Category Archives: Whiskey Cocktails

Whiskey cocktails take in cocktail and drink recipes that include bourbon, scotch and whiskies of all varieties.

Pebble Beach Food & Wine 2013 Grand Tasting

Posted on April 15, 2013 | Leave a comment

It was recently my pleasure to have been invited to attend the Pebble Beach Food & Wine 2013 (PBFW) event in Pebble Beach, California. Driscoll’s berry growers invited me to join a group of talented food and cocktail writers for a weekend of education that included Driscoll’s University “field to fork” learning event and the Pebble Beach Food & Wine 2013 Grand Tasting event with additional classes. Driscoll’s was also a sponsor of the PBFW event.

Driscoll’s Lounge

The Driscoll’s Lounge featured berry-licious foods with amazingly fresh berries as the centerpiece. There was even a fresh berry cocktail with non-alcoholic mocktail provided for those interested in a liquid treat that wasn’t of the wine variety.

Stay tuned for future post detailing just how serious Driscoll’s is about providing you and me with the finest berries nature has to offer. Two Peas and Their Pod has already written a post covering the Driscoll’s University tour and Pebble Beach Food & Wine 2013 tasting event through her eyes. Tess Masters of The Blender Girl created a wonderful fresh Strawberry Smoothie that everyone in our group raved about while on the Driscoll’s Tour. You might want to try it too. By the way, Tess is amazing! She and others will be writing about Driscoll’s and the Pebble Beach Food & Wine event soon, too.

Chocolates by Jacques Torres

I’m not sure how Chef Jacques Torres had so much energy this far into the Pebble Beach Food & Wine event, but this is an amazingly generous and gregarious gentleman. Chef Torres entertained with his incredible smile and of course, plentiful chocolates.

Though there was much to choose from and “Mr. Chocolate” encouraged me to sample a little of everything, I chose the 60% dark chocolate sheets with crunchy potato chips layered in the chocolate. They were thin, crisp and melt in your mouth good. I took a quick look at Mr. Chocolate online and found some really cute Champagne Truffles (with real champagne) in the shape of champagne corks of course! I think they are a must have!! Be sure to keep up with Jacques Torres on Twitter (@JacquesTorres) and Facebook.

The Gold Rush Cocktail

The Gold Rush Cocktail is a 3 ingredient drink consisting of bourbon, honey and lemon juice. The booth’s menu board said as much, but all I saw on the back table was Bushmill’s Irish Whiskey. So, I asked which bourbon was used in The Gold Rush cocktail. The bartender said it actually contained Bushmills Irish Whiskey and some sort of liqueur to mimic the flavor of bourbon.

I’m wondering why the menu board said bourbon rather than Irish Whiskey? Aren’t we trying to educate consumers rather than keep people confused?

Gold Rush Cocktail

2 ounces Bourbon

1 ounce Honey Syrup*

3/4 ounce Lemon Juice

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend. Strain into rocks glass over fresh ice. *Honey Syrup: 1 part Honey to 1/2 part Water – Mix honey with heated water. Stir. Allow to cool.

Church & State Bistro rolled out their new summer 2012 cocktail menu last year which included a variation on the Gold Rush Cocktail called Elope containing Bushmills Irish Whiskey, cantaloupe, lemon and honey syrup. It is also served on the rocks. Find it and several other tasty sounding cocktails in the link provided. Another variation can be made with ginger liqueur served martini style found on the Two Tarts blog.

Champagne Delamotte Brut

Champagne Delamotte Brut NV: 50% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier.

“Champagne Delamotte expresses to perfection the characteristics of this noble variety. Light, gossamer-textured, impertinent, more complex with aging, discreet, yet present, heady but not heavy. Champagne at any time, for any occasion.” – Salon Delamotte

Domaine Carneros Taittinger

Can I just say I love champagne?! Bubbly in general. I think it’s just spectacular.

I sampled the Domaine Carneros Taittinger Brut 2008. It was quite busy in front of this particular sampling area, so I was fortunate just to get a taste and a photograph. Unfortunately I don’t have sampling notes. What I can say is that it was so delicious I really did want to go back for seconds or thirds even, but hardly thought that was the point in sampling a wide variety of spirits. I stuck to one sample only.

Brut-style champagnes are traditionally comprised of chardonnay and pinot noir. Brut refers to the level of sugar content in the wine. Domaine Carneros has received high acclaim through the years for its Brut Cuvée. It has been recognized for its consistent quality and affordable price. It has been described as having a mousse-like creamy texture, with hints of citrus, apple and pear with some sweet berry fruit.

