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The rise of rum

sarahrichardier — Fri, 24 May 2013 09:24:00 +0100

The WHO shared new statistics about the average baskets in the United Kingdom. The results show a significant change in the consumer’s habits, more specifically in the alcoholic beverage consumption: it still tends to decrease.

In the UK, alcohol consumption declined for several years in-a-row. The lowest percentage was recorded in 2011. It appears that average consumers prefer to choose white rum over other drinks like champagne, which sales reduced dramatically.

The demand constantly changes and we can ask ourselves if it is a reflection of the society’s evolution. But if we take a closer look at the study we can see that blueberries, salami, e-books and even men T-shirts sales are decreasing too. Not easy under those conditions to figure a general trend from those statistics... However, let’s play a little bit and allow ourselves to imagine an explanation to the “Rise of the White Rum”

What is pushing the UK into abandoning champagne? Champagne represents luxury, victory, effervescence, and sparkling occasions. Nowadays, it may also convey a certain idea of overdoing things. On the contrary, rum seems to fit any kind of events, from the most mundane parties to the average teenage binge drinking nights. In effect, rum has a large price range, depending on its aging and quality.

White, gold and black rum are the result of the fermentation and distillation of sugar cane. The barrels of oaks, the sugar cane quality, the aging and the distillates used are decisive in the final flavour of the beverage. If you choose a medium quality rum, you can still use it as the main ingredient of the two popular cocktails Pina colada and Cuba libre.

Would you like to experience it? Today we recommend:

Champagne Billecart Salmon Brut Réserve

Buy Champagne Billecart Salmon Brut Réserve

Legendario Elixir de Cuba 7 Years

Buy Legendario Elixir de Cuba 7 Years

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The 10 favorite drink of the gay community

sarahrichardier — Thu, 23 May 2013 09:19:00 +0100

What created the recent interest the alcohol industry showed toward the gay community? A new social fight for the industry ? Let’s be honest, the reason of this renewal of consideration is more likely to be laying on the results of a new study that revealed this breaking news: the gay population invests between 6000 and 8000 billion Euros a year in beverages in the UK. In those conditions, satisfying the tastes of this huge market might not be a bad idea. Question is, is there’s any specific “gay community tastes”? (In terms of cocktails.) Or is it just a new marketing invention? Well, let’s give some credit to the Queerty Web Site and see what those so called favorite drinks are.

10 - The Margarita. Faithful to his great fame all over the world, the Margarita seems to be consumed within the gay community too. The key to its success definitely is the tequila's quality.

9 - Granada Martini: The gay Queerty website affirms that it has been popularized thanks to resemblance with the Cosmopolitan, in term of color.

8 - The Mojito: Despite appearing simple at first, this drink hides a complex equilibrium that is hard to reach. Its Latin origins and its strong taste make it a daring cocktail that is consumed everywhere in the world. The gay community seems to drink it too.
7 – Égalité (Equity): We already mentioned the launch of this Cremant de Bourgogne specially created for gay weddings. This New York label is known for its heart surrounded by the gay community rainbow.
6 - Dirty Martini is made with a splash of olive juice, and is garnished with olives. It tastes delicious and gives a new facet to the common Martini.

5 - Appletini: Its flavor is very delicate, thanks to the fruits that are used as a main ingredient.
4 - Purple Hand Beer: This drink was created in 2011 in Mexico. It is very easy to recognize thanks to the purple hand label.
3 - Rosé Wine: The rosé wine is a classic and doesn’t lose its fame thanks to innovating winemakers. For example, the St. Ynez vineyard is only produced by women. Such a great progress needed to be mentioned.
2 - Two-Manhattan: Few cocktails have as much personality as this one.
1- The Cosmopolitan: Is Sex and the City a reference in terms of drinks? Finally the ultimate gay drink cocktail is the Cosmopolitan. Its invention is claimed between Miami and New York but the fact is that since its creation in the late 1980s it never went out of fashion.

Do you think the "gay drinks" really exist? Or is it just a new marketing creation? Anyway, we recommend you two good vodkas in order to try the famous cosmopolitan !

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Wine labels : a world of inovation

sarahrichardier — Wed, 22 May 2013 09:19:00 +0100

It would be a mistake to say that every great wine have a great label. Also, a flashy label doesn’t certify the quality of the drink. However, an innovative label can lead you to try some new and interesting options you wouldn’t have thought of.

Casei de Advocatura Wine (Lawyer’s house): This wine has a grey label simulating a pinstripe suit with a striking red scarf, creating a sober and elegant style. An ideal gift for your family lawyer.

Advine: Advine is a brand of Australian wine that offers a great Shiraz. The label represents a lovely oil painting with floral details. It is supposed to reflect the Dutch heritage of Andrew Leembruggen, a great winemaker.

The Argonaut, 8 arms (original photo): This wine label is probably one of my favorites. It represents an octopus on a white background. It is a reference to the Aristotle's theory: He claimed that the female octopus travels in his shell and uses its 8 arms to paddle and move.

Csetvei Winery: Designed by Kira Koroknai, this label is a minimalist way of underlining the Winery Csetvei strong taste. It is easy to admire this wavy black and white lines.

