a girlfriends’ getaway stays local by guest traveling diva wendy lemlin

Coronado Beach Resort

A Girlfriends’ Getaway Stays Local
By Wendy Lemlin

Sometimes you just need a break. Not a long vacation, but certainly more of a change of scenery than a “staycation”. Get away from the phone, get away from the computer, and get away from all the little chores around the house that nag to be done. In fact, get away from the kids and significant other, if applicable. We’re talking abdication of responsibility, here. Maybe take off with a friend or two and go somewhere that’s relaxing, but fun at the same time. You don’t even need to travel far, distance-wise, to be amazed at how a change of environment makes for a change in temperament.

If, like me, you’re lucky enough to live somewhere that other people vacation TO (in my case, San Diego, CA), planning a close-to-home girlfriends’ getaway is fraught with possibilities.

Me & Faith enjoying a glass of wine in our condo at the Coronado Beach Resort

My friend Faith and I recently indulged ourselves with a gal-pal gallivant. Although just minutes from home, our escape provided much needed revitalization, without the stress of travel arrangements and navigating unfamiliar territory.

To really feel like you’re stepping out of your everyday life, there’s nothing like a stay at a resort to put you in that “I’m-on-vacation” state of mind. Lounge around a pool, have a spa treatment (or two or three), play some tennis (or golf or whatever sport relaxes you), walk on the beach, dine at an elegant on-site restaurant, shop the boutiques, work out at the fitness center----all at your fingertips. Comfortable, roomy accommodations with pillowtop beds and space to lounge around comfortably are also a prerequisite.

Faith & Me enjoying the view from the roof deck of the Coronado Beach Resort

We booked our girlfriend getaway through ResorTime.com, a company that specializes in renting out accommodations at timeshare resorts. Personally, I love the idea of staying in a condo-type lodging—for a rate that is usually much less than a generic hotel room, the units have more space, usually with a separate living room, creating a homey feeling, and a kitchen or kitchenette (which helps in saving the cost of eating every meal out, and makes a dinner splurge at an incredible restaurant all the more do-able).

In the seaside resort town of Coronado, just on the other side of San Diego Bay from my home in downtown San Diego, and literally a 15 minute drive away, Faith and I enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing stay at the Coronado Beach Resort. Located in the heart of the town, the resort is within easy walking distance to wide sandy beaches, a myriad of restaurants, countless boutiques, and a biking/walking trail that stretches for over 15 miles.

Our 2 bedroom, 1 ½ bath condo came equipped with kitchenette (where we promptly stored our wine, cheese, and chocolate ---which as everyone knows, is essential for a successful girlfriend’s getaway!), as well as a living room with flat screen TV, VCR, and music system, where we could veg out while enjoying said wine and goodies.

Me at the Coronado Ferry Landing

We started our getaway with a bike ride (the resort provides bikes and beach towels) around the “island”. Coronado actually sits at the end of a long peninsula, but everyone refers to it as an island, and that actually enhances its resort-y feel. Unlike much of hilly San Diego, Coronado is flat and is a perfect venue for biking or blading, both around the town, and along the bike path that wends along both the eastern, Bay side, and the western, ocean side, continuing south along the 8 or so miles of the “Silver Strand”, the narrow strip of land that connects Coronado to Imperial Beach and the mainland. About half way down the strand sits the Loews Coronado Bay Resort, with whom the Coronado Beach Resort shares a reciprocal arrangement for use of its amenities. Faith and I stopped in to lounge by the heated pool and enjoy lunch at the resort’s Market Café, made even more yummy by the 30% discount we received as guests of Coronado Beach Resort.

Faith enjoying the incredible views at Candela's on the Bay

Returning to our rooms, we had time to uncork the wine and and relax, before heading to dinner at Candela’s On the Bay, a Mexican/French fusion restaurant with ahh-inspiring views of the San Diego skyline, from its location at the Coronado ferry landing. My strawberry basil martini whispered “vacation” with every sip, as we began our meal by sharing a melt in the mouth appetizer of fresh seared scallops sautéed with Portobello mushrooms, onions, cilantro and jalapeno peppers in a white wine sauce. To cleanse the palate, we next went with a watercress salad with pears, bleu cheese and pistachios in a mango vinaigrette. My entrée of Camarones Cabo de Puertas tingled every taste bud, with jumbo shrimp flambéed in tequila served over a sashimi filet of ahi tuna with a dollop of avocado and drizzled with tamarindo sauce. Faith’s Manajar Vallarta was equally delicious---sea bass baked and served in a delightful grape cream sauce, with mashed potatoes, Portobello mushrooms and sautéed veggies. Although we thought we were too stuffed for dessert, we manged to make short work of the rich caramel crepes that the manager suggested we try.

Seared Scallops and Portobello Mushrooms at Candela's on the Bay

As we took a short stroll along the harborfront in an effort to walk off some of the zillion delicious calories we had just happily consumed, a fireworks display across the Bay in San Diego marked the end of a very perfect day, and we contentedly returned to our condo for another glass of wine and some good old fashioned girl-talk.

