Reviews and Interesting Stuff – Page 4 – Butter, Bourbon, and Other Sins

The Fear of Missing Out

May 3, 2023May 3, 2023Leave a comment

According to a new survey, three in four Americans are experiencing FOODMO — the fear of missing out on new food trends.

green avocado burger — Image Credit: http://www.shutterstock.com/https://www.shutterstock.com/g/magdanatka

The poll of 2,000 Americans who use social media found 77% felt food-related fear of missing out (FOMO), and nearly as many (75%) said they instantly crave food when they see it online.

To prevent the fear of missing out, half of the respondents (57%) have attempted to make recipes they found online, and on average, make four online recipes per month.

Fifty-four percent had their last social media-inspired meal within two weeks previous to taking the survey.

Social Media and Food

According to the survey, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Envy ^TM Apples, social media plays a significant role in the recipes people are drawn to make — on average, people feel the need to post their meal on social six times a month.

Nearly a quarter (24%) said they use YouTube and Facebook the most when it comes to finding trendy food inspiration.

Given the average respondent spends four hours of their day on social media, food content comes across their social at least seven times throughout the day. The average person follows at least 10 food-related accounts on social media as a result.

Some respondents wanted to go above and beyond just looking at food content. Sixty-seven percent would want to become a snack influencer if they had the chance.

“Many people often think you have to compromise taste and flavor in order to eat ‘healthy,’ but this mentality of thinking you have to sacrifice is often what leads us to crave the foods we deem ‘unhealthy’ and drives our FOMO when you see an indulgent snack on social media that you would rather be having,” said Ashley Hawk, dietitian, and Food Network star from the TV show ‘How Healthy Happens.’ “My simple advice to my followers and clients on how to combat this is to start with whole foods that are naturally delicious and use them as the backbone of your recipe.

“For example, instead of going straight for that slice of cheesecake, try a cheesecake dip and use fresh apple slices to dip with it. This allows you to still indulge in the sweet flavors we all crave, but the fiber and other nutrients from the apples will actually allow you to feel satiated and avoid overindulging.”

Healthy vs. Indulgent

bowls of fruits and nuts — Image Credit: http://www.shutterstock.com/https://www.shutterstock.com/g/angelicaann

The survey also revealed a decisive split for whether or not snacks should be healthy or indulgent.

For 61%, healthy recipes are appealing because of their perceived taste, while nearly as many opt for healthy recipes due to how simple they are to make (60%) and how easy it is to share with others (49%).

Meanwhile, 62% like the appeal of “indulgent” recipes — also for being simple to make (61%) and perceived taste (59%). However, 41% who prefer indulgent recipes like their inherent trendiness and Instagramability.

Sixty-nine percent find themselves “liking” and “favoriting” healthy recipes they spot on social media. By comparison, 63% like and favorite the indulgent recipes they see online.

Even when it comes to their own recipes, 73% admitted they spend extra time preparing their meals just to make them more picturesque for social media.

When trying out a new recipe, 46% of respondents enjoyed the meal for themselves but also shared the meal with their family (25%) or friends (10%).

“With searches for healthy recipes being just as popular as searches for indulgent recipes on social media, it’s clear consumers don’t want to miss out on either,” said Cecilia Flores Paez, Head of Marketing at Envy^TM Apples. “There is a real sense of FOMO when it comes to flavor, which is why taste is important to consumers—even when it comes to the purest form of snacks, such as an apple.”

TOP 5 FEELINGS THAT ARISE WHEN PEOPLE SEE FOOD CONTENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

I feel impressed that someone can make that dish – 43%

I feel a sense of accomplishment and pride for the person who made it – 42%

I feel inspired to make my own food – 41%

I feel envious of the person who gets to eat it – 39%

I feel hungry – 35%

TOP 5 TYPES OF FOOD INFLUENCERS PEOPLE FOLLOW

Professional chefs – 50%

Restaurant influencers – 49%

Amateur home cooks – 48%

Baking influencers – 47%

Fitness/health professionals – 45%

Survey methodology:

This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans who use social media was commissioned by Envy^TM Apples between February 8 and February 10, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Batch & Bottle Ready-to-Serve

April 19, 2023October 3, 2026Leave a comment

Batch h& Bottle ready-to-serve cocktails

Batch & Bottle ready-to-serve cocktails are a game-changer in the world of mixology. These premade cocktails allow you to enjoy a perfectly crafted drink without the hassle of measuring ingredients, mixing, and cleaning up. They are convenient, delicious, and offer a high-quality experience comparable to the best cocktail bars.

