GSN Review: Barrell Mizunara Cask Finish Bourbon

Barrell Craft Spirits (BCS), the original independent blender of unique aged, cask strength whiskey since 2013, recently launched the third offering in its Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series: Mizunara. The first two bourbon blends, which launched last Fall, included Amburana and A Tale of Two Islands Rum Finish.

For the newest expression, the BCS blending team created a blend of Indiana (6, 7, and 9-year), Kentucky (8-year) and Tennessee (8 & 14-year) bourbon whiskeys featuring multiple mash bills. The blend was then further matured in Mizunara casks for one and a half years and bottled at cask strength (116.42 proof) in Kentucky with a derived mash bill of corn (76%), rye (20%) and malted barley (4%).

Casks made from rare Mizunara hardwood are a true work of art. The wood is meticulously cut, and the barrels carefully raised due to the wood’s characteristics. Mizunara finishing imparts subtle notes of sandalwood, herbal spice, and coconut to bourbon, and precision is required to craft a harmonious blend.

The new expression is available for purchase online via the BCS website and in select retailers for the suggested retail price of $89.99 per 750ml bottle.

GSN’s Remarks: The Mizunara scent greets the nose with an exotic sensibility that puts me in mind of a visit to an Indian spice market. The Mizunara adds an evocative, introspective perfume totally in keeping with the bourbon’s typical corn forward nose. On the tongue, the spices continue with peppery, dry and brisk high notes. The flavors end up towards the back of the palate, and create a slight tingling sensation in the mouth. The body is medium-light, while the finish is extra long, ending on a woody flourish. Nice to see Barrell continuing to experiment with unusual hardwoods. GSN Rating: A

For more information go to: Barrell Bourbon

#BarrellBourbon

GSN Review: Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin

Inspired by traditional afternoon tea, Empress 1908 Gin announces the U.S. launch of Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin. This refreshing new expression is crafted with eight botanicals including juniper berries, lemon, jasmine, star anise, cucumber and fresh lemon zest. “Following the overwhelmingly positive reception of our Elderflower Rose Gin last year, we leveraged our Master Distillers’ extensive botanical expertise to introduce our next innovative flavor: Cucumber Lemon,” said Eric Dopkins, CEO and Chairman of Milestone Brands. Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin is best enjoyed in the signature Cucumber & Tonic cocktail, served with premium tonic water and garnished with a fresh cucumber slice and a lemon wheel to enhance the botanicals in the gin. Other expressions include Empress 1908 Indigo Gin and Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin. Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin is 42.5% ABV and is available nationwide in select retailers for a suggested retail price of $39.99 for a 750ml bottle. GSN’s Remarks: The cucumber is subtle on the nose until the rush of juniper and lemon zest passes, then it becomes quite apparent. Overall, the gin is quite vegetal in scent. Also, the mouthfeel is heavier than I was expecting, but this adds to the rich body and roundness on the tongue. The juniper is bracing, yet offset by the sprightliness of the cucumber . The lemon serves as a palate cleanser, and gives a warm, summery feeling to the expression. This is a rock solid gin and a welcome addition to the ever growing Empress portfolio. A perfect arrival for the season. GSN Rating: A+

For more information go to: Empress Gin

#Empress1908 #EmpressGin

GSN Review: Emyla Añejo Tequila

“Emyla was born from a passion to create something extraordinary,” says founder Art Davtyan. “Our award-winning añejo is a standout because of our commitment to excellence, purity, and sustainability throughout the entire process.”

Partnering with the acclaimed Casa Maestri distillery, known for its numerous accolades and exceptional production standards, Emyla’s commitment to sustainability further underscores its role as an industry leader. The distillery places a strong emphasis on sustainable farming practices, ensuring that the production of their tequila is environmentally responsible. By implementing eco-friendly approaches, Emyla Tequila strives to minimize its ecological footprint, contributing to the preservation of the natural resources that form the foundation of their craft. The proprietary blend sources Blue Weber Agave from both the Highlands of Jalisco and the Lowlands of Los Altos. This practice not only ensures a superior flavor profile but also supports sustainable farming and crop regeneration.

