December’s Eggnog Cocktail

Tis the season to be merry, buy gifts and drink eggnog cocktails! This month we’re pulling out the good old eggnog to create a warming cocktail that will have you singing “fa la la la la la la” all evening long. Feeling weary about using eggnog in your cocktail, don’t! This smooth, bold and delicious drink makes the perfect mate with vodka and other spirits.  Read on for all the tasty details…

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Ingredients:

  • 2 Ounces Vodka (we used Kettle One Vodka)
  • 1 Cup Eggnog
  • 3 TBSP Cinnamon & Sugar (for rim and topping)
  • 2 TBSP Chocolate sauce

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Mix It UP:

  • Pour vodka, eggnog and 1 TBSP of chocolate sauce into a shaker and Shake Shake Shake
  • To make rim:
    • place the chocolate sauce on a plate
    • mix cinnamon & sugar together and place on a plate
    • place the top of the cup into chocolate sauce then into the cinnamon mix
  • Pour the shaken mix into the sugar rimmed cup and enjoy

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Add Ons:

  • This recipe could also be great with Kahlua and/or Baileys

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We hope you enjoy this delicious cocktail with friends and family this holiday season! Thank you for all your continued support.

Your friends at Mystic Wine Shoppe

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Brewery of the Month: Castle Island Brewery

Our featured brewery this month is located in Norwood, Mass. It’s Castle Island Brewery, sound familiar? This industrial, yet cozy environment provides a fun, welcoming experience with communal tables and board games. Not to mention, they have delicious snacks from Mi Niña tortilla chips, Chico de Gallo salsa, Moody’s, to some Kalahari Biltong jerky. Yum! Depending on the Taproom-v2season, they also have rotating food trucks, giving you a new experience every visit.

Company Founder, Adam Romanow, fell in love with the industry when he dropped his boring desk job for a brewing apprenticeship. In May of 2011, he decided to open a brewery of his very own. Ronamow took his time to research locations and types of brews to ensure a quality brewery. Finally, in March of 2015, Castle Island found its home. They successfully turned an empty warehouse into the beautiful brewery it is today. They even pulled an all-nighter to brew their very first batch of beer. It was a long time coming, but it was the thoughtfulness and passion that has made Castle Island so well-known (and delicious).

Now let’s get to the important part, the brews.

47038511_10101051595840803_5058845023643107328_n (1)Righteous Goals Sour Blonde Ale: This guava mixed brew leaves you with a fruity, tangy taste. This sweet brew contains hops of pilsner, white wheat, and flaked oats. “Proceeds from Righteous GOALS benefit the Massachusetts Chapter of the ALS Association, whose mission is to discover treatments and a cure for ALS, and to serve, advocate for, and empower people affected by ALS to live their lives to the fullest.”

Keeper New Age India Pale Ale: They really overloaded this brew with hops, including simcoe and cascade. Providing a balance with multiple malts, they packed a punch that even beginners can try. A smooth choice for pros.

Hi-Def Double IPA: This IPA is full of fruity flavors. With bursts of melon, papaya, and tangerine, this beer is beautifully balanced with a touch of honey and heavy hops. Make this a year-round favorite.

Candlepin Hoppy Season Ale: This is your beer for anytime and anywhere. Candlepin is an easy, light brew with a mix of47350049_10101051595800883_4662727607341547520_n (1) columbus and citra. Make this an addition to your next tailgate.

Can’t wait to try them out? You’re in luck. Not only can you visit Castle Island Brewery to get a taste, but we carry all four of these brews at Mystic Wine Shoppe! Stop in and find a new favorite.

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Bourbon Tasting Recap

It was another successful Winter Whiskey tasting! We continue to be so very grateful for the support of this community! Guests enjoyed sampling six delicious Buffalo Trace Bourbons along with locally made snacks.  Everyone was engaged and learned a lot about different bourbons (including us). It’s an annual tasting that we LOVE to host and we can’t wait for next year.  Thanks to everyone who came out and thank you to Buffalo Trace for sharing your Bourbon and knowledge with us.

 

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bourbon tasting

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Thanks again to everyone who joined us! Make sure to visit us for our Friday Beer Tastings from 6-8pm and our Saturday Wine Tastings from 5-7pm.

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The Holiday Spirit is a Phantom: BOGLE PHANTOM 2015

I’m not Jewish, but my husband is and, as is the case with holidays both secular and religious, it often falls upon the woman to create the traditions…which in my house means food.Potato-Latkes-300x257

So it has come to pass that I, the non-Jew, have become an expert at making latkes. I think that the crisp potato pancakes are the one thing that Hanukkah has over Christmas.

At our annual latke fry on Sunday, I grated both sweet and Yukon gold potatoes and served them with applesauce and sour cream, of course, but also with a hearty bowl of Portuguese kale soup and a romaine-free salad.

The soup is robust and smoky with chorizo and kielbasa, kidney beans, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, carrots and kale. But it cries out for a substantial red wine to elevate it from peasant food to festive holiday fare.

IMG_1318Bogle Phantom 2015 is just that wine.

 

Don’t be intimidated by the label that proclaims “mysterious and hauntingly seductive.” This is a very approachable blend  (44% Petite Sirah, 44% Zinfandel, 10% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon) that pairs well with comforting winter dishes like beef stew, pork loin and…my kale soup.

The girls and I opened it before dinner, let it breathe a bit and sampled it while pondering the New York Times crossword puzzle. Then we set the kitchen table and poured some for everyone.

It’s smooth but bodacious, yet it doesn’t overwhelm the tongue with tannins. This will become the winter house wine here on Bartlett Avenue.  Even my daughter (a millennial!) who tends to gravitate toward pinot noirs gave this wine high marks. It’s loaded with subtle flavors and it drinks like a high priced bottle. Good thing we had two.

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P.S. I made “Craft Beer Menorahs” for the “kids” and picked up some really interesting local brews to wish them all “Hoppy Holidays!”

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10 Holiday Gifts You’ll Love

The holiday season is officially here!!  Are you in search of a great gift this holiday season?!  We’re guessing you’re saying “um, yes of course… please help.” Don’t worry, we’re here to help with these 10 great gift ideas. Not seeing a gift idea you love? Head into Mystic Wine Shoppe and let our team of experts help you pick out the right gift.

 

10 Holiday Gifts You’ll Love

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1.Jim Beam Red Sox limited Edition Single Barrel Bourbon Gift Basket: This is the perfect gift basket for the Red Sox fan in your life! Not a Jim Beam fan, come and create your own custom gift basket!

 

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2. Ken Forester Wines: Two great wines out of South Africa –

  • The Gypsy: The character is somewhat ‘wild’ a little brambly with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon, dark spices, with vanilla scents and a distinct, concentrated red-fruit focus. Great for laying down and keeping for at least ten years but already rewarding if allowed to breathe in a decanter.
  • The FMC: The pinnacle of what we consider to be the finest expression of the grapes of this varietal – an icon chenin, a challenge to the world!  Rich, layered with dried apricot, vanilla and honey.

 

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3. A Midwinter Nights Dram: A limited engagement with only 4 left!!  This is a delicious blend of straight rye whiskeys.

 

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4. Patron Tequila Mini Gift Pack: The perfect stocking stuffer!

 

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5. Caymus Vineyards Wines: Calling all cab lovers!!!

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: This wine serves up a bevy of berry aromas and flavors. Its layered and rounded palate make it a delectable choice with a thick and mouthwatering grilled ribeye.
  • Caymus Special Edition: A truly legendary wine, Caymus Special Selection is a wine that Cab lovers simply can’t get enough of. Introduced more than 30 years ago, Special Selection is a vivid expression of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley. Starting with the foundation of their Rutherford estate vineyard and then securing contracts for long-term farming control of vineyards across the valley, Caymus has been able to solidify the extraordinary character and over-the-top quality of this very special wine vintage after vintage.

 

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6. Willett Rye Whiskey: A special release!!! Even a quick nosing reveals that Rye nose of grassy, herbal goodness with a sweetness that follows it. The palate is well balanced with a herbal mintiness, intertwined with a sweetness that dances on your tongue until it exits with a spiciness. This is a great utility whiskey to drink neat, make an Old Fashioned, or hold up to a rock.

 

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7. The Dalmore 18: Dalmore’s trademark style is luscious notes of orange, chocolate and spices, and the 18-Year-Old bottling is a terrific example. Aged in both bourbon and sherry casks, it has seductive notes of vanilla, dark chocolate and candied orange on the nose, followed by a full-bodied, spicy palate of cinnamon and stewed fruit. Recently reduced to just $174

 

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8. Opus One Wine: The essence of time is expressed in Opus One by the character of each vintage. Place, often defined as terroir, represents the geography, the climate and the essential human element which is captured in the wine’s balance between power and finesse, structure and texture.

 

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9. French Wines: Not sure which wine to choose, how about three delicious French wines… you can’t go wrong with any of these wines.

  • Terres Brulées Cornas Syrah: A deep ruby-black with purple hints. Blackcurrant, dark cherries and blackberries, with spices, licorice and cocoa on the nose. A very rich mouth-feel with flavors of black fruit, jam, vanilla, spice and mineral notes. This wine has firm tannins and a long lasting finish.
  • Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem: he Occultum Lapidem displays great dark garnet-red color in the glass. The nose is laden with aromas of black fruits, pepper, leather and graphite with hints of shrubs. On the palate, the fleshy quality of the wine is apparent straightaway from the attack. Rich and dense, the wine finishes with a balance of fruit and delicate tannins.
  • Prémices: A pure, elegant style, with an alluring raspberry puree note leading the way, while light blood orange, red currant and plum fruit flavors follow close behind. Nuances of incense, mulling spices and rooibos tea flitter throughout. The finish is silky and persistent.

 

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10. Santa Rita Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon: This full-bodied wine has beautiful complexity, with flowers, sandalwood and subtle currants, a dense centre palate and a long finish. Purity in cabernet sauvignon. Drinks great now or you can cellar it
for 10 years.

 

We hope to see you soon at Mystic Wine Shoppe! Let us know what you think about this years gift guide!

 

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Blueberry Holiday Cocktail

We’re getting into the holiday spirit with our November Cocktail of The Month! This delicious and easy-to-make cocktail is sure to be a holiday hit at your Thanksgiving table or at your holiday bash.

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Ingredients:

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Make it:

  • Place 8-12 frozen berries into glass cup
  • Pour 2 ounces of blueberry vodka into glass
  • Top it off with sparkling cider

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We hope you find this cocktail makes the perfect addition for your holiday get-together!  If you’re looking for a great hostess gift, stop into Mystic and pick-up a holiday gift basket or charcuterie board.  Not into cocktails, check out our Turkey Day Wine Guide!

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Cheers!

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All About Dalmore

The Dalmore 18

Do you know someone who loves whisky? Are you struggling to find the
right gift for someone as the holidays are just around the corner? The
Dalmore 18 is an excellent whisky that has been aged in both bourbon and
sherry casks. This whisky is a perfect example of Dalmore’s trademark IMG_3347 2
style with notes of vanilla, dark chocolate and orange, followed by a
hint of cinnamon and citrus fruit. The Dalmore 18 is a well balanced and
smooth whisky that is a perfect gift for friends and/or family. Relax
and sit by the fire while enjoying the delicious flavor Dalmore has to
offer.

The Dalmore Cigar Malt

Are you looking for a smooth whisky that will have you craving for more?
The Dalmore Cigar Malt has been aged in three types of casks; bourbon,
sherry, and cabernet sauvignon. There are cinnamon, vanilla, and red
fruit aromas with finishing notes of orange, dark chocolate and spices.
This rich tasting whisky has just the right amount of smokiness and
pairs perfectly with a fine cigar.

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Brewery of the Month: Peak Organic Brewing Co.

Local, local, local! Peak Organic Brewing Co. is dedicated to creating the most fantastic brews straight from their designated, local farmers from all around New England. “The idea is simple. Find the best ingredients being grown to create amazing flavor and truly delicious beer.” Each farm that Peak utilizes focuses on quality versus quantity. Peak has a passion for sustainability rooted in the way they run their company.

14263981_10154490745048560_5739901642037939637_nPeak likes to participate and dedicate its efforts to innovating new flavors that have never been done before. They achieve this by collaborating directly with their local farmers, chefs, and other organizations connected to sustainability as well. This company background and passion for being different, guarantees a unique, well-crafted taste when you give their brews a try! (If you’re a fan, you know that already!

Here are some of the delicious, specialty beers Peak Organic Brewing Co. has to offer!

Peak IPA: This is Peak’s classic, signature brew. Their India Pale Ale contains a flavorful initial taste thanks to the Amarillo and Simcoe dry hop. No bittering needed, just an abundance of floral and citrus flavors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Juice: This WICKED dry-hopped pale ale provides aromas and strong zests of tangerine and berry notes. The carefully brewed mix contains amarillo, simcoe, and hints of Azacca hops.

Happy Hour: Here we have Peak’s signature pilsner. Crisp and clean, this light brew makes it impossible to pass up more than one. 43038827_10156674963963560_8427614777018155008_o“This beer is easygoing and pairs well with everything, including another beer! With this new pilsner, it’s always Happy Hour.”

Sweet Tart Cranberry: We’re drooling just at the name of this brew. This Cape Cod Sour Ale ties together tangy, cranberry, and sour flavors into a refreshing first sip. The locally sourced Cape Cod cranberries provide a special rose-like effervescence for this perfect, light-bodied brew.

Winter IPA: ‘Tis the season! Peak’s hazy, New England Style IPA was created to lighten things up as the cold weather starts to hit. With a bright, juicy mix of Calypso, Azacco, Simcoe, and Citra hops, this brew will help you survive the winter by hinting at springtime.

The story behind Peak Organic Brewing Co. is an inspiring, lovely New England story. By choosing their brews for your next holiday or tailgate, not only are you supporting sustainability, but you’re guaranteed to find a light, new favorite. Stop into Mystic Wine Shoppe to pick up a pack to try! It’ll be the ~peak~ of your day 😉

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(all photos and quotes taken from Peak Brewing)

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