GSN Review: Portofino Dry Gin

Portofino Dry Gin was created with a passion for the Italian village of Portofino. 21 botanicals are used, each one selected for their aromatic properties. Juniper, lemon, lavender, rosemary, marjoram, sage, iris and rose are combined with other local ingredients that evoke the taste of traditional Ligurian cuisine. Handpicked in a botanical sanctuary on the hills of Portofino. The region’s unique microclimate allows lush Mediterranean vegetation to grow all year round, and each botanical is ripened by the sea breezes and warm sun of the Italian Riviera.

Produced by an antique Italian distillery, each batch of Portofino Dry Gin is made using a combination of traditional and innovative methods: from an old Italian copper pot still used to distill local liqueur and grappa to a state-of-the- art technology that produces vacuum distillation preserving the aromas from Portofino Dry Gin’s most delicate botanicals.

Distilled and bottled in Italy from Italian wheat alcohol, Portofino Dry Gin is gluten-free and is exclusively made using natural ingredients; without added sugar, artificial flavors or preservatives.

GSN’s Remarks: Warm and bright citrus greet the palate, with a fresh and lively garden-like portfolio of herbs and flowers playing a strong supporting role. The juniper of course takes center stage, with a bracing and pine-like flavor that lasts long in the finish. There are hints of spice that tickle the tastebuds as well, giving this gin a memorable ending. We like this one in fruit forward cocktails and punches. GSN Rating: A-

For more information go to: Portofino Gin

#PortofinoDryGin

GSN Review: Casa del Sol Tequila

Casa Del Sol taps dynamic talent with authentic Mexican roots, including Alejandra Pelayo, Casa Del Sol’s head of production, protégé and goddaughter of the late Francisco Alcaraz, tequila pioneer and master distiller/creator of Patrón. Additionally, Mariana Padilla, a Mexican-based artisan and daughter of Paco Padilla, cultural ambassador of Jalisco is the brand’s Artesana Tequilera, who brings generations of rich culture and artistic heritage into Casa Del Sol’s identity and product development.

Where most tequila brands source whiskey barrels from the United States, Casa Del Sol partnered with Laurent Martell, the 9th generation of the Martell family in France, and sourced Cognac barrels handcrafted with French Limousin Oak. Casa Del Sol has a unique barrel aging process that results in a distinct flavor and aromatic profile where old world craftsmanship meets new world artistry, infusing Mexican tradition with notes of French heritage. 

Casa Del Sol prioritizes social, economic and environmental practices which includes providing healthcare opportunities to its Jimadors, exclusively partnering with a 100% Mexican-owned distillery that has been awarded the distinctive ESR® (Empresa Socialmente Responsable) award, and prioritizes the sustainable cultivation of agave. The brand is also currently developing programs to help level the playing field for women in the Altos de Jalisco region, who have historically had limited access to services and resources to improve both their personal and professional development.

Casa Del Sol offers three distinctive sipping tequilas – Blanco, Reposado and Añejo, each with a recommended time of day to enjoy them:

• Blanco: Best Sipped with Sun – Blanco was crafted to deliver the pure essence of agave with its smooth and complex body. GSN’s Remarks: Light and fresh with a fairly heavy vanilla forward taste. Easy going, entry level tequila that is ideal for mixing. The agave seems to be somewhat shy, and the overall effect is of a barely aged spirit. GSN Rating: B+
• Reposado: Best Sipped at Sundown – Reposado rests for a minimum of four months in Select French Oak and Cognac barrels handcrafted with French Limousin Oak. GSN’s Remarks: Here, the vanilla has moved into caramel and butterscotch territory. The Cognac influence comes through with crisp, bright high notes of brandy sweetness, adding an unusual dessert-like character. Again, the agave seems subdued, but the flavors work well together. GSN Rating: A-
• Añejo: Best Sipped at Sunset – Matured for more than 14 months in the same barrel aging process. GSN’s Remarks: The extra aging adds more spice and tannin to the affair. The sweetness is also tempered, while adding a dry and more pointed brandy coloration. A definite sippig tequila, this is still different than any other tequila on the market. The finish is long and leaves a clean palate. GSN Rating: A-

For more information go to: Shaw-Ross International Importers

#casadelsoltequila

GSN Review: Producer Mezcal Arroqueño

Producer Mezcal, the mezcal brand from Oaxaca recently announced the launch of their newest expression, Arroqueño, which joins the Tepeztate and Ensamble expressions launched in late 2021. 

