Reader's Poll

Sauce Magazine 2009 Reader's Choice
We are very excited to announce that we have been voted by St. Louis as:

Favorite Place to Buy Cheese
1st Place -- The Wine and Cheese Place

Favorite Wine Shop
1st Place -- The Wine and Cheese Place


Thank you for voting for us!!

New beers

Read about the beers....click here

St. Germain Brasserie - France

Here is an interesting story about the brewery.

"All of our brewers have something to teach us. But it's not often that an enthusiastic brewer turns us on to something as strange and cool as Hildegard of Bingen, a woman of the Rhine River Valley (now Germany) who was packed off to a Benedictine monastery at birth, and eventually became the founder of a convent, a theologian and philosopher, a musical composer, a scientist and healer, pioneer of holistic medicine, and, more or less, the progenitor of the women's liberation movement. Way back in the 12th Century A.D., a time when women were regarded as little more than property, hardly ever educated, and generally unable to read or write, Hildegard gave counsel to popes and kings, and produced many important works in a range of disciplines. She is considered by many to be the first writer ever to describe the female orgasm, and was known for her positive views on sex (not typical of the Roman Catholic Church at that time, or since).

You can find a lot of interesting info on Hildegard on the so-called Internet - click here

What particularly interests the founders of the Brasserie St. Germain is Hildegard's writings on hops. She was an early advocate of hops in brewing, and in that way too she was out of step with church doctrine. (Before hops came into wide use, beer was usually laced with gruit, a mixture of spice and herbs; the Church had the exclusive right to make gruit in some places, and so railed against the use of hops.) Any serious history of hops must mention Hildegard of Bingen.

read more.

The brewers of St. Germain see themselves also as defenders of the hop flower, in opposition to the brewing orthodoxy of their region. That region, French Flanders, lays claim to France's ancient bière de garde tradition. But the St. Germain brewers are of the opinion that most of the beer of the region in modern times is too sweet, and certainly not hoppy enough. They are fans of hoppier Belgian beers, and they've taken a healthy part of their inspiration from the Belgians. But they also see their hoppier beers as a return to the brewing heritage in French Flanders.

At the outset of the 20th century, there were more than 2000 breweries in this tiny region, many of them undoubtedly making refreshing, drinkable farmhouse ales, using great loads of local hops. Two world wars nearly killed brewing in French Flanders. By the end of the last century there were only about 20 breweries left, and there was no one left who remembered how those original bières de garde tasted. The Brasserie St. Germain, which opened in 2003, is part of a small revival of brewing in French Flanders. There are about 30 breweries now, including the Brasserie Thiriez, which is fighting along with St. Germain to put hops back into the local beer.

At bottom, the mission of the St. Germain brewers is just like that of most of the brewers we represent at Shelton Brothers. When asked to describe the brewery's 'philosophy,' brewer Stephane Bogaert replies simply that, 'We make the beers we like to drink.' In France, then, just as in Belgium, a pattern is beginning to emerge. As the bigger breweries go increasingly bland, brewing to suit the tastes of the lowest common denominator and relying more on marketing than quality work to make a living, a corps of independent passionate beer drinkers and homebrewers, unable to get the beer they really want to drink, have determined to make that beer themselves. And the people are starting to understand the difference. After only six years, St. Germain has made its mark, and grown. It is now, indisputably, the most awarded brewery in France. Put that down to the power of hops.

The Reserve Hildegarde beers, a Blonde and an Ambrée, are of course a special tribute to the revered abbess who lived and loved hops more than 800 years ago -- well before they were so popular. They are generously-hopped with Brewer's Gold (what the St. Germain brewers call 'B.G.') and a lesser known variety called Strissel Spalt, both grown in northern France, and are a good bit stronger than the other St. Germain beers.

In fact, the brewery itself is a tribute to Hildegard -- which brings us to the subject of that unusual name, Page 24, that the brewery has put on every one of its beers. Stephane explains that it refers to one of Hildegard's works, a treatise entitled 'The Benefits of Beer,' that has vanished in the modern era, but remains part of the legend of the famous lady. On page 24, according to legend, she revealed a great secret, which men have fought to obtain for generations. Historians tell us that much of the legend is really myth; Hildegard didn't do everything that her admirers and adherents claim. Did this book ever exist? Possibly not, say the brewers of St. Germain. But does that really matter? Even if it never existed, they say, it should have.

