Blackstone Merlot California 2018
Red Wine of the Month
Review by Nicole Montrose
If you're finding yourself in the backyard with your trusty safety wine, we have a suggestion: Blackstone Merlot. This summer red is a great way to start branching out into the world of dry reds. Blackstone Merlot is a balanced, warming, fruity glass that will pair with fire pits, star gazing or just a long chat at the end of the day with a friend (wither in person or via video). There is a bit of spice on my pallet, but the stone fruits come through with ease. I find the heavy body slows me down; I can sip a glass for over an hour. While this is not an expensive bottle - around $10 - it's nice to have a wine that encourages slowing down and savoring the summer.
Cheers!
Pulse Rosé Wine with Natural
Coconut Flavor
White Wine of the Month
Review by Nicole Montrose.
With our summer looking very different, I thought I'd share a different kind of wine for you to enjoy. Pulse has a rosé that's flavored with coconut. It's sweet, subtle, and refreshing. I wouldn't say a glass of Pulse with coconut water will usher your tastebuds to the beaches of Hawaii, but at under $8 a bottle, it will be a great addition to a day by a backyard pool, lake, or pond. I find the taste of coconut is only a tease; this is not an in-your-face flavor. The scent of coconut is there, but again, it's only a tease that there's more to this glass than just grapes.
Interestingly enough, the makers of this bottle suggest trying it at a spritzer. Add some sparkling water to your glass to enjoy a new take!
Cheers!
UV-Blue Vodka
Cocktail of the Month - UV Liberty Cocktail
UV-Blue Vodka stands out with its bright blue color. The raspberry flavor is a nice addition to summer, but we really think the color is what pairs nicely with pool parties, beach days, and clear summer skies. By adding a scoop of raspberry sherbet and lemon-lime soda, UV-Blue Vodka becomes a summer bar must have!
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 ounces raspberry vodka (UV Blue)
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1 scoop raspberry sherbet
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2 ounces lemon-lime soda
Directions:
In an old-fashioned glass filled halfway with ice, place a scoop of raspberry sherbet. Add UV Blue and top with soda. Serve and enjoy!
Frozen Mango Margarita Mocktail
Non-alcoholic Option
Frozen + Fruity = the perfect summer drink! This moctail is the perfect drink for those hot June days that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients:
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4 cup orange juice
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1/4 cup lime juice
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3 tbsp honey
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1/2 cup frozen mango
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3 cups crushed ice
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Sea salt to salt the glasses
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1–2 limes, sliced
Directions:
Prepare two glasses and slide a lime slide across the rim of the glasses. Dip the rim into sea salt to coat the rim. Set aside.
Using a high-speedd blender, blend the orange juice, lime juice, honey and frozen mango. Blend for 15-20 seconds until a thick liquid.
Add the crushed ice and blend for 10 seconds to combine.
Pour the margarita mix into the glasses and serve with lime slices.