch with artistic performances, real fossils, live animal presentations, and ghoulishly glowing installations. As you wander the garden paths, be prepared for encounters with creepy crawlies, playful skeletons, and ancient carnivores from the Cretaceous era.
  5. And don’t miss the classic Griffith Park Hayride: Venture deep into Griffith Park for a unique and thrilling experience. This haunted hayride has been ceiling souls for 15 years, offering a blend of road culture reminiscent of Sons of Anarchy and the eerie allure of Twin Peaks. Explore a town where secrets abound, shadows dance, and mysteries await your discovery.

Most of all have fun and stay safe!

Elevate Your Hosting Game with Lynn and Liana’s Stunning Cheese Boards

August 8, 2023

I was totally blown away by these hand-crafted works of art from Lynn and Liana designs. It’s no secret that I am cheese board OBSESSED.

When it comes to hosting memorable gatherings, the devil is in the details. The right serving ware can transform an ordinary event into an extraordinary experience. That’s where Lyn and Lianna Designs come in. With their exquisite cheese boards, they’ve managed to blend the beauty of Acacia hardwood with an eco-friendly epoxy, creating functional pieces of art that are perfect for serving and impressing your guests.

Crafting Unique Cheese Boards

Lynn and Liana Designs have masterfully combined the timeless elegance of Acacia hardwood with the modern touch of eco-friendly epoxy. The result? An array of visually captivating and functional cheese boards are sure to be the centerpiece of any table. Each piece is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication poured into their creation.

Ideal for Intimate Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for two or a small group of friends, these cheese boards are tailor-made for serving groups of 2-4 people. The thoughtfully designed size ensures that each guest gets a taste of the delectable treats you’ve curated, encouraging an intimate dining experience that fosters conversation and connection.

The Perfect Gift

Searching for the ideal gift for a housewarming, wedding, or a special treat for yourself? Look no further. Lynn and Liana’s cheese boards are not only functional but also a true work of art that any recipient would cherish. The exquisite blend of materials and attention to detail make these boards a thoughtful and unique present that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Unleash Your Creativity

Imagine the possibilities that come with owning one of these cheese boards. Picture yourself hosting a girls’ night in, arranging a romantic date night with your significant other, or throwing a get-together with friends. The canvas provided by Lynn and Liana’s designs will undoubtedly inspire you to craft stunning and delicious spreads that reflect your style and personality.

Elegant Presentation

Lynn and Liana Designs have gone the extra mile to ensure that your cheese board experience is nothing short of exceptional. Each board now comes in a beautifully designed Lynn & Lianna black gift box, elevating the presentation of your gift to new heights. This attention to detail showcases the brand’s commitment to excellence and adds a touch of luxury to every occasion.

In a world where details matter, Lynn and Liana Designs have curated a collection of cheese boards that effortlessly blend form and function. With their unique combination of Acacia hardwood and eco-friendly epoxy, these boards are more than just serve ware – they’re conversation starters, works of art, and vessels of creativity. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or find the perfect gift, Lynn and Lianna’s cheese boards are a must-have addition to your home.

Shop here on Amazon.