Spirits Traveler

Some very interesting events are coming up for wine, spirits and food lovers.  I certainly hope I will be able to squeeze some into the schedule.  Here’s what I suggest you check out… Hollywood & Wine July 1-23 If you’ve thought about visiting Phoenix, now’s the time and what better place to stay than the Arizona Biltmore . In July, this Waldorf Astoria Resort will have wine and foodie flicks to pair them with, like Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Chocolat and Bottle Shock. On Friday nights, movies will be shown with free tastings presented by a celebrity winemaker. On Saturday’s, you can watch a film during a four course wine pairing dinner ($55 per person). To make it even more tempting, special room rates will start at ust $109. To reserve your room and get ready to taste, go to http://www.arizonabiltmorehollywoodandwine.com . Walla Walla Tennis & Wine Camp July 21-24, 2011 Two of my favorite subjects with one of my favorite coaches in one of my favorite places. How I wish I

It’s Queen Elizabeth’s birthday and the celebration has extended to the spirits and cruise world thanks to Bombay Sapphire Gin .  The London gin is paying homage to one of its own by putting Her Majesty on their Bombay Sapphire Blue bottle, as the spirit celebrates its 250 th anniversary. In recognition of these two occasions, as well as the royal wedding, they have also joined with Cunard Cruise Line to introduce some exclusive cocktails that are being served on the Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth cruise ships. They have even shared the recipes. Though I have to admit that I’ve always been a bit more of a Tanqueray girl, I may have to give Bombay another try! The Queen’s Bouquet 1.5oz Bombay Sapphire gin 4 mint leaves 3 basil leaves 4 blackberries ½ oz honey syrup Muddle ingredients together with cracked ice in a stemmed rocks glass.  Garnish with a blackberry and sprig of basil. Sapphire ® English Tea 1.5oz Bombay Sapphire Gin ½ oz Earl Grey-infused

Awards have been given out lately to some deserving folks and it’s only fitting I recognize their accomplishments. Hat’s off to: Alexander LaPratt (pictured right), who works for New York’s db Bistro Moderne , was the winner of the 2011 Best Sommelier in America title. The competition judged 30 candidates from 12 states over a two-day period. Contestants needed to prove they had a deep understanding of wine theory, excel in table service and be cigar knowledgeable. Detroit natie LaPratt’s resume includes a two year stint as the Cellar Sommelier at Napa’s famed French Laundry before moving to Daniel Boulud’s New York restaurant. For more information on the competition, visit the American Sommelier website . Dante LoPresti of Mercadito Chicago’s Double A was the winner of the second annual Star of the Bar competition at the 2011 International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event . The contest, held in conjunction with the National Restaurant Show. It was hosted by Tom Colicchio, Bravo’s