Arroqueño is a wild-grown variety agave native to Oaxaca, famous for its long maturation time, massive size, and increasing rarity. Producer Mezcal’s expression of Arroqueño derives its distinctly complex flavor profile from a variety of factors, including variations in the plants’ maturity stages, terpene compounds resulting from fluctuations in weather conditions and the effects of terroir over many years, and the preferred cooking and fermentation methods employed by Santos. There are only 800, 750 ml-sized bottles available in the U.S. market.

The Arroqueño (agave oaxacensis) is grown, harvested, crushed, fermented, and distilled entirely in Ejutla La Noria Sec. 13 by maestro Juan Pacheco Santos. After harvesting plants averaging upwards of 17 years in age, the split agave hearts are roasted for 72 hours in a traditional horno (earthen oven) using huamuchil wood. After resting for a brief period, the agave is crushed using a traditional bull-pulled stone tahona wheel, then goes on to ferment for 8-10 days in cypress wood (sabino or ahuelhuete). Once the fermentation process is complete, the liquid is distilled using a refrescador, a distillation method which allows for two distillations during a single pass through the still.

“We achieve creative expression of terroir using a mix of traditional methods, starting with slowly cooking the agave hearts whole, allowing for wood smoke to circulate evenly and build caramelization and enhancement of the agave’s flavors,” says Arroqueño’s maestro mezcalero, Juan Pacheco Santos. “Additionally, the palenque’s open-air fermentation vessels are surrounded by fruit trees, which contribute natural yeast strains and pollen to the mash, resulting in added nuance to the final mezcal.” 

As a central tenet of their production philosophy, Producer Mezcal is passionate about supporting and investing in the community infrastructure and individuals who contribute toward crafting their artisanal agave spirits and curbing the environmental impact on its native Oaxaca as it relates to harvesting rare, wild agaves such as Arroqueño.

“Each expression of Producer Mezcal tells the story of the maestros who carefully craft each mezcal,” says Carlos Sada, Head of Operations for Producer Mezcal. “In the same way a musician, painter, or photographer capture emotion through art, our mezcals are a medium through which the maestro can creatively express the story of Oaxaca.”

GSN’s Remarks: A single sip, and you are transported into the heart of Oaxaca. Wood fire, sweet agave, slight fruitiness and a mineral terroir that comes from the water that brings this spirit down to proof. One of the most authentic tasting mezcals that we’ve enjoyed over the years. The flavors of each element are in total balance with one another, with the end result being a smooth and vibrant tasting experience. One of the key elements is the open air fermentation, which inevitably brings a unique touch to every batch. Very well done, and a testament to the skills of maestro mezcalero, Juan Pacheco Santos. GSN Rating: A+

For more information go to: Producer Mezcal

#producermezcal #producerarroqueno

GSN Review: Opihr Spices of the Orient Gin

The name Opihr, pronounced {o-peer}, was inspired by a mysterious location in the Orient, made famous in the time of King Solomon as a source of great riches and exotic spices.

Opihr Oriental Spiced Gin is naturally flavoured with botanicals selected by Opihr’s Master Distiller, from countries along the ancient Spice Route. The hand-picked spices include coriander from Morocco, black pepper from India and cubeb berries from Indonesia. These botanicals are then infused in high quality grain spirit from one of England’s oldest distilleries, to create a unique spiced gin.