The following day we made use of the resort’s gym and spent time enjoying the fantastic ocean view from the rooftop lounge area, from which we could ogle both Mexico (only about 15 miles away) and coastal San Diego. Then, always a prerequisite for a girlfriend’s getaway, it was time for shopping in Coronado’s boutiques, followed by a visit to the Coronado Historical Society’s museum where we had the pleasure of speaking with a descendant of one of Coronado’s oldest families. Our final activity entailed a stroll along the beautiful beaches, where the sand sparkles with flecks of fool’s gold and Mexico’s own Islas de los Coronados sit several miles offshore. And then it was time to make the easy 15 minute drive home, thoroughly relaxed and reinvigorated, by our getaway that was as much a state of mind as a change of locale.

If you go:

Rent a timeshare condo at over 300 locations through ResorTime.com 877-867-6506

Coronado Beach Resort Beach Resort & Hotel 1415 Orange Ave. Coronado, CA

Candela’s On The Bay 1201 First St. #115, Coronado candelas-coronado.com 619-435-4900

***

wendy lemlin has lived in all four corners of the country, including several places in between, but has enjoyed calling san diego home since 2004. a well-published writer, copywriter and photographer, she has enjoyed immersing herself in everything her new home has to offer, including a surprising amount of zydeco dancing. whether traveling to the far-flung parts of the globe, or the near-flung corners of her own backyard, wendy is constantly seeking out, and writing about, new experiences, often in the company of her favorite companion, sophie the wander-dog. for her part, sophie can't believe that she actually gets to live someplace with so many dog parks, yappy hours and dog beaches! she might even learn to dance one of these days. learn more about wendy at her website: www.wendylemlin.com.

totc 2010 – death of a cocktail

 

being laid to rest this year at tales of the cocktail is the infamous sex on the beach. do we mourn the loss? heavens no! when there are so many other great cocktails out there, trust me when i say this one has had it’s day. sending it out in traditional new orleans style tonight!

totc 2010 – william grant & sons house party

 

tales of the cocktail is in full swing this week, and the william grant & sons house party saw over 800 attendees last night! here’s a look at some of the fun:

 

William Grant & Sons House Party at Tales of the Cocktail featured a Hendrick's Croquet Pitch, a Citrus Grove with cocktails from Milagro and Solerno, as well as innovative cocktails from Lillet, Hudson Whiskey and Root

 

Guests at the William Grant & Sons House Party enjoyed a variety of cocktails from across the range of William Grant products in the unique and enchanted surroundings of a Garden District Mansion

 

Rachel Furman and Lisa Hare, Brand Ambassadors for Sailor Jerry Rum, in the Sailor Jerry Rum room at the William Grant & Sons House Party at Tales of the Cocktail

 

Lisa Hare, Sailor Jerry Brand Ambassador, mixes up cocktails at the William Grant & Sons House party at Tales of the Cocktail

totc 2010 – eight grey goose cocktails

 

team grey goose shared with us eight delicious cocktails served up by famed mixologists and grey goose brand ambassadors nick mautone and christophe namer at tuesday night’s behind the bar, beyond the bar event at tales of the cocktail 2010.

try these fantastic drinks at your next cocktail party!

 

GREY GOOSE^® Origin

Created by Nick Mautone

1¼ part GREY GOOSE^® Vodka

1 part pineau des charentes

¾ part fresh lemon juice

¼ part crème de cassis or premium raspberry liqueur

Dash SCRAPPY’S Lavender Bitters

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously, and strain into a martini glass. Present with a branch of red currants, white grapes or a lemon twist.

 

GREY GOOSE^® Mid-Summer Martini

Created by Nick Mautone

1½ part GREY GOOSE^® Vodka

½ part yellow chartreuse

½ part fino sherry

1 dash orange bitters

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add all ingredients and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass, and present with a twist.

 

GREY GOOSE^® La Poire Wandering Poet

Created by Nick Mautone

1½ part GREY GOOSE^® La Poire Flavored Vodka

1 part sake

1 part lychee puree

1 part lime juice

½ part simple syrup

1 strip pickled ginger

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Present with mint leaves or lychee nuts.

 

GREY GOOSE^® La Poire Tuscan Pear

Created by Nick Mautone

1 part GREY GOOSE^® La Poire Flavored Vodka

½ part limoncello

½ part premium ginger liqueur

¾ part blood orange juice

¼ part simple syrup

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously, and strain into a rocks glass rimmed with sugar and filled with crushed ice. Present with mint leaves, dried pears or lemon confit.

 

GREY GOOSE^® L’Orange Surf Spritzer

Created by Nick Mautone

1¼ parts GREY GOOSE^® L’Orange Flavored Vodka

¾ part APEROL_®

¾ part LILLET_®  Blanc

1 part orange juice

1 part seltzer or tonic

Add first four ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice, and shake vigorously. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice, and top with soda. Present with an orange slice.