The natural spring water and Kentucky bourbon barrels used in the aging process preserve the flavors of the agave. This aging not only enhances the flavor profile but also gives Emyla its golden hue.

Based in Los Angeles, Emyla, is a California-exclusive spirit available at select retailers and can be purchased online at Emyla Tequila.

GSN’s Remarks: Lovely vanilla-forward perfume with a touch of new wood, pressed agave and fresh baked cream filled donut. On the tongue, flavors are somewhat delicate, mild and creamy. Potential rough edges have been entirely smoothed out, leaving a round, creamy, dessert-like character to the expression. Mouthfeel is medium-light, while the finish is quite long and even keeled. This makes for a great sipping tequila, and a stunning showpiece of a bottle for your backbar. A fun, welcoming and easy going añejo. GSN Rating: A

For more information go to: Emyla Tequila

#Emyla #EmylaTequila

GSN Alert: New Spirits Releases 4.10.24

BARRELL BOURBON CASK FINISH SERIES: MIZUNARA
This is the third release from the brand’s Cask Finish Series featuring blends of straight bourbons with unique finishes. Here, BCS begins by blending straight bourbon whiskeys from Indiana (aged 6, 7 & 9 years), Tennessee (aged 8 & 14 years), and Kentucky (aged 8 years). Then the blend gets an additional year and a half in Japanese Mizunara oak barrels. Bottled at cask strength of 116.42 proof, its available at select retailers nationwide and via BCS website beginning April 2024. (SRP $89.99)

EMPRESS 1908 CUCUMBER LEMON GIN
Cucumber Lemon Gin is the third release from Empress 1908 joining their Indigo and Elderflower Rose gin bottlings. Made by Victoria Distillers in British Columbia using small batch copper pot stills, eight botanicals are used in its production including juniper berries, lemon, jasmine and star anise. The cucumber is infused post-distillation. The brand recommends to serve a gin & tonic cocktail with a cucumber slice and lemon wheel garnish. Initially released in British Columbia in April 2024, the US received its allotment in May 2024. (SRP $39.99)

GEORGE DICKEL 12 YEAR BOTTLED IN BOND TENNESSEE WHISKY (SPRING 2011)
The fifth release in the vintage bottled in bond Tennessee whisky series from George Dickel was once again overseen by Nicole Austin, director of George Dickel & luxury whisky. Made using a mash bill recipe of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley, this whisky was distilled in spring 2011. After distillation it was chill charcoal-filtered and placed into new, charred American oak barrels for 12 years. Available nationwide beginning May 2024. (SRP $44.99)

LAGAVULIN OFFERMAN EDITION CARIBBEAN RUM CASK FINISH
Caribbean Rum Cask Finish is the fourth Offerman Edition, a limited edition series made in collaboration with Lagavulin and actor, author, and woodworker Nick Offerman. This single malt whisky is matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks for 11 years before being recasked and finished in Caribbean rum casks for an additional 8+ months. Available in the US, the UK, Germany, China, Taiwan, Australia and at the distillery beginning May 2024. (SRP $89.99)

MOUNT GAY ECLIPSE NAVY STRENGTH RUM
This limited edition release from Mount Gay is take on the brand’s Eclipse bottling at navy-strength. Here, Master Blender Trudiann Branker used rums aged 2-4 years, including a higher portion of older pot still rums in this expression. Bottled at 57.1% ABV, availability begins in April 2024. (SRP $29.99)

REDBREAST MISSOURI OAK EDITION
This Missouri Oak Edition release from Redbreast falls under the brand’s American Oak series. Here, the single pot still whiskey which initially matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks was finished for 10 months in virgin Missouri oak sourced from the Ozark Forest. Notably, the brand has sponsored a research study into Cerulean Warblers that breed in the Ozark Forest. This songbird is featured on the packaging. Bottled at 50.5% ABV, this US exclusive release is available beginning May 8, 2024. (SRP $199)

