It's always fun when UPS shows up

This unboxing is cool because I wrote about the Four Virtues Bourbon Barrel Aged Zinfandel in a column last year focusing on wines for grilling. So I'm looking forward to seeing how the cabernet holds up. Oh, and I can't forget about the pinot too. I'll post the results or links to the articles when they go live.

Farm To Glass Gin

You've mostly likely been to or at least heard about farm to table restaurants where chefs source food from local farms. Among other benefits, one of the most appealing is that the ingredients are fresher than those typically shipped.

I had never heard the term farm to glass spirits until I learned about Eau Claire from Canada. It is uniquely designated as a certified farm distillery. Owners compare the designation to that of an estate winery.

The ingredients used to distill the gin come from carefully sourced local grains. In addition, the natural botanicals are distilled along with the grains. The result is an amazingly smooth flavor and mouth feel. 

It is a London-style dry gin that has floral notes along with juniper, citrus, and spice, none of which are overpowering. Ideally suited for a gin martini.

Sunday afternoon I decided to try Eau Claire's gimlet recipe with a gin loving friend. Refreshing and so good, I could easily see getting into trouble with these. If you're searching for a new gin to try, give this one a go!

Parlour Gin Gimlet

2 oz Parlour Gin

3/4 oz fresh lime juice

3/4 oz simple syrup

Shake with ice and strain

Garnish with cucumber wheel or lime wedge

This delivery is pretty awesome as Pahlmeyer makes some impressive wines.

I'm torn with the Proprietary Red. Pahlmeyer has been producing this for 30 years. What I'm torn between is opening it now and being patient, letting it sit a few years. This wine has an amazing aging potential. 80% cab the rest merlot, cab franc, petit verdot and malbec. It's also pricey ($200) and not something I want to uncork with takeout on a Tuesday. This one deserves to be shared with special friends.

Decisions Decisions