In a word; luscious!

Caricature Wine

To be perfectly honest the label is what caught my eye and I’m glad it did. Caricature wine is indeed easy to sip just as it is described. It is an 84% Cabernet and 16% Zinfandel blend, estate grown by the LangeTwins Family. Certified sustainable. The wine is currently sold in Texas and California. It can also be purchased online for $15. Extremely reasonable! Ideal for everyday sipping and a perfect bottle to give as a hostess gift.

“The wine is full of rich aromas and flavors of plums, blackberries and dark cherries. It’s jammy and indulgent with a stroke of oak bestowing a poised spice.” Caricature Wine

Nose to Tail Tamale

Nose to Tail Tamale by Chef Ray Garcia, Fig Restaurant, Santa Monica. Delicious! Spicy good! This scrumptious small bite could have easily become an entire meal with more bites of course. It was so good!

Hypothesis Cabernet Sauvignon

Hypothesis Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Roots Run Deep Winery. It is considered the FIRST wine of its kind due to a winemaking technique called flash détente or “instant relaxation.” This technique was created in Europe in the 1990s and introduced to the United States in 2009. It involves quickly heating and cooling the skins of the fruit before the fermentation process. This results in vibrant color, flavor and positive tannin extraction. This is a natural, organic process.

In my opinion the taste results are incredible. According to the presenter, Hypothesis Cabernet Sauvignon received 92 points from Wine Enthusiasts, December 2012. It is priced in the $35 range.

Pork Terrine Glazed Eel & Pickled Mustard Seed

The presentation was spectacular. Who can resist rows of small plates flawlessly presented with foods we don’t usually whip up in the kitchen every day? Glazed eel?! I was of course intrigued. It was beautiful and delicious. Chef Angie Berry created a lovely dish.

I’ll admit one other thing here and now. I love food. I love savoring flavors. The best way I could describe this particular small dish is it tasted like an extremely extravagant tuna sandwich one would eat with a fork. Neither my tuna salad recipes or tuna sandwiches ever turn out so delectable, but the texture, pickling and tangy kick reminded me just a little of that familiar flavor. My apologies for a less than sophisticated description to this enchanting small dish.

Special thank you to Driscoll’s for inviting me along on this amazing journey. Follow Driscoll’s on Facebook and Twitter @driscollsberry.

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Posted in Cocktails, Driscoll's Berry, Pebble Beach Food & Wine 2013, Sponsored Posts, Whiskey Cocktails, Winery

Tagged Angie Berry, Bourbon, Bushmills Irish Whiskey, Caricature Wine, Champagne, Champagne Delamotte, Domaine Carneros Taittinger, Driscoll's, Fresh Lemon, Gold Rush Cocktail, Honey, Honey Syrup, Hypothesis Wine, Jacques Torres, Mr. Chocolate, PBFW, Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach Food & Wine 2013, Ray Garcia, Roots Run Deep Winery, Salon Delamotte, Sponsored Post, Tess Masters, The Blender Girl, Two Peas and Their Pod, Wine

Single Malt Scotch Cocktail: Cameron’s Kick

Posted on April 11, 2013 | Comments Off

We have quality single malt scotch for your enjoyment.

In the world of single malt scotches, you’re more likely to see an old fashioned glass with glistening scotch resting neatly or nestled snuggly within a few chilly rocks than served in a chilled martini glass cocktail style. But in the world of mixed drinks, scotch cocktails are seeing an increase in popularity. There are diehard scotch enthusiasts who believe the spirit shouldn’t be tainted with more than a bit or air, water or possibly a cube of ice. But adventurous consumers demand more. They’ve tasted and sampled the scotch. Now they want to explore and experiment with scotch cocktails.

Cameron’s Kick Scotch Cocktail

Like so many classic cocktails, Cameron’s Kick can be found with numerous recipe variations. I prefer this particular recipe with a Speyside single malt scotch for deeper, richer flavor. The one I used means “Valley of the Deer” in case you’re curious. I also cut the Orgeat syrup to 1/2 ounce for a little less sweet. Orange bitters are a nice addition. Garnish is not called for in the original recipe, but I think this scotch cocktail lends itself rather nicely to a thin orange peel twisted over the top to glean the essential oils and then discarded.

Cameron’s Kick

1-1/2 ounce Scotch

1-1/2 ounce Irish Whiskey

3/4 ounce Fresh Lemon Juice

3/4 ounce Orgeat (Almond) Syrup

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into chilled martini glass.