Vi Novell 2012: Both for meat lovers and for those who feel overwhelmed with the theme of marriage, this design will be attractive. The label represents several strips of bacon surrounding the body of the bottle. The Celler el Masroig is already known for the originality of the label they create.

Bitch Fest Student Spotlight: The Bitch Fest is an ideal wine to enjoy spontaneous. The design of the label requires to spin the bottle in order to clearly read the white letters.

Torello Malvarel-I 2012: Its label refers to the production process: from the vines selection to the bottling machine through the torelló with creativity.

Minima Moralia: Brandient is the creator of this wine. It came from Singapore and is available in 6 different mixtures, every one of them having an original and artistic black and white photography design.

Today I will recommend 2 wines, will you chose them according to the label?

Castell D'Ordal Rosado

Buy Castell D'Ordal Rosado

Flor de Pingus 2010

Buy Flor de Pingus 2010

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Spanish wines abroad

martabgood — Tue, 21 May 2013 09:17:00 +0100

What do you think that is known about Spanish wine outside of Spain? Do you think that it would be good enough? Do you think that the selection of Spanish wine that can be bought at any supermarket in the UK, Sweden or Denmark is truly representative of what we produce in Spain? Do you really think that? Do you believe that our wines are understood beyond our borders?

The reality of Spanish wine abroad requires expert analysis. Since I'm not, I'll just tell you what I see every day. And what I can see every time I go to buy wine and I'm not in Spain never ceases to amaze me.

For starters, let's talk for example about Denmark. I find it very interesting the appellations of origin distribution that they play in here. It strikes me quite so, Rioja and Ribera del Duero are present, but without much fanfare, exact opposite of what happens in Spain.

At the same time, in the wines of Spain section you can see that other wines never stop proliferating. When I say other wines I'm talking about those coming from other regions that may not even be found in a good specializing wine shop in our country. I am not about Appellations of Origin, but referring to wines from the land or similar products which in Spanish supermarkets are cornered and mostly left aside in benefit of those first positions filled up with DOs Why is that? Will it reflect the tastes of consumers? Will it instead obey to a marketing strategy?

Because if you are thinking that it is a matter of price, you are wrong. And this was the other thing that I wanted to deal with.

As such, the wines of Balearic Islands, in Extremadura, etc.. in this country has a considerable price, but you can see that you have just beside the classics, these respectable well known wines (and DO, of course) costing no money.

Yes, cheaper than in Spain. I speak for example about Lan and Marqués de Riscal. For some strange reason, you can buy aged wines, good vintages, especially in the first case, at least five Euros cheaper than what they usually cost in Spain. And paradoxes of life, they are also cheaper than those other wines that in Spain are sometimes not as well known.

Luckily we still have internet. And for example you could take a look on these two:

Palacio de Monsalud

Buy Palacio de Monsalud

Gran Feudo Chivite Reserva 2006

Buy Gran Feudo Chivite Reserva 2006

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How many bottles must I buy?

sarahrichardier — Mon, 20 May 2013 09:19:00 +0100

Are you one of those people who enjoy organizing meeting with friends and family at home, but always doubt about the right amount of wine you need to buy? It might help you to know that the international standards are 6 glasses of wine per bottle. But you must consider some specificities in order to please all your guests.

It is important to note that the amount of wine used is different for each occasion. If during a regular occasion you will be able to serve 6-7 glasses of wine per bottle, you must keep in mind that the tasting glasses have less capacity than regular glasses.

The wine bottles classic content is 0.75 liters, and the glasses themselves have a standard capacity of 125 milliliter. But those standards can be changed, a good example is the glass of Bordeaux. These differences are generated by the type of wine and its flavor, because some of them (such as Muscat) should be used moderately in order to keep the taste.

The temperature issue has an impact on the number of glasses per bottle. Sometimes, by serving hosts several small amounts of wine in repeated rounds you can prevent a too big change of temperature.

If you take these factors into account, and if you do a conscious choice on the type of wine you will serve, you will have a better estimation of the amounts of wine you need to buy for your celebration.

Are you ready to serve wine? Today we recommend two great wines at the best price:

Siglo Saco Crianza 2008

Buy Siglo Saco Crianza 2008

Palacio de Monsalud

Buy Palacio de Monsalud

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Summer's comming : 5 low-calorie wines

sarahrichardier — Fri, 17 May 2013 09:18:00 +0100

Nowadays people care more and more about their figure and want to stay healthy and fit. As a consequence of this new way of living, the amount of calories that one is ingesting every day is becoming a real preoccupation. Both men and women try to acquire low-calorie wines so they can avoid annoying restrictions. In fact, it is estimated that in the case of United States, 20% of the population is in constant diets.

In 2009, the chef Bethenny Frankel presented his low-calorie cocktails for women. At the same time, the brand Skinnygirl launched a series of 3 low-calorie wines in 2012. There are many other international brands that are ideal for those who want to pamper themselves and enjoy a great wine at the same time.

