This month, our wine pros picked out classic, easy-drinking wines grown and made from throughout California’s various wine regions. From Monterey Bay to the Sonoma Coast and more, there’s something for every palate in this month’s selection.
All the fruit is grown
And the cheese is made,
In our Golden State
On a summer’s day.
Just add a glass of wine,
And we’ll eat some today.
California dreamin’
On such a summer’s day!
Did you know gin is something you can make at home? Distilled gin is made when juniper berries and botanicals are added during the first or second distillation, while compound gin is created when juniper berries and botanicals are added to a distilled spirit to infuse the flavors. If you want to make your own compound gin, experiment with these basic guidelines and your favorite botanicals to create an A+ solution.
If you’ve ever wondered which gin makes the best G&T, what the difference is between Old Tom and London Dry, or even how to infuse your own, this is the class for you. Enjoy a crash course in popular styles along with cocktail recipes and a final project.
When you walk through our adult beverage department, you might notice that gin comes in a few distinct categories. While some styles are determined by where they’re made, others have legal specifications, such as how the gin is made. Two great gin varieties include Old Tom and Plymouth.
For a classic gin, look no further than London Dry. Despite the name, London Dry Gin is a legal specification but not geographic, which means it can be made anywhere. This style of gin cannot contain artificial flavors or colors, and only water, neutral-grain spirit and sugar may be added after distillation. While it’s been the most popular style for centuries, others are gaining speed.
Often called New Western or New American, this newer style of gin has no legal or geographic laws. Essentially, any gin that doesn’t fall in another category fits here. Distillers may put their own twist on the classic style, and while juniper is always used, it’s not always the dominant flavor. This style is gaining popularity worldwide, especially here in the U.S.
If your cocktail is 1 part spirit and 3 parts mixer, you don’t need a math degree to see how important the mixer is in that equation. Luckily, Fever-Tree Mixers are carefully crafted to bring out the best in every drink. Cofounders Charles and Tim go to the ends of the earth to find the very best ingredients for their premium mixers, which come in a variety of styles and flavors perfect for any cocktail.
Ready, set, summer time! Enjoy the warmer weather with these fine wines ideal for sipping on those warm summer nights on the patio. From radiant rosés to cabernet sauvignon and more, these wines are perfect for pairing with Father’s Day fun, backyard barbecue fare and 4th of July celebrations.
Our wine stewards have picked out some fun wines to enjoy in the last bits of spring before summer is upon us. From big, fruity reds to silky sauvignon blanc or light, refreshing rosé, all are perfect for a fine spring day.