Author: syrup

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and we’ve crafted a holiday lineup that’s as magical as the season itself! From cozy evenings by the fire to lively holiday gatherings, these festive spirits will add warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance to every December celebration. Here are the perfect picks to make your festivities unforgettable!

Jameson Triple Triple Irish Whiskey

A holiday delight for whiskey enthusiasts! Jameson Triple Triple is triple-distilled and triple-cask matured, creating a smooth, luxurious sip with hints of toffee, cacao, and toasted almonds. Serve it neat or elevate a holiday cocktail with this rich Irish classic. It’s a crowd-pleaser for every winter gathering!

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Pure, simple, and delicious! Tito’s Handmade Vodka is distilled from corn, offering a naturally gluten-free option that’s smooth and versatile—ideal for mixing up holiday cocktails. Plus, each purchase supports the “Love, Tito’s” program, adding a little extra cheer by giving back to communities. It’s the spirit of giving in every bottle!

Faretti Biscotti Liqueurs: Biscotti Famosi, Espresso & Decadent Biscotti Chocolate

For a taste of Italy in your holiday celebrations, try Faretti Biscotti Liqueurs. Biscotti Famosi combines almond and citrus for a balanced sweetness, Faretti Espresso is perfect for coffee cocktails, and Decadent Biscotti Chocolate brings a dessert-like richness with marzipan and chocolate notes. These festive flavors are perfect for savoring by the fire or gifting to the liqueur lover in your life.

The London No. 1 Gin

A gin that brings holiday magic with every pour! The London No. 1 Gin stands out with its enchanting blue hue and aromatic profile, making it perfect for gin cocktails that impress. It’s the ideal festive addition for holiday parties and a vibrant choice for gin lovers.

Lunazul Tequila Blanco and Añejo

Whether you’re toasting to the season with a margarita or sipping by the fire, Lunazul’s 100% blue agave tequilas offer flavors for every holiday occasion. Blanco is refreshingly smooth with herbal hints, while Añejo brings warmth with vanilla, dark fruit, and spice notes. These tequilas make a festive, versatile addition to your holiday bar!

Three Cord Bourbon Cream

Rich, creamy, and delightfully spiced, Three Cord Bourbon Cream is like a cozy dessert in a glass. With hints of maple, vanilla, and baking spices, it’s the perfect addition to holiday coffee, hot chocolate, or served straight for a nightcap by the Christmas tree. A decadent treat to enjoy all winter long!

With our December selection, you’re set for a season of memorable toasts, festive flavors, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re restocking shelves, gifting spirits, or simply savoring new flavors, these spirits are the perfect match for the most wonderful time of the year.

Washington State’s wine history, while not as extensive as California’s, boasts a vibrant present. In this blog post, we dive into Chateau Ste. Michelle, one of the region’s pioneering wineries, with the help of Master Sommelier and Director of Fine Wine, Michael McNeill.

The Birth of a Wine Country

As Michael explains, Washington’s wine story truly begins in the early 1970s. Chateau Ste. Michelle, established in 1972, was among the first 11 wineries to open its doors. Interestingly, the ideal growing conditions lie east of the Cascade Mountains, a stark contrast to the rainy climate west of Seattle. These cool nights and hot days, coupled with a lack of water, create a perfect environment for grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Chateau Ste. Michelle: A Leader in Quality and Diversity

Today, Chateau Ste. Michelle remains a major player in Washington’s wine scene. They are renowned for their well-priced Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots, but their expertise extends beyond red wines.

A Passion for Riesling

Washington State also excels in Riesling, a grape variety traditionally associated with Germany. Chateau Ste. Michelle played a pivotal role in this success. In 1972, they planted the Johannesburg Riesling clone, and decades later, collaborated with renowned Mosel winemaker Ernst Loosen to create exceptional Riesling cuvees.

A Tale of Two Rieslings: East Coast vs. West Coast

According to Michael, these Washington Rieslings offer a unique style compared to their East Coast counterparts. While New York Rieslings tend to be more European in style, Washington’s offerings are known for their aromatic and delicious character. They pair beautifully with Asian-inspired dishes, where the touch of sweetness in the wine balances the spice.