Lindeman's Early Harvest: This Australian brand was one of the pioneers in launching wines low in alcohol. Early Harvest was launched in 2007 with 25% less alcohol and calories than a regular wine. The Shiraz has 90 calories per cup. The brand also has a whole range of rosés.
MarlboroughSauvignon low alcohol: It is one of the best-selling low-alcohol drink in the UK. The brand plans to launch "Flight", a version with less alcohol that is already on sale in New Zealand.
Jacob's Creek Cool Harvest: This range of drinks was launched in 2011 and made from grapes harvested at night, according to its creator Pernod Ricard. The sparkling and rosé wine as much as Sauvignon Blanc and Vermentino have less calories than other options available in the market.
Wine Skinny: It was created thinking of all those who are watching their figure or are working to improve it. Chardonnay, Moscato and Thin Mini Zin, each portion of these wines has 95 calories
Natureo 2012: This wine launched in 2008 has only 0.5% vol of alcohol in his presentation and 20 calories per 100 ml. It is an excellent invention of Torres, who also features a presentation of red and pink to suit all tastes.

Thinking about the operation bikini? We recommend 2 drinks:

Natureo 2012

Buy Natureo 2012

Buckler 0% Alcohol Canned

Buy Buckler 0% Alcohol Canned

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Olive oil made in wineries

martabgood — Thu, 16 May 2013 09:05:00 +0100

Now if go visit a winery you will not necessarily be looking for wine. Maybe you won't even taste it. The Spanish winemakers, not all, but some very cool, have decided to expand their business covering other specialties. In this post we will get inspired by vineyards and olive trees.

Marqués de Griñón and Marqués de Valdueza are two of the winemakers converted into gourmet olive oil producers. Without losing any of their interest in wine (thanks God, because them both are very good in elaborating it) now they try to seduce our palate with their liquid gold proposals.

You do not need to be Marquis, neither to hold any other kind of peerage, to embark on this adventure. What you need to have is willing to work, a little market knowledge or very good advisers and an olive trees.

You can learn a little more from these two olive oil producers in the following lines:

Marqués de Griñón

Yes, he also makes olive oil. This man is good at everything. A delicate process, which could only be preceded by handpicking. That is how they treat their olives (Picual, Arbequina and Manzanilla varieties) which juice is qualified as "pago oil" as it comes only from their own land. That is Marqués de Griñón olive oil.

Of unusual beauty, its colors fade between gold and greenish yellow. The same happens in the mouth, where this intense oil gets you trapped by its vegetal notes that hide subtle flavors of nuts.

Its bottle reminds to the Manzanila wine one, a nod to its composition and to the winemaker heart of its creator.

Marqués de Valdueza

Why bringing the oil bottle to the table when you have some guests is you can present on the table a bottle of olive oil with wine bottle shape. Much better, isn't it?. Morisca, Picual, Arbequina and hojiblanca are the olive varieties combined in this gourmet minded olive oil.

I loved it when I tasted it for the first time and I found it the perfect complement for a thick slice of homemade bread, with its dense crumb. The sweet way this olive oil enters the mouth prepares the palate for that piquant, very subtle, surprise that comes eventually. Perfect for olive lovers and bittersweet flavours enthusiasts. Great.

Who would like to taste them both? For a good salad or a nice stew, here are my suggestions:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Marqués de Valdueza 50cl

Buy Extra Virgin Olive Oil Marqués de Valdueza 50cl

Oil Marqués de Griñón 500ml

Buy Oil Marqués de Griñón 500ml

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How can the Port Wines be distinguished?

sarahrichardier — Wed, 15 May 2013 09:08:00 +0100

The port wine has been made since 300 years and belongs to the category of the fortified wines. The fortified wines are made by increasing their alcohol content by adding a specific quantity of brandy during the fermentation.

At first, this process was carried out in order to prepare the wine for the transfer by sea from one continent to another. Fortified, the wines could resist to humidity and temperature swings.

Now the fortified wines are multiple and it's complicated to understand what the labels refer to. You can be confronted to different styles, that are created thanks to a difference in aging.

Some of the varieties used for red port are Latouriga, Tinta cão, Tinta barroca, Tinta Roriz or Tempranillo and French Toutiga , while for the creation of white port the Malvasia king, Malvasia thin and Codega are used.

The styles of port:

Vintage Port: This is the highest category of port wine. It is made from the finest grapes from different vineyards are bottled between the second and third year without a filter. The minimum aging time is 10 to 15 years.

Porto Crusted: These wines are hard to fine. Also called encrusted because of the sediment left in the bottom of the bottles. They are like vintage wines, but they are made from mixtures of two to three different crops. They must be decanted before drinking.

Porto LBV: The initials indicate Late bottled Vintage. Developed since the 60s, they are bottled after spending 4-6 years in wood, from what it takes its dark and powerful flavour.

Garrafeira Port: This port spends seven years in the pipe, then is aged for approximately 40 years in carboys. They are very durable and retain their qualities intact.

Tawny: It can be identified by its brown color, obtained by contact with the wood between 5 and 7 years. After the process it will spend 10, 20, 30 or 40 years bottled before release.

Porto Ruby: A classic red port wine, its taste is fruity and its color as indicated by its prestigious name : ruby.

Porto Branco, Blanco or White: One of the less popular port as it is overshadowed by the red.

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An Albariño from California?

sarahrichardier — Tue, 14 May 2013 09:17:00 +0100

The Albariño grape from Galicia and Portugal has exciting possibilities in California, and more specifically in the Russian River Valley. This vineyard seems to prosper in their harvest and Marimar Torres, from Bodegas Torres states that they have great expectations.