TEMPLETON MIDNIGHT RYE
Templeton Midnight Rye is made with a blend of sourced rye whiskeys (95% rye, 5% malted barley) matured in virgin American oak barrels and aged at Templeton Distillery. Then, a small portion of port wine is blended directly into the whiskey. Available nationwide beginning May 2024. (SRP $39.99)

All information courtesy of Distiller.com

GSN Review: Murray Hill Club Batch #4

Murray Hill Club, renowned for its craftsmanship and innovation in the world of whiskey, debuted its highly anticipated and limited-edition expression, Batch #4. This batch is a blend of 8-year-old and 17-year-old bourbons, highlighting the expertise and dedication of Master Blender, Nancy Fraley, who crafted this expression, showcasing the range of possibilities achievable through precision blending and unique finishing casks. Finished for four months in hand-selected, fresh Calvados casks imported from the lower Normandy region of France, the mashbill of this expression is 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley.

Murray Hill Club Batch #4 shares familiar notes from #1 and #2, both released in 2018.

GSN’s Remarks: Heady and brooding dark penumbra on the nose. Tons of wood, burnt caramel, brown bread, tobacco and young leather. On the pour, the flavors are showcased in a tight 111 proof spirit that begs to be opened up with a good splash of branch water. The mouthfeel is heavy with chewy thickness and intense baking spice flavors. A bit off pepperiness adds a lively dance on the tongue. A real marvel of a bourbon, and a testament to the blender’s skills in bringing this expression to bottle. Highly recommended. GSN Rating: A++

For more information go to: Joseph Magnus

#MurrayHillClub

GSN Review: Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition

Royal Salute invites whisky lovers and cultural appreciators alike to savor a taste of Miami with the latest addition in its iconic Polo Collection; the Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition.

Royal Salute’s link to polo has been a long one, dating back over 15 years, and the newest polo-inspired expression comes endorsed by celebrated player and Royal Salute World Polo Ambassador, Malcolm Borwick. The Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition is the sixth edition in its renowned Polo Collection and continues the Scotch whisky’s ethos of entering new kingdoms by capturing the culture of emblematic polo locations around the world. Celebrating its famed polo clubs and vibrant scene, Miami is a modern-day polo destination and takes the spotlight as the inspiration behind this new blend.

Crafted by Royal Salute’s Master Blender Sandy Hyslop to embrace the essence of Miami’s sun-kissed energy, the new expression presents a first in Royal Salute’s blending history, with a bespoke whisky finished in a blend of classic first-fill bourbon and first-fill rye casks. Hyslop said: “Miami is such a dynamic city, so we wanted to craft a blend that would echo this with an exciting new dimension. Selecting the finest first-fill bourbon and rye casks to finish the special formulation of whiskies aged for a minimum of 21 years allowed us to impart some incredible flavors and emphasize the sweet and spicy notes of the final blend, perfectly nodding to Miami’s vibrant scene.” 

Capturing the playful allure of the city, the 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition is presented in a striking pink flagon, itself housed in a presentation box adorned with an illustrative design depicting glamorous post-polo match gatherings, set against Miami’s art-deco architecture.

The Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition was unveiled in Palm Beach in April 2024 through a two-day event, including a high-energy polo match at Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, when Malcolm Borwick took to the field in front of a crowd of over 300 guests for the ‘Royal Salute Polo Challenge in Support of Sentebale’. The event brought together guests championing the charity’s work supporting vulnerable people and their communities to address issues of health, wealth inequality and climate resilience in Lesotho and Botswana. Royal Salute has been a long-term supporter of the charity which was co-founded in 2006 by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex and the Prince Seeiso of Lesotho.

The Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition is available in limited quantities at specialist retailers globally at an SRP of $190 USD.