Opihr’s Master Distiller says: “Whilst crafting Opihr Oriental Spiced Gin, I took my inspiration from visits to the Orient and various countries along the Ancient Spice Route. I kept an image of the spice markets in mind while deciding on the spices and botanicals to include in Opihr Oriental Spiced Gin. I hope that when people enjoy the gin, they too are reminded of the vibrant aromas, tastes, noises and colours of these exotic spice markets.”

GSN’s Remarks: At first sip, the gin seems very traditional, with perhaps more citrus than a typical London Dry, but I soon realized that this was only the gateway into the heart of the gin. Laying beneath the juniper and lemon zest, is a small furnace of warming spices and percolating heat. Peppery, yes, and with a lasting gingery texture. In fact, the heat goes on for several minutes. But not to fear, the overall effect is cooling. In a cocktail, this gin works well with curries, vindaloos and masalas. Try some more citrus forward libations to add a tropical color. Very nicely done. GSN Rating: A-

For more information go to: Opihr

#opihrgin

GSN Review: Clonakilty Single Batch Double Oak Finish Whiskey

Distilled in a small coastal Irish town and matured in a warehouse perched overlooking the Atlantic ocean, Clonakilty’s Single Batch Double Oak Finish Whiskey is the flagship of Clonakilty Distillery’s Cask Finish Series. Made with premium Irish whiskey, Clonakilty’s Single Batch Double Oak Finish Whiskey is matured in ex-bourbon casks and finished in virgin American oak. Then, finally in NEOC or ex-red wine European casks.

The Scully family have farmed this coastal land for nine successive generations. Their mission is to create Clonakilty Whiskey utilizing the best resources that nature has to offer: prime land, pristine water and salt sea air. The perfect ingredients for a maritime distillery. The family grow their own heritage barley on the family farm in the shadow of the Galley Head lighthouse. Centuries of sea mist, soft rain and ocean spray provide a complexity to the soil that permeates through to each individual grain.

Sustainability and environmental commitments are taken very seriously and the distillery is a
member of Bord Bia’s Origin Green, an independently certified commitment to sustainable corporate
practice. They love and protect their maritime neighbours and are proud sponsors of Whale and
Dolphin conservation, a global maritime conservation initiative.

GSN’s Remarks: Light, malt forward and slightly sweetened from the wine barrel aging, this is really a lovely and exceptional Irish whiskey. Warm, round, smooth and full of conviviality. The salinity you might expect from a maritime distillery is present, but only in the same way a skilled chef or mixologist would use. It’s easy to see that the master distiller uses the same approach in terms of aging, and blending the final product. This is just one pleasant experience from beginning to end. Sláinte! GSN Rating: A++

For more information go to: Clonakilty Distillery

#clonakilty

GSN Review: Novo Fogo Barrel Aged Cachaça

Novo Fogo Barrel Aged Cachaca, has been aged for 2 years in sanded and toasted American Oak ex-bourbon casks. The distillery is located in the town of Morretes, Parana State in the Atlantic Rainforest. The distillery uses modern equipment but everything is done organically and most processes are done by hand. These include the cutting of the sugar cane with a machete. The cachaça is fermented using yeast cultivated from the estates own sugar cane. The “cane wine” as they call it, is then distilled in Copper Pot Stills, each batch produces around 1200 litres of spirit. Of this only around 130 litres – the heart of the distillate is used in the cachaça. The resulting spirit, is then aged in Oak Barrels before being bottled at 40% ABV. 

GSN’s Remarks: Slightly sweet and funky, the oak and bourbon add a somewhat fruity and nutty character to the distillate. Still light and recognizable as a cachaça, this expression will add more character to your cocktails in much the same way that an aged rum would. More body, more depth and more flavor. Try this in an Old-Fashioned or as the base in a faux-tropical libation. Novo Fogo knows what they are doing. GSN Rating: A-

For more information go to: Novo Fogo

#novofogo

GSN Review: Cascade Moon 15 Year Old Barrel Proof

To many whisky aficionados, the term “Barrel Proof” is synonymous with high proof spirits. Cascade Hollow Distilling Co.’s General Manager and Distiller Nicole Austin is challenging that perception with the release of Cascade Moon 15 Year Old Barrel Proof, which launched early this summer in select U.S. markets.