Convenience

As mentioned, one of the main advantages of Batch & Bottle cocktails is their convenience. You can enjoy a perfectly crafted cocktail without having to leave your home or spend hours measuring and mixing ingredients. They’re perfect for those who don’t have the time or skills to make complex cocktails. All you do is open the bottle, pour it into a glass with ice, and garnish it with a lemon twist or other complementary ingredients. It’s that simple.

Consistency

Another advantage of Batch & Bottle cocktails is their consistency. The taste and quality are consistent from one bottle to the next. This means you always get a high-quality drink that is perfectly balanced. It also eliminates the risk of making mistakes when mixing your own drinks, which can be especially helpful if you are hosting a party or entertaining guests. Now you can talk while hosting and not worry about measuring and counting.

Premium cocktails

In addition to their convenience and consistency, Batch & Bottle cocktails also offer a wide variety of flavors and styles. Choose from classic cocktails like Margarita, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Cosmopolitan. There is something for everyone and the best part is Bottle & Batch chooses high-end spirits to make its cocktails. Enjoy names like Monkey Shoulder, Hendricks, and Glenfiddich in your premium ready-to-serve cocktails.

The Margarita

I was fortunate to receive a lovely gift from Bottle & Batch and enjoy their Milagro Margarita. Let me start by saying there are many nights when I request a margarita from my husband, and he lovingly obliges even though he’s certainly tired. I think he was quite thrilled only to have to open a bottle and pour rather than playing mixologist.

The result was a very pretty cocktail that was delicious. It could be dangerous to keep a lot of these around because they are just that easy. You can see in the picture that the margarita looks like a lot of work went into it; however, it’s one of the easiest drinks we’ve ever made…open and pour.

In conclusion, Batch and Bottle ready-to-serve cocktails are a convenient and tasty option for those who want to enjoy a high-quality drink without the hassle of mixing it themselves. They offer consistency, variety, and convenience, making them perfect for parties, gatherings, or a relaxing night at home.

How to Pair Bordeaux Wine

April 18, 2023October 3, 2026Leave a comment

Are you ready for a delicious journey to the world-renowned wine region of Bordeaux, where centuries of tradition and innovation blend in every bottle?

But wait, there’s more! We’re not only going to explore the different types of Bordeaux wine but also discover the magic of pairing them with the right food to unlock their full potential.

After all, wine is not just a drink; it’s a sensory experience that engages our taste buds, sense of smell, and memories.

The Different Types of Bordeaux Wine

glass of red wine and white wine — Image Credit: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/wine-635373836

Bordeaux region is famous for two main categories: red and white.

Red Bordeaux

Red Bordeaux wine is the most famous and comes to mind first. It’s usually full-bodied and tannic and has notes of black fruit and earthy aromas. The primary red Bordeaux grape varieties are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc.

White Bordeaux

White Bordeaux wine is a delightful surprise that many people overlook. It’s usually light-bodied and crisp and has citrus, green apple, and mineral notes. The primary grape varieties for white Bordeaux wine are Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle, and Semillon.

Food Pairings for Red Bordeaux Wines

steak bites on fork with glass of red wine — Image Credit: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/grilled-ribeye-beef-steak-rosemary-red-1528752221

Red Bordeaux wine is the perfect companion for a hearty meal that can stand up to its boldness.

Red meat: Steak, lamb, and venison dishes are a natural match. The protein and fat in the beef soften the tannins in the wine and enhance its fruity notes.
Roasted vegetables: Mushrooms, eggplant, and bell peppers also complement red Bordeaux wine, as their earthy flavors and textures echo those of the wine.
Hearty stews: Beef bourguignon or coq au vin, which simmer for hours in wine and broth, are also great matches. They make a cozy and satisfying meal that begs for a glass of red Bordeaux wine by the fire.
International cuisine: Red Bordeaux pairs well with spicy dishes like Indian or Mexican cuisine, as the wine’s tannins and fruitiness balance the spice and heat.
Rich sauces: It also works well with creamy sauces like Alfredo or béarnaise, as they soften the wine’s tannins and bring out its fruity notes.

Food Pairings for White Bordeaux Wines

plate of fish with glass of white wine — Image Credit: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/lovely-fish-steak-salad-lemon-white-599152976

Let’s switch gears to the refreshing and crisp white Bordeaux wine. Its light-bodied profile makes it the perfect wine for a sunny day or a light meal.

