Category Archives: RECIPES

Tee Off Father’s Day with DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition

June 5, 2024

 

Hey there, golf aficionados and whisky connoisseurs! As we gear up to celebrate Father’s Day, what better way to honor the patriarch in your life than with a gift that perfectly marries the sophistication of Scotch whisky with the timeless allure of golf? Enter DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition, a limited-edition whisky crafted to commemorate the enduring collaboration between DEWAR’S and the U.S. Open Championship.

Picture this: a picturesque golf course, the scent of freshly cut grass wafting through the air, and a dram of DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition nestled in your hand. It’s not just a whisky; it’s a journey through time and tradition, echoing the precision and finesse of the sport itself.

What sets this edition apart? Well, for starters, it’s aged for a whopping 19 years, a unique age statement within the whisky category. Crafted under the expert guidance of Stephanie Macleod, five-time Master Blender of the Year, this expression undergoes DEWAR’S signature double aging process and is finished in first-fill rye whisky casks, infusing it with a rich and refined flavor profile.

So, what can you expect from this liquid gold? Prepare your taste buds for a sensory adventure. It begins with a symphony of ripe pear and heather honey, leading into a spicy tapestry of cinnamon and cocoa powder that gently warms the palate. With each sip, you’ll be transported to the rolling greens of Pinehurst Resort & Country Club, the cradle of American golf.

But wait, there’s more! DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition isn’t just about the whisky; it’s about the experience. As you raise a toast to dear old dad, why not accompany it with the official cocktail of the U.S. Open Championship, the Lemon Wedge? Infused with DEWAR’S 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, lemonade, and club soda, it’s the perfect refreshing companion for a day on the course or a cozy evening at home.

Stephanie Macleod, the mastermind behind this exquisite blend, describes it as a remarkable journey, echoing the precision and finesse of the sport itself. And Brian Cox, Vice President of DEWAR’s North America, aptly sums it up as a celebration of camaraderie, competition, and cherished moments—a sentiment that resonates deeply, especially on Father’s Day.

So, whether you’re raising a glass to your dad, grandfather, or father figure in your life, make it a moment to remember with DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition. Available in limited quantities, exclusively at select fine wines and spirits retailers, as well as online, it’s the perfect gift to tee off Father’s Day in style. Cheers to the champions in our lives!

Some cocktail recipes we love – Penicillin

 

 

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.
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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.

YOBO SOJU – A Twist On Holiday Spirits

November 8, 2022

YOBO, the female founded leader in the Asian American Spirits industry, is proud to announce the launch of their collaboration with world-renowned chef, Kristen Kish, on a new range of modern aperitifs inspired by an evolving Korean American identity.

Created by Kristen Kish, Top Chef winner, author, celebrity television host, and restaurateur, to disrupt the traditionally Western category, Yobo_Kish pays homage to Kristen’s Korean roots and brings together her passion for unique flavors, unexpected ingredients, and the intricate balance needed to accompany any exquisite meal.

Each aperitif is a deeply personal reflection of Kristen’s story, ethos, and heritage. As a proud Korean American and member of the LGBTQ community, Kristen’s self-expression is represented through one-of-a-kind flavor profiles and curated names; Shine (kumquat rose ginger), Bliss (sour cherry pink peppercorn licorice), Seoul(hibiscus lemon balm raw honey) and Earth (smoked mushroom umami).

“I’m thrilled to unveil my line of aperitifs inspired by my passion for food, the many journeys of my life, and my Korean American heritage. A family of four aperitifs, each have its own story to tell pulling from specific memories and moments that I cherish. It’s an honor to share my stories with you.” – Kristen Kish

Co-created with Yobo Soju, levering soju as its base, Yobo_Kish is crafted from all natural ingredients with no artificial additives, no artificial colors, and is well balanced at 21% A.B.V. Each aperitif is designed to stretch the imagination of mixologists and chefs of all levels to create a new generation of elevated Asian American mixology.

You can purchase Yobo_Kish on https://yobosoju.com/ and Reserve Bar for $38.99 (750 ml) and $20.99 (375 ml). 

About Yobo Drinks

Founded in 2015 by Carolyn Kim, lawyer, and mother of twins, Yobo Soju launched as the first American-made craft soju produced in the New York Finger Lakes. Today, Yobo Drinks is a leading Asian American spirits house producing nearly 20 SKUs across a wide range of formats and flavors, each balancing a deep respect for heritage with a passion to forge new innovation.

BROOKE BURKE BODY LAUNCHES INTO SUPERFOOD POWDERS: MEET LONGEVITY BY BROOKE BURKE BODY

September 28, 2022

The next evolution of Brooke Burke Body is here.

Welcome, Longevity: a nutrient-dense, plant-based superfood free of wheat, gluten, and dairy.

This new subscription-based option of superfood blends will become the next staple to your daily wellness routine. Think: more energy, better focus, increased endurance, and faster recovery.