Wine Chateau carries a large selection of quality Scotch for your enjoyment including Single Malt Scotch. The scotch meaning “Valley of the Deer” that I used is in there too! Psst…It’s in a green bottle.

The Cocktail Data Base lists the Cameron’s Kick Cocktail with 1 ounce Scotch, 1/2 ounce Irish Whiskey, 3/4 ounce Lemon Juice and 2 dashes Orange Bitters. There’s no almond syrup, so this recipe might come across a wee bit pungent.

Many other writers, such as Jake Lahne of Smile Politely, use the recipe of 1 ounce each Scotch and Irish Whiskey and 1/2 ounce each Lemon Juice and Orgeat Syrup. Like others, Jake calls for blended scotch rather than single malt scotch. Single malt verses blended is all a matter of preference. Bill’s comment over at Cocktails at the Cove regarding the way the lemon juice disguises the taste of the scotch and whiskey is the reason I prefer a heartier single malt scotch for this particular drink.

It’s a Scotch cocktail after all. I want to taste the scotch!

Post sponsored by Wine Chateau. All commentary and opinions are my own.

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Posted in Sponsored Posts, Whiskey Cocktails

Tagged Almond Syrup, Cameron's Kick, Classic Cocktail, Fresh Lemon, Irish Whiskey, Orange Bitters, Orgeat Syrup, Scotch, Single Malt Scotch, Sponsored Post, Whisky, Wine Chateau

Classic Cocktails at The Peninsula Chicago

Posted on April 9, 2013 | Comments Off

One of the drawbacks of working with cocktails and spirits on a daily basis is deciding what to order from cocktail menus when I go out for drinks. I know; sounds like a horrid problem. But it really is difficult. Often the same handful of classic cocktails appear on the menu with a variety of either way too sweet or way too outlandish signature drink recipes on the opposite side.

Two weekends ago I was fortunate enough to visit one of my favorite Chicago hotel bars; The Bar at The Peninsula Chicago. The Bar is a chosen favorite due to the superior quality of service, its intimate, yet dynamic atmosphere and the attention to detail that goes into the cocktails offered on the menu as well as the manner in which they are served. The Bar’s staff is superb for their cocktail knowledge, skill and the manner in which they regard every guest with special attention.

Though I’ve enjoyed the Vieux Carré cocktail before, I usually enjoy this classic cocktail served up in a martini glass. The Bar serves the Vieux Carré on the rocks as it was originally intended. This 1930’s classic cocktail was the creation of Walter Bergeron and named after an old French term in relation to New Orleans’ French Quarter (le Vieux Carré) meaning, “the Old Square.”

Vieux Carré Cocktail

3/4 ounce Rye Whiskey

3/4 ounce Cognac

3/4 ounce Sweet Vermouth

1 Barspoon / 1 teaspoon Benedictine

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters

Lemon Twist

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Stir or shake to chill. Strain into rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with lemon twist.

How appropriate the Vieux Carré cocktail continues to make an appearance on hotel bar cocktail menus as it was originally created at what now is the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans. Its hotel bar, Carousel Bar, sometimes substitutes dry vermouth for sweet vermouth. Try the Vieux Carré drink recipe both ways to see how you prefer it.

Though the Martinez cocktail comes up often in social media chatter, I rarely see this particular drink recipe on cocktail menus. It’s also a cocktail recipe I’ve never personally stirred up and poured for myself. When I saw it on The Bar cocktail menu it was an immediate must-try.

The Martinez

2 ounces Carpano Antica Formula (Sweet Vermouth)

1 ounce Ransom Gin

1 Tablespoon Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Liqueur

Dash Angostura Bitters

Lemon Peel Garnish

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Stir to chill. Strain into chilled martini glass. Garnish with fresh lemon twist.

The Martinez is fairly sweet with a unique flavor combination achieved with the inclusion of the Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Liqueur. This classic cocktail is a predecessor to the classic Martini. Once dry vermouth became plentiful, the Martinez took a back seat to the Martini and bar goers hardly looked back from their Gin Martinis. They just began adding a wider variety of garnish. If you take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll see the Manhattan in its early stages.

Ironically I just talked about the inclusion of the Champs Elysées classic cocktail on another restaurant’s bar menu last week. This is another cocktail I’ve sipped martini style, but The Bar serves on the rocks. I sampled this drink recipe martini style and on the rocks at The Bar in Chicago to test a theory; would it taste differently if it were made exactly the same, yet served differently? The answer; yes it did and I will most likely sip this one on the rocks from here on out. It was that much better in my opinion.