GSN’s Remarks: Mild peat on the nose with a fine, high crispness and snap to the perfume. A fair amount of wood lends it a spice driven bent that has just a touch of sweetness. On the tongue, the liquid is incredibly smooth and even with a warm, inviting brightness that has a deep rumble of sweet/spice character. The body is light with a lot of the flavors going towards the upper palate and front of the mouth. A medium-long finish, ending on an oaky touch. A very well done adult Scotch that has been bottled at the most opportune moment. GSN Rating: A

For more information go to: Royal Salute

#RoyalSalute

GSN Review: Rémy Martin XO Night

The House of Rémy Martin recently announced the launch of XO Night, a new addition to the Rémy Martin portfolio created for night-time celebrations. It’s an invitation to embrace the vibrant energy of the night, to savor every moment, and to revel in the possibilities that lie ahead. Whether enjoying XO Night at a high-end club, a lively rooftop bar, or a chic lounge, each sip of XO Night sets the stage for unforgettable experiences.

Rémy Martin XO Night dials up the party in a mirrored black decanter. Its signature solarised shape radiates light from every angle. Holographic flashes and UV details ignite it further, with a minimalistic design that pumps up the XO stamp and catches the Rémy Martin Centaur in action.

“At Rémy Martin, we’re thrilled to unveil our latest venture into the dynamic world of nightlife. With XO Night, we aim to redefine the traditional nightcap and show how a night “uncapped” with Rémy Martin has endless possibilities,” says Nicolas Beckers, Chief Executive Officer, Rémy Cointreau Americas. “Through innovative rituals and immersive experiences, we’re engaging our consumers in unforgettable ways, inviting them to unlock new ways to enjoy the night.”

Rémy Martin will bring XO Night to life with activations throughout 2024 in key markets across the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Miami. These cities are renowned for their dynamic nightlife scenes, making them the perfect backdrop to unveil XO Night.

GSN’s Remarks: Vivacious nose of deep oak, high wine spirit, light caramel, soft vanilla and evocative saddle leather. On the palate, the flavor is exquisitely expressive, with warming notes of red fruit preserves, blackberry, pear, and light baking spice, which gradually transforms into a wood forward, dry tannic closure. The body is medium-light, and the finish is remarkably long. This is a Cognac that has character and stage presence to spare. A terrific sipping spirit that will also make a killer Sazerac. GSN Rating: A+

For more information go to: Remy Martin

#RemyMartin #RemyMartinXO #RemyMartinXONight

GSN Review: WYNC THC & CBD Infused Seltzers

WYNK, a hemp-derived, THC and CBD infused seltzer can be purchased online in over 30 states and is now available in a growing number of traditional adult beverage retailers.

As the “Cali sober” trend gains traction, WYNK presents a guilt-free alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages, creating a balanced, light and social buzz. With flavors like Black Cherry Fizz, Lime Twist and Juicy Mango, WYNK Seltzer offers a familiar-taste and refreshing experience for consumers. WYNK contains zero sugar and is made with a 1:1 ratio of naturally occurring, hemp-derived THC to CBD. There are two dosage options, 2.5mg and 5mg per can.

“The WYNK team is focused on creating a new, safe and exciting adult-beverage category that aligns with shifting consumer trends,” said Phil McFarland, General Manager, THC Beverages at WHBCo. “By working with age-gated retailers and utilizing precision dosing technology, we are ushering in a cultural turning point where regulations are thoughtfully crafted to provide a sensible framework for this category.”

Note: GSN was sent a variety of the 2.5mg flavors.