Seafood: Ocean-inspired meals are a great choice, especially oysters and shellfish, with a briny and delicate flavor that complements the wine’s crisp acidity.
White meat: Chicken is also a great match, as it doesn’t overpower the wine’s subtle notes and provides a light protein source.
Salads: Let’s not forget salads, especially with a tangy vinaigrette dressing that enhances the wine’s citrus notes and adds a refreshing crunch.
Cheese: It also works well with cheese, especially goat cheese or creamy brie, as the acidity of the wine cuts through richness well.

Raise a Glass to Bordeaux Wine’s Versatility and Deliciousness

Bordeaux wine is a wine lover’s dream come true. With its rich history and diverse flavor profile, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Red Bordeaux wine is perfect for a cozy night with a hearty meal, while white Bordeaux is perfect for a sunny day or a light meal.

Whether you prefer a bold, tannic red or a crisp and refreshing white, Bordeaux wine will surely delight your taste buds.

A Guide to Wine Tasting

April 18, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

woman smelling a red wine in glass — Image Credit: Shutterstock/https://www.shutterstock.com/g/stockfour

Is there anything more satisfying than a good glass of wine? Whether celebrating with friends or unwinding after a long day, wine brings people together and elevates the moment.

This blog post will dive into wine tasting and explore the different tasting notes that make each bottle unique. So, grab a glass, and let’s get sipping.

How to Taste Wine: 4 Easy Steps

First, let’s go through the four steps of wine tasting to help you become a wine-tasting pro.

#1 – Sight

First up, we have sight. This step involves using your eyes to take in the wine’s appearance. Hold your glass up to the light and look closely at the wine’s color and clarity. Is it a deep ruby red or a pale golden yellow? Can you see any bubbles or sediment?

#2 – Smell

Next, it’s time to use your nose in the second step: smell. Take a few deep sniffs of the wine and try to identify any aromas that come to mind. Is it fruity or floral? Spicy or earthy?

#3 – Taste

Once you’ve taken in the wine’s aroma, it’s time for the third step: taste. Take a small sip and let the wine sit on your tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. Pay attention to the flavors – sweet, dry, full-bodied, or light?

#4 – Finish

Finally, we have the fourth step: finish. This step is about noticing the aftertaste in your mouth after you’ve swallowed. Is it short and crisp, or long and smooth?

By following these four steps, you’ll be able to fully explore the unique taste and character of each wine you try.

Wine Tasting Notes: What Are They?

Ah, the tasting notes. These are the flavors and aromas that make each wine unique and exciting. Five common tasting notes to look for are fruity, floral, spicy, earthy, and woody.

Fruity wines contain flavors like berries, citrus, and tropical fruits. Think a juicy Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
Floral wines have a delicate, floral aroma, like roses or jasmine. White wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer typically contain floral tasting notes.
Spicy wines have a warm, peppery flavor like a bold Shiraz or Zinfandel.
Earthy wines have a taste that’s reminiscent of soil, mushrooms, or truffles, like a rustic Pinotage or a smooth Tempranillo.
Woody wines have a flavor influenced by the wood they were aged, like a rich Cabernet Sauvignon or a smoky Chardonnay.

Tips for Identifying Wine Notes

Identifying tasting notes may seem daunting initially, but with some practice and know-how, you can pick out the unique flavors and aromas in each wine you try.

One tip is to focus on one tasting note at a time rather than trying to identify all of them at once. For example, start by focusing on the fruity notes, and try to pick out specific flavors like blackberry or peach.

Another tip is to pay attention to the wine’s acidity and tannins – these can influence the flavors and give clues about the wine’s characteristics.

To train your palate, try sampling a variety of foods with different flavors and textures, like cheeses, fruits, and nuts. Training your palate will help you develop a more nuanced sense of taste and smell.

The Final Sip

Well, my wine-loving friends, that brings us to the end of this wine-tasting journey. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, there’s always something new to discover in the world of wine.

So, grab a bottle of your favorite wine, gather some friends, and put your new skills to the test. Cheers!

Wine Pairing 101

April 17, 2023October 3, 20261 Comment

Have you ever sat down to a delicious meal, excited to enjoy your favorite bottle of vino, only to realize that the flavors clash horribly with your dish? Well, fear not, my friend, because the art of wine pairing is here to save the day.