GREY GOOSE^® L’Orange Between the Sheets

Created by Nick Mautone

1½ parts GREY GOOSE^® L’ Orange Flavored Vodka                      

¾ part  BENEDICTINE_® Liqueur                      

¼ part triple sec                          

1 part fresh lemon juice                        

Dash simple syrup

Dash bitters                      

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice, and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass, and present with an orange twist.

 

GREY GOOSE^® Le Citron Jardin Vert

Created by Christophe Namer

2 parts GREY GOOSE^® Le Citron Flavored Vodka

¾ part fresh-squeezed lime juice

¾ part simple syrup

2 pieces of celery stalk, 2” long

1/3 cup cilantro, loosely packed

In the bottom of a cocktail shaker, place celery and cilantro and muddle well. Add remaining ingredients, and shake vigorously. Double strain into a rocks glass with one large ice cube. Present with a Chinese celery straw.

 

GREY GOOSE^® Le Citron Martinez Bianco

Created by Nick Mautone

1 part GREY GOOSE^® Le Citron Flavored Vodka

½ part MARTINI_® Bianco

½ part maraschino liqueur

¼ part premium orange liqueur

2 goodly dashes peach bitters or orange bitters

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice, and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass, and present with a lemon twist.

totc 2010 – dita von teese @ house of blues

 

dita von teese shone like a burlesque beacon in her performance for cointreau last night at the house of blues in new orleans.  the show was mc’ed by mr. murray hill and featured performances by selene luna, perle noir and duke lafayette; it served as the uber-glam kick-off event for tales of the cocktail 2010.

sexy dita sipped a cointreau tease cocktail on the carpet, while wearing a sonia rykiel dress and christian louboutin heals.

she performed her “be cointreuversial” show in a giant martini glass and brought down the house.  guests were cheering so enthusiastically that their ears were ringing upon exiting the venue.  it was the first time that dita had performed in new orleans in over ten years, and nola residents and out of town guests gave her a warm welcome.

in addition to dita von teese’s star-studded performance, cointreau unveiled three original short films starring dita, which focus on the history behind three classic cocktails: cointreau original margarita, cointreau cosmopolitan and cointreau sidecar.  you can check out the films on the cointreau youtube channel: www.youtube.com/cointreauus.

 

photo credits:

cointreau presents dita von teese at tales of the cocktail

location: house of blues, new orleans

photo credit: leo borovskiy / cointreau

totc 2010 – 360 vodka and totc create 3,400 gallon drink!

 

360 vodka and tales of the cocktail make mother earth a 3,400 gallon drink

from soil to cocktail glass to soil: the world’s only sustainable vodka

gets down to earth at tales

on wednesday july 21^st, the earth friendly distilling company, gets behind the scenes, inside the tales of the cocktail kitchens.  the creators of 360 vodka are spearheading a composting program that will collect the used produce and materials required to make america’s best cocktails, and turn them into rich, healthy soil for mother earth to make more; with a little help from new orleans farmers.

“knowing there are more than 14,000 lemons and limes along with hundreds of pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables used throughout this five day cocktail extravaganza, we wanted to ensure these treasures were given back to mother earth and not to the trash cans,” said vic morrison vp marketing, earth friendly distilling company.  “we recognize this is a less glamorous role to play at tales, but in our quest to leave the smallest carbon footprint on earth, we believe this is one of the most important and rewarding roles that we’re delighted to lead.

360 vodka will be supplying green compost bins to all tales of the cocktail event sites where mixologists will discard their used produce, napkins, egg shells, vegetable peels, herb stems, seeds, pits, fruit peels and more.  each compost bin features instructions on what can be converted to compost and 360 vodka ambassadors will be on-site throughout the event to answer any questions. 

recognized as the world’s greenest vodka for their unsurpassed commitment to the environment, 360 vodka partnered with holly grove market and farms from new orleans to successfully implement this composting program.  each night, holly grove will drive to the event sites, empty the compost bins and deliver the contents to their farm to grow produce for tales of the cocktail 2011.

“it all comes full circle,” said jim bremer from holly grove market and farms.  “360 vodka’s decision to implement a composting program during this event is commendable, especially during a time when our city is ripe for such a commitment.”

in addition to this large scale composting program, 360 vodka is also being featured at two spirited luncheons that celebrate sustainability.  on july 24th, mixologist bridget albert leads the “seed to glass” luncheon at iris with special guests, slow food expert allen katz and the chef’s garden, farmer lee jones.  also on july 24^th, maria mcbride from brides magazine hosts the “eco-celebrations” luncheon at le meritage to showcase great sustainable solutions for any event.

“our commitment to the environment is matched only by our commitment to taste and quality,” said 360 vodka brand ambassador, graham kimura.  “i encourage everyone to taste 360 vodka against their regular vodka as our smooth taste comes out on top every time. we also launched 360 double chocolate this year and in less than four months won a platinum award for taste.”