Champs Elysées

1-1/2 ounce Cognac

1/2 ounce Green Chartreuse

3/4 ounce Lemon Juice

1/2 ounce Simple Syrup

1 dash Angostura Bitters

Lemon Twist – Optional

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into chilled martini glass. Garnish with lemon twist.

The Champs Elysées recipe I posted last week is a little different than the one here. Last week I modified the classic to my taste preference. This week the recipe appears as it is most often referenced by authorities in classic mixology. This version produces a bit sweeter cocktail than my adjusted variation.

The Bar at The Peninsula Chicago also served another favorite; the Corpse Reviver. This cocktail is often thought of around Halloween time due to its name, but the Corpse Reviver is a refreshing cocktail ideal for leisurely summertime sipping. It’s lightly tart with an almost sparkling lilt to it with its faint absinthe inclusion. It’s a drink recipe that should make every classic cocktail enthusiasts “must-try” list.

There really is something for everyone at The Bar at The Peninsula Chicago. Scotch flights for the whisky enthusiast, signature cocktails for the adventurous cocktail lover, wine and champagne and of course an array of delicious menu items from the hotel’s wonderful restaurants. Be sure to stop in at The Peninsula Chicago whether it’s for an evening’s stay, dinner or for a drink before evening plans. You’ll be treated well.

Thank you to The Bar’s manager, James, and bartenders, Erik, Tim and Loran for magnificent service, entertaining conversation and delicious cocktails while dining and sipping at The Bar at The Peninsula Chicago.

Cheri Loughlin Beverage Consultant & Photography Services

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Posted in Classic Cocktails, Corporate Mixology, Whiskey Cocktails

Tagged Angostura Bitters, Bartender, Benedictine, Carpano Antica Formula, Champs Elysees Cocktail, Chartreuse, Classic Bitters, Classic Cocktails, Cognac, Corpse Reviver, Fresh Lemon, Gin, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, Manhattan, Martini, Mixology, Peychaud's Bitters, Ransom Gin, Rye, Simple Syrup, Sweet Vermouth, The Bar, The Bar at The Peninsula Chicago, The Martinez, The Peninsula Chicago, Vieux Carre, Whiskey

Jacob’s Ghost White Whiskey Spring Drink Recipes

Posted on March 29, 2013 | Comments Off

You’ll notice Jacob’s Ghost White Whiskey doesn’t say “moonshine” on the label. It’s White Whiskey, not moonshine. It isn’t backwoods, bootleg liquor of the illicit sort. It isn’t unaged whiskey, otherwise known as white dog. This is one-of-a-kind, aged whiskey, made from the same mash bill Jacob Beam started with so long ago in 1795.

It’s white whiskey that could be consumed straight or on the rocks, but why do that when there are plenty of drink recipes with whiskey available to tweak with this spirit variation?

Jacob’s Ghost is aged for at least one year in charred, white oak barrels yielding a light-bodied 80-proof whiskey. It is clean and crisp on the nose with hints of light vanilla and sweet corn undertones. The aging process renders a smooth, sweet flavor with hints of smoke, rounded out by soft barrel notes on the finish. – Brand fact sheet information

Some like Jacob’s Ghost just the way it is, but it’s also fun to shake things up a bit with a few whiskey cocktail drink recipes. The whole speakeasy movement and throwback to Prohibition Era cocktails has brought new thought to reinventing the way classic cocktails are fashioned. The following are a few brand recommended drink recipes for spring sipping.

Southern Storm – created by Tony Devencenzi, San Francisco

1-1/2 ounce Jacob’s Ghost White Whiskey

1-1-2 ounce Pineapple Juice

1-1/2 ounce Ginger Beer

4 to 5 dashes Angostura Bitters

Pineapple Wedge Garnish

Combine whiskey and juice in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into highball glass over fresh ice. Top with ginger beer. Add dashes of bitters. Garnish with pineapple wedge.

You thought you knew the easy 2 ingredient beer cocktails; Shandy and Shandy Gaff. Now get to know them a little better by adding some ghostly spirit to the cocktail.

Jacob’s Shandy – created by Lynn House, Chicago

1 ounce Jacob’s Ghost White Whiskey

2 ounces Lemonade

1 ounce Light Beer – chilled

Lemon Wheel Garnish

Combine whiskey and lemonade in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend. Strain into chilled rocks glass – no ice. Top with chilled beer. Garnish with lemon wheel.

The Moscow Mule is a classic vodka drink recipe with simple two ingredients. Jacob’s Ghost sweetens the deal by making this a white whiskey drink recipe with dazzling ginger liqueur topped with the traditional ginger beer.