Pairing wine with food can be tricky, but when done right, it can take your dining experience to the next level.

In this article, we will briefly dive into choosing the right wine for the right dish, exploring strategies and tips to ensure your next meal is a true delight for your taste buds.

How to Pair Wine with Food

When pairing wine with food, you must remember a few fundamental principles.

First up, we have matching or contrasting flavors. Matching flavors means pairing wine with similar tastes to the dish, while contrasting flavors means pairing wine with flavors that complement or contrast the plate. For example, a bold red wine pairs well with a juicy steak because the flavors complement each other, while a crisp white wine contrasts with the creaminess of a cheese plate.

Another essential factor to consider is the weight and intensity of both the wine and the food. A light-bodied wine should be paired with lighter dishes, while full-bodied wines can hold up to heartier, more intense flavors. A general rule of thumb is that the wine’s weight should match the dish’s weight.

And let’s remember to pair wine with specific types of food. For red meat, a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah is a classic pairing, while seafood and white wine are a match made in heaven. And when it comes to cheese, the possibilities are endless, but a good rule of thumb is to pair creamy cheeses with lighter wines and aged cheeses with bolder wines.

3 Wine Strategies to Elevate Any Meal

Ready to take your wine pairing game to the next level? Let’s explore some different pairing strategies that go beyond the basics.

#1 – Regional Pairing

First up, we have regional pairing. This strategy involves pairing wine and food from the same region. For example, a dish from Italy could be paired with a Chianti wine from Tuscany. This strategy is a great way to enhance the overall experience by immersing yourself in the flavors and culture of a specific region.

#2 – Flavor Pairing

Flavor pairing is another, perhaps obvious, strategy that involves pairing wine with food with similar or complementary flavors (a sweet wine pairs well with a dessert, for example). This strategy can create a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds happy.

#3 – Textural Pairing

Lastly, we have textural pairing. This strategy involves pairing wine with food with similar or complementary textures. For example, a creamy dish pairs well with a buttery Chardonnay, as both have a rich and velvety texture.

More Tips for Successful Wine Pairing

We’ve covered the basics and explored different pairing strategies, but how else do you ensure a success?

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Experiment and try new things. Wine pairing is a fun and creative process, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new combinations.
Consider the occasion and the audience. Are you hosting a fancy dinner party or enjoying a casual meal with friends? Different events may call for different pairings, so consider that when choosing.
Remember personal preference. If you’re not a fan of a particular type of wine, don’t force yourself to drink it just because it’s a “classic” pairing.

Remember to have fun, be creative, and, most importantly, enjoy the delicious flavors of wine and food together.

Find Your Perfect Vino Match Today

Selecting the best wine can seem daunting initially, but with a few basic principles and some fun strategies, you can elevate any meal to a new level of deliciousness. The perfect pairing can enhance the flavors of your dish, making every bite (and sip) a heavenly match made in culinary heaven.

Grab a bottle of your favorite wine, whip up a tasty dish, and experiment with different pairings to find your perfect match. Cheers to the endless possibilities of wine and food pairing!

The Busker Irish Whiskey

April 17, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

Royal Oak Distillery is producing some phenomenal Irish Whiskey in Single Malt, Single Grain, and Single Pot Still traditions, all under one roof.

Busker Irish Whiskey is a premium whiskey brand quickly gaining popularity among whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. The brand is known for its distinctive taste and unique approach to whiskey-making, which incorporates traditional Irish distilling techniques with innovative new methods.

The finest ingredients and a unique process

The Busker Irish Whiskey set — Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/CmE7apuggNB/

One of the key aspects that set The Busker Irish Whiskey apart is its commitment to using only the finest ingredients in its distilling process. The brand uses 100% malted barley in its single malt expression, which gives it a rich, complex flavor profile that is characteristic of the best Irish whiskeys. Additionally, Busker Irish Whiskey is triple-distilled in copper pot stills, which helps to enhance its flavor further and gives it a smooth, refined finish.

They also use different types of casks in the aging process. The whiskey is initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels, which gives it a sweet, vanilla-like flavor. It is then finished in sherry or Marsala casks, which add a spicy, woody note to the final product. This combination of casks helps to create a whiskey that is both complex and well-balanced.