"The Californian Albariño is not as sour as the Galicia Albariño. The one that we are reaping in the Russian River is round, aromatic and mineral". Let’s recall that the Albariño is a white grape variety used for wines with Denomination of Origin “Rias Baixas” and Portuguese “Vinho Verde”. The story says that the Cluny monks took this grape from the Armenteira monastery in the twelfth century. Its cultivation then spreads throughout Galicia and northern Portugal. According to Executive Order of June 13 APA/1819/2007 the grape Albariño is a variety used for a wine that is recommended to produce in Galicia and authorized in Cantabria, Castilla y León and Catalonia.

Torres experiment this aromatic variety since 2004 and now wants to make use of the global furor that has occurred around the Albariño. Besides this variety, she said that he planted Tempranillo in his vineyard in the Sonoma Coast, but was not successful in reaping because of the extremely cold weather. She then made another attempt: "I had to start from zero, placing American rootstock varieties in the organic vineyard Don Miguel, where we reach the expected success".

Torres plans to revisit Galicia to study more in detail the grapes directly in their homelands. "The greatness of Albariño grape is its freshness”, she said, “with notes of peach and lemon, and a mineral taste that is currently highly sought by consumers. "

Regarding the Tempranillo, Torres already has 400 vines of this variety in the vineyard Don Miguel. She is expanding other areas outside the vineyard and plans to create its first 100% Tempranillo wine this year 2013. These last two years, he developed a mix of 50% Tempranillo and 50% Syrah. She said that "the Syrah gives both structure and body to the wine, but it’s the Tempranillo that brings the complexity".

The original wine 100% Albariño is white, dry and light. This variety is considered to be one of the most important within the 220 that Galicia cultivates. Now we have to see, smell and taste the wine 100% Albariño Torres and compare the results with the gem of Galicia.

Do you think that Albariños can be done in California? Could it reach the greatness of the Galicia’s production? Or will it only be a commercial success? Meanwhile we recommend two great Albariños from Spain, the “one and only”:

Terras Gauda 2011

Terras Gauda 2011, a great offer now!

Buy Terras Gauda 2011

Albariño de Fefiñanes 2011

Albariño de Fefiñanes 2011, a classical albariño

Buy Albariño de Fefiñanes 2011

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Whisky Glossary (II)

sarahrichardier — Mon, 13 May 2013 09:06:00 +0100

In this second part of the Whisky Glossary we will continue with a brief explanation of some terms that are related to this spectacular drink:

New Make Spirit: Spirit just off the still, ready to be diluted to Cask Strensht for Ageing.

Nose: The smell of a whisky.

Peated Malt: Malt whisky with the smoky smell that comes from treating barley with Peat.

Pot Still: Stills used for batch distillation. The liquid is distilled usually twice, occasionally three times, first in a Wash still and then in a Spirit still.

Reflux: Vapour high in alcohol that returns to the still for further distillation.

Safe mind: Large container padlocked, with glass walls. Allows the distiller to observe the spirit leaving the still, without coming into direct contact with the spirit itself.

Saladin Box: Vessel in which barley germinates while being mechanically turned.

St. Patrick: Monk that introduced the art of distillation to Ireland in 432 AD. He is celebrated by all the Irish on March 17 of each year.

Vatting: The blending of malt or grain whiskies from different distilleries.

Vinasse: The residue in the bottom of the fermentation, alcohol.

Wash Still: In Pot Still distillation, the first still. The products of this still go to the Spirit Still.

Waste: Residues remaining after fermentation. Used for animal feed.

Do you want to share your knowledge? If you want to organize a wine tasting and teach your friends what you have learned, here are two whiskies that you should not miss:

The Famous Grouse 1L

Buy The Famous Grouse 1L

Jameson 1L

Buy Jameson 1L

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Cosmopolitan: about cocktails

martaburgues — Fri, 10 May 2013 09:19:00 +0100

We start a series of articles devoted to various cocktails from around the world. From gin and tonic to bloody mary to the latest cocktails. It appears that such combinations don't go out of style and are more alive than ever. To begin with... fancy a cosmopolitan?

The poshest drink, preferred by Carrie Bradshaw, the protagonist of the TV show Sex and the City, a character portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, it does not know about trends, and survives the passing years. Madonna also made it famous in the 90s, drinking one in a bar, attracting the interest of many fans who were asking what drink it was. Regarded as a classic, the Cosmopolitan mixes up vodka, Cointreau or other liqueur with cranberry juice and lime juice, but it allows other variations.

With these ingredients, the flavor is dry and strong because of the vodka and a bit sweet and sour thanks to the fruits. The variations of this cocktail are the Barbados Cosmopolitan, with rum as a substitute of vodka, or the Cosmopolitan Morning with flavored vodka and coffee. The trick is knowing how to combine all these ingredients with ice, shake them and serve in a rather chilly glass.

Although different people are attributed as the creators of the colloquially named 'Cosmo', the bartender Cheryl Cook, from Florida, invented the recipe in the mid 80s. Then it was made with vodka, triple sec, lime drops, and some cranberry juice.

The truth is that it's a cocktail very easy to make, 100% American and offering sweetish flavors. It is perfect as an aperitif before dinner, so New Yorkers usually do that on weekends, or after a dinner to share with friends. In the United States it's very popular and is said to be an aphrodisiac, so is consumed preferably among 30-35 years old women.