The new Cascade Moon offering originally entered the barrel at 115 proof, where it was aged for 15 years in Cascade Hollow’s single story rickhouses. As a result of the curious conditions experienced by these barrels, the proof of the offering dropped to 79.8, below the minimum standard to be classified as a whisky.

Since the line’s inception in 2020, the mission of the Cascade Moon Series has been to further conversations around the American whisky category while bringing consumers a variety of beautiful and small-batch liquids. As a surprise twist on barrel proof, this Cascade Moon release offers drinkers a unique tasting experience by bringing a barrel proof spirit distilled by grain to consumers and providing an opportunity for more discussion around the relationship between proof and quality in the category.

The release of Cascade Moon 15 Year Old Barrel Proof comes off the heels of Cascade Moon 13 Year Old Rye. Overall, the Cascade Moon Series pays homage to the distillery’s history, while continuing to set the tone for the future of the whisky category. 

GSN’s Remarks: Remarkably fruity, almost apple-like flavor profile. The body is light, and the oak tannins only come into play about mid-way through the journey. We are reminded of an eau-de-vie. The familiar “burn” of an 80 proof spirit is softer and more reticent, which is not a bad thing. Indeed, this spirit is deisgned for enjoying small sips as is, as opposed to watering it down over ice. Unique, and a rare experience to be able to try a barrel proof spirit that is entirely appraochable without dilution. We applaud Cascade Moon for releasing what could have been seen as a generous loss to the angel’s share. GSN Rating: A-

For more information go to: Cascade Moon Editions

#cascademoon

GSN Review: Gin Mare Capri

Gin Mare, the first-ever Mediterranean Gin, which launched in 2010, has officially released the special edition Gin Mare Capri which pays homage to the majestic island of Capri, where the “Dolce Vita” lifestyle, the gastronomy, climate, land, and sea are beloved by travelers from around the world.

The gin is made with Italian bergamot from Calabria and lemons from Capri, along with Gin Mare’s four principal botanicals – Arbequina olive from Spain, rosemary from Greece, thyme from Turkey, and Italian sweet basil. The production process starts with a French barley base, combined with a maceration for 48 hours and independent distillation process of each botanical, finalized by its signature blending process. The Capri lemons are peeled by hand and then macerated for 12 months in small aluminum tanks.

Gin Mare Capri’s packaging is inspired by the colors and textures of the Mediterranean Sea, where every single detail enhances the craft behind the product; from the cork stopper that reinforces a commitment to sustainability, to the label made of cloth fabric, and the shape and texture of the bottle that reflects the waves and sea erosion and the passage of time.

“Gin Mare Capri was conceived as a tribute to one of the most iconic spots in Italy, sharing a hint of its unique citrus aromas, breathtaking landscapes, and vivid colors. The island of Capri’s natural wonders merged with its unique Italian style, fresh gastronomy and array of aromas make it one of the most captivating places in the world, which has inspired Gin Mare Capri’s recipe, bottle and meaning,” says Gin Mare CEO Alfonso Morodo.

GSN’s Remarks: The citrus is immediate and palate forward, bringing a lively and fresh lemon essence. The basil peeks through after a minute, and the juniper adds a cooling effect at the tail end. The body is medium soft, with a smooth and jovial entry. We particularly enjoyed the brightness and Mediterranean flavor of the botanicals. This gin is exceptionally mouthwatering and is perfect for summery cocktails. GSN Rating: A+

For more information go to: Gin Mare

#ginmare #ginmarecapri

GSN Review: Hopfheiser Old Time Lager

A modern interpretation of the Hopfheiser Brewing Company’s American light lager from 1935, this
reinvigorated brand brings the beer back to the District of Columbia for the first time in nearly 100 years. This ain’t your dad’s beer — or maybe it is.

