Rogues On The Road

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Grappa Nardini: An old-world spirit with new-world excitement! Aug 21, 2019

Show notes

We met up with Antonio Guarda Nardini from Grappa Nardini. Antonio's family has been making premium grappa in Italy since 1779. Although the family originated with distilling traditional grappa they also produce liqueurs, brandy, aperitifs and bitters. This episode we stayed within the grappa category. The name “grappa” originally comes from the Italian word “grappolo”, meaning grape. Grappa is distilled from grape skins, or pomace. The pomace is a byproduct of wine-making. Grappa is therefore a type of pomace brandy. This grappa is NOT "Italian moonshine". And contrary to many American palates, this grappa is complex in flavor, incredibly smooth and very versatile. Typically the spirit is bottled un-aged OR aged, Matt is particularly fond of their aged expressions. Grappa can be enjoyed neat or in a cocktail. Antonio was kind enough to give us a copy of his book "The Grappa Handbook". Not available on Amazon. The 132 page book was created to underscore grappa’s accessibility, as well as discussing the spirit’s history‚ distillation methods and offering food-matching ideas. The handbook features over 30 cocktail recipes‚ led with a foreword from the ‘King of Cocktails’ himself‚ New Yorker‚ Dale DeGroff. The cooking section‚ featuring 18 mouth-watering recipes. We can't thank Antonio enough for joining us and broadening our palates. We very much look forward to tasting through their diverse portfolio.

An apple a day...a glimpse into Laird and Company, the FIRST legal distillery in the United States Aug 13, 2019

Show notes

This episode we met up with Lisa Laird Dunn of Laird and Company. The first legal apple-mash distillery operating in the United States. Lisa shares her incredible family history that reaches back generations and samples us on a rare cask celebrating her son's legacy, the tenth generation. So, whats the difference between applejack and apple brandy? "Applejack (also known as apple brandy or “straight applejack”) must be produced from 100 percent apples, blended applejack is a blend of apple brandy and grain neutral spirits (this is a category that Laird's petitioned for; it was passed in 1972). She describes it as functioning like an “applewhiskey.” Lisa and her family have been making applejack and apple brandy for over two hundred years. "Prior to 1760, George Washington wrote to the Laird family requesting their Applejack recipe. Entries appear in Washington’s diary in the 1760’s referring to the production of “cyder spirits”. As a Revolutionary soldier serving under George Washington, Robert Laird and his family provided the troops with Applejack." since then the Laird family business has survived fires, prohibition and WWII. Today they produce an entire line of apple-based spirits. We were fortunate enough to taste a couple of rare items as well. For a fun and different treat, replace your favorite whiskey cocktail with Lairds, it won't let you down! The Gramercy Tavern in NYC has a favorite on their menu, which is easy to execute at home, the Applejack Rabbit. Delicious!

Tasting spirits like a pro! The NEAT glass has revolutionized the the industry! Aug 06, 2019

Show notes

We met up with George Manska, the creator of the Neat Glass. George has revolutionized the the way the alcohol industry is experiencing spirits! Just about every major spirit competition in the world is taking on this glass to judge spirits to their fullest.

George Manska: "In 2002, a simple glass blowing mistake created an amazing shape which displays the true expression of spirits, and launched a new, scientific approach to glass design, Naturally Engineered Aroma Technology (NEAT) the scientific foundation for the best spirits glass available. To properly savor spirits, one needs a spirits nosing glass which displays aromas and accents flavor.

Studying human olfactory physiology and applying physical and chemistry science, we unlocked the hidden dimensions of distilled spirits with a spirits nosing glass that enhances drinking pleasure, enjoyment, and diagnostics. Nine years, fifty two design revisions, hundreds of tastings and aroma profile studies resulted in perfection - the NEAT spirits glass. The tulip glass is now “old school” obsolete and non-functional as more serious drinkers pick up the NEAT spirits glass to discover and understand true spirit character and quality.