What vodka do you prefer for your cosmopolitan? We recommend:

Grey Goose Vodka 1L

Buy Grey Goose Vodka 1L

Smirnoff Gold 1L

Buy Smirnoff Gold 1L

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What is the difference between sweet and fortified wines?

sarahrichardier — Thu, 09 May 2013 09:15:00 +0100

Confronted to the vast choice of wine available on the market we often have to take difficult decisions when it comes to choose one. Don’t forget the original flavours of the sweet and fortified wines! These are two options to consider when you are facing the wide (and wild?) world of wines.

The most important difference between a regular wine and a sweet wine is its residual sugar content. Sweet wines are those that have a high percentage of alcohol and are sweet thanks to a long aging. The grapes are crushed and put to fermentation. The yeast then converts the sugar into alcohol. The idea is to stop the fermentation process before it’s complete and enjoy the sweet taste that the natural residual sugar gives to the wine. Different techniques are used, from the choice of a very sweet grape variety, to freezing the water present in wine, passing by the elimination of the yeast.

Most sweet white wines are made with Moscatel or Macabeo, while most red ones are made with Grenache.

The fortified wine's average alcohol content is around 15 and 23 degrees. It is usually made from Palomino and Pedro Ximenez grapes. It is fortified by adding alcohol to the base. This alcohol added is named “Natural grape spirit”. It is distinguished from liquors because the spirit is not made by distillation but simply added to it. While most fortified wines are made in the sweet style, the fortified wines can also be dry.

The sweet wine complexity can be revealed thanks to the contrast with food that has a completely different taste. Also, it can then be reaffirmed with similar sweet food.

The ideal mix in order to enjoy the fortified wine is the Roquefort cheese, blue cheese, nuts, cream-based desserts and chocolate. Want to try some? Today we recommend 2:

Ximenez-Spinola Pedro Ximenez

Ximenez-Spinola Pedro Ximenez, a sweet wine

Buy Ximenez-Spinola Pedro Ximenez

Muscat de Beaumes de Venise

Muscat de Beaumes de Venise, french taste

Buy Muscat de Beaumes de Venise

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What is a “Prestige Cuvée” champagne?

sarahrichardier — Wed, 08 May 2013 09:26:00 +0100

A champagne Cuvée Prestige (or Prestige Cuvée) is considered to be the very best product of each producer. One of the first Cuvée was Moët & Chandon Dom Pérignon, launched in 1935 thanks to the idea of Robert-Jean de Vogüe. As the Great Depression was striking he thought that only a luxury champagne could bring comfort to his privileged consumers.

It is a mix between the best plots, made with grapes from the best Grand Cru. For being the highest quality product its price is higher than the rest of the options that we can find in the market.

According to Richard Geoffroy, Dom Pérignon cellar master, each year they are trying to create the vintage but it only happens when they decide whether they have enough quality to produce a second fermentation. The Dom Perignon is aged for at least 7 years. There are 3 stages of maturation: The first stage creates a vibrant and energetic champagne, the second stage happens after his first release when it is still strong but more complex than in the first step, the last and third stage is when the wine is fully mature.

The mixtures made to produce the Dom Pérignon are central in the structure and complexity of the champagne, but aging is just as important in order to have the excellent result that one in expecting from a Prestige Cuvée. Another important Prestige Cuvée would be the Louis Roederer Cristal Brut created in 1876 by Tsar Alexander II of Russia, with the idea of serving it to his Emperor.

Undoubtedly one of the factors that make this drink one of the favorite for special occasions is the standard that ensures a higher and constant quality to the consumers. Prestige Cuvée is definitely the best companion to celebrate victories and moments of joy.

Got something to celebrate? Today we recommend two Prestige Cuvée:

Ca del Bosco Cuvee Prestige Brut

Buy Ca del Bosco Cuvee Prestige Brut

Henri Abele Premier Cuvee Prestige

Buy Henri Abele Premier Cuvee Prestige

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The beer market in the United States

sarahrichardier — Tue, 07 May 2013 09:27:00 +0100

Over generations, the beer has become a major beverage in the United States. Just as wine became a tradition in warm areas where the vines grow, beer became very important in the cold region where cereals grow.

Fermentation quickly became a real custom in the U.S. population. It is with the arrival of the first explorers that the different types of beers were created. The very first beer was the famous beer "Ale". At that time breweries began to open. But in 1800 the German migrants came with the "Lager" beer that became really popular. In 1870 they became the undisputed leader with 4,000 breweries developed.
In 1920, the Prohibition was declared and lasted for 13 years. Only half of the breweries will reopen at the end of this law. In 1970, the United States had less companies producing beer than what they had in 1920. The “comeback” of the Ale beer won’t happen before 1980, when new Ale started to appear on the market. Thanks to their top quality, these craft type "microbrewery" are those very same that we can find today in pole position in U.S. sales. Currently, the leaders of the beer market are Anheuser-Busch InBev and MillerCoors.