Brewed with North American 2-row barley and flaked corn, Old Time Lager boasts a crisp, dry finish with a light body. Available in 12oz cans and 16oz tallboys, with a nostalgic vibe and a crowd pleasing flavor, Old Time Lager is an approachable, anytime-friendly beer. 

GSN’s Remarks: A solid American styled lager. Light, refreshing, slightly creamy mouthfeel, and with more character than you will find in mass produced beers. We really enjoyed the sense of time traveling back to a simpler, albeit different era. GSN Rating: A

For more information go to: Old Time Lager

#oldtimelager

GSN Review: Vestal Vodka

“Once upon a time, vodka from the Slavic lands of its origin had taste, character and a spirit of place,” comments William Borrell, founder of Vestal Vodka. “Vestal Vodka is working to reclaim that heritage and eschew the largely tasteless industrial spirit that currently overwhelms the category.”

Vestal Vodka is distilled only once to capture and retain the intrinsic aromas and characteristics that give each of their small batches the deep sense of time and place unique to the brand. This practice ensures the singular qualities imparted by the carefully chosen strains of potato, grown in the rich soils of Northern Poland, are kept intact. Using a mixture of early harvest Asterix, Innovator, and Russet Burbank Potato varieties, responsibly grown on family farms, they are able to recreate the historic vodka once widely produced in the region. 

Also currently available is the Unfiltered release. This vodka is made from a single harvest of young Miranda potatoes and distilled once only in an eight plate hybrid still,  then rested in stainless steel open casks for nearly five years, allowing it to mellow and soften. 

The Black Cherry expression—newest member of the line—uses Polish black cherries harvested near the Vistula River. The cherries are macerated directly in the spirit.

Vestal Polish Potato Vodka – GSN’s Remarks: Smooth, vanilla forward, creamy and full bodied. Light notes of caramel cream, pepper, and ginger heat. A vodka that speaks its mind and has penty of personality to go around. GSN Rating: A

Vestal Unfiltered Vodka – GSN’s Remarks: Suprisingly, the unfiltered version has a lighter body. Even smoother than the flagship expression, but with fewer sweet notes, and more nutty ones. Peanut brittle, roasted pecan, and hazelnut all come to mind. Some spice and heat are present, but are more subtlely expressed. GSN Rating: A-

Vestal Black Cherry Vodka – GSN’s Remarks: A luscious cherry spirit that has a natural and vibrant flavor. We’ve tasted many cherry vodkas over the years, but this one reigns supreme. Leaning in its favor is that this expression is 80 proof, adding some oomph to the overall flavor. Sweet, but not cloying, the cherry flavor comes through loud and clear with a freshly picked taste. Perfect for everything from adding to desserts, whipped cream, and even a splash in your next Manhattan. This is exceptional. GSN Rating: A++

For more information go to: Vestal Vodka

#vestalvodka

GSN Alert: Seagram’s 7 Gives Back to America’s Dive Bars

Seagram’s 7 Whiskey is partnering with actor and comedian, Iliza Shlesinger, to celebrate Dive Bar Regulars across the Country by picking up their bar tab and giving back to Main Street Alliance with the NEW “Regulars’ Rules” sweepstakes.

As part of the platform, adults (21+) across the US can visit https://www.seagrams7.com/regularsrules to submit their dive bar do’s and don’t’s for a chance to win $700, for the next 700 hours. About every 100 hours, Seagram’s 7 will select a new winner along with a new prompt for the next round–for 7 chances to win.

To help support these small businesses, which include dive bars that have been impacted over the past few years, Seagram’s 7 will donate $7 for every entry (up to $10,000) to Main Street Alliance, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting small businesses including dive bars.