The Busker Irish Whiskey Single Malt

One of the standout products in the Busker Irish Whiskey lineup is the Single Malt expression. This whiskey is aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. The result is a rich, full-bodied whiskey that is bursting with flavor. I had the privilege of enjoying this whiskey and here’s what I found: The nose is dominated by notes of vanilla, honey, and dried fruit, while the palate is full of apple, citrus, banana, and a hint of spice. The finish is long and warming, with a subtle smokiness that lingers on the tongue.

The Busker Irish Whiskey Single Grain

Next, I tasted the single grain. This whiskey is aged in hand-selected Bourbon casks from the USA and rare Marsala casks from one of the oldest Sicilian wineries – Cantine Florio 1833. If you think casks don’t make a difference, think again. The color of this Irish whiskey is a beautiful light straw. On the nose as well as on the palate, you’ll find notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The finish is sweet and lasts for quite a while, which is a lovely bonus.

The Busker Irish Whiskey Single Pot Still

Last, I sipped the single pot still expression, which is made traditionally with barley and then finished in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks. This one is my favorite because I like a good kick of spice. In the single pot still, you’ll smell and taste cinnamon, pepper, cloves, toffee, honey, oak, and fudge. It’s quite complex and may surprise you as an Irish whiskey.

Irish whiskey is making a name for itself lately, after hiding in the shadows during the bourbon boom. Whiskey fans want something new, and I’d say The Busker Irish Whiskey is a great place to start.

The Macallan at Sotheby’s

April 11, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

The highly respected Macallan brings impressive results at the Whisky & Whiskey auction.

What began in a humble wooden shed with only two stills in 1824 is now a world-renowned single-malt whisky. The Macallan is one of the most respected names in Scotch whisky, known primarily for its creativity and innovation, such as sherried seasoned oak casks.

Macallan is well respected for many reasons. It’s been distilled for nearly 200 years, is highly endorsed by the one and only James Bond as well as the House of Commons (The Macallan is the official Scotch), and, more importantly, The Macallan sets the precedence for how Scotch should taste. Unsurprisingly, it’s turned heads at auctions in the past and sold for jaw-dropping amounts. Earlier this year, a limited-edition Macallan did just that for a good cause.

Proceeds for charity from The Macallan Distill Your World New York

This year, on February 10^th, Sotheby’s of New York held its first whisky & whiskey online sale of the year and the highlight of the event was a specialty lot comprising of an exclusive, limited-edition version of The Macallan’s recent release, “Distil Your World New York.” One bottle was auctioned, and the other is now kept in The Macallan archive, making the Macallan Distil Your World New York label extremely rare. The limited-edition Macallan achieved $250,000, with proceeds going toward ChaShaMa.

ChaShaMa is a non-profit organization based in New York City, created to help and serve artists. They do so by searching for unused real estate and flipping it into artistic spaces where artists can create and display their work. Thanks to Sotheby’s online auction and the sale of the limited-edition Macallan, the arts, underserved communities, and small businesses in New York City are benefiting.

The Macallan has a long-standing relationship with Sotheby’s and is known for supplying auctions with rare editions for charitable causes. Geoff Kirk, Channel Director Secondary Market at The Macallan, says, “We are delighted to continue our long association of partnering with Sotheby’s to present very special releases that raise funds for charitable organizations around the world. The Macallan has a longstanding history celebrating artistry and supporting the arts and we are proud that the funds from this very special release, which pays homage to one of the world’s most iconic cities, will benefit New York City artists through the ChaShaMa charity.”

Setting the standard

McAllan distillery — Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/CY_xJNjDm0I/

The Macallan is more than a whisky. Its deep roots and unwavering passion for perfection and innovation set the standard for the entire industry. They not only produce some of the world’s greatest Scotch, but The Macallan team uses their success and skills to make the world a better place.

If you ever get the opportunity to visit The Macallan Estate in Speyside, Scotland, please take it. The sprawling 485-acre estate is stunning, sharing the scenery of the Speyside region, and inside the distillery is just as impressive. The Macallan Estate offers wonderful experiences that you may book ahead of time.

The Kraken Gold Spiced Rum

April 6, 2023October 3, 2026Leave a comment

In a study by Proximo Spirits, over 70% of consumers preferred The Kraken Gold Spiced Rum over their competitor, Captain Morgan®.

If you’ve never thought of rum as something to drink neat, think again. We were amazed at the smoothness of The Kraken Gold Spiced Rum. Admittedly, I have used rum in cocktails but haven’t sipped a lot of it on its own. This rum changed that school of thought for me quickly. The Kraken Gold Spiced Rum was created for sipping.