GSN’s Remarks: These are just the right size for those who don’t want to overindulge. They come in perfectly sized 7.5oz cans with just 2.5mg each of THC and CBD. After finishing a can you will be relaxed, mellow and still awake enough to keep the party going. What we especially liked were the flavor choices, which offer just enough of a hint of lime, tangerine, black cherry or mango without any sugary sweetness. Our favorite flavor is the black cherry, followed by the mango, lime and tangerine. But, they are all tasty. There is a slight grassy character from the terpines, but it is not in any way distracting. The bubbles are tight and small, giving your tongue a tickling sensation as a good seltzer should. These are great for backyard parties, camping trips or during a D&D session. Effects kick in after about 10-15 minutes make for a true “happy hour”. GSN Rating: A-

For more information go to: Drink WYNK

#WYNK

GSN Review: Nc’nean Single Cask Aon 18-642 Organic Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Organic and female-founded Scotch whisky distillery, Nc’nean, just released its first single cask bottled exclusively for the US market following the success of the brand arriving in America last year.

Founded by Annabel Thomas in 2017, Nc’nean is the only certified fully organic whisky distillery in Scotland. Nc’nean’s Aon series pays homage to its Gaelic roots, with Aon meaning ‘one’ in the ancient language. Aon 18-642 is a first-fill ex-Bourbon cask  filled in the independent distillery’s second year of production, and the liquid has been bottled at cask strength. Each chosen cask for the Aon series of expressions is handpicked for its flavour, uniqueness and unrepeatability; Aon 18-642 is no different with only 244 bottles made available.

Powered by 100% renewable energy, Nc’nean has verified net zero carbon emissions from its own operations. Its bottles are made from 100% recycled glass – a first in the Scotch Whisky industry – which saves 40% of the carbon emissions compared with using virgin glass.

Nc’nean Single Cask Aon 18-642 Organic Single Malt Scotch Whisky, priced from $130.00, is currently available in specialty stores in CA, with bottles launching into selected spirits stores in AR, AZ, CO, NY, NJ, CT, MD, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, MN, NV, OR, TN, TX and WA very soon.

Nc’nean’s flagship expression, its Organic Single Malt Scotch Whisky, priced from $67.00, is available in specialty retailers across the United States including various Binny’s, Spec’s and Total Wine stores, as well as available for online shipping via Reserve Bar.

Note: GSN received a bottle of the Organic Single Malt Scotch for review.

Nc’nean Organic Single Malt Scotch Whisky – GSN’s Remarks: Nice welcoming peaty nose with a light touch overlaying the rich, malty base. Entry is quite smooth and even, with a terrific mix of smoke and grain. The body is medium-light and the overall approach is soft and feathery on the tongue. The flavors are well matched to one another with wood, peat, malt and cogeners all working in harmony. A nice, even fade leaving a lingering honey taste on the palate. Well done. GSN Rating: A

For more information go to: NCNEAN

#Nc’nean

GSN Review: DASSAI Blue Type 35 Sake

DASSAI Blue, the U.S. extension of Japanese sake brand DASSAI, announces the release of the brand’s newest sake: DASSAI Blue Type 35. This Junmai Daiginjo sake is the latest to be produced at their newly opened, 55,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art DASSAI Blue Sake Brewery in Hyde Park, NY. Unlike previous releases, which used Yamada Nishiki rice sourced from Japan, Type 35 will be made with Yamada Nishiki rice cultivated in the U.S., in a first-ever collaboration with Isbell Farms, a sustainable, family-owned rice farm located in Central Arkansas.

Yamada Nishiki has long stalks that are prone to falling over, making it a difficult variety to cultivate and requiring the experience and expertise of farmers. The team at DASSAI Blue has exported seeds from Japan and spent four years cultivating this rice with Isbell Farms. Yamada Nishiki is considered the gold standard of sake rice and is the only variety used in DASSAI and DASSAI Blue’s sake making process. Type 35 reinforces the brand’s commitment and dedication to craft U.S.-made sake with Hudson Valley water and now Arkansas rice.

DASSAI Blue’s Chief Technology Officer, Naoya Matsufuji, says they have successfully created a sake that stands shoulder to shoulder with the sake made from Japanese rice but noted there is a difference in the rice. The Arkansas Yamada Nishiki is harder and takes longer to break down while fermenting, so the DASSAI Blue team has had to alter each step little by little to ensure the high level of excellence required by DASSAI Blue. For the Arkansas rice, they have had to use a stronger koji and increase how long they steam the rice. It is this reliance on close analysis that allows DASSAI Blue to embrace new things while maintaining its high level of quality.