Brand Index You Gov conducted its annual survey of beer, and it appears that the most famous beers in the United States are:
    10 - Coors Light: This brand is ninth among the 10 top rated beers in the United States. It is one of the most sold in 2012.
    9 - Yuenling: Yuenling & Son was founded in 1829. This is the oldest brewery in the United States, the production is 2.5 million barrels per year.
    8 - Stella Artois: Launched in 1998, it is one of the most sold brand of Anheuser Bush Inbev. This Belgian beer is number one in more than 80 countries.
    7 - Guinness: She was ranked No. 6 in 2012. If it is now far behind, this Irish beer still sells 167 million barrels annually and is manufactured in 60 countries around the world.
    6 - Heineken: The Dutch brand took the place occupied by Guinness in 2012. She had a positive growth thanks to advertising and increased sales in the United States.
    5 - Corona: This is the best-selling imported U.S. beer. Recently, the Ministry of Justice of the United States forbade the union of AB Inbev and Mexican brewery that produces Corona, arguing that if the merger was done, the brand would control 46% of beer sales in the country.
    4 - Bud Light: This beer brand is the most sold in the United States with a record of 269 million in 2012, although a drop in sales in 2013 is identified.
    3 - Dos Equis: The brand was acquired by Heineken in 2010. This is one of the best brands advertised and was able to still Bud Light rank this year.
    2 - Budweiser: One of the main brands of beer, enjoying the second position in 2012. Part of AB InBev, the company has been sued for having diluted the beer. The group responded to the accusation by jokes to reassure customers.
    1 - Samuel Adams: This beer is owned by the Boston Beer Company. Founded in 1984 with a homemade recipe and named Samuel Adams Boston Lager, it holds the first place in this ranking.

Want to try a beer made in America? Today, we will recommend 2:

Alhambra Reserva 1925

Buy Alhambra Reserva 1925

San Miguel Especial

Buy San Miguel Especial

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Whisky Glossary (I)

sarahrichardier — Mon, 06 May 2013 09:25:00 +0100

Among the wide variety of drinks whisky is definitely one of the most appreciated. But as each great topic, it has its own language. Are you ready to enter into this amazing world by learning a bit of the “great spirit” vocabulary?

ABV: An acronym that refers to the percentage of alcohol.

Amylase: Enzyme that converts starch into maltose.

Age: Aging time of whisky, indicated on the label.

Ball of Malt: A glass for irish wiskey.

Backset: Liquid at the bottom of the stills after distillation.

Beer Ale: Protein-rich beer, it is used as a basis for the development of whisky.

Bond: A whisky left in customs warehouses until the taxes are paid.

Bothie: Building that housed clandestine distilleries in the Scottish Highlands. Some were hidden underground.

Bourbon: An American corn whiskey that is kept in oak barrels.

Brewing: A process in which the beans are crushed and fermented in hot water to create yeast.

Carbonization: Process in which the interior of the drums is exposed to flames. It is this process that gives it a very special color and flavor.

Cytase: An enzyme which breaks down cell walls and allows access to starch.

Congeners: Chemical compounds produced as a result of the fermentation and maturation. They are composed of ether, alcohols and acids.

Couch: After the barley begins to germinate in a second tank.

Distillation: Vaporization of liquid through heat, which leads to the alcohol condensation.

Drachma: A glass for scottish whisky.

Dram: A Scottish term for a measure of spirits, particularly whisky.

Drum Malting : Large drum which is turned constantly until the malting process is complete.

Enzymes: In whisky production, enzymes are present within cereal grains which convert starch into a fermentable substance.

Feints: During the second distillation, the "heart of heating" will be put into barrels. The rest is called "Feints". It is unpotable even to the most hardened drinker.

Fermentation: The conversion of sugar into carbon dioxide and ethyl alcohol with the addition yeast enzymes.

Foreshots: The first part of the second distillation run.

Green Malt: Green Malt is barley that has begun the process of germination.

Kilning: In malting, the process of arresting the growth of the germinating barley before starch can be used up.

Low Wines: Low Wines are produced in the first distillation in a Wash Still.

Lyne arms: Arm that connects the still to the capacitor.

Mashing: Process of mixing milled grain and water. The mixture is then heated. This technique allows the enzymes to change the starch into sugar.

Mash Tun: Also known as Mash tub. The vessel in which Mashing takes place.

Malting: Controlled germination of grain.

Mash Bill: In North America, the proportion of different grains used for Mashing.

Mixture: Liquid mixed with boiling water to extract the soluble starch and convert maltose.

Did you know all these words? Which one did you find most interesting? Do you use them often? Today, in order to practice this new language, we recommend the following whiskies:

The Famous Grouse 1L

Buy The Famous Grouse 1L

Jameson 1L

Buy Jameson 1L

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Beer and running, the good allies

sarahrichardier — Fri, 03 May 2013 09:23:00 +0100

Beer is the favorite drink for many people when they want to cool off in hot conditions. In his study "Suitability of beer in the athlete’s metabolic recovery", Professor Manuel Castillo Garzón of the University of Granada confirms that this delicious drink has moisturizing properties and is widely used to quench thirst.

The running club of Philadelphia, called "BeerRunners" conducted a study on 16 young people. They’ve been asked to drink beer after a run in order to recover their lost fluids.
Why beer? Well, first of all it is constituted by 95% of water. But the body does not only lose water during the effort. The sweat is composed of potassium, minerals, vitamins and polyphenols. And guess what? This is exactly what you can find in any kind of beer.