Clermont Mule – created by Larry Rice, Kentucky

1 ounce Jacob’s Ghost White Whiskey

1/2 ounce Lime Juice

1/2 ounce Simple Syrup

1/4 ounce DeKuyper Ginger Liqueur

Ginger Beer

Build liquids in rocks glass over fresh ice in order given, saving ginger beer until last. Stir gently. Top with ginger beer.

Jacob’s Ghost White Whiskey began selling nationwide February 2013 for suggested retail price of $21.99 for 750ml bottle.

Tasting notes & cocktail recipes sponsored by representatives of Beam Global – Jim Beam on Facebook – JimBeamOfficial on Twitter

Cheri Loughlin Beverage Consultant & Photography Services

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Posted in Cocktails, Sponsored Posts, Whiskey Cocktails

Tagged Angostura Bitters, Beer, Classic Bitters, Clermont Mule, DeKuyper Ginger Liqueur, Fresh Lime, Ginger Beer, Ginger Liqueur, Jacob's Ghost White Whiskey, Jacob's Shandy, Jim Beam, Larry Rice, Lemonade, Lynn House, Moonshine, Pineapple Juice, Simple Syrup, Southern Storm, Sponsored Post, Spring Cocktails, Spring Equinox, Tony Devencenzi, Whiskey, White Whiskey

Auchentoshan Classic Scotch Cocktail

Posted on March 27, 2013 | Comments Off

The premier destination to buy fine wine on the Internet.

Auchentoshan Single Malt Scotch Whisky Classic 002 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Many believe using a single malt Scotch in a mixed drink is a crime. Using a single malt can add a rich, through-the-line taste and aroma that can’t be beat. The following recipe shows just how great using a single malt can be. Plus, it’s the perfect way to introduce Scotch to the less initiated. – media materials

David Clelland, International Whisky Specialist, introduces Auchentoshan Classic in the video below. He also demonstrates the Glasgow Kiss.

Glasgow Kiss – created by Fat Radish Restaurant, NYC

1-1/2 ounce Auchentoshan Classic Auchentoshan Single Malt Scotch Whisky Classic 013 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

1/2 Fresh Pear

1 teaspoon Pear Jam

5 Cardamom Pods

1/2 ounce Orange Curacao

1/2 ounce Lime Juice

1/2 ounce Simple Syrup

Triple Pear Fan Garnish

Muddle cardamom pods and fresh pear in bottom of cocktail shaker. Add remaining liquid ingredients with ice. Shake to blend. Double strain into an old fashioned glass over crushed ice. Garnish with triple fan garnish.

Wine Chateau carries many of the Auchentoshan expressions including the Auchentoshan Classic. Their site includes basic tasting notes, like the ones below provided by the brand, and lengthy technical notes concerning the process and the distillery.

Auchentoshan Single Malt Scotch Whisky Classic 008 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Triple distilled and matured solely in American bourbon casks. The result: a Lowland Single Malt Whisky with the sweet aromas of vanilla and coconut; along with the signature smooth, delicate, Auchentoshan taste. – media materials

Offical Auchentoshan Brand Tasting Notes

Color: Pale Gold

Aroma: Rich vanilla and coconut, hint of green apple and a tang of citrus zest

Taste: Sweet vanilla cream, fresh green apple skin and a little mint

Finish: Fresh, floral zestiness

80 Proof / 40% alcohol – $35 to $45 price range depending upon where you buy

Post sponsored by Wine Chateau. – Tasting notes and recipe courtesy representatives of Campari America and Auchentoshan. Auchentoshan on Facebook

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Posted in Cocktails, Sponsored Posts, Whiskey Cocktails

Tagged Auchentoshan, Campari America, Cardamom, Cocktail Video, David Clelland, Fresh Lime, Glasgow Kiss, Orange Curacao, Pear, Pear Jam, Scotch, Simple Syrup, Sponsored Post, Whisky, Wine Chateau

Review: Crown Royal Maple Finished

Posted on March 21, 2013 | Comments Off

Crown Royal Maple Finished 005 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Crown Royal Maple Finished combines Crown Royal Whisky with a touch of maple flavor. The liquid is then sent through a unique maple toasted oak finishing process for added smoothness. The iconic purple bag has been altered Crown Royal Maple Finished 011 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin to fit the look and feel of this first variant to the Crown Royal brand. The Crown Royal Maple Finished bag is brown with gold embroidery to complement the copper and auburn highlights found in the whisky. – Brand fact information

80 Proof / 40% alcohol

Suggested Retail Price: $25 range

Availability: Nationwide

Crown Royal Maple Finished Tasting Notes

Color: Beautiful copper in the bottle. Appears lighter in the glass, but still contains deep reddish, auburn highlights. Crown Royal Maple Finished 021 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Aroma: Just opening the bottle released immediate maple aroma. Smelled just like maple syrup. Made my mouth water for pancakes and bacon smothered in maple syrup. Also detected caramelized brown sugar. No burn.