The DASSAI Blue Sake Brewery is located at 5 St Andrew Rd, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The tasting room is open for tours and tastings by reservation only through Tock, as well as walk-ins for by-the-glass purchases. Please check out www.DASSAI.com for the hours of operation. DASSAI Blue Type 35 will be sold at the brewery, Union Square Wine & Spirits, Ambassador Wine & Spirits, Rolling Barrel Wine & Liquor, and other retailers and restaurants throughout New York for an SRP of $51.

GSN’s Remarks: Another winner from DASSAI. Mellow, ultra smooth and flavorful, this is a high quality sake with a joyful spirit. Semi creamy, lightly chalky and full of light fruitiness, the rice type and milling shines. What is remarkable is that this is a first for US based sakes by using proprietary Arkansas grown rice. The sheer dedication that DASSAI uses for their products puts them high above other American Kuras. We really enjoyed this sake with a meal of cold rice noodles, seaweed salad and sashimi. Make your next meal special with a chilled bottle of DASSAI Blue Type 35. GSN Rating: A+

For more information go to: DASSAI

#Dassai

GSN Review: Pamos Cannabis Spirit & Cocktails

Pamos represents the convergence of cocktail culture and cannabis culture. Pamos speaks to conscious consumers who want to satisfy their social needs without sacrificing their wellness goals. Crafted in California with premium, locally sourced ingredients, a single Pamos serving has 10 calories with less than 2 grams of sugar and comes in two different strengths that cater to both new and experienced cannabis consumers. Pamos provides an alternative to both traditional spirits and existing cannabis products, giving consumers an outlet to unwind in a format that is not only familiar and socially inclusive but one that many find less intimidating.

Available in a 750ml bottle with 16 total servings, Pamos Spirit is measured by the shot, allowing people to accurately and comfortably consume at their own pace. Both versions are light on THC and CBD with the “Micro Dose” featuring 2mg of THC and 2mg of CBD per serving, while the “Low Dose” features 6mg of THC and 2mg of CBD per serving. The “Micro Dose” costs $60, and the “Low Dose” is $65. The THC in Pamos Spirit provides a sense of calm, while the CBD is included to relax one’s body. A curated variety of plant terpenes are responsible for some of the beverage’s aromatic and flavor diversity. It serves to balance and uplift while creating a light, bright and social buzz. Unlike many cannabis edibles on the market, Pamos is absorbed quicker by the body, which results in a gentle buzz that one can begin to enjoy within 10-15 minutes, akin to a traditional cocktail.

Pamos also has three RTD spritz cocktails which come in 2mg, 5mg and 10mg versions. Flavors include Raspberrry Long Island Iced Tea, Peach & Guava Bellini, and Tropical Mai Tai. 

“Whether hosting a dinner, enjoying a warm sunset, or long nights with good friends, Pamos is the perfect drink for those looking to get the most out of the moment without regretting it in the morning,” said David Mukpo, co-founder and CEO of Pamos. “We believe people are looking for healthier ways to unwind and enjoy themselves, and we are committed to providing consumers with a high-quality product that does exactly that while mimicking the familiar form of a spirit.”

GSN’s Remarks: We received a bottle of the Micro Dose Pamos Spirit which is a welcome change from some higher THC beverages we’ve reviewed which can make you feel snoozy after an hour. The spirit has a semi-tropical orange taste somewhat reminiscent of an orange creamsicle in character without actually containing any dairy. What we especially liked, is that you can dose the amount of THC and CBD you want with a simple graduated jigger. Maybe you want just a half ounce as a nightcap to help you sleep more soundly. Or maybe you want to really loosen up and make yourself a large tropical cocktail for the evening using 6 ounces of spirit. In either case, it takes the guess work out of dosing, and the spirit (unlike the spritzes) will not go flat if you decided to not finish it in one sitting. We experimented with differing doses and found our sweet spot quickly.