In an interview Manuel Castillo Garzón said that the most appropriate beer after exercise would be the Lager, and reminded that the lower the alcohol content is the greater the hydration would be. According to him, the recommended amount of beer would be 2 cans daily, as long as athletes can drink alcohol.

Besides beer moisturizing benefits we need to underline its relaxing effect. A beer can help you to start the rest that you need to take after the effort. The resting stage is what allows muscles and body to recover from traumatizing exercise.

This study revealed that beer and sports are compatible! But always with measurement and taking into account the line that separates hydration, relaxation and excess.
A beer? Yes, but in moderation and as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle that includes exercise, Ok? Today we recommend:

Peroni Nastro Azzurro

Buy Peroni Nastro Azzurro

Heineken

Buy Heineken

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U.S. whiskey (II)

albertomartinez — Thu, 02 May 2013 09:14:00 +0100

In this opportunity we will talk about the American Bourbon types:

Rye Whiskey

Rye Whisky Bourbon can not be called that way unless the grain mass from which proceeds is at least 51% rye instead of corn. A "straight rye" is a rye whiskey that has been aged in charred oak barrels for at least two years. In the past most Canadian whiskey is made with rye and, confusingly, Canadian whiskey is still known as "Rye" in many parts of the United States to this day, although very few reach Canadian whiskey, 51% rye regulations.

The rye whiskey has a prolonged aging and is usually fuller and spicier than bourbon. For this reason, it makes an excellent alternative to Buorbones in the preparation of the famous' Old-Fashioned "the classic cocktail, perfectly blending delicate complement and bitter orange.

Popular brands include Jim Beam and Wild Turkey, along with the lesser known Winkle and Van, Rittenhouse and Sazerac.

Corn Whiskey

Corn whiskey is, perhaps unsurprisingly, corn whiskey containing more than 80% and is aged in barrels uncalcined unlike Bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. As it is aged in new charred oak barrels for two years can not be called "straight whiskey." In many ways, the corn whiskey is a throwback to the American whiskey of the past: is produced from grain more garato for immediate consumption, as the first whiskey distilled by Southern farmers as typical in the 18th century.

Many brands of corn whiskey are represented using their traditional agricultural and historical roots, which are sold in earthenware jars presenting old style or, in the case of Georgia Moon, with a label with pride and bragging says "Guaranteed at least thirty days of old "

Tennessee Whiskey

The most common misconception about American whiskey is that Jack Daniel's is a Bourbon. In the process of Lincoln County whiskey is filtered through approximately 10 feet of maple charcoal before aging in charred oak barrels. This active filtering process means that the final product can not be called Bourbon. The Lincoln County Process creates a smooth whiskey. Ironically, however, some time after the invention of the process the county boundaries were redrawn and now none of the distilleries that use the process is in Lincoln County.

Single Barrel

The Whiskey Single Barrel (single cask) is a single-barrel bottling (the clue is in the name), which has been specially selected - usually by the master distiller or some specialized fixture company - as a perfect whiskey himself and too good to be used for mixing to create one of the everyday products of the distillery.

These Whiskies are designed to demonstrate the highest expression of a brand - they represent the zenith of a distillery capacity and skill of the master distiller. The disadvantages of a single barrel whiskeys are: on one hand, are inherently very limited production, the realistic maximum is around 500 bottles, so that when you have finished your favorite bottle may not is easily again. Second, for all the reasons stated above, barrel whiskeys may be considered expensive, although there are examples of great affordable prices as available from the likes of Evan Williams and Eagle Rare. In short, for those wishing to try the best we can offer the bourbon whiskey "Single Barrel" is a good place to start, your taste buds will thank you.

Small Batch

As the "Single Barrel" whiskey, "Small Batch" is elitist and exclusive taste: Mix a very small number of exceptional casks (usually no more than 10 barrels, but maybe less), the characteristics of these small lots include for quality and depth of flavor - but has the added advantage of being given greater availability, it is easier to get and cheaper than the "Single Barrel" but generally the price difference is small but there.

The main difference between the Single Barrel whiskeys and small batch is that where individual barrels are a product of pure nature, small batch whiskeys are designed and built by the trained palate experience. The small batch whiskeys are testing the skills of master blenders that make them. To create a small batch whiskey, you should know that barrels to collect in order to achieve the desired end result and then mix them with skill to achieve the perfect balance of flavors, smoothness and power.

For this reason, a good small batch whiskey can sometimes exceed whiskeys "Single" as they are works of art, while individual examples of the barrel could be seen as accidents of nature if you will.

Want to try some of the great American whiskeys? We recommend two of the most exclusive:

Blanton's Silver Edition

Comprar Blanton's Silver Edition

Hudson Four Grain Bourbon

Comprar Hudson Four Grain Bourbon

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U.S. whiskey (I)

albertomartinez — Wed, 01 May 2013 09:04:00 +0100

The Bourbon got its name because customers in New Orleans were offer to order the whisky produced in Bourbon County (Kentucky), which contained many major producing cities.

The history of this drink dates back to the eighteenth century when American farmers began the adventure of surplus distilled grain crops. A new industry and tradition had come: the great American whiskey. Whiskey production became widespread and after a dispute over taxes collected by the government (which led to the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794), many producers moved south into Kentucky and Tennessee, where they met some excellent conditions for the production of and easy access to transportation by river for their goods. Soon places like Bardstown and Louisville had blossomed into thriving communities whiskey producers.