As for the wonderful secret of Page 24 . . . It may never be known, but one gets the feeling that the brewers of St. Germain believe they know what it is. Stephane tells the story of his grandfather and grandmother, who lived in French Flanders, sleeping on pillows that were stuffed with local hops. Hops, as Hildegard pointed out, have superb calmative properties. Perhaps the secret is that simple: whatever it is, you can make it better by putting in more hops." -- Importer

O'Fallon

I know it is early, but here is a look at the new label on O'Fallon Pumpkin Beer. O'Fallon was already around taking pre-orders. I think they ran out too fast last year and wanted to be ready for this fall.

More Absinthe...

Order Absinthe online - click here

Learn more about Absinthe..http://realabsinthe.blogspot.com/



La Valote Absinthe....$59.99 / 750ml
Authentic Swiss Absinthe
"La Valote is the name for a community of Absinthe distillers in Val-de-Travers. The absinthe produced in the small town Môtiers, using traditional Swiss methods. Two former clandestine producers do now, what they did for years – only one thing has changed – they do it legally. The combination of know-how and the desire to create something excellent unites these three men. They are using small stills from 25 litres up to 90 litres. Each one of them have their own, secret receipt, so each is distinctly different, but represents what others formerly described as the “holy grail” of Absinthe. La Valote still after many years, continues to stay focused on quality excellence in their production of fine absinthe rather than cheap imitation quantity. Willy Bovets / Francis Martin's La Valote Absinthe has a nice fennel aroma in the beginning which is surrounded by the wormwood bouquet in the background. Anise is present but not dominant to create a pleasant balance of flavor. The entire absinthe louches evenly into a wonderful milky display." -- importer









Pere Francois Absinthe...$49.99
Premium Swiss Absinthe
"This Absinthe Elixir from the original country of the green fairy is made by a specialized family business established more than40 years ago in Fleurier, Switzerland;The Bezençon Drinks Corporation.
With the absinthe ban recently being lifted, François Bezençon; founder, gave new light to the once feared drink of the world, and continues to still use all of the original formula and ingredients of the mystical drink." -- importer
Each bottle is individually numbered
Awards:Père François obtained a Gold Medal at the National Competition ofWaters-of-Swiss Noble Event in 2005/2006 (scored 18 out of a possible 20 points)
The jury commentary:"Very balanced and harmonious""The best example of a successful absinthe of great quality"






Mata Hari Absinthe...$49.99
Original recipe from 1881Produced in the last authentic historical Austrian Absinthe distilleryMata Hari is made of the finest herbs, above all Wormwood and SalviaHighest legal level of Thujon & AbsinthinMata Hari containes all-natural ingridients and is exclusively coloured with natural herbs onlynice louche effect with ice & waterno dominant anise taste and therefore outstanding mixing abilities
How to drink Absinthe














Grande Absente "Absinthe Originale"....$64.99
France
"The Absinthe Originale recipe with wormwood is back! In the late 19th century during the Belle Époque era in Paris, the renowned Absinthe culture was at its height of infamy. Absinthe was the trademark drink of artists like Degas, Manet, Picasso, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec and Oscar Wilde. To recall this glorious time, Grande Absente, Absinthe Originale is one of the oldest traditional Absinthe recipes from the south of France. Hand crafted in Provence like it was from 1860-1912, Grande Absente is made exclusively with the highest quality spirits and select botanicals from the region, including the legendary botanical Wormwood, also known as Artemisia Absinthium. Grande Absente is 138 proof so please drink with extreme caution!" -- Distiller





Le Tourment Vert Absinthe....$6.99 / 50ml
Le Tourment Vert Absinthe....$49.99 / 750ml
French
Artists & Thinkers "We’re not the only ones inspired by absinthe. It’s captured the imaginations of some of the world’s most famous (and infamous) artists and writers. Masters from Degas to Picasso, van Gogh to Hemingway, Toulouse-Lautrec to Wilde, have found their muse to be green. Not only devoted absinthe enthusiasts, they also celebrated it prominently in their works. The complex flavors. The painterly color. The captivating spirit. These same qualities that made absinthe the artist’s creative juice of choice are now reimagined in Le Tourment Vert. We leave it open to your interpretation." -- importer
Death in the Afternoon Cocktail
Read about the Absinthe Myth
Hollywood and Le Tourment Vert
Cocktail recipes
Banned!"About a hundred years ago, absinthe became a victim of its own success. It was increasingly popular, particularly in France, with both the working class and the bourgeoisie. Some claimed it could protect against malaria. Others swore it unleashed their creative muse. The rituals required to prepare it found their ideal setting in the bohemian café scene of the Left Bank. But with the world descending into the turmoil of the First World War, absinthe began to take the blame for society’s decay. The prohibitionists launched a campaign against “The Green Torment”, claiming it was responsible for everything from general debauchery to insanity and death. By 1912, it was banned in the US and many other countries. Now absinthe is back and a whole new generation of distillers is creating a wide range of styles to choose from. In acknowledgement of absinthe’s checkered history we named ours “Le Tourment Vert” (The Green Torment): The very phrase that was used against absinthe by its detractors a century ago." -- importer