Starting today, the Seagram’s 7 “Regulars’ Rules” National Dive Bar Day Sweepstakes is available for entry on https://www.seagrams7.com/regularsrules until August 5, 2022 (full terms and regulations are available for reference on the Seagram’s website). Until then, fans 21+ can celebrate National Dive Bar Day by entering the sweepstakes before they head on over to their favorite local dive bar.

Seagram’s 7&7 Cocktail Recipe: 

• 1.5 oz Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey
• 5 oz. 7UP
• Slice of lime

How to Make:

• Add Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey and 7UP soda to a highball glass with ice
• Stir Well
• Garnish with a Lime Slice

GSN Review: Quechol Sotol

3 Badge Beverage Corporation recently announced the debut of Quechol Sotol, the newest addition to their Sonoma-based portfolio of wines and spirits. Crafted in small batches from indigenous Dasylirion plants sourced from the Chihuahuan desert in Durango, Quechol is the ultimate expression of sotol – a Mexican spirit who owes its increasing popularity to the explosion in demand for its mezcal and tequila cousins.

“With the agave market showing no signs of slowing, we’ve seen a natural expansion of consumer interest in sotol.” said Sebastiani. “Sotol is an exciting adjacent category to the more widely recognized agave distillates, and we’ve traveled the backroads of Durango to meet the people and understand the history behind this fascinating spirit. Quechol is the result of that exploration.”

Complex and aromatic, sotol is a non-agave-based distillate made from a type of shrub, Dasylirion, which is native to Mexico. Unlike the agave plant that produces tequila and mezcal, Dasylirion is closer to evergreen plants in the asparagus family.

Quechol is made in small batches using time-honored traditions that are passed down from one generation of sotolero to the next. These processes can yield subtle differences in the flavors of each batch, making every bottle of Quechol unique.

Dasylirion plants thrive in dry conditions with extreme climates. Proprietary coas, crafted by Quechol’s sotoleros are used to harvest the piñas. The Dasylirion’s piñas are then cooked in a volcanic rock pit oven and shredded prior to undergoing a natural fermentation without the use of cultivated yeast. After fermentation, the liquid is then distilled twice in copper pot stills to preserve and enhance the natural sotol flavors.

Quechol Sotol is deeply inspired by the spirit’s Aztec origins. “A spirit that soars,” Quechol evokes the radiance expressed in the eloquent poems of Nahuatl tradition. Meaning “precious feather” in the Nahuatl language, quechol was referenced as a divine bird with colorful plumage. Feather workers known as amantecas would often create intricate headdresses for their people from the many colorful birds of their region.

The packaging for Quechol was designed to reflect and honor these divine avian references. The unique bottle shape was inspired by the shape of a spoonbill’s bill – long, flat and curved – while the capsule has a bold turquoise plumage. The smooth earth tone label has added fibers throughout, showcasing the brand mark with waves and grooves similar to that of a feather’s texture. Just below the label, old ancient Aztec poetry is inscribed, unique to each expression.

Quechol Wheeleri Sotol (45.5% ABV) – GSN’s Remarks: Light smokey entry with a sweet anise and fennel penumbra. As it opens up, there are notes of black pepper, sandalwood, mace and roasted chipotle pepper. Refined, yet rustic at the same time, this has a Mexican terroir, but is in a category all its own. This spirit begs to be experimented with in cocktails. GSN Rating: A-

Quechol Texanum Sotol (46.3% ABV) – GSN’s Remarks: More smokey than the Wheeleri, but also more integrated into the whole. Elelments of caramel creams, peanut brittle, green pepper and quite a bit of black pepper make this a spicy dessert-like spirit. The Texanum seems to have more fruit characteristics as well, with plum, fig and cinnamon apple. Overall, this release seems more suited to being a straight sipper, but again, it will make for very expressive cocktails. GSN Rating: A+

For more information go to: 3 Badge

#QuecholSotol #3badge

GSN Review: Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No. 2

Wyoming Whiskey recently announced the release of its limited edition National Parks No. 2 straight bourbon whiskey in tandem with the brand’s continuing partnership with Yellowstone Forever, the official nonprofit partner of Yellowstone National Park. The collaboration was born in celebration of Yellowstone National Park’s 150th anniversary. The Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No. 2 bottle is the second collectible Limited Edition release in an annual National Park series which debuted in 2021. It is now available in Yellowstone National Park and throughout Wyoming. It is also available in select U.S. markets and online from ReserveBar, Flaviar and Caskers.