Lander Otegui, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Proximo Spirits, says, “As gold-spiced rum occasions are now the highest among the rum category, we are proud to introduce this new offering from The Kraken, with a flavor profile all its own. We are confident that this product will be THE NEW GOLD STANDARD in spiced rum thanks to its superb taste that we know matches what our consumers are looking for.”

The Notes

Some call The Kraken Gold Spiced Rum a seductive experience. I’d have to agree. Our tastebuds were thrilled, and our senses ignited. The color is a deep golden hue, and the complex flavor profile is impressive. On the nose, we were pleasantly surprised with caramel and vanilla forward notes. On the palate, we enjoyed more vanilla and caramel, as well as a hint of banana bread and a little molasses. The finish is peppery and sweet vanilla lingers on the tongue.

Some spirits are an experience, and I’d put The Kraken Gold Spiced Rum in that category. The deep, rich flavor profile and seductive aroma are perfect for savoring slowly. It feels decadent in the same way a great bourbon would. We enjoyed it immediately and then even more as we allowed it to open up. One of my favorite things to do when tasting is to walk away and keep coming back to find new notes and layers. This rum is perfect for that.

We decided to give it a try as an Old Fashioned, and it’s fantastic. You can find that recipe here.

Whether you are enjoying it on the rocks, mixed in a cocktail, or as a component of your favorite dessert, Kraken Gold Spiced Rum is the perfect accompaniment to any occasion. It’s a spirit as versatile as it is alluring, making it the ideal choice for anyone who loves to indulge in the finer things in life. And at about $20 a bottle, it’s a great deal for a liquor of this high quality.

Black Rifle Coffee Company

April 6, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

Black Rifle Coffee Company (BRCC) is an American coffee company that gained popularity in recent years for its high-quality coffee and strong brand identity. The company was founded in 2014 by former Green Beret Evan Hafer. Hafer tells Spectrum News, “Really, what I was looking to do was try to find a small batch of coffee that I could order and have delivered to the Army Post Office. I couldn’t find [a brand] that I really liked, and I wanted to dive a little bit deeper into the details and aspects of coffee.”

Hafer did dive deeper, and today, BRCC has grown into a multimillion-dollar business with a loyal following of customers who appreciate the company’s commitment to supporting the military, law enforcement, and first responder communities. Many customers view buying BRCC coffee as a way to show their support for these communities, and the company has become a symbol of patriotism and support for those who serve. The company even offers a “Buy a Bag, Give a Bag” program, where customers can purchase a bag of coffee to be sent to troops deployed overseas.

The key to BRCC’s success

One of the key factors behind BRCC’s success is the company’s dedication to quality. BRCC sources its coffee beans from the best coffee-growing regions in the world, including Colombia, Brazil, and Ethiopia. The beans are then roasted in small batches to ensure maximum freshness and flavor. They offer a wide range of coffee blends, from light roasts to dark roasts, and each blend has its own unique flavor profile.

It’s clear that Hafer is passionate about coffee. On the website, you’ll find the tasting notes for each roast, and they might remind you of the way one describes a beautiful glass of bourbon. And the thing is, from what we tried, the descriptions are spot on. You may never look at coffee the same again.

Cool packaging and excellent flavor

I was fortunate to receive some coffee from this impressive, patriotic coffee company. Before I could have some myself, the rest of the family was laying claim to which bag was theirs. My 19-year-old son was in awe of the cool names and artwork on each package.

And speaking of that, let’s get down to one of the best parts of Black Rifle Coffee — the packaging. Seriously. Even if you don’t drink coffee, the packages and names are too fun to turn down. In our collection, we received Beyond Black, Silencer Smooth, Just Black, and Blackbeard’s Delight. Yes, the names and descriptions are fun, but they actually serve a purpose. It’s pretty clear when you read “Beyond Black” you’re getting a dark coffee. They also offer ready-to-drink espressos in cans for a quick burst of energy. In a house of three teenagers, I hid those.

In conclusion, Black Rifle Coffee Company has struck a chord with many Americans who appreciate the company’s commitment to quality and support for the military and law enforcement communities. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a way to show your support for those who serve, BRCC is definitely worth checking out. With its high-quality coffee, patriotic branding, and commitment to supporting the military and law enforcement communities, Black Rifle Coffee Company is one of the most unique and interesting coffee companies in America today.

Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru

April 5, 2023October 3, 2026Leave a comment

I recently enjoyed an incredible chat with Anne Brock, Master Distiller at Bombay Sapphire, as we discussed the distillery’s newest creation, Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru.

Bombay Sapphire is one of the world’s most popular gin brands, known for its distinctive blue bottle and iconic design. What sets Bombay Sapphire apart from other gins is not just its striking appearance but also its unique recipe and production process.

The Bombay Sapphire recipe

Unlike many gins, which use a limited number of botanicals in their recipe, Bombay Sapphire uses a unique blend of botanicals from around the world. These botanicals include almond, lemon peel, licorice, juniper berries, orris root, angelica, coriander, cassia, cubeb, and grains of paradise. Each of these botanicals is carefully selected for its distinct flavor profile, which contributes to the complex and balanced flavor of Bombay Sapphire gin.

The production process

Traditional gin production involves steeping botanicals in a neutral spirit and then distilling the mixture. However, Bombay Sapphire uses a unique process called vapor infusion. In this method, the botanicals are placed in a basket above the still, and the vapor from the boiling spirit passes through the botanicals, extracting their flavors and aromas. This process results in a more delicate and nuanced flavor profile, with the botanicals imparting their distinct flavors without overpowering the juniper flavor characteristic of gin.

Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru

If you are a connoisseur of gin, you’ll enjoy Bombay Sapphire’s newest addition, Premier Cru, Murcian Lemon. If you are new to gin altogether, this is a wonderful choice for your introduction. Lemon is always refreshing mixed with gin, and of course, Bombay Sapphire does it right. They chose Spanish Fino lemons, mandarins, and sweet Navel oranges from Murcia to create a vibrant, citrus gin.

When enjoying Premier Cru, you’ll recognize Bombay Sapphire’s classic London Dry Gin flavor, full of bright juniper notes, especially on the nose. Next, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the addition of lemony botanicals on the palate and a lovely, sweet finish of orange and subtle lemon peel. This gin is absolutely refreshing and perfect for cocktails.

The inspiration for Premier Cru, Murcian Lemon

When I asked Brock where the inspiration for the citrusy gin came from, she said, “We wanted to use the liquid to tell the story of the people behind the brand. And when I say the people behind the brand, I don’t mean myself; I mean the growers and harvesters of our botanicals.”

Within the gin industry, there is much discussion about what botanicals go into a spirit but little discussion about where those botanicals come from. Bombay Sapphire had a different idea. Brock explains, “At Bombay, we’ve got these unique, direct relationships with our growers. We’ve built these relationships over the last 20 – 25 years. They’re more like friendships than business relationships. So, we wanted to tell the story of our growers and hero the regions we’ve chosen for our botanicals. For the Murcian Lemon, it’s this region of Spain.”

A balancing act

Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru is unique, yet not over the top. The citrus is delicate and not overpowering. I have found that often when a flavor is added to a spirit, the result is something that tastes nothing like gin, whiskey, or vodka. In the case of Premier Cru, it’s just the opposite. Although you can taste the lemon, you are still aware you are drinking a gin. Brock explains, “It’s easy to make gin. It’s not easy to make a balanced and consistent gin.”

One of the ways Bombay maintains that balance is through the vapor infusion process mentioned above. The lemon peels sit in a basket, not directly in the gin, and as the alcohol heats up, the steam extracts the flavor. “All our lemon peels are sat on the top of those baskets,” explains Brock, so that it’s the last thing the spirit comes in contact with before it goes over and hits the condenser. Because of that, we can keep what we think is a true and bright expression of some of the more delicate flavors in gin, particularly lemon.”

In conclusion, Bombay Sapphire is a trusted name in the gin industry, and for a good reason…they care. After speaking with Anne Brock, I was well aware that Bombay Sapphire is more than a distillery. It’s where the delicate art of making a balanced and consistent gin takes place, and quality is of utmost importance. What I wasn’t expecting to learn was how much they care for their customers and for those who are a part of Bombay Sapphire, from the Master distiller to the lemon grower in Spain. Everyone matters, and Bombay Sapphire doesn’t take that for granted.

Just for fun, I asked Brock what her favorite cocktail is to make with Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru. Her answer is, “It makes an absolutely outstanding martini because of the brightness, smoothness, and balance.” She also mentions a French 75, which is a delightful drink that mixes Champagne and gin. You deserve Champagne tonight.