Lucid Absinthe....$59.99
France
Absinthe, first commercialized in the early 1800's, emerged as a powerful icon of freedom during the Belle Époque period, and it was during this time that the highly perfumed spirit reached unparalleled popularity and cult status among the worlds of art, literature, and fashion. Once proclaimed to fuel the fires of creativity, and subsequently demonized, Absinthe has recently reemerged on the world stage as a high quality, fine alcoholic libation recalling those earlier artistic times.
lucid is formulated by world renowned absinthe expert T.A. Breaux, and is distilled in strict accordance to traditional French methods. lucid is crafted in the historic Combier distillery, founded in 1834 and designed by Gustave Eiffel in the fabled Loire Valley of France. Each bottle of lucid is carefully prepared by skilled craftsmen, using ancient copper absinthe alembics. Unlike most contemporary imitators, lucid is distilled entirely from spirits and European herbs, and uses no artificial additives, oils, or dyes. lucid recalls the rich tradition of Absinthe, and is crafted using a full measure of Grande Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), Green Anise, Sweet Fennel, and other fine European herbs traditionally used in making fine Belle Époque absinthe.







Pernod Absinthe Superieure....$64.99
(we also have the Absinthe free Pernod $24.99)
"At the end of the 18th century, a man by the name of Major Dubied began distilling the elixir professionally. A few years later in 1805, his son-in-law, Henri Louis Pernod, opened a distillery in France where Pernod would later become known as the national beverage. The original Pernod drink consisted of 65-75% alcohol and the notorious hallucinogen, abinsthe "Arthemisia Abisnthium", which gave Pernod a distinct reputation around the world....THE drink of Bohemian society, enjoyed religiously by some fo the greatest artists of modern time including Wilde, Picasso, Van Gogh, Maupasant, Poe, Verlaine, Baudelaire and Rimbaud. due to the controversy surrounding the sometimes dangerous effects elicited by ansinthe, the ingredient was banned by the French government in 1915. As a result, the Pernod Fils Company closed temporily. It-re-opnened five years later when a controlled form of anise liquors was legalised with a new absinthe-free Pernod recipe. Since then, Pernod has had an ever-growing success in France and well beyond." -- Pernod

Odell new releases!

In stock now at Forsyth..

Odell Woodcut No.2.....$24.99 / 750ml

order online

Very Limited!

"Aged in virgin, oak barrels, Woodcut No.2 is definitely a cut above. The color is a rich golden copper. Soft tannins complement the toffee-like malt character. And the aromas are reminiscent of fresh wood shop shavings and vanilla bean -- an irresistible combination. Each Woodcut offering is a truly limited-edition beer made with select hops. Fine malted barley and our brewers' carefull aging process. Enjoy" -- brewery


Lock, Stock and Barrel
Odell Brewing Releases Woodcut No. 2 Oak Aged Golden Ale
"...Odell Brewing will release the second barrel aged beer in its Woodcut series. Woodcut No. 2, an oak aged golden ale, was brewed over six months ago on the brewery’s pilot brewing system. The golden ale has been aging in virgin oak barrels and will bottle condition in cork finish, 750 ml bottles. Crafted with fine specialty malts and hops, Woodcut No. 2 is a golden copper color. The rich toffeelike malt character is balanced by soft tannins. Freshly cut wood and vanilla bean aromas compliment the beer’s smooth finish. Odell Brewing’s inaugural Woodcut offering was named one of the best beers of 2008 by Draft Magazine and Modern Brewery Age magazine. “Odell Brewing is pushing into new waters with grace and success with the Woodcut Series,” Draft Magazine.
Only 175 cases of the Woodcut No. 1 were released, and the beer sold out in one week. The second release will be limited to 350 cases, all hand signed and numbered.-- press release



In stock now!
Odell St. Lupulin Extra Pale Ale....$9.89 / 6pk
A seasonal available from June to September