Taste the Truth: Taste and aroma are true measures of a spirit's quality. Alcohol burn numbs the nose and overwhelms the truth, spoiling your drinking experience. NEAT eliminates nose burn and numbing, enhancing ability to detect, savor, and enjoy the subtle, wonderful aromas the distiller intended. NEAT is the best spirits glass ever.

Science Drives Design, Form Follows Function: NEAT spirits glass was tested against tulip whiskey glass, glencairn, and other spirits glasses under controlled, uniform conditions by University of Nevada at Las Vegas (UNLV) Chemistry Department to verify results. Other whiskey nosing glasses and spirits glasses can’t compare to NEAT aromas and flavor. Science built a better glass.

How to Use: Pour to max bowl diameter (1 1/2 oz), swirl, hold level, and smell at center of the rim plane for characteristic aromas without alcohol. Breathe in slowly with mouth CLOSED, evaluate. NEAT spirits glass presents character aromas without alcohol. Position nose at rim to smell alcohol and other high-end distillates. Place nose deep inside glass for aroma profile same as with tall narrow glasses if you are in love with alcohol nose burn (not recommended). Adding water shuts down evaporation and results in much less aroma to savor. Tulip whiskey glasses fail to focus aromas and instead, concentrate nose-numbing ethanol, destroying your sense of smell."

Passionate about passion fruit! Farm-to-bottle passion fruit liqueur made in the Dominican Republic Aug 01, 2019

Show notes

We met the crew at Chinola during a visit to Bar Convent, Brooklyn. They are "passionate" about the entire operation. This includes carefully growing their own Passion fruit. This is the most authentic passion fruit liqueur we tasted. We love it chilled; however, a splash on top of a fresh Caipirinha and it doesn't get much better.

"Passion fruit is widely referred to as maracujá throughout Latin America, except in the Dominican Republic where this local treasure is termed Chinola. Our chinola are meticulously grown and varies in shade, each carefully selected from their farm."

Bitters and Bottles: "Chinola can be sipped straight or over ice, and tastes wonderful when mixed. You can use it in a Highball with straight seltzer or sparkling wine, or add it to an Aperol Spritz. It also works wonderfully in tropical or tiki cocktails that call for a passion fruit syrup like a Hurricane. It’s drier, boozier, livelier and fresher tasting than any other passion fruit syrups or liqueurs on the market

Rockstar of the Art World! A sit down with musician and painter Michael Godard Jul 23, 2019

Show notes

We had a great time sitting with artist, dad & philanthropist Michael Godard! "Michael Godard is known as the explosive “Rockstar of the Art World” and global top selling artist!

"His world of art invites us to see his lighthearted perspective, surrounding us with animated olives, grapes, and dancing strawberries. His unique portrayal of fun is an exciting combination of imagination and subtle humor, evoking the creative side in “Olive” us. He has redefined art as we know it and, of course, given it a punch line."

"His paintings are thought provoking and full of enigmatic illusion. They show pain, love, conflict, and success, making people smile, laugh, reminisce, and exclaim, “Oh My God..ard!”

"Godard’s work is highly collected by young and old from all walks of life including movie stars, rock stars and private collectors. “We both love to see people respond to our art and it’s probably why we’ve been given a gift to create and entertain. Get ready to go crazy over the artwork of Michael Godard” -Ozzy Osbourne. Godard’s imaginative world of art is seen by millions of people each month, worldwide through cruise lines, galleries, hotels, television, magazines and countless merchandising kiosks and stores. His paintings even adorn the walls of the Officer’s Lounge in the Pentagon."

"Michael Godard has dedicated himself to philanthropic causes through his art. “The funds I help raise save lives and at the end of the day, it’s the most important thing I do,” declares Godard. In 2006, his 16 yr. old daughter passed away after her battle with brain cancer. “All the money in the world can not bring her back, but the funds I help raise for a cure will help save another child,” said Godard."

"Godard works very closely with St Jude’s, Make a Wish, Nevada Cancer Institute and The Sharon Osbourne Colon Cancer Foundation “You’re not only buying something that is a work of art but that money is going to save somebody’s life” -Sharon Osbourne."

"His continuing effort has driven him far beyond the canvas, bringing him closer to his goal of raising money to help win the war against cancer. Current projects are in the works making this achievement happen. Godard says, “The world is small – you can truly make an impact on everyone you meet.”

There's no folding this pizza! Giordano's deep-dish has arrived! Jul 16, 2019

Show notes

Chicago deep-dish pizza is expanding beyond its borders. We had a lot of fun with Evan from Giordano's Pizza! He met us in Vegas where the company has recently opened two restaurants and its apparent that he as well as the entire company are extremely passionate about their famous deep dish pizza. This style of pizza is a bit foreign to all of us as we are dedicated New York Pizza fans. The kinda of pizza that folds. After this episode we have come to the conclusion that we enjoy both styles of pizza and they can coexist harmoniously. Yep, we're craving it now...

Their story: "It's creation began in a small northern Italian town near Torino, Italy. Mama Giordano was famous around town for her exquisite cooking. Of all her renowned dishes, her most beloved meal was her “Italian Easter Pie”. Mama Giordano would serve this double- crusted, cheese stuffed masterpiece on special occasions. This pizza pie became a sacred tradition in the Giordano family and a legend in the town of Torino. Years later, Italian immigrants Efren and Joseph Boglio moved to Chicago to start their own pizza business. The brothers introduced their Mama’s recipe for stuffed pizza. In 1974, on Chicago’s historic south side, Efren and Joseph opened the first Giordano’s in the world. Over the next 40 years and counting, millions of happy and loyal fans as well as hundreds of critics call Giordano’s the city’s “best” stuffed pizza! The rest is history you can still taste today, along with our other great starters, fresh salads, outstanding pastas and unique sandwiches.

Giordano’s is constantly making headlines, both in Chicago and nationally. The brand garners frequent media coverage and continuously tops “Best Pizza” lists and dining guides. Giordano’s has been acclaimed “Chicago’s Best Pizza” by NBC, CBS Chicago, New York Times, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Eater, Home & Garden Magazine, Concierge Preferred and more!

Craft brew Mecca! DeCicco & Sons tap takeover night! Jul 11, 2019

Show notes

This is a first for us! We spent the evening podcasting live from craft beer mecca, DeCicco and Sons in Brewster, NY. Consumers arrive from all over the trip-state area to experience the amazing and often rare craft brews. Joining us for a tap takeover was Diner Brew Company, Plan Bee Brewery, Industrial Arts Brewing and Brendan from DeCicco and Sons. What you won't hear are the dedicated crew behind the bar who help organize this great event. Big thanks to Vinny, Greg, Nate and Rob. Couldn't have done it with out you.

"DeCicco’s award winning beer department sometimes leaves people wondering, “Is DeCicco’s a supermarket with awesome beer? Or a beer store that sells awesome food?” Visit one of our locations and decide for yourself. We have one of the most comprehensive beer selections in the state, with vast bottle selections and an ever-changing draft list for growler fills. Our stores in Brewster and Armonk also have beer and wine bars, and regularly host brewers for specials events and releases.

The DeCicco beer team also pairs with some of the area’s best brewers to create some wonderful and unique collaborations, including Captain Lawrence, Six Point, Peekskill, Yonkers, Newburgh, Rushing Duck and Evil Twin. Stop by and see why DeCicco’s has been rated “Best Beer Retailer in New York” and “Top Places For Beer In The World.”

Das is GOOD! On location at a Greek owned, German butcher! Jul 09, 2019

Show notes

A must visit if you are in the Hudson Valley! We spent the morning at a traditional family-owned, German butcher. East Fishkill Provisions is an art form with a broad spectrum of specialties dating back generations. The original owner, Rudy is 94 years old and is still going strong making traditional brats. Rudy sold to current owner George Mustakas and his son and they've been expanding the menu since. What do they produce? Bierwurst, Ham Bologna, Shickenspeck, Hot Dogs, Kielbasa, Wursts, Bratwurst, Weisswurst, Knockwurst, Bauwernwurst, Smoked Sausage, bacon, Smoked Ham, Smoked Turkey, Roasted Beef, Corned Beef, Pastrami, Kassler Rippchen (smoked pork chops), Bologna, Liverwurst, Laberkase, Pepperloaf, Headcheese, Sulz. In addition all this and their deli, they have full catering and BBQ including whole hog. During hunting season almost every hunter in the Hudson Valley has dropped off game meat for processing. Venison Menu. The day we visited George had bear sausage smoking! We had an amazing time with George and his family. We're looking forward to returning in the fall for a follow up hunting podcast.

BCB SERIES: KooKoo for coconuts! Welcome to the Cartel... Jul 05, 2019

Show notes

We had a great time with Mike and Dani from Coconut Cartel! Amazing founding story that created a Guatemalan rum proofed with coconut water.

"Coconut Cartel is the story of Mike and Dani Zig and all the places theyve called home. Born in Miami to Latin parents, the Zigs grew up between Miami, Guatemala and El Salvador; often spending weekdays in Central America and weekends in Miami. These two drastically different, yet culturally connected places, are the very inspiration behind Coconut Cartel.

As soon as they settled back in Miami, they began their first venture: 'smuggling’ coconuts in their suitcases from islands off the coast of El Salvador directly to Miami Beach’s best hotels. Creating one of the first ‘Instagrammable’ beverages to hit the beaches opened up a lot of doors into the hospitality and spirits industries, allowing them to collaborate with brands such as Soho House, Standard Hotels, The Surf Lodge and into the hands of mega celebrities like Drake, Martha Stewart, HRH Prince Harry Sussex, Cristiano Ronaldo and many more.

Coconut Cartel was born.

Today Coconut Cartel is keeping the smuggler spirit alive with the launch of its coconut water infused, premium Guatemalan anejo rum, Coconut Cartel Special. Developed with Central America’s best coconut, coffee and rum producers, and delivered straight to the U.S. via the Port of Miami, Coconut Cartel Special brings the best of the region to the rest of the world in a bottle."

BCB SERIES #2: Experiencing El Silencio Mezcal. Imbibing this ancient beverage hurt so good!!!! Jun 20, 2019

Show notes

We met the crew at El Silencio Mezcal at Bar Convent, Brooklyn last year. This year we came back to taste and wow, what an experience! We'll leave the actual tasting experience to the episode. Mezcal can be misunderstood because many people who try them for the first time are often disappointed. Mezcal flavor profiles are on a wide spectrum. They can be incredibly bold, medicinal & smokey or they can be more soft, floral and balanced. The key is balance. El Silencio Mezcal is perfectly balanced for a broad range of Mezcal consumers.

The mezcal Espadín is double distilled in Oaxaca, Mexico and is the "perfect companion for cocktails or simply to sip on its own. A robust, deep flavor profile recalls earthly delights and hearty tastes, providing a subtle smoke and pronounced finish unlike any mezcal or spirit you’ve encountered in your travels."

COLOUR Clear with solid white accents. TASTE Roasted figs, sweet potatoes and charred stone fruit. AROMA Balanced smoke, ash and baking spices. FINISH Predominantly white pepper, bell pepper, and a myriad of baking spices.

"While similar to their super premium Joven Ensamble Mezcal, Espadin is perfect for being adventurous and mixing it up. Give the classic cocktail a twist, and elevate the experience by making El Silencio the center of the recipe. Make a bloody mary a Mezcal Mary; put some smoke in your margarita. Espadín is a pure agave mezcal for people that know what they want in life, whether sipped, shaken or stirred."

After our neat experience we had two amazing cocktails:

TEARS OF THE GODDESS

Mezcal El Silencio Espadín
Gifford Passion Fruit
Rockeys Milk Punch
Tears of The Black Rabbit (proprietary to Silencio)

ELIXIR OF LIFE

Mezcal El Silencio Espadín
Kleos Mastiha
Hella Eucalyptus Bitters

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