Tasted Neat: Some burn. Some sweetness. Can really taste the caramelized brown sugar. Warming. Lovely maple flavor. Bit of vanilla, buttery. Lightly, sweetened maple. To be honest, I wish maple syrup were as gently sweetened while remaining as lush on flavor as this has come across in the first sampling. I love the balance of sweetness to maple flavor.

Mouth Feel: Medium with nice lingering maple finish and warmth.

Possible Uses, Pairings and / or Cocktails: Leaning towards classic Praline Pecan Pie Manhattan 143 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin cocktails, the Manhattan makes perfect sense with this flavor profile. I might try using a mix of Praline Pecan Liqueur and Sweet Vermouth to enhance the maple flavor. There’s an example of this Manhattan variation using Woodford Reserve in the Praline Pecan Pie cocktail I created in 2010.

Another that makes a lot of sense; a really good apple cocktail variation. I played with three variations trying to come up with something that allowed the maple flavor to shine while giving the sensation of a deliciously crisp, yet lush apple.

Sample 1: 1-1/2 ounce Crown Royal Maple Finished, 3/4 ounce Caramel Apple Liqueur, 1-1/2 ounce Cranberry Juice, 1/4 ounce Fresh Lime Juice, Lime Twist Garnish. Shake liquids with ice. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with Maple Apple Royale Sample 1 121 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin lime twist. Notes: Tastes like a lush caramel apple. Maple flavor gets a little lost with the caramel. Red cocktail like a juicy red delicious apple.

Sample 2: 1-1/2 ounce Crown Royal Maple Finished, 1/2 ounce Berentzen ApfelKorn, 1/4 ounce Buttershots, 1 ounce Cranberry Juice, 1/4 ounce Fresh Lime Juice, Lime Twist Garnish. Shake liquids with ice. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with lime twist. Notes: Detect bit of burnt sugar in immediate taste. Not enough maple shine through. Red in color like a Honey Crisp apple.

As the saying goes, three times a charm. The third sample was my favorite of all.

Maple Apple Royale 144 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Maple Apple Royale – created by Cheri Loughlin

1-1/2 ounce Crown Royal Maple Finished

1/4 ounce Butterscotch Schnapps

1-1/2 ounce Apple Juice

1 ounce Cranberry Juice

1/4 ounce Fresh Lime Juice

Lime Twist Garnish

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with lime twist.

The color stays truer to the spirit with its warmer color. Apple flavor is much clearer. Maple shines through in deeper clarity. Buttery notes of the butterscotch schnapps complements the maple flavor rather nicely. Sipping this is like biting into a lovely buttery caramel covered apple. The buttery caramel is lightly sweetened and the apple remains fresh and crisp tasting.

What others are saying – I placed a photo on Facebook the day I sampled Crown Royal Maple, opening the discussion up for any thoughts and opinions for those who had sampled it, too. This is what others had to say:

Lisa N: I’ve tried only the Crown Royal Maple. Typical Crown Royal flavor with a long maple finish. Reminds me of pancakes. Very good

Warren B: The Crown Royal Maple is all wrong.

Vanessa S: Tried the Crown Royal Maple. Wasn’t impressed.

Rubén C: I’m sure Crown Maple is a good drink cause I’ve tried it. But it should be in cocktail.

Kevin H: Crown Maple has a nice nose of maple. I can’t say I really like it straight. I’m sure that maybe if it was mixed correctly then I may like it more.

Joe G: Both times tasting CR Maple I longed for a side of bacon, which isn’t a terrible thing, but it is just a bit too sweet. Has anyone found a decent mixer?

I recently stopped in at Nosh in Omaha. Brandon was working the bar that evening and told me about a new drink they’re offering. It’s warmed coffee that includes Crown Royal Maple Finish and RumChata with whipped cream and a few grated spices served in a large snifter. I haven’t sampled it yet, but the photo looked good and he made it sound delicious.