"A mystical legend echoes in our brewhouse - that of St. Lupulin(loop-you-lin) the archetypal hophead. He devoted endless summers to endless rows of hops, tending to the flowers and the beloved resin within - lupulin Extraordinary oils in this yellow resin provide this dry-hopped extra pale ale with an undeniably pleasing floral aroma and clean, crisp finish. One sip of this seasonal summer ale and you too, will believe." -- Odell Brewing
6.5% Alcohol By Volume

Meet the Master Distiller

Jim Rutledge - Mellow Man on the Move
Jim Rutledge has been the Master Distiller at Four Roses since 1995. It’s a vocation that requires the use of every one of his considerable talents: chemistry, artistry, craftsmanship, marketing and salesmanship. It’s a good thing he’s so passionate about Four Roses that he’s willing to do whatever is necessary to create and produce a Bourbon with perfect consistency day after day. As a member of the inaugural class of the Bourbon Hall of Fame, Jim watches over the character, quality and consistency of each barrel of Four Roses Bourbon. Every stage of the distillation process is critical and you’ll find Jim’s hands, eyes and nose – as well as his heart and soul in every one of them.
"Mr. Four Roses," as Jim has come to be known, takes both his passion and knowledge about making Bourbon with him wherever his travels take him. And as Four Roses biggest ambassador, Jim is truly a man in constant motion. There’s a new friend to make, a new story to tell and a little Bourbon to share each step along the way." -- Four Roses Website

Beer cans

More 12oz cans of craft beer are arriving...

Lion Brewery from Sri Lanka
Lion Stout...$8.49 / 6pk CANS
"Commercial Description:The 8.0 per cent abv, bottle conditioned beer is brewed from British, Czech and Danish malts with Syrian hops and an English yeast strain. All the ingredients are transported along precarious roads to the brewery located 3,500 feet above sea level."
Rated 96 by http://www.ratebeer.com/

Lion Imperial Lager...$8.49 6pk CANS
8% ABV
"Lion Imperial Lager from Sri Lanka is specially brewed to acheive it's high alcohol content. The finest natural ingredients deliver a rich, smooth taste and refereshment. Enjoy it's bite." -- brewery

Click here to see other canned beer we have

Limited!

St. Ambroise Vintage 2009....$5.99 / 11.5oz

20th Anniversary Ale

"Made with a blend of wheat and barley malts, including Munich malt, this unfiltered ale has a lovely deep-orange colour, rich maltiness, hints of caramelized fruit that recall plum pudding, and a surprisingly crisp, balanced finish provided by classic Goldings hops. Serve St-Ambroise Vintage Ale between 13 ºC and 15 ºC, preferably in a port glass or brandy snifter. Also, this vintage ale will improve with age for a number of years. Store in a cool, dark place." -- brewery

"20 years ago, McAuslan Brewing opened its doors on St-Ambroise Street, bringing beer lovers unparalleled beer experiences. Two decades later, we are still doing it. Brewed just once a year by Peter McAuslan and brew master, Ellen Bounsall, St. Ambroise Vintage Ale is the culmination of our experience and passion. Our previous vintage ales have won accolades and international awards. We expect no less from our 2009 series.

However, there is something special about this particular beer. We have done a lot of living in the last twenty years, and we have learned much about our craft. We are stronger now than we were in '89, thanks in large part to our staff, our customers and countless others who have helped us along on our journey.

Therefore, this particular St.-Ambroise Vintage Ale is a tribute to everone who has touched our lives in the past twenty years and helped us to brew truly great beer. From our home to yours."

Peter and Ellen.

Rated 98 percentile on RateBeer

(based on previous vintages)

Rare Beer!

Yes, these are BEERS!
Baladin - Italy
Teo Musso
2005 Xyauyu Copper Riserva.....$43.99 / pint
2006 Xyauyu Silver Riserva .........$43.99 / pint
2006 Xyauyu Gold Riserva..........$43.99 / pint

"We are entering now a world of magic, surprises, rhythm where the “sin of gluttony” can be committed without remorse. Here, Teo has made the “drawing room beers” or “dreaming beers” brewed with an oxidation process called Solera, coming to an exceptional result. These beers (XYAUYU’) are marked with the three most important metals of gastronomy: gold, silver and copper. It is advisable to sip and enjoy them on a comfortable sofa, relaxing and daydreaming. The bottle when is opened remains unaltered and can be even drunk and appreciated within a long time. Teo Musso produces three versions Gold, Silver & Copper label which differ from each other in terms of degree of oxidation allowed and fruity perfumery aromas created. Brewing process: Primary fermentation for 25 days The maturation/aging follows the Method Solera ["adjusted by Teo"], wich was developed centuries ago by the Spanish and Portuguese to perfect the aging of their sherry and port. Teo's Method Solera:

Teo’s objective is to allow Xyauyu to perfectly oxidize during the aging proces of 2.5 years {oxidation plays a critical role in aging port, sherry, as well as our vintage beers - too much oxidation will ruin the liquid - too little will not optimize the change in flavor / aroma during the aging process} .Here’s how Teo's system works: Xyauyu is transfered to a steel vessel with transparent membrane and a "oxygen hat". After several tastings during the 2.5 year aging process Teo decides when it's time to bottle (it all depends upon the oxidation velocity). XYAUYU’" -- importer


2005 Xyauyu Copper Riserva "Etichetta Rame"
Copper label
This fine beer can be likened to an excellent Vin Santo.

2006 Xyauyu Silver Riserva "Etichetta Argento"
Silver label
It can be accurately compared to a drawing-room sherry.

2006 Xyauyu Gold Riserva "Etichetta Oro"
Golden label
This golden beer reminds of an enjoyable Madera or an intriguing Chateau Chalon of the French Jura.

Available online -- order now!!

Black Tequila

NO LONGER AVAILABLE!!

Alce Negro Black Tequila....$45.99

A new 100 proof tequila. It is black in color, I cannot find out anything about it though. A customer requested we get it in and now we have it. All the bottle says is that it is 100% Agave.

Black Art Beer

New German beer from the maker of Kulmbacher EKU.

"The name of Kulmach has always had a special place in the hearts of beer lovers - and that, in a country where the art of brewing is long and revered....In 1846 the brewmasters Johann Wolfgang Reichel, Johann Konrad Scheiding and Johann Martin Hubner united to form the brewery that was the beginning of the Kulbacher Reichelbrau. In 1996, the formerly independent Reichelbrau, Sandlerbrau, Monschof, and EKU breweries were merged to from the Kulmbacher Brewery AG. (Kulmbacher EKU)

Black Art Black Pils....$7.99 / 6pk

"Black Art Dark (Dunkel) lager is brewed by the oldest brewery Kulmbacher/Braustolz in Germany. It has an opaque color and full bodied flavor, a bit milder tasting and sweet. The dark color comes from the dark roasted malts. The finish is clear." -- importer

Black Art Gold....$7.99 / 6pk

"Black Art Gold is a German Pale (Helles) Lager of conventional strength belonging to the above premium quality. The golden light color and bottom fermenting created clean crisp pale appearance accenting the original golden lager." -- importer

Limited Release!

Almost forgot this arrived....

order online - click here

.

.

Dark Island Reserve....$26.99

The Extraordinary Orcadian Ale Aged in Whisky Casks

Limited Edition

Hand Crafted in Small Batches

1,588 bottles made. Bottles September 3, 2008

"Gyle 4: This Dark Reserve was brewed in 9th April 2008 and enjoyed a long, cool fermentation to 10% alc vol in vessel No.1 at The Orkney Brewery. The small yield was then matured in six refill Hogsheads, previously used to mature fine Orkney Single Malt Whisky. Only 1588 bottles were produced. These were hand-bottled on the 3rd September 2008. Classic Dark Island aromas of smooth roast malt, dark chocolate, figs and dates combine with vanilla, spice and bitter orange aromas from teh wood and whisky." -- Andrew Fulton, Head Brewer

Rated 97 percentile on RateBeer

Rated A on BeerAdvocate

Father's Day

Beer loving father:
Rogue Dad's Little Helper Malt Liquor in stock at Forsyth.

Tasting Notes:
This ain’t your Dad’s malt liquor. Brewmaster John Maier has Roguerized the recipe by adding 40% Midwest corn, lightly hopping it with Oregon Crystal Hops, and then lagering it at a warmer temperature to help bring out the sweet, crisp flavors of the corn. -- Rogue

Freshies!

Freshies Mixers
All natural, no high fructose corn syrup.
Quality - Quality - Quality
Margarita time!!

"Freshies"...felt that the other mixers on the shelves were too syrupy-sweet, so they used fresh lime juice, lemon juice, and a splash of OJ to round out the flavors. They were committed to not using corn syrup in any of their margarita mixes, and today the taste profile of fresh squeezed juice and granulated sugar translates to the entire line.