***

about 360 vodka

360 vodka is available in all 50 states and retails for approximately $19.99.  designed to leave the smallest footprint on earth, 360 vodka uses 85% recycled glass, 100% recycled paper and water-based uv inks. each bottle comes with a postage paid envelope to return the swing-top closure and have $1.00 donated to global green usa. 360 vodka is distilled in the country’s most energy efficient distillery that reduces fossil fuel energy by 21% compared to the popular pot distilling method, which uses 200% more energy. in addition, the grains used are grown less than 95 miles from the distillery, distilled four times and filtered five times giving 360 vodka that distinctive smooth taste that has been awarded multiple times from international spirits competitions

totc 2010 – hotel monteleone kicks of tales of the cocktail with a twitter competition for participants

 

the hotel monteleone is proud to once again kick off tales of the cocktail 2010, the five-day festival of cocktails, cuisine and new orleans culture, by raising its glass for the toast to tales on wednesday, july 21 at 2:00 p.m. on the steps of the hotel at 214 royal street. in addition to the toast to tales, the hotel monteleone will serve as the primary hub for the various festivities associated with the cocktail event including dinners, demonstrations, tastings, seminars, competitions, book signings, tours, parties and gift shop.

“the opening ceremony is always an exciting part of tales of the cocktail and one that seems to get better year after year,” said andrea thornton, director of sales and marketing for hotel monteleone. “with its famous carousel bar, the hotel monteleone has been an integral part in the development of the cocktail culture in new orleans, so we’re thrilled to be the home base for an internationally acclaimed event that brings together the best and brightest of the cocktail community.”

on wednesday, july 21, the hotel monteleone will launch a twitter contest to encourage participants to delve into the rich history of the hotel while they roam through the halls and meeting rooms and mingle in the carousel bar. the five day contest will conclude at noon on sunday, july 25. first, second and third place winners will be selected at random from the pool of participants who answer all 10 clues successfully.  prizes include a two-night stay at the hotel valued at $600 and a one-night stay valued at $300, and four complimentary cocktails to the carousel bar with a gift certificate to the logo shop, the official hotel monteleone gift store, valued at $100. for more information on the contest, guidelines and clues, please visit www.hotelmonteleone.com/twittercontest starting tuesday.

additionally, for the second year in a row, guests attending tales of the cocktail can cool off and explore new orleans the dutch way – by bicycle. eight dutch bicycles provided by bols genever will be available daily on a first come, first served basis from july 21 – 25 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from the parking garage of the hotel. each bike will include a map of the french quarter for a self-guided tour.

“we’re encouraging our guests to see the sights of one of the oldest areas of new orleans from a different angle,” said andrea thornton, director of sales and marketing for hotel monteleone. “we hope that our guests take the opportunity to explore our unique community while they’re in town for tales and join in on the distinctive traditions that make new orleans so special.”

to access the complete schedule of events for tales of the cocktail 2010 including activities hosted by the hotel monteleone, please visit www.talesofthecocktail.com or call 504-948-0511. for more information about the hotel monteleone, please visit www.hotelmonteleone.com.

 

***

about the hotel monteleone 

since 1886, the hotel monteleone, www.hotelmonteleone.com, has proudly stood as one of the first landmarks in the famous french quarter. the hotel is the quarter’s largest full-service hotel, featuring 600 comfortable, luxurious guestrooms and suites. hotel monteleone is within walking-distance of some of new orleans most famous attractions and is conveniently located eleven miles from the louis armstrong international airport. hotel monteleone is a member of the preferred hotels® & resorts, a three-time aaa four diamond award-winner, and has won the j.d. power and associates upscale hotel award for “an outstanding guest experience” for the past three years.

***

about tales of the cocktail

tales of the cocktail is an internationally acclaimed festival of cocktails, cuisine and culture held annually in new orleans, louisiana. the event brings together the best and brightest of the cocktail community—award-winning mixologists, authors, bartenders, chefs and designers—for a five-day celebration of the history and artistry of making drinks. each year offers a spirited series of dinners, demos, tastings, competitions, seminars, book signings, tours and parties all perfectly paired with some of the best cocktails ever made. for the latest information or to sign up for email updates about next summer's most spirited event, visit talesofthecocktail.com

totc 2010 – limited edition bar towel benefits oyster shuckers

 

Bar Towel Seeks to Clean up the Gulf      

A Limited edition bar towel will be sold at Tales of the Cocktail, benefiting oyster shuckers affected by the Gulf oil spill

in an effort to support a seafood industry that plays such a large role in the culinary traditions of new orleans, the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society will be selling a limited edition bar towel during tales of the cocktail. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this bar towel will go directly to oyster shuckers who have recently been laid off due to the oil spill in the gulf.

“whether you want raw oysters, oysters rockefeller, charbroiled oysters or just an oyster po-boy, you wouldn’t get a taste if it weren’t for oyster shuckers,” said ann tuennerman, executive director of the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society and founder of tales of the cocktail “they’re an irreplaceable part of new orleans culture so we just had to do something to support them in their time of need.”

tlc linen services has donated the towels and the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society has developed a design proclaiming that the towel “cleans up bars, tables and the gulf coast.” some 15,000 visitors, many of which are from outside the gulf region, will have the opportunity to support this on-going recovery effort by purchasing this towel.

these limited edition towels will be available on-site at the tales of the cocktail gift shop (royal rooms a & b) wednesday through friday july 21-25. the towels will only be available at the on-site gift shop during the week of tales of the cocktail.

the towels will be sold on a donation basis; a minimum donation of $5.00 per towel is requested.

don't miss your chance to clean the gulf tales of the cocktail style!

