Author: syrup

We’re excited to bring you the best wines, and this August, we’re thrilled to spotlight one standout star: Harken Chardonnay.

Buttery Bliss Without Breaking the Bank

Remember those rich, oaked Chardonnays California was famous for? We sure do! But nowadays, finding a bottle like that can feel like searching for treasure. Enter Harken! Founded by Jeff O’Neill, Harken is dedicated to reviving that classic California Chardonnay experience without the hefty price tag.

The Secret’s in the Barrel (and the Sourcing)

Jeff O’Neill knew there were no shortcuts to achieving that amazing oaky flavor and buttery mouthfeel. Traditional methods would have made the price skyrocket. So, he got creative! Harken sources grapes from promising AVAs in California like Paso Robles, Monterey, and Clarksburg to deliver top quality at a fantastic price. And here’s the magic touch: the Harken Fusion Barrel. Made of 50% French and 50% American oak, it gives the Chardonnay the perfect blend of flavors without needing to mix multiple barrels.

From Vine to Glass: The Harken Journey

• Grapes: Harken uses 100% Chardonnay grapes, sustainably grown under the California sun.
• Barrel Fermentation: Harken undergoes both primary and malolactic fermentation in their special Fusion Barrels, creating that signature rich texture and buttery notes.
• Barrel Aging: Over 8 months, the Chardonnay rests peacefully in the barrels, soaking up the oak’s flavors and developing its complex profile.
• Hand-Stirring: Every two weeks, their team gives the barrels a little love with hand-stirring, ensuring that luxurious texture we all love.

Bottling Magic: After all that care and attention, Adam Popp himself tastes each barrel and selects the very best for bottling.

A Symphony of Flavor

Harken is a Chardonnay for all your senses. Imagine notes of crème brûlée and toasted bread dancing on your tongue, with hints of Bosc pear and a touch of oaky spice. A refreshing burst of acidity keeps everything balanced, making this wine a true crowd-pleaser.

Chilled Perfection

For the best experience, serve Harken nice and cold. Pop it in the fridge for a few hours before you open it, or give it a quick ice bath for 10 minutes.

Food Pairings are Endless Possibilities

Harken’s rich flavor profile makes it a versatile pairing partner. It can stand up to creamy dishes or complement a simple pasta dish. Get creative and let us know what you love to pair it with. 

Summer is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with Malibu Original Rum! Known for its fresh taste of sunshine and smooth coconut flavor, Malibu is the ultimate summer spirit. This July, let’s bring together the best of sunny vibes, disco balls, and a cowgirl party for a night to remember. And, of course, no summer party is complete without a delicious cocktail in hand.

The Sunshine Story of Malibu

The journey of Malibu started in 1978 under the name Coco Rico, but it wasn’t until 1980 that Malibu Rum as we know it today was officially launched. This delightful spirit quickly captivated hearts with its rich flavors and unique taste, embodying an easygoing and fun lifestyle. Originally produced in a distillery on a beach in Barbados, Malibu is now blended and produced mainly in Canada, with some production also taking place in the US and Spain.

Malibu Original is distilled from a sweet syrup refined from sugarcane, making it the perfect base for sweet and tropical cocktails. Its smooth and refreshing coconut flavor has made it a staple in iconic drinks like the Malibu Piña Colada, Malibu Bay Breeze, and the Malibu Frozen Daiquiri.

Hosting a Disco Cowgirl Party

Imagine a night where the glitter of disco balls meets the charm of a cowgirl party. Here’s how to set the scene:

Decorations

• Disco Balls: Hang several disco balls around your party area to create a dazzling, reflective ambiance.
• Cowgirl Elements: Incorporate hay bales, cowboy hats, and boots into your décor. A mix of rustic and sparkly elements will set the perfect mood.
• Lighting: Use string lights and colorful LED lights to enhance the party atmosphere.

Dress Code

Encourage your guests to come dressed as cowgirls with a disco twist. Think fringe, sequins, and cowboy boots. A blend of country charm and disco glam will make for some fantastic party photos!

The “Giddy Up & Go-Go” Cocktail

No party is complete without a signature drink, and this one is sure to be a hit with the cowgirls (and cowboys) on the dance floor.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Malibu Original
• 1 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/2 oz. lime juice
• Splash of grenadine
• Club soda
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine Malibu, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and grenadine in a shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake it up, partner! Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
3. Top it off with a splash of club soda for some fizz.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and get ready to two-step the night away!

Get ready for a taste explosion this summer with Smirnoff Smash Vodka Soda! Forget the ordinary, because Smirnoff Smash takes flavor combinations to a whole new level.

Imagine the juicy sweetness of pineapple perfectly paired with the tangy zest of orange. Or the vibrant mix of strawberry and dragon fruit, bursting with tropical vibes. Maybe you’re feeling something a little more classic? Then dive into the refreshing fusion of raspberry and peach. And for those who love a taste of summer, watermelon and lime come together in a truly unforgettable combination.

Smirnoff Smash Vodka Soda isn’t just about the unexpected flavor pairings. It’s crafted with real Smirnoff vodka, juicy fruit flavors, and a splash of soda for a refreshing 4.5% ABV experience that’s perfect for any summer occasion. Plus, with 100 calories and no added sugar or colors, you can indulge without guilt.

So ditch the boring and embrace the bold! This summer, grab a can of Smirnoff Smash Vodka Soda and experience the taste that will leave you saying “SMASH HIT!”

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who raised us. This year, ditch the traditional brunch mimosa and treat Mom to a truly special experience. We’ve curated a selection of delightful beverages, each paired with a delicious food suggestion or activity, to make your Mother’s Day celebration unforgettable.

Brunch & Blooms with Hendrick’s Flora Adora Gin

For a playful and floral twist on brunch, whip up a refreshing “Floral Fizz” cocktail featuring Hendrick’s Flora Adora Gin. This limited-edition gin boasts enchanting floral aromas and a wonderfully balanced flavor profile.

Floral Fizz Recipe:

• 2 oz. Hendrick’s Flora Adora Gin
• 1 oz. Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
• 1/2 oz. Elderflower Liqueur
• Top with Soda Water
• Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and edible flower (optional)

Pair this delightful cocktail with a beautiful brunch spread featuring fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit, and creamy scrambled eggs. You can even set the mood by decorating the table with Mom’s favorite flowers – after all, Flora Adora means “flower lover” in Latin!

 

Pampering & Pearls with Moët & Chandon Impérial

For a luxurious Mother’s Day treat, pop the cork on a bottle of Moët & Chandon Impérial champagne. This iconic bubbly boasts a vibrant, fruity flavor and elegant complexity, making it the perfect toast to Mom. 

Consider drawing a warm bath with rose petals and lighting scented candles to create a spa-like atmosphere. As Mom sips her champagne, indulge in a relaxing massage or pamper her with a mani-pedi session.

 

Vineyard Views & Chardonnay with Flowers Chardonnay

For a Mother’s Day celebration focused on quality time together, opt for a bottle of Flowers Chardonnay. This Sonoma Coast Chardonnay offers a delightful balance of fresh fruit, vibrant acidity, and subtle minerality. 

Pack a picnic basket with cheese, crackers, and fresh berries, then head out to a scenic vineyard for an afternoon of wine tasting and breathtaking views.

Raise a glass (or two) and shower Mom with love and appreciation this Mother’s Day!