Freshies vs. The Competition...
Freshies Mixes have several advantages over the competition. Freshies contains all-natural ingredients and do not contain any preservatives. Freshies mixes use fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, orange juice, granulated whole cane sugar, pure agave nectar.

Freshies creates a shelf stable product which does not use artificial preservatives, flavors, colors, or stabilizers. The mixes are made with fresh ingredients, from scratch, so they taste that way. Here at Freshies, we manufacture all of our own mixes which gives us complete control over the quality of the final product.

Most other major mix brands on the shelf...lists High Fructose Corn Syrup as the 2^nd highest volume ingredient- the first being water. High Fructose Corn Syrup is used as an inexpensive source for sweetening the mixes, but results in an over-sweet taste. This sweet taste must be countered by adding larger quantities of artificial flavors and additives. Additionally, the syrup leaves a very distinct after-taste. Most other mixes use artificial colors and preservatives. Freshies appeals to the consumer who is concerned with quality, taste and value. The true connoisseur of mixes.

Freshies Margarita Mix - Fresh Lime....$5.99 / 32oz

"Fresh Lime Margarita Mix is a combination of fresh-squeezed lime and lemon juices, with just a splash of orange. It is sweetened with a blend of sugars and a hint of agave nectar, the lifeblood of the cactus from which tequila is derived. Enjoy it responsibly with good tequila for the freshest marg possible."

Freshies Ingredients:

Water, granulated cane sugar, fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, orange juice from concentrate, confectioner's sugar (sugar, corn starch), agave nectar (a natural sweetener from the desert plant agave), citric acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin c for natural color retention) and natural flavors.

Compare to the ingredients in other brands -- chemicals?

Brand "X" Mixer -- Water, corn syrup, citric acid, natural flavors, sodium citrate, sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, cellulose gum, polysorbate 60, gum arabic, glycerol, abietate and FD&C No.5

Freshies Margarita Lite -- Citrus Fiesta....$5.99 / 32oz

No Sacrifice! Why should you have to sacrifice taste when you're counting carbs? Our Margarita Lite uses the same fresh-squeezed lime and lemon juices as our original Fresh Lime flavor. We took out the sugars and the OJ and kept this mix free of artificial preservatives and colors. Now, you can enjoy a REAL margarita with only 2 Net Carbs!!

Ingredients:

Water, fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, natural flavors, citric acid, sucralose, ascorbic acid.

Freshies Sweet and Sour -- Lemon Squeeze....$5.99 / 32oz

Whiskey sours on a hot summer day. This wonderful thought prompted us to blend fresh-squeezed lemon juice and granulated whole sugar without coloring, preservatives, or corn syrup. Lemon Squeeze is the connoisseur's choice for REAL Sweet-n-Sour. Use in margaritas, amaretto sours, or with your favorite citrus vodka for the perfect lemon drop!

Ingredients:

Water, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, orange juice, citric acid, natural flavor, ascorbic acid.

Freshies Mojito Island Mint....$5.99 / 32oz

The original Mojito Rum Mix comes to you straight from the island of Cuba. A blend of fresh lime juice, mint, whole sugars and bitters, this all-natural mix makes the perfect Caribbean cocktail.

For the perfect Freshies Mojito:

Mix 3 parts Freshies Mojito Rum Mix with 1 part white rum in a highball glass. Add a splash of club soda or sparkling water and garnish with sprigs of mint. Enjoy responsibly!

Ingredients:

Water, granulated cane sugar, fresh lime juice, powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves, natural flavors, citric acid, ascorbic acid and Angostura bitters.

Freshies Pomegranate Mojito....$5.99 / 32oz

After a long hard day of R&D, Chef Ian created the Freshies Pomegranate Mojito - taking the Cuban Classic to the next level with one of the hottest flavor profiles on the market. All natural and no high fructose corn syrup, it's a mix worthy of a hot summer day.

For the perfect freshies pomegranate mojito:

Pour 2oz Premium White Rum and 5oz of Freshies Pomegranate mojito Mix over ice and shake for 5-10 seconds, pour into a pint glass with a splash of club soda and garnish with a lime wedge. For the Cocktail Aficionado, use freshies mojito lime infused sugar to rim your glass. Enjoy responsibly!

Ingredients:

Water, sugar, fresh lime juice, pomegranate juice concentrate, confectioners sugar(sugar, corn starch), fresh spearmint, natural flavors, citric acid, ascorbic acid and natural color.