***

about the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society
the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the unique culture of dining and drinking in new orleans and the storied bars and restaurants that have contributed to the city’s world-wide culinary acclaim. this organization supports members of the hospitality industry through education and the production of events like tales of the cocktail and, most recently, trails of the cocktail, a scholarship program for emerging talent in the new orleans cocktail industry.

about the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society
the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the unique culture of dining and drinking in new orleans and the storied bars and restaurants that have contributed to the city’s world-wide culinary acclaim. this organization supports members of the hospitality industry through education and the production of events like tales of the cocktail and, most recently, trails of the cocktail, a scholarship program for emerging talent in the new orleans cocktail industry.

we’re back …

 

after a long break from blogging, we’re back and kicking things off with our pre-coverage of tales of the cocktail 2010. don’t miss this amazing event, full of the world’s best bartenders, mixologists and cocktails galore!

check it all out on today’s posts. in the upcoming days, we’ll be bringing you more pre-coverage and then coverage of the 2010 event itself down in our favorite travel destination of all time, new orleans.

thanks for sticking with us, readers!

warmly,

dana harrison-tidwell
editor

totc 2010, cointreau and dita von teese

 

dita von teese and cointreau turn up the heat

at tales of the cocktail

cointreau muse to open world’s leading cocktail festival with seductive “be cointreauversial” performance at the house of blues

 

cointreau and dita von teese are bringing a taste of hollywood glamour to tales of the cocktail!  the french spirits brand will host the opening performance for the famed cocktail festival with dita von teese performing her sultry “be cointreauversial” burlesque act as well as other notable performances at the house of blues.  for the first time ever, new orleans natives and cocktail enthusiasts will experience dita’s mesmerizing “be cointreauversial” performance, as well as her signature cocktail, the cointreau teese, and other classic cocktails such as the cointreau cosmopolitan and cointreau original margarita.

while dita von teese has served as muse and international brand ambassadress for cointreau since 2007, this is the first time that the burlesque beauty will perform the “be cointreauversial” show in new orleans, and there is no better moment than the opening of tales of the cocktail.  an international style icon, dita von teese will bring a new level of style and glamour to the country’s leading cocktail celebration.  itself the birthplace of burlesque, new orleans, or more specifically, the french quarter is the ideal location for the raven-haired beauty’s ”be cointreauversial” debut, and the house of blues is the perfect venue to host this cointreauversial performance.

"i'm very excited to bring my "be cointreauversial" burlesque show to new orleans for tales of a cocktail,” says dita von teese, “new orleans has a rich history in burlesque... it's a unique and sensual city that i've always loved, so i'm thrilled to make a return at last with the new orleans' debut of one of my favorite shows!"

on monday, july 19th and tuesday, july 20th, dita von teese will take new orleans by storm with her thrilling “be cointreauversial” performance.  guests will enjoy cointreau cocktails and wait in anticipation while being treated to a bevy of special guests, including mr. murray hill, priming them for dita von teese’s arrival.  following the opening performances, attendees will be wowed as dita von teese bathes in a life size cointreau glass, embellished with swarovski crystals.  dita von teese’s extraordinary performance will certainly set the bar high for the rest of the week’s events at tales of the cocktail.

dita von teese displays a certain irreverence, spiritedness and je-ne-sais-quoi that exemplify cointreau’s “be cointreauversial” brand mantra. the paradoxes inherent in cointreau: a soft edge that clouds upon contact with ice; a delicate taste that explodes in the mouth, followed by a well-tempered tone also reflect a spirit with “cointreauversial” character.

“we’re ecstatic that cointreau will be bringing dita von teese’s “be cointreauversial” performance to tales of the cocktail this year,” says ann tuennerman, founder of tales of the cocktail, “her performance will be the perfect beginning to what is sure to be an exciting week; and what better way to start the festivities than with cointreau cocktails?”

dita von teese will be performing at the house of blues, located at 225 decatur street in new orleans, la, on july 19^th and july 20^th.  the doors will open at 8pm, with the performances beginning at 9pm each evening.  tickets will be available for purchase at 10am cst on friday, june 19^th at www.ticketmaster.com, www.livenation.com, www.houseofblues.com, and at the house of blues box office.  the house of blues box office may also be reached at 504-310-4999.

san francisco, you should be reading this …

 

drink me magazine releases

“colors” issue 

we drink with our eyes, and  drink me magazine released its 8th issue: “colors,” dedicated to the tint of the liquor in your glass. the issue is a toast to san francisco’s pride week and a celebration of summer.