The foundational launch includes two carefully crafted, proprietary blends made up of the ideal combination of non-GMO, raw, organic, plant-based superfoods in either Cacao or Cafe Mocha flavor.

Each flavor blend is packed with therapeutic levels of chia seed, flaxseed, green tea, probiotics, goji, and more in a single scoop serving. These carefully selected and concentrated nutrients, along with an active and healthy lifestyle, can improve overall physical and mental health and well-being.

And you can find recipes and more on the Longevity website, their Instagram and TikTok obvi, as well as on BrookeBurke.com and the Brooke Burke Body fitness app.

We were thrilled to chat with Brooke to hear more about this exciting evolution of her power-house brand. 

What made you decide to create your own line of nutritional super powders?

  • I’m always interested in evolving the Brooke Burke Body brand. Longevity by Brooke Burke Body is a collaboration between two like-minded brands that was, quite honestly, a really natural fit. I’ve really enjoyed being in the lab and being part of the development process. We hold each other to a very high standard and refuse to compromise the integrity of the brands, the quality of the ingredients, or the delicious flavor.

What makes your line different from the others? 

  • Everything about Longevity by Brooke Burke Body is different! Once you try it, you will be able to tell immediately. We use better ingredients. We don’t skimp on taste or flavor. And we’ve made fueling your body super simple. We have packed a lot of high-quality ingredients in one blend which means you don’t have to have a counter full of additional supplements or spices to make a great shake. I really do feel like the two scoops of Longevity that I put in my shake every day are fueling my body all day long.

Please share a fun recipe we can make with the powders!

  • There are so many! We’ve been experimenting with power snacks and baked goods, in addition to the shakes. One of my favorites that I keep in my freezer (my kids are always eating them, I can’t make enough!) are pitted dates, with a spoonful of almond butter. I sprinkle the Cacao flavor of Longevity on top of them to create a high-energy, high-protein snack. We also have a recipe for high-energy snowballs for the holidays, which is super fun to make with the kids. It’s oatmeal, honey, almond butter, and Longevity. You just roll them up and put them in the refrigerator and you can sprinkle coconut on top to make them look like snowballs for the holidays! You’ll be able to find these recipes and more very soon at www.longevitybybrookeburkebody.com as well as on my website www.BrookeBurke.com.

What’s next for the line?

  • New flavors! There’s talk of a fruity flavor powder for kids that reminds them of their favorite cereal as well as bringing in matcha and vanilla flavors. We’re also experimenting with different recipes to make it super easy and simplified for all our subscribers. The mint flavor is also delicious for the holidays!

My most sacred time of the day is….

  • My most sacred time of the day are mornings alone which can be hard to come by. Because I have a blended family, I really cherish moments alone when I can drink my coffee in bed, catch up on the news, do some mindful meditation and set intentions for my day … even if it’s only for 10 minutes without any devices. I’m trying to do a mandatory tech break every day, which is really hard to do because I run my business on my phone, but I think it’s really essential to give our brains a break from screen time. I’m trying to make that time meaningful and mindful.

My non-negotiable morning ritual is…

  • Coffee! I’m very specific about my coffee – I do drip coffee, I froth my milk, I have a special glass, I do a dash of cinnamon, I like it really hot. I even have a favorite to-go cup I take when I carpool the kids to school.

My go-to chill-out routine looks like…

  • Burying myself in someone else’s story by watching a great TV series. I’ve worked my way through everything, I think. My favorites of the year were Yellowstone and Handmaid’s Tale (obsessed!). Handmaid’s Tale was so hard to watch because it’s so dark but it’s truly one of the greatest series I’ve ever seen.

My guilty pleasure is….

  • Believe it or not, I really enjoy my mindful meditations. I have a gorgeous collection of sound bowls. I get a lot out of that time in my garden. I’ll go outside by myself and play my sound bowls and it’s a total reset whether I’m in a funk or need a mood shift or raise my vibrations or increase my energy or just chill out – that’s my go-to pleasure. It’s the hippy in me!

One thing I wish I had told my teen self is…

  • I wish I would have taught my teen self about stillness and the power of stillness – though I know she wouldn’t have listened or believed me. What I’ve learned in my 50s is the doing of not doing is a real thing. In other words, carving out time to do nothing is invaluable and it’s the only way we can listen to the language of our own heart; it’s the only way we can learn about ourselves and it’s the only way we can really look inside. Even laying down for 5 minutes all alone. If you’re brave enough to do that work, it’s invaluable.

We are already over the moon about this line and can’t wait to see how it progresses!

Ketel One Botanical Spritz Kicks Off Spritz Season with Floral Visionary Maurice Harris

May 23, 2022

Ok, it’s offically time for Spring cocktails. You know, that refreshing light mix of herbs, fruit and just the right touch of alcohol?  Enter: The Ketel One Botanical Spritz .