The inaugural release of Wyoming Whiskey’s National Parks series contributed over $120,000 to the National Park Foundation in 2021. Wyoming Whiskey continues on a steadfast mission to support our nation’s sacred outdoor spaces with this year’s initiative and has committed to donating $150,000 to Yellowstone Forever in the park’s historic 150th year.

March 1, 2022, marked the 150th anniversary of the opening of Yellowstone National Park— the world’s first national park. Yellowstone Forever supports Yellowstone National Park through three main initiatives: Wildlife Forever, Trails Forever, and Here Forever. Wildlife Forever focuses on conservation efforts encompassing all of the species that call the Park home. Trails Forever supports ongoing trail maintenance as well as new initiatives. Here Forever supports the Park on climate and environmental related projects to increase efficiency within the Park and reduce the overall environmental impact. 

For every bottle sold of Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No. 2, Wyoming Whiskey will donate $5 up to a maximum donation of $150,000 based on distributor depletions to support Yellowstone Forever in preserving Yellowstone National Park for the next generation of wonderers, wanderers, and explorers.

The limited edition release is a straight bourbon whiskey made from 68-percent corn, 20-percent wheat, and 12-percent malted barley. Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No. 2 whiskey is bottled at 105 proof. All grains are grown In Wyoming and are non-GMO. The water used to produce Wyoming Whiskey is also sourced from a local limestone aquifer that has not seen the light of day in over 6,000 years.

Later this fall, Wyoming Whiskey will be launching a limited release Single Barrel to continue the celebration. This whiskey will be released in a limited edition run of 180 bottles. 

GSN’s Remarks: This is a delicious whiskey that not only excels in flavor, but in body and mouthfeel. The limestone water comes through loud and clear, adding a depth and roundness, while at the same time a touch of graininess that is quite appealing. The distillate itself is classic, with loads of warm, malt, baking spice, toffee, oak, praline and light pepper. The finish is lighty sweet, but has a tea-like tannic edge, leaving the palate dry and ready for another sip. If you can, grab a bottle of this exceptional release before its gone. GSN Rating: A++

For more information go to: Wyoming Whiskey

#wyomingwhiskey

GSN Review: Mijenta Tequila Blanco

Mijenta, an artisanal small batch tequila from the highlands of Jalisco, is crafted with a commitment to environmental sustainability and support for the local community. Mijenta is inspired by “Mi Gente” meaning “My People” and refers to a collective mindset, a way of being and a community of like-minded people who come together to celebrate life.

The spirit’s unique journey begins with its community of craftsmen and jimadores who have practiced the art and love of harvesting agave over generations. Mijenta is crafted using the highest quality ingredients, including fully mature certified Blue Weber Agave from Mexico’s maguey plants, which are grown in deep red clay soil and are only harvested at their ripest.

Mexico-based Maestra Tequilera, Ana Maria Romero, designed and oversaw the entire creation process, from harvest to bottle. One of the most trusted, respected and awarded tequila authorities in Mexico, Maestra Tequilera Romero brings over 25 years of experience in the tequila industry.

GSN’s Remarks: Quite vegtal on the nose and on the palate. Fresh agave flavor in the forefront, with lighter notes of butterscotch, wood and dark caramel. There are hints of mint, green pepper, black pepper, and toasted marshmallow that appear towards the end of the finish, which is quite long. We like this one neat as a shot or for a leisurely sip. There is a lot of terroir and subtle flavor here that would get buried in a typical Margarita or other citrus based cocktail. We highly recommend! GSN Rating: A

For more information go to: Mijenta Tequila

#mijentatequila