“we’re celebrating summer with golden rums, amber-tinted brews, and ice-cold rosés. the 'colors' issue could not have launched at a better time of year,” daniel yaffe, publisher of drink me magazine says. this 8th issue of drink me covers a wide range of color related articles from the red tint of campari to the many colors of wine and a cultural history of gay bars.

drink me magazine will be stepping up their distribution significantly from about 90 locations to over 350 throughout the bay area thanks to a new partnership with reliable distribution inc. look for copies of drink me at your local bars, liquor stores and cafes throughout the bay area. “drink me should be found anywhere where you can grab a good cocktail,” says yaffe, “and this is one step closer to making that happen.”

issue 8 of drink me magazine will be featured at this year’s tales of the cocktail, an internationally acclaimed cocktail festival in new orleans and will be available at events throughout the weekend. issue 8 is now available online at www.drinkmemag.com.

***

about drink me magazine
drink me is a print and online lifestyle publication about alcohol and bar culture created for enthusiasts. it connects consumers with the industry and creates a community to share the diverse social and epicurean traditions of alcohol. drink me brings substance back to beer, wine and spirits. all of the issues are always available at www.drinkmemag.com

totc 2010 – spirited award nominees

tales of the cocktail® announces

2010 spirited award® nominees

awards to be announced saturday july 24th in new orleans

in just a few short days (15 to be precise) the international community will converge on the city where spirits live 24/7. shaken from their slumber within the bottle, the spirits will take on a life of their own at tales of the cocktail® 2010.

tales of the cocktail® brings together the best and brightest of the cocktail community—award-winning mixologists, authors, bartenders, chefs and designers—for a five-day celebration of the history and artistry of making drinks. each year offers a spirited series of dinners, demos, tastings, competitions, seminars, book signings, tours, and parties all perfectly paired with some of the best cocktails ever made.

through its annual spirited award® ceremony, tales of the cocktail® provides recognition to those individuals and establishments that have shown an outstanding talent for advancing the craft of the cocktail. to embody the ideals with which tales of the cocktail® was originally founded, these awards will recognize both national and international honorees who will receive exclusive riedel crystal awards.

pernod ricard usa is proud to be the sponsor of this year’s 4th annual spirited award® ceremony for the company’s third year in a row- recognizing industry leaders and innovators.  for the last 8 years, tales of the cocktail® has brought together an incredible group of suppliers, bartenders, writers and the most authoritative experts in the industry- all acting as partners in the celebration and appreciation of cocktail culture.  in presenting the spirit award® ceremony and as the industry leader in bartender education, pernod ricard usa applauds each participant and nominee. also, as part of the evening’s celebration, beverage media group, inc. will recognize 10 up & coming mixologists, selected from participants of the tales of the cocktail apprentice program.

awards to be announced at the tales of the cocktail spirited award® ceremony and dinner on saturday, july 24, 2010 in new orleans. tables can be purchased online at www.talesofthecocktail.com

the 2010 spirited award® ceremony has two judging committees is comprised of the following members:

committee chairman:

simon ford, chairman

usa judging committee

alia akam

bridget albert

natalie bovis nelsen

wayne curtis

dale degroff

camper english

simon ford

robert hess

francesco lafranconi

ryan magarian

jim meehan

tal nadari

julie reiner

aisha sharpe

dave wondrich

 

international judging committee:

stephan berg

henry besant

jacob briars

wayne collins

tony conigliaro

dale degroff

peter doreli

phillip duff

simon ford

eben freeman

john gakuru

jim meehan

sean muldoon

linden pride

angus winchester

 

please see below for a complete list of nominees according to category.

award categories and criteria and shortlist (in no particular order):

· best american cocktail bar

criteria: this award recognizes the influence on cocktail trends within the united states and seeks to award the country’s best cocktail bar.     

· the clover club, brooklyn

· death & co, nyc

· rickhouse, san francisco

· the varnish, los angeles

 

· world’s best hotel bar

criteria: the classic ‘american bar’ played an important role in the history and development of cocktail culture. the judges are looking for hotel bars, which uphold this tradition (but are not necessarily old) and offer five-star service and consistently well made drinks.

• the artesian at the langham, london
• the bar at the connaught hotel, london
• florida room at the delano, florida
• hemingway bar, paris

· best cocktail writing

criteria: great journalism is one of the best ways to communicate to the general public the value and significance of great cocktails and related products. this award is for any non-book journalism (magazine, newspaper, website, etc) which promotes bars, bartender, or cocktails in general. 

· class magazine

· gary regan

· jared brown and anistatia miller

· naren young

 

· best new product

criteria: this is awarded to what the judges consider to be the best new cocktail ingredient (spirit, liqueur, syrup or juice) or piece of cocktail equipment (muddler, shaker etc.). to qualify products must be on general retail sale in at least three us states.

· celery bitters, the bitter truth

· cocktail kingdom’s barware

· crème yvette by cooper spirits

· meehan cocktail bag by jim meehan

 

· best american brand ambassador

criteria: an award that recognizes the importance of personality in the promotion of drinks brands across america.