Here’s the perfection part: This line has no carbs, no sugar, no artificial flavors or sweeteners; and with only three simple ingredients and 73 calories per glass, there’s no need to sacrifice on quality or overcomplicate your cocktail.

Spring and summer entertaining just got a little easier—and more stylish—with a limited-edition collaboration from Ketel One Botanical and Los Angeles-based floral artist Maurice Harris.

Launching this week on TheBar.com, the Botanical Spritz-inspired collection features exclusive preserved floral bouquets by Harris, alongside custom-designed decorative towels, and other on-trend items like glassware, cocktail accessories, and more—all to ensure seasonal hosting is a breeze.

Dubbed the Spritz into Summer Collection, the edit includes an array of offerings—some original and some hand-selected—that are inspired by the unique flavor profiles of each award-winning varietal of Ketel One Botanical: Cucumber & Mint, Grapefruit & Rose, and Peach & Orange Blossom. Bookending the exclusive compilation are items designed by Harris himself, including elegant preserved floral arrangements, and a trio of cocktail towels bearing bespoke patterns that bring the groundbreaking product lineup to life. Equal parts vibrant and functional, these accessories provide an artistic pop of color to any entertaining space, whether it be a kitchen, outdoor patio, or home bar. Additional items in the collection include colored wine glasses from Estelle Colored Glass, rose-shaped ice molds, cocktail picks, and bowls perfect for showcasing garnishes for the Ketel One Botanical signature serve, the Botanical Spritz.

The Ketel One Botanical Spritz allows everyone to enjoy delicious effervescence with low-lift required from the at-home bartender. Truly immersive, seasonal sips have never been easier, with the only necessary ingredients being a chosen Ketel One Botanical varietal, soda water, and a fresh fruit or herb garnish. Simply build in a wine glass over ice and delight guests at with time to spare for the best part of hosting—relaxing and connecting with friends. For on-the-go occasions, Ketel One Botanical offers a similar version of its signature cocktail in an equally delightful, canned format.

The partnership reflects the commitments Ketel One Botanical and Maurice Harris have made towards craftsmanship and artistry, with Harris expressing; “I’m so excited to be able to give each of the spirits a personality and translate that into a sensorial experience. At my floral studio—and with everything I do—I aim to inspire joy, creativity, and individuality. Finding that same passion in a like-minded partner is what makes collaborations like this all the more fun and fruitful.”

“We’re so thrilled to see Ketel One Botanical further come to life through Maurice Harris’s floral creations. We see this collaboration as the perfect launch into our biggest Spritz Season yet,” says Ketel One Director, Olivia Kupfer. “Ketel One Botanical fits so seamlessly into any occasion that calls for a cocktail, especially as we enter the warmer months, and where consumers are looking for something more exciting than a glass of white wine.”

For anyone looking for a stylish upgrade to at-home seasonal entertaining or truly wow with their next host gift, the Spritz into Summer Collection is a one-stop-shop to elevate your gifting experience with gorgeous blooms alongside the perfectly curated hosting suite, all of which inspires fun at every step.  Items in the collection, with creations and curations by Maurice Harris and Ketel One Botanical range from $8 to $247. The collection will be available starting May 19th at TheBar.com when Harris will host a live shopping event on the website. Consumers who are interested in tuning in can RSVP at https://live.thebar.com. For more information and cocktail inspiration, visit @ketelonebotanical and @bloomandplume.

Also! Check out this limited-edition shoppable edit on TheBar.com will feature custom bouquets and cocktail towels alongside an elevated home entertaining curation…

Look at this image of a joyous Maurice enjoying the cucumber spritz with the Cucumber Mint botanical!

Ingredients: 

Yields 1 Serving*

  • 1.5 oz Ketel One Botanical Varietal
  • 3 oz Sparkling Water
  • Garnish with your choice of fresh fruit or herbs

Method:

  • Combine your favorite Ketel One Botanical varietal, sparkling water and garnish in a wine glass over ice.

About Ketel One Botanical

Ketel One Botanical is a first-of-its-kind spirit made from vodka distilled with real botanicals and infused with natural fruit and botanical essences. Made with 100% non-GMO grain, this 30% ABV spirit is an exceptionally smooth, fresh-tasting drink with no carbs, no artificial flavors, no added sugar and no artificial sweeteners. Ketel One Botanical is available nationwide in three varietals: Peach & Orange Blossom, Cucumber & Mint, and Grapefruit & Rose, at your local spirits retailer for a suggested retail price of $24.99 per 750ml bottle. For more information please visit www.ketelonebotanical.com.

KETEL ONE BOTANICAL.  Made With Vodka Distilled With Real Botanicals And Infused With Natural Flavors. 30% Alc/Vol. © Double Eagle Brands, B.V. Imported by Ketel One USA, Aliso Viejo, CA.  Per 1.5 oz.: 73 Cals, 0g Carbs, 0g Protein, 0g Fat