Fresh Hops!!

It is here!!!

Sierra Nevada Southern Hemisphere....$2.99 / 22oz

Fresh Hop Ale

"Our newest addition to our Harvest family is Southern Hemisphere Harvest. This is the first time we know of that an American brewer has put out a beer with fresh-picked hops from the southern hemisphere. The inaugural ale will debut in late April and will feature fresh Pacific Hallertau, New Zealand Motueka and New Zealand Southern Cross hops, all from New Zealand.
Like our Celebration Ale, the fresh hops in this beer are dried right after being picked then shipped immediately to Chico for brewing so that they retain their peak aromatics and flavors. To ensure the freshest hops possible, we went to the added expense of flying these hops from New Zealand to Chico so we could brew with them the week after they were picked. "--- Brewery

Great Divide...

Beers just keep arriving today!!!
New seasonal releases from Great Divide
(Great Divide is currently the #14 on RateBeers best breweries in the world)

Great Divide Wood Aged Double IPA...$6.49 / 22oz
"Based on our most award-winning beer, Denver Pale Ale, this copper-hued treat is a celebration of everything Great Divide does best. Plenty of malty sweetness provides a backdrop for earthy, floral English and American hops, while French and American oak round off the edges and provide a touch of vanilla. Thanks to everyone who's supported us for the last 15 years - here’s to 15 more! 10.0% ABV." -- brewery
Food pairings from the brewery:
Bacon & blue cheese hamburger, barbecue ribs, Point Reyes blue cheese, sticky toffee pudding, caramel cheesecake.



Great Divide Double Wit...$6.49 / 22oz
"Double Wit is our more muscular take on the beloved white ales of Belgium. Unmalted wheat and Belgian malted barley give the beer a light body and straw hue, while coriander and curaçao provide the traditional notes of spice and light acidity. This cloudy, deceptively drinkable creation should be enjoyed without the addition of fruit. 8.1% ABV." -- brewery
Food pairings from the brewery:
Steamed mussels, cioppino (seafood stew), Brillat-Savarin triple crème cow’s milk cheese, lemon tart.





Great Divide Chocolate Oak Aged Yeti...$8.79
"Welcome to the newest incarnation of our revered imperial stout. We toned down the hops a bit to allow cocoa nibs to contribute some pleasing bitterness, while vanilla notes from the oak combine with the cocoa to create an aroma and flavor akin to a gourmet chocolate bar. A dash of cayenne keeps things lively, adding just a bit of heat to the finish. A Yeti for summer? Hell yes. 9.5% ABV." -- brewery

Food Pairings from the brewery:
Raw oysters, grilled NY strip, chicken mole, Roaring 40’s blue cheese,crème bruleé, chocolate raspberry mousse cake.

New Sierra Nevada

Sierra Nevada Kellerweis Hefeweizen...$7.49 / 6pk

“The second of Sierra Nevada’s two new year round releases will be Kellerweis Hefeweizen. It is a traditional Bavarian Hefeweizen that we have been working on for a number of years. We are brewing it in the old school German way, using only open fermentation and top-cropping the yeast.
We have a yeast strain that is from a very small Bavarian brewery, and we are the only American brewery using this truly unique yeast....Here’s the story in a nutshell: Several years ago, we started working with a unique Bavarian Hefeweizen yeast strain. This amazingly flavorful yeast was so exciting that we began work on a year-round Hefeweizen. After several incarnations, the beer still wasn’t right. A handful of our brewery hopped on a plane and landed in Germany where they visited dozens of traditional breweries for inspiration. Eureka! Open fermenters were the key to the round depth of flavor in the traditional German beers. We’ve been making a portion of our beer using the difficult and labor-intensive technique of open fermentation for years. Manly Bigfoot, and some Pale Ale. Most modern fermentation takes place in closed, stainless-steel tanks; this method is efficient, quick and clean. In closed tanks, however, the yeast doesn’t have the opportunity to coax as much complexity from the fermenting beer. Using shallow open fermentation, the yeast has space to build layers of flavors and aroma that would otherwise be impossible. After seeing the technique in use in Germany, the inspiration to make Kellerweis in the open system took hold. The name is an homage to the German Keller, meaning cellar—the name breweries give to their fermentation systems, and weis, or weiss—the German name for “white” or wheat beer, hazy with suspended yeast. The flavor is rich with bready wheat notes and massive banana and clove… The finish is clean and crisp and the beer has a low enough ABV to be scarily session-able. We’re really excited about this beer. It something totally new and different for the Sierra Nevada lineup and we hope it will be a big success. The beer should be available toward the end of May and just in time for those hot summer days here in Chico that scream for a nice Hefeweizen. Kellerweis joins Torpedo as two polar opposites on the flavor spectrum. Both very different and both packed with as much flavor as we can get into the bottle.” -- Sierra Nevada

Big Sky CANS!