The spritzes are pretty good overall, with most tending to be on the sweeter side, but not overly cloying. Perhaps the Mai Tai is a one drink expression. It has an interesting almond like character that can be somewhat unexpected and distracting, depending on how much you enjoy nutty flavors in a cocktail. The Peach/Guava Bellini hit all the right notes and had a very natural flavor that instantly puts you in mind of brunch. The Raspberry LIIT was the best of the bunch with a fresh brewed tea flavor with hints of lemon and plenty of fruit flavor. Plus, the bubbles are a fun touch. You can easily drink each out of the can, or carefully pour into a Collins Glass with ice and a straw for a long drink.

Pamos Spirit Rating: A-

Pamos Long Island Iced Tea Spritz Rating: A-

Pamos Bellini Spritz Rating: B+

Pamos Mai Tai Spritz Rating: B

For more information go to: Pamos

#Pamos

GSN Review: Öömrang Wines

Öömrang, Inc., a boutique winery in Washington State, is making waves in the wine industry with its unique blend of German tradition and Pacific Northwest winemaking. Owned by Christine and Edmund Stoecklein, Öömrang has been named the 2023 Winery of the Year by the PR%F Awards.

Located midway between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., on the scenic 85-acre Öömrang Hüs farm, the winery specializes in rare German white wine varietals and European-style eau de vie. These products are a reflection of the Stoeckleins’ family history and their dedication to crafting wines that resonate with their German roots.

The winery’s approach combines traditional techniques with sustainable practices. The vineyards benefit from the region’s unique micro-climate. The limited production model underscores their focus on quality over quantity, producing exclusive wines that appeal to a discerning clientele.

“Öömrang is not just a winery; it’s a story of passion, heritage, and a relentless pursuit of quality,” says Edmund Stoecklein. “We’re honored to be recognized as the Winery of the Year and are excited to share our unique wines that are a true labor of love.”

2021 Estate Kerner (Puget Sound) $64.99 – GSN’s Remarks: Light gold color in the glass, with notes of fresh mango, pineapple, light wood, vanilla cake and slight green pepper. Smooth entry with a round mouthfeel, leading to a semi-tart, curiously milky flavor that is both welcoming and cheery. I’m reminded in some ways of lemon meringue pie. A well done, pleasant, and refreshing summer style wine. GSN Rating: A-

2020 Estate Müller-Thurgau (Puget Sound) $64.99 – GSN’s Remarks: Light yellow diamond coloration. Somewhat dark, pensive nose of grape, young oak, green apple, lychee and kiwi. On the palate, the fruit is forward, but more rounded and toned down than the Kerner release. Similar in body, there is a creaminess that lingers on the tongue, making this an excellent pairing for soft cheeses. The oak lingers at the back of the mouth, creating a peppery finish. A fantastic release that shines with personality. GSN’s Rating: A+

2020 Estate Siegerrebe (Puget Sound) $64.99 – GSN’s Remarks: Extremely pale yellow appearance. Engaging, fruity and vibrant nose of lychee, ripe pear, sprightly grape and faint hints of apple. Ultra smooth entry, with a whisper soft approach. Very reserved and understated overall, with the fruitiness of the grape hitting a single note. The mouthfeel is round and has a slight burnt caramel character. The finish is long and ends with a slight tannic note. Very easy going and a sure crowd pleaser. GSN’s Rating: A-

For more information go to: Öömrang

#Öömrang

GSN Alert: New Spirits Releases 4.26.24

BLOOD OATH BOURBON PACT NO. 10
Blood Oath is an annual limited edition release crafted by Lux Row Master Distiller & Blender John Rempe. For Pact No. 10, Rempe blended three batches of Kentucky straight bourbon. Then the blend received two finishes — the first was in Cabernet Franc wine barrels and the second in Merlot wine barrels. As with all Pact releases, this was bottled at 98.6 proof (48.3% ABV). For this limited edition release there were 51,000 bottles produced with availability beginning April 2024. (SRP $129.99)

