Still haven’t decided on a New Year’s resolution for 2011? How about shelving your usual bottle of wine and trying a worldly spirit? Here are some spirits from around the globe (including picks from Nicaragua, Russia and Germany) to try this year.
Flor de Caña Flor de Caña is considered the pride and spirit of Nicaragua and considered the world’s most rewarded run. Not only is Flor de Caña delicious and five generations strong, but the rum is also committed to the environment. It is one of the most energy efficient and eco-friendly facilities in the industry, protecting the environment with the planting of trees as a way to help restore and protect water sources, conserve biological corridors for wildlife and natural regeneration. http://www.flordecana.com/index.php.
Lucid Absinthe Supérieure Master Distiller T.A. Breaux and Viridian Spirits’ Jared Gurfein have just introduced three superior-quality absinthes to the US: Jade C. F. Berger, Jade Esprit Edouard, and Jade 1901. 1. Jade C. F. Berger is an accurate recreation of the original C. F. Berger absinthe verte. Characteristic of the original Swiss style, it is characterized by a bold fragrant scent; a full-bodied, rounded mouthfeel; and distinct herbal notes that linger on the palate. 2. Jade 1901 is a tribute to the best known and most widely sampled pre-ban absinthe, praised for its appetizing herbal aroma and smooth, lingering aftertaste. 3. Jade Esprit Edouard is a faithful reproduction of one of the most famous and highly regarded Belle Époque absinthes. Breaux’s contemporary recipe captures the original’s delicate tint, refined texture, and exquisitely smooth flavor. http://www.drinklucid.com/.
Black Tower Black Tower is the most successful German export wine brand of the past 40 years and has recently relaunched in the US market. Formerly all black, the new two-tone bottle features a clear lower half that lets the wine varietal shine through, while the upper half retains its iconic black color. A new tagline, “Easy Ends The Day,” speaks to Black Tower’s target audience of young professionals looking for an uncomplicated wine, both in terms of selection and its ease to drink. Black Tower is now available in more than 50 countries worldwide and selections range from Rivaner, Pinot Grigio and Dornfelder Pinot Noir.
Russian Standard This premium Russian vodka sold 2.2 million cases worldwide, and, very interestingly, is crafted according to the formula for vodka established in 1894 by Dmitri Mendeleev, the famed Russian scientist who created the Periodic Table. The Russian Standard is rounded out with its rich winter wheat flavor, full mouthfeel and a bread-like finish. http://www.russianstandardvodka.com/#/en/.
Spirits from Around the Globe