Canned Beer!

We have Caldera IPA and Pale Ale - Oregon -- read more about Caldera
Plus -- Hamms, Pabst Blue Ribbon (now in 16 oz cans), Stag, Old Style, Witterkerke Witte and Rose, Bitburger, Henninger, Heineken, Pilsner Urquel, Beamish, Wexford, Belhaven, Youngs Double Chocolate, Abbot Ale, Newcastle Brown, Boddington and of course, Bud and Miller products.
Also just got in Red Stripe in 4 pack CANS also!


Now we just received cans of Big Sky beers from Montana.

Check out this video of their state of the art canning system

Big Sky Moose Drool.....$8.49 / 6pk CANS
"Remember that feeling?
That first taste, the best part of a beer after a long day. We want to make that better than ever. So we made Moose Drool. The name sounds a little iffy, but it's really the best Brown Ale you'll ever taste. That's why Moose Drool is far and away the best-selling beer brewed in Montana.
It's chocolate brown in color with a creamy texture. A malty beer with just enough hop presence to keep it from being too sweet. The aroma mostly comes from the malt with a hint of spice added by the hops. Moose Drool is brewed with pale, caramel, chocolate, and whole black malts; and Kent Goldings, Liberty, and WILLAMETTE HOPS. It has an original gravity of 13 degrees Plato, and is 4.2% alcohol by weight, 5.3% by volume." -- Brewery
Big Sky Trout Slayer....$8.49 / 6pk CANS
"They say the best way to shrink a fish is with with a ruler, but the best way to grow a fish is with a beer. Montana Trout Slayer is the beer to drink when you're knockin' back a couple cold ones and tellin' fish stories. Who knows the next one might be the best yet! "A bigger tale with every ale." Trout Slayer is a filtered wheat ale, fermented at cool temperatures, making it a smooth drinkable session beer. Brewed with Palisade, Glacier, and Mt. Hood hops, this straw colored beer is sure to please any craft beer drinker. Alcohol by weight 3.78% alcohol by volume 4.7%. " -- brewery

Read more about Big Sky Beers

Raclette - the perfect meal...

We have a Raclette Cheese demo at
our Provision's location this Saturday

Provisions Gourmet Market
in Creve Coeur
314-989-0020
Saturday - June 20
11:00-2:30

RACLETTE Cheese
FOR A COLD WINTER’S NIGHT
"Raclette, a semi-firm cheese from the Swiss and French Alps, is a fun and different way to enjoy cheese at a friendly get-together on a cold winter’s night. Raclette, which means “scraper,” is traditionally hung on a fork in from of a fire so that the face of the cheese softens. As it melts, it is scraped off the cheese slab and eaten with boiled new potatoes, pickled onions, and cornichons. Today there is an easier way. Electric raclette melters are available for borrow (for free) or for sale from The Wine and Cheese Place, along with properly sliced French or Swiss raclette. Slices of raclette are placed in individual melting trays for a few moments, and then spread on fresh slices of French bread. This is an easy and delicious alternative to fondue ~ no mixing and heating ingredients ahead of time! The texture of raclette is very smooth, and seems to melt in your mouth even without heating. The taste is rich, reminiscent of wine and fruit, with a pronounced tang. Thinly sliced dried ham, such as prosciutto, iberico or serrano is an excellent accompliment. Raclette, thin ham slices, bread, boiled potatoes, pickled onions and sour gerkins, make for a light and festive supper for friends or family. Serve with a great hearty red like Segries Cotes du Rhone.
-- Bonnie Canning, cheesemonger

Magic Hat #9

Finally arrived in package!
Magic Hat #9......$2.79 / 22oz
Not Quite Pale....
"A Beer Cloaked in Secrecy. An ale whose mysterious and unusual palate will swirl across your tongue and ask more questions than it answers. A beer brewed clandestinely and given a name whose meaning is never revealed. Why #9? Why, indeed. A sort of dry, crisp, fruity, refreshing, not-quite pale ale. #9 is really impossible to