The business became industry, the American palate had learned to appreciate that unique and distinctive blend of flavors. Three centuries later still the favorite in America and in many cases outside its borders, competing on the palate along with more traditional Scotch whiskeys and renowned. Much time has elapsed since its introduction to the market and consumer tastes. A strong and powerful industry that nevertheless retains traditional features when it comes to creating as characteristic drink.

Over time, improvements in the process of making whiskey were introduced: Coking barrels to produce a rich and sweet high quality spirit. The success of the whiskeys produced led to the widespread adoption of these new methods and quickly became the industry standard.

Like any industry based on tradition and the requirement to comply with U.S. trade law whiskey can only be called bourbon if it meets the following conditions:

Grain mix used in production must consist of not less than 51% and not more than 80% of maize. Typical corn content is around 70%.
The rest consists of other cereals, usually rye, wheat and malted barley.
The whiskey should be left in the still of alcohol not exceeding 80 per volume
It must be aged in white oak barrels charred on a percentage not exceeding 62.5 when it goes into the barrel.
Do you know the best American bourbon? Surely you surprised today with our recommendations:

Jim Beam

Buy Jim Beam

Jack Daniel's Gentleman Jack

Buy Jack Daniel's Gentleman Jack

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Wines to celebrate Labor Day

martaburgues — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:09:00 +0100

May 1st, Labor Day, is a holiday and to celebrate nothing better than a glass of wine... A great way to discover new flavors along with a wide range of cuisine! Pair the wine with a snack or a special meal and enjoy this day with your loved ones.

As we are in spring, weather is getting warmer and the sun is the protagonist. To fight the hot days, white wine is fantastic. Soft, fresh, sweet or with a spicy touch. Choose the one that best fits with you.

A clear example are the Verdejo wines from Valladolid; they provide golden colors, ideal for the times in which we are, blending with the reflected sunlight. The Verdejo white tastes of fruits, providing a sweet and refreshing taste that we can share on a terrace next to the sea.

Although the most remarkable Rioja wines are generally red, it also produces excellent white varieties. Therefore, for Labor Day, share a bottle of white Rioja, produced usually with Viura, Garnacha Blanca, Malvasia, Maturana white, Tempranillo white and Torrontés varieties.

And the Moscatell Alicante white wines are very sweet, with unmistakable aromas of flowers and fruit with a different and renowned variety, with a sweet touch, perfect after a good meal.

Along with white wines, rosés also arise during this time. Navarra rosé wines provide a full personality, with transparent burgundy color and special strawberries flavors. Rosé wines of Penedes and Priorat are quite desirable in a holiday that welcomes the summer. Merlot, Sumoll and Pinot Noir are some of the varieties used in the elaboration of these rosés, which define a full range of colors and flavors.

Do you prefer a red? Then, we choose a Merlot variety wine, which features much sweeter and softer flavors than other more powerful reds.

Any more recommendation? Sure! Today we recommend two wines with great value for you to save money and enjoy:

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Chilean wine

martabgood — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:14:00 +0100

In Chile you can find very interesting regions and sub-regions regarding wine. The climate, soils and grape varieties help achieved such a good wine.

Each wine producer try to stablish a noticeable difference in the products of each sub-region while preserving their quality, and most recently Michael Cox, director of Wines of Chile stated: "Although both trade and consumers are clinging to regionalism in Chile, I am convinced that we must move forward to discuss Chilean diversity and different terroirs."

Some of the most interesting regions in Chilean wine are next:

Guasco: This region has a sunny climate and therefore the fruit tends to ripen earlier than in other regions of the country. Here you can find Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah in its valley, which is also known as an olive-growing area .
Elqui: This region has a cold but sunny climate, ideal for growing Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. Vineyards here are close to Atamaca desert.
Limarí: Thanks to the limestone and granite Limarí produces Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah with a very mineral taste, in a sub-region called Quebrada Seca. Cox has said that there are great terroirs for Chardonnay there.
Aconcagua: In this cold climate region Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Syrah grow. All the wine product of these crops have reached the level of the best wines both in France and Italy.
Leyda: It is a cold region with granite and limestone soils in which you can mostly find Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. However, sometimes the maturity of the grapes can be problematic because of the weather.
Colchagua: This region is Apalta, producing excellent wines like Clos Apalta, Montes Vascos and Los Angles - Santa Rita, producing mostly red wines. Colchagua also has subregions as Walls, Rhone and Lolol, in the latter there significant planting belonging to Bordeaux Lurton family.
Maule-Cauquenes: This region is cooler than the northern regions of Chile but has frequent annual rainfalls. It is famous for its Cariñena, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Pavement.
Bio Bio: This region has the most European-like climate. Its soils are granite, schist and quartz ideal for growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling, the weather is quite cold.
Malleco: With cold and humid climate ideal for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, South of Bío Bío begins to be a region with a promising future
Temuco and Lago Ranco: about this region, Cox said in a somewhat premature, that it has a chance of producing good sparkling.

Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 375ml 2009

Buy Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 375ml 2009

Secreto Malbec 2010

Buy Secreto Malbec 2010

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