Altos Tequila Training

ALTOS2
With Master Distiller Jesus Hernandez on the terrace garden of Restaurant 492.

We had the pleasure of having Jesus Hernandez, the master distiller for Altos Tequila come out to 492 Restaurant here in downtown Charleston, for a taste and talk seminar on the agave plant, which is used for tequila. Jesus was very knowledgable on the agave plant, he has been distilling this spirit for over 19 years.

USBG Secretary and 492 bar manager, Megan Deschaine, gave the group a brief update on chapter business.
USBG Secretary and 492 bar manager, Megan Deschaine, gave the group a brief update on chapter business.

He talked about the different categories and classes of tequila. He also extended an invitation to Mexico if wanted a more detailed lesson. Tequila is such a complex liquor and its extremely important to us to learn as much as possible.

Beet Tartare, savory custard and fish dip served during the Altos Tequila Training at Restaurant 492.
Beet Tartare, savory custard and fish dip served during the Altos Tequila Training at Restaurant 492.

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.

 

The Peninsula Tea

The Peninsula Tea

1 oz of Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka

½ oz of Bittermilk Ginger Honey Syrup

½ oz Lemon Juice

1 oz of Blenheim Hot Ginger Ale

Palmetto Rose garnish

Lemon wedge garnish

Mint spig garnish

Peninsula Tea

In tall Collins glass, add mint, lemon juice and Bittermilk Ginger Honey Syrup; muddle. Add ice. Gently pour in Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, then Blenheim’s Hot Ginger Ale. Garnish with hand-crafted Palmetto Rose, lemon wedge and mint spig. Served during our seminar during Atlanta Food & Wine Festival – South Carolina: Out of the Way, Out of this World. Thanks South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism, The Lee Brothers and all the volunteers who helped us prepare for our festival debut! Cheers

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