JEPTHA CREED 6 YEAR WHEATED BOURBON
This release from Jeptha Creed is the oldest release to date for the ground-to-glass distillery which was founded in 2016. It’s made with a mash bill recipe of 75% Bloody Butcher Corn — a non-GMO heirloom varietal grown on the family farm — 20% malted wheat, and 5% malted barley. After 6 years of aging, it was bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV). Available online via the distillery’s website and at select US retailers beginning May 2, 2024. (SRP $59.99)

OLD POTRERO HOTALING’S BOTTLED IN BOND RYE WHISKEY 16 YEAR (2024 RELEASE)
First released on the 100th anniversary of the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake that destroyed most of the city but spared A.P. Hotaling’s whiskey warehouse, this was re-released in 2024 on the 118th anniversary of the event. The whiskey was pot-distilled from 100% malted rye and was aged in once used, charred fine grain American oak barrels for 16 years. This is a bottled in bond release so it follows the rules of this designation including being bottled at 50% ABV. Only 432 bottles produced, availability begins April 18, 2024. (SRP $199/700ml)

TEQUILA ZARPADO AÑEJO
First introduced in 2021, Tequila Zarpado is a small batch tequila brand in the Latitude Beverage Co. portfolio. Made from 100% blue weber agave from Los Valles, Jalisco, the tequila is produced at a family-owned distillery. This añejo expression is aged for over a year in a combination of ex-bourbon and French oak barrels. Available for purchase online and at select markets across the US as of April 2024. (SRP $37.99)

WHISTLEPIG THE BADÖNKÅDONK
The Badönkådonk is Whistlepig’s follow up to the brand’s 2023 “super-aged” North American single malt The Béhôlden. Like that release, this expression was distilled in Canada at the “first single malt distillery in North America.” Here, the single malt was matured for 25 years in new American oak barrels followed by a finishing in California’s Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon wine barrels, also made from American oak. Bottled as a single barrel release, The Badönkådonk will be available in limited quantities annually beginning April 2024 at Whistlepig.com and select retailers and on-premise accounts nationally. (SRP $1,999.99)

GSN Review: Ardbeg Spectacular

Held annually on the final Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt (Fèis Ìle), Ardbeg Day is a global celebration of all things Ardbeg. This year, festivities will take a show-stopping turn at the Distillery and around the world on Saturday 1^st June, as Ardbeg marks the occasion with one of its most eclectic experiments to date – Ardbeg Spectacular.

The Distillery’s first whisky aged in port casks, this limited edition showcases flavors never before tasted at Ardbeg. Taking inspiration from the whisky’s dark cavalcade of flavors, the Islay single malt is inviting fans to join its very own “Dark Circus” on Ardbeg Day. For one day only, at the Distillery and at local events across the globe, whisky fans can delve into an offbeat and smoky Ardbeggian take on the circus, through intriguing tastings, outlandish games and an extravaganza of peaty delights.

Ardbeg Spectacular will be available to buy worldwide from Ardbeg Embassies, whisky specialists, online retailers, and from the Distillery Visitor Centre.

For more news on Ardbeg Day 2024 and all things Ardbeg, smoky malt whisky fans can join the Ardbeg Committee at ardbeg.com/en-gb/committee

GSN’s Remarks: Heavy creosote nose with an intensity of smoked peat, reminiscent of a freshly lit cigar. There is also an underlying sweetness from the malt which adds body and warmth. Flavorwise, the initial tasting leans sweet and malty, with caramel and brickle and a slight port wine joviality. The haze of smokiness carries over on the tongue as well, giving it a luxurious elegance and refined attitude. It’s definitely in the vein of classic Ardbeg, but the port shines through here, making this a welcome sideshow to the portfolio. GSN Rating: A

For more information go to: Ardbeg

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