Review sample courtesy representatives of The Crown Royal Company – Crown Royal on Facebook – @CrownRoyal on Twitter

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Posted in Cocktails, Reviews, Whiskey Cocktails

Tagged Apple Juice, Apple Martini, Berentzen ApfelKorn Schnapps, Butterscotch Schnapps, Buttershots, Caramel Apple Liqueur, Caramel Apple Martini, Cranberry Juice, Crown Royal, Crown Royal Maple Finished, Fresh Lime, Maple Apple Royale, Maple Syrup, Nosh, Omaha, Praline Pecan Liqueur, RumChata, Whiskey

The Commodore

Posted on March 14, 2013 | Comments Off

St. Patrick’s Day celebrates one of Ireland’s patron saints; St. Patrick. But honestly most U.S. merrymakers are more focused on wearing green and making certain they are on the party bus with the most Irish pub stops. Though St. Patrick’s Day is not a federal holiday, it is a national phenomenon. It’s also a day (or evening) some significantly call “amateur night.”

March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day

You’ve heard it before, but please party your heart out, tip your bartenders and servers and for pity’s sake, make arrangements for sober drivers and cabs.

Commodore 079 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

The Commodore – created by Cheri Loughlin

1 ounce Spiced Rum

1 ounce Irish Whiskey

1 ounce Apple Juice

1/8 ounce Agave Nectar

1-1/2 ounce Brut Champagne

Apple Wedge Garnish – optional

Combine all liquids except champagne in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into chilled champagne flute. Top with brut champagne. Garnish with apple slice if desired.

Barefoot Brut Champagne and Shellback Spiced Rum were used during the creation of this recipe, but feel free to use spirits and bubblies you keep on hand.

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Posted in St. Patrick's Day, Whiskey Cocktails

Tagged Agave Nectar, Apple Juice, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Champagne, Irish Whiskey, Shellback Spiced Rum, Spiced Rum, St. Patrick's Day, The Commodore

Concannon Irish Whiskey & a True Irish Coffee

Posted on March 13, 2013 | Comments Off

St. Patrick’s Day tradition brings to mind corn beef and cabbage, leprechauns, green beer, Irish soda bread and of course Irish Coffee. Irish Coffee started in the early 40’s in Ireland and was introduced in America in 1952. It has since become synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day.

John Concannon,Brand Ambassador to Concannon Irish Whiskey and 4th Generation Vintner, met up with Larry Silva, the general manager of Buena Vista Café in San Francisco, the birthplace of Irish Coffee in America, to see how a true Irish Coffee with Concannon should be made. Watch the video for Larry’s suggestions and watch how easy and fast multiple Irish Coffees can be whipped up just in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

Concannon True Irish Coffee

6 ounce coffee glass – preheated. 2 sugar cubes. Couple ounces fresh hot coffee – stir to dissolve sugar. Generous helping of Concannon Irish Whiskey. Top with lightly blended heavy cream.

Concannon Irish Coffee 600

Easy! Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Photo provided by The Baddish Group

But St. Patrick’s Day goes on all day. Pace yourself! You’re going to want even more recipes. Keep reading!

Concannon Irish Whiskey is an independent spirit of Ireland developed as a joint collaboration between Livermore Valley-based Concannon Vineyard and Ireland’s Cooley distillery.

Concannon Irish Whiskey 031 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin copy

Concannon Irish Whiskey is a refined blend of malted barley and corn, craft distilled for proper balance of character and purity. It is matured in bourbon barrels for a minimum of four years, then mellowed in Concannon Petite Sirah wine barrels for four months before blending. John Concannon refers to this as the “Concannon Effect.” This process gives Concannon Irish Whiskey its unique fruity character and full, clean balanced taste. ~ Information from product facts

80 Proof / 40% alcohol

Suggested Retail Price: $25 range / 750ml

Availability: Nationally distributed in the U.S. since 2012.

Concannon Irish Whiskey received Best New Irish Whiskey of the Year in 2012 from the International Spirits Competition (NYISC).

Concannon Irish Whiskey 027 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin copy

Concannon Irish Whiskey Official Brand Tasting Notes

Visual: Light golden wheat

Aroma: Toasted malt, red fruit and vanilla

Palate: Balance of honey sweet, spice and citrus

Finish: Medium-length. Warming and round, with hint fresh oak

Possible Uses, Pairings and / or Cocktails: Concannon Irish Whiskey recommends the following cocktails for St. Patrick’s Day and year round sipping enjoyment.

