Gentry Bourbon Launch Party

Every trip out to Boone Hall Plantation sets the stage for a majestic evening. The scenic drive down the antebellum dirt road is a picture of Southern perfection.

JD raising a glass for Gentry Bourbon

We were greeted by JD Madison, the man of the night’s smiling face for  a quick photo session. After which we made a beeline to the bar for the signature cocktail. The newly released Gentry Bourbon is an homage to the JD’s grandfather who fostered his appreciation for the spirit.

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JD prefers to drink Gentry Bourbon neat but suggest that new bourbon drinkers add soda or ice to better approach the aged spirit. Sermet’s, Mr. Madison’s King Street restaurant provided a bevy of bites including a bar complete with chocolate dipped pretzels, cookies and bacon!

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We suggest sipping your Gentry Bourbon while nibbling on a piece of fine chocolate to pull all the sweet oaky note from the whiskey, in #GentleLadySips

Bloggers and Chase and GG for Gentry Bourbon

California Wine Club

Limited Wine Review

California Wine Club specializes in bring great wines to members at affordable pricing. After selecting a package, members receive artisanal wines delivered directly to you in the mail. CA Wine Club focuses on using wines from small family-owned wineries to ensure the craft quality of the grape and aging process. Our special delivery of Limited Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are a perfect representation of custom flavors and convenience. Both wines were complex yet very drinkable. We are now curious about the other offerings from Limited Wines.

Limited Wine

For more information on California Wine Club, visit www.cawineclub.com

South Carolina: Out of the Way, Out of this World

South Carolina: Out of the Way, Out of this World

One of the many amazing and helpful volunteers who assisted with the preparation of our cocktails. We can't say thank you enough!
One of the many amazing and helpful volunteers who assisted with the preparation of our cocktails. We can’t say thank you enough!

The morning seminar started with an introduction from Matt & Ted Lee, The Lee Bros. addressing their ties to Charleston and love for southern cuisine. The 10am session aimed to show  Heidi Trull of Grits and Groceries (located in Belton, South Carolina) served the room of 100 guest warm cups of  Aromatic Carolina Plantation Rice.

On stage presenting our Charleston Place cocktail.
On stage presenting our Charleston Place cocktail.

We followed introducing our Charleston Place cocktail to the thirsty group. The beverage which was inspired by traditional southern sweet tea, featured Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, Blenheim Spicy Ginger Ale, Tippleman’s Lemon Oleo Saccharum and Lemon Juice.

Our Charleston Place cocktail on stage during our presentation. All dressed up!
Our Charleston Place cocktail on stage during our presentation. All dressed up!

The cocktail was garnished with a hand-crafted sweetgrass Palmetto Rose made by local artist, Fletcher Williams III. We were tasked with creating a cocktail that embodied the Lowcountry’s history, cultural and charm.

In the hotel kitchen preparing the our Charleston Place cocktail.
In the hotel kitchen preparing the our Charleston Place cocktail.

The Charleston Place cocktail was served during the South Carolina social event later that evening along with our Palmetto Ginger cocktail. Carolina Cakes, Slightly North of Board, Virgil Kaine and Palmetto Moonshine were serving samples of their menu representing their unique take South Carolina eats. Kim Jamison, of South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism thanked all the guest and Atlanta Food and Wine Festival for allowing us all to share South Carolina Food Culture.

View of the crowd during the SC Social event at the Loews Hotel.
View of the crowd during the SC Social event at the Loews Hotel.

#AFWF15

With Ted Lee at the tasting tents.
With Ted Lee at the tasting tents.

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival

Focusing on Southern food and beverage treasures, Atlanta Food & Wine Festival in Midtown Atlanta attracted upwards of 10,000 guest during the 4 day celebration. A combination of dinners, special events, educational seminars and rows upon rows of tasting tables offers attendees a sample of the South has to offer.

Taneka enjoying a Patron Blackberry Margarita flavored King of Pop. Great way to cool off!
Taneka enjoying a Patron Blackberry Margarita flavored King of Pop. Great way to cool off!

Representatives from Alabama, North Carolina, Florida and South Carolina, encouraged festivals goers to visit their respective states as well. Coca-Cola, Porsche and PNC Bank were among the community sponsors involved with the festival making the 5th more interactive and diverse. The 2016 festival is scheduled for June 2nd through June 5th; mark your calendars and visit www.atlfoodandwine.com

Some of the vendors we visited. So many yummy samples.
Some of the vendors we visited. So many yummy samples.

 

Johnny perfect the art of the #sippinselfie with the cold and frothy Stella Artois. Love Belgian brews.
Johnny perfect the art of the #sippinselfie with the cold and frothy Stella Artois. Love Belgian brews.

 

Charleston Travel Council Meeting

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Charleston Area Convention & Visitor’s Center

The Cooper River Room at the Mount Pleasant Visitor Center played host to April’s Travel Council Meeting. We heard from Julie Ann Oldham of Lowcountry Parks Venues Center and from Bing Pan, Ph.D,  professor at the College of Charleston. He discussed travel trends between first time visitors to Charleston and repeat visitors to Charleston; very informative. Mix Charleston Premier Bartending services provided the libations and Hamby Catering & Events supplies us with a beautiful spread of vegetables, fresh fruit and delicious breads.

Cooper River Room
Cooper River Room

 

For more information about the Charleston CVB, visit www.explorecharleston.com

 

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