Exploring Chateau Ste. Michelle’s Wines

Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling

• Region: Columbia Valley, WA
• Tasting Notes: White peach, apricot, pear, and zesty grapefruit
• Style: Light-bodied and versatile
• Pairing Suggestions: Chicken, pork, soft cheese

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon

• Region: Columbia Valley, WA
• Blend: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Syrah, 5% Malbec, 7% other red varieties
• Aging: 24 months in a mix of new and neutral oak barrels and stainless steel tanks
• Tasting Notes: Rich red fruit flavors with a complex and approachable structure
• Pairing Suggestions: Beef, game, or burgers

Chateau Ste. Michelle is a testament to Washington State’s flourishing wine industry. From their delicious Cabernet Sauvignons to their aromatic Rieslings, they offer a diverse range of wines that are perfect for any occasion. As Michael highlights, Washington’s unique climate and dedication to quality have positioned it as a leading producer of exceptional wines.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to stock up on wines that will elevate your celebrations. From sparkling sips to bold reds, we’ve curated a selection of wines that will pair perfectly with your favorite festive dishes.

Sparkling: Mumm Napa Brut Prestige

Kick off your holiday celebrations with a bottle of Mumm Napa Brut Prestige. This award-winning sparkling wine showcases the best of Napa Valley’s sparkling winemaking. With its bright citrus, red apple, and creamy vanilla aromas, it’s a versatile and celebratory choice.

Holiday Ideas:

• Aperitif: Serve chilled as a welcome drink for guests.
• Dinner Party: Pair with light appetizers, seafood, or poultry dishes.
• Toast: Use for a celebratory toast during holiday gatherings.

 

Red: Highlands 41 Pinot Noir

Experience the adventure of Monterey County with Highlands 41 Pinot Noir. This wine showcases the region’s unique terroir, with aromas of red fruits and spice and a palate of black cherry and spice.

Holiday ideas:

• Main Course: Pair with roasted turkey, beef tenderloin, or lamb.
• Cheese Course: Serve with a selection of aged cheeses for a delicious dessert.
• Cozy Night In: Enjoy a glass by the fireplace with a good book.

 

Rosé: Stoller Pinot Noir Rosé

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Stoller Pinot Noir Rosé. This fresh and juicy rosé is perfect for any gathering or light holiday meals.

Holiday Ideas:

• Appetizer: Pair with grilled salmon or shrimp skewers.
• Side Dish: Serve with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
• Dessert: Enjoy with a slice of fruit tart or a light cake.

 

White: Flowers Chardonnay

Experience the elegance of Flowers Chardonnay. This coastal wine offers delicate aromas of white flower and minerality, with hints of kaffir lime leaf and fresh herbs.

Holiday Ideas:

• Main Course: Pair with seafood, poultry, or light vegetarian dishes.
• Cheese Course: Serve with a selection of creamy cheeses.
• Dessert: Enjoy with a slice of apple pie or a crème brûlée.

 

Imagine a journey where every sip of wine transports you to a new place, introduces you to new friends, and invites you to try something delightfully different. That’s the magic of Highlands 41. Proudly rooted in the heart of Paso Robles, each bottle of Highlands 41 embodies the pioneering spirit that founded this remarkable region.

Highlands 41 isn’t just a wine; it’s a story. Named after the historic Highway 41 and the rugged Creston Highlands, this wine captures the essence of freedom and adventure. Millions of years ago, the vineyards were submerged under an ancient sea. Today, the Creston Highlands, sitting over 1,300 feet above sea level, provide limestone-rich soils that create ideal conditions for our vineyards. The result? Wines that are rich in flavor and history.

Sip Sustainably

Highlands 41 is committed to protecting our planet for future generations. Their estate vineyards and winery are Certified Sustainable by CSWA, utilizing environmentally friendly farming practices, solar panels, and wastewater treatment and reclamation. So, when you enjoy a glass of Highlands 41, you’re also supporting a sustainable future.

A Taste of Paso Robles with Its 4 Varietals 

Highlands 41 is a true child of Paso Robles, and each wine reflects the region’s unique character and flavors.

Cabernet Sauvignon: This wine is a pure expression of the land and grape, transporting you straight to Paso Robles. With notes of dark fruit and a long finish, it’s perfect for those who appreciate depth and complexity.

Red Blend: The Black Granite Red Blend is a snapshot of Paso Robles, offering a bold mix of berries and a smooth finish. It’s a blend that captures the essence of the region in every sip.

Chardonnay: Journey to Monterey County with Highlands 41 Chardonnay. Experience notes of tropical fruit and a crisp finish that embody the land and the grape perfectly.

Pinot Noir: Discover the forces of nature in Highlands 41 Pinot Noir. Abundant sunlight, cooling fog, ocean breezes, and well-drained soils shape this wine, bringing you scents of red fruits and spice, followed by a palate of black cherry and spice with a smooth finish.

Join the Adventure

Whether you’re a supplier looking to stock your shelves, a retailer aiming to delight your customers, or a consumer ready to explore new flavors, Highlands 41 has something special for you. This September, let us take you on a journey with Highlands 41 wines. Each bottle is an invitation to discover the pioneering spirit of Paso Robles and the amazing flavors waiting to be savored.