· charlotte voisey, william grant portfolio

· jacques bezuidenhout, partida

· jamie gordon, absolut

· tal nadari, bols

 

· world’s best drinks selection

criteria: a venue stocking an outstanding range of spirits and liqueurs. the judges will favor discernment as well as sheer numbers of bottles stocked.

· artesian bar at the langham hotel, london

· bar lebensstern in café einstein, berlin

· macao trading co, nyc

· widder bar, zurich

 

· american bartender of the year

criteria: from jerry thomas onwards, american bartenders have been amongst the most influential on drinks styles and cocktail culture in general. this award seeks to recognize the most influential american bartender today. the winner should be proficient at making all recognized classic drinks and also have created contemporary cocktails, which have been copied by his/her peers.

· eric alperin, the varnish

· kenta goto, the pegu club

· murray stenson, zig zag

· sam ross, milk & honey

 

· best new cocktail/bartending book

criteria: the best book published in 2008 regarding cocktails, liquor, bars, bar design or bartending in general. new editions of existing works may also be nominated.

· beachbum berry remixed

· gin compedndium by gaz regan

· mudpuddle books by greg boehm

· vintage spirits and forgotten cocktails by ted haigh

 

· world’s best cocktail menu

criteria: the judges seek to reward innovative and thirst inducing cocktail menus. both the design and content will be considered.

· death & co, nyc

· lonsdale, london

· mayahuel, nyc

· rickhouse, san francisco

 

· international bartender of the year

criteria: the absolute best drinks mixer in the world. the winner must have received international recognition of their work with their own recipes crossing borders to appear on cocktail menus in numerous countries. (us citizens are not excluded.)

· agostino perrone, the connaught hotel, london

· brian miller, death & co, nyc

· salvatore calabrese, london

· sam ross, milk & honey, nyc

 

· world’s best new cocktail bar

criteria: only bars, which opened after 1st march 2009 may be nominated. this award aims to reward new creativity and ideas as well as well executed drinks.

• cure, new orleans
• dutch kills, queens
• mayahuel, nyc
• rickhouse, san francisco

 

· world’s best cocktail bar

criteria: only truly world-class bars will be considered for this illustrious title. some bars attain worldwide recognition and this award recognizes the very best of the best.

· 69 colebrooke row, london

· the cocktail bar at the merchant hotel, belfast

· death & co, nyc

· quo vadis, london

 

· best international brand ambassador

criteria: an award which recognizes the importance of personality in the promotion of drinks brands and their creative use of brand communication to engage the trade and their ability to execute compelling education and seminars. this person will work in an international capacity or in a country other than the usa.

· angus winchester, tanqueray

· dan warner, beefeater

· jacob briars, 42 below

· john gakuru, sagatiba

 

· best bar mentor

criteria: not everybody who is having an impact on the quality of the cocktails we drink are working behind the bar as bartenders. there are many people who are creating fine bar programs, training the next generation of great bartenders, and playing an active role in designing the bars we all love to drink in. this award is to recognize those individuals who, in their professional life, play a crucial role in raising the quality of bars, bartenders, and cocktails without currently working as a bartender.

· dale degroff

· robert hess

· sasha petraske

· tony abou-ganim

 

· helen david lifetime achievement award

criteria: the impact that some people have on the general cocktail community can span over the course of many years. there are individuals who have worked long and hard to change the industry and educate the public. this award is to provide special recognition to these individuals and the wonderful efforts they have undertaken.

· brian rea

· gary regan

· murray stenson

· tony abou-ganim

***

about tales of the cocktail
tales of the cocktail is an internationally acclaimed festival of cocktails, cuisine and culture held annually in new orleans, louisiana. the event brings together the best and brightest of the cocktail community—award-winning mixologists, authors, bartenders, chefs and designers—for a five-day celebration of the history and artistry of making drinks. each year offers a spirited series of dinners, demos, tastings, competitions, seminars, book signings, tours and parties all perfectly paired with some of the best cocktails ever made.

about the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society
the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the unique culture of dining and drinking in new orleans and the storied bars and restaurants that have contributed to the city’s world-wide culinary acclaim. this organization supports members of the hospitality industry through education and the production of events like tales of the cocktail and, most recently, trails of the cocktail, a scholarship program for emerging talent in the new orleans cocktail industry.

for more information on tales of the cocktail, visit the website at www.talesofthecocktail.com or call 504-948-0511. tables are going fast!

totc 2010 – spirited luncheons and dinners series

the 2010 tales of the cocktail® spirited

luncheons and dinner series

two kindred spirits - cocktails and cuisine

just as cocktails are a distinctive part of new orleans heritage, so too is the city’s legendary cuisine. it’s only natural that tales of the cocktail® bring them together for a spirited schedule of lunches and dinners. each is a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the world’s best mixologists and the city’s best chefs put their skills together for a perfectly balanced menu of cocktails and cuisine.

the spirited dinner® series will take place thursday, july 22 at 25 different local restaurants. each spirited dinner® will have a distinctive menu served along with extraordinary cocktails of all variations and flavors. for each spirited dinner, a team of authors, mixologists, and bar-chefs have worked alongside new orleans’ most prestigious restaurants to bring you a unique and exciting menu. spirited dinner® guests will learn mixing and pairing techniques straight from the menu designers. to further enrich your experience, these creators will be on-hand for advice on anything food or cocktail.

at $85 - $100 per person, each spirited dinner® will include a fabulous four to six course meal, tax, tip, and a paired cocktail with each course. reservations should be made directly with each spirited dinner restaurant. in order to ensure an intimate dining experience, space has been limited and reservations are required.

reserve your seats today; spots are going fast!

click on the featured restaurant logos to view their spirited menu:

the five spirited luncheons from thursday, july 22- saturday, july 24 also showcase perfect food and cocktail pairings but built around the theme of the lunch. at each of these educational luncheons, mixologists will guide you through an in-depth look at the featured spirit or spirits. whether you are learning how to grow a cocktail at the seed to glass luncheon at iris restaurant or putting your boots on for the spirit of texas luncheon at dickie brennan’s steak house, the spirited luncheon series will surely stir even the most idle of souls.

tickets for the spirited luncheon series are on sale now through the tales of the cocktail web site, www.talesofthecocktail.com. each spirited luncheon is $45 in advance and $50 at the door. 

our spirited luncheon and dinner series combine quality service, remarkable menus, and an unforgettable encounter in the heart of new orleans!

a full list of participating restaurants as well as reservation information can be found at www.talesofthecocktail.com.

***

about the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society
the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the unique culture of dining and drinking in new orleans and the storied bars and restaurants that have contributed to the city’s world-wide culinary acclaim. this organization supports members of the hospitality industry through education and the production of events like tales of the cocktail and, most recently, trails of the cocktail, a scholarship program for emerging talent in the new orleans cocktail industry.

about the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society
the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the unique culture of dining and drinking in new orleans and the storied bars and restaurants that have contributed to the city’s world-wide culinary acclaim. this organization supports members of the hospitality industry through education and the production of events like tales of the cocktail and, most recently, trails of the cocktail, a scholarship program for emerging talent in the new orleans cocktail industry.

totc 2010 – benefit for oil spill affected oyster shuckers

 

bar towel seeks to clean up the gulf

a limited edition bar towel will be sold at tales of the cocktail, benefiting oyster shuckers affected by the gulf oil spill.

what:                       
in an effort to support a seafood industry that plays such a large role in the culinary traditions of new orleans, the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society will be selling a limited edition bar towel during tales of the cocktail. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this bar towel will go directly to oyster shuckers who have recently been laid off due to the oil spill in the gulf.

                                   
“whether you want raw oysters, oysters rockefeller, charbroiled oysters or just an oyster po-boy, you wouldn’t get a taste if it weren’t for oyster shuckers,” said ann tuennerman, executive director of the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society and founder of tales of the cocktail “they’re an irreplaceable part of new orleans culture so we just had to do something to support them in their time of need.”

                                   
tlc linen services has donated the towels and the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society has developed a design proclaiming that the towel “cleans up bars, tables and the gulf coast.” some 15,000 visitors, many of which are from outside the gulf region, will have the opportunity to support this on-going recovery effort by purchasing this towel. in addition to be available on-site at tales of the cocktail, people will be able to purchase this limited edition towel at tales of the cocktail beginning wednesday, july 21, 2010.

when:        
wednesday through sunday, july 21-25

where:        
hotel monteleone
214 royal street 
tales of the cocktail gift shop (royal rooms a and b)       

***

about tales of the cocktail
tales of the cocktail is an internationally acclaimed festival of cocktails, cuisine and culture held annually in new orleans, louisiana. the event brings together the best and brightest of the cocktail community—award-winning mixologists, authors, bartenders, chefs and designers—for a five-day celebration of the history and artistry of making drinks. each year offers a spirited series of dinners, demos, tastings, competitions, seminars, book signings, tours and parties all perfectly paired with some of the best cocktails ever made.

about the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society
the new orleans culinary and cultural preservation society is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the unique culture of dining and drinking in new orleans and the storied bars and restaurants that have contributed to the city’s world-wide culinary acclaim. this organization supports members of the hospitality industry through education and the production of events like tales of the cocktail, and most recently, trails of the cocktail, a scholarship program for emerging talent in the cocktail industry.

for more information on tales of the cocktail, visit the website at www.talesofthecocktail.com or call 504-948-0511. tickets on sale now.

time once again for tales of the cocktail!

 

it’s that time of year again … time to tickle your senses with all things bright and wonderful in the world of cocktails with the year’s must-attend event, tales of the cocktail, July 21 – July 25 in New Orleans, LA. don’t miss this incredible collection of the world’s best bartenders, mixologists and all around fun people!

we’ll be covering again this year but to get you started off right, here’s a little tease from last year’s event:

 

have you made your plans for tales of the cocktail 2010 yet?  what are you waiting for! we’ll see you there….