An Old Fashioned Concannon

2 ounces Concannon Irish Whiskey

Orange Zest

2 Spoons Vanilla Infused Sugar

3 dashes Orange Bitters

Lightly muddle sugar, orange zest and bitters in bottom of tumbler style glass. Add 1/3 of whiskey and a few ice cubes. Stir, ensuring sugar has lifted from base of glass while mixing. Add another 1/3 of whiskey with few cubes of ice. Stir, mixing whiskey and sugar. Repeat with remaining whiskey. Photo provided by The Baddish Group

By the way… If you want to see something that looks really delicious, visit the Concannon Irish Whiskey website (website & Facebook link at the end of post) and click on the Mix It Up link for more cocktail recipes. Find the Roses & Oranges cocktail created by Master Mixologist Gillian Boyle. She used Orange Marmalade and fresh Rosemary. Her cocktail creation simply looks divine!!!

Concannon Raspberry Basil Smash

1-1/2 ounce Concannon Irish Whiskey

5 to 8 Fresh Raspberries

1/3 ounce Simple Syrup

3 to 4 Basil Leaves

1/4 ounce Lemon Juice

Basil Sprig & Fresh Raspberries Garnish

Muddle raspberries and basil in cocktail shaker. Add remaining liquids with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into rocks glass over fresh cracked ice. Garnish with basil sprig and fresh raspberries. Photo provided by The Baddish Group

Post sponsored by representatives of Concannon Irish Whiskey – Concannon Irish Whiskey on Facebook – All opinion & personal commentary is my own.

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Posted in Cocktails, Sponsored Posts, St. Patrick's Day, Whiskey Cocktails

Tagged An Old Fashioned Concannon, Basil, Classic Cocktail, Cocktail Video, Coffee, Concannon Irish Whiskey, Concannon Raspberry Basil Smash, Fresh Lemon, Heavy Cream, Irish Coffee, Irish Whiskey, Old Fashioned, Orange Bitters, Raspberries, Simple Syrup, Sponsored Post, St. Patrick's Day, Sugar, Vanilla Infused Sugar

Tullamore D.E.W. Original: Irish True

Posted on March 11, 2013 | Comments Off

Tullamore DEW Original 006 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

This year Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey celebrates an “Irish True” year with the opening of the new Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre in Tullamore, Ireland. The new Tullamore D.E.W. packaging highlights the brand’s history, founder and namesake, Daniel E. Williams, with the initials, D.E.W., placed prominently on the bottle.

Tullamore DEW 010 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Daniel was a distillery worker who had a vision and stayed true to that vision. He became the general manager and brought modern conveniences and technology of the day to the distillery so he could make his whiskey his way. The Irish True way.

Tullamore DEW Original 008 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Tullamore D.E.W is a unique blend of three types of Irish whiskey; pot still, malt and grain whiskey. It was the first and remains the only international Irish whiskey to pioneer this unique blend of three. The malted and unmalted barley used in the whiskey is dried in enclosed kilns, rather than over peat fires. This creates a smooth, yet complex taste rather than one of peated smokiness.

Tullamore DEW Original 013 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

The original Tullamore D.E.W. blend is recognized for its smooth, gentle flavor. It has also won numerous awards including the much-prized trophy at the International Spirits Challenge, the highest accolade in the drinks industry.

Tullamore Dew 018 photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Tullamore D.E.W. Official Brand Tasting Notes

Color: Medium amber gold

Aroma: Mild blend of spicy, lemony and malty notes, with charred wood and vanilla undertones

Body: Light bodied, sweetish spices, buttery and rounded with light citrus fruitiness

Palate: Warming, pleasant maltiness with toasted wood and vanilla hints

Finish: Smooth and gentle, the complex flavors lingering

Reference Price: $24

“St. Patrick’s Day is an enchanted time – a day to begin transforming winter’s dreams into summer’s magic.” ~ Adrienne Cook

You can be Irish True too. Toast St. Patrick’s Day with Tullamore D.E.W straight, on the rocks or in these St. Patrick’s Day themed cocktails.

The 1829

1 ounce Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey

1 ounce Orange Juice

1 ounce Lillet Rouge

1 ounce Cherry Brandy

Orange Slice or Orange Twist Garnish

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with fresh orange slice or fresh orange peel twisted over drink and dropped in. Notation: Bols or Heering Cherry Liqueur can be used as Cherry Brandy. Flavor profile was not designed to fit with Maraschino Liqueur flavor. (cocktail photo provided by Susan Magrino Agency)

The Irish Ward

1-1/2 ounce Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey

1/2 ounce Grenadine

1/2 ounce Fresh Lemon Juice

1/2 ounce Fresh Orange Juice

Lime Wheel Garnish

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill Strain into rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with lime wheel. (cocktail photo provided by Susan Magrino Agency)

Cocktail recipes and tasting notes sponsored by representatives of Tullamore D.E.W. – @TullamoreDew on Twitter – TullamoreDew on Facebook