Deborah Grossman

Concannon Vineyard Barrels Into Irish Whiskey

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What do you get when you combine the oldest, longest-operating, American winery founded by an Irishman and the newest Irish distillery? Concannon Irish Whiskey made in Ireland by acclaimed Cooley Distillery for Concannon Vineyard.  

To fathom this unlikely pairing of wine and whiskey, remember that Concannon Vineyard in Livermore Valley,California is owned by The Wine Group, one of the largest American wine companies. In 2011 The Wine Group launched Cupcake Vodka with similar branding to … Read more

Cruisin’ for Cocktails at the Holidays

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If you think the drinks on cruise ships are all watered down Piña Coladas for fuddie duddies, then think again. Cruise ships are sailing with a wide and deep array of fine wines, craft beers and state-of-the-art cocktails.

Consider Celebrity Cruise Solstice-class ships with their 21 bars and two-story wine tower in the main dining room. There are the pool bars, of course, but the Martini Bar with an “iced” counter and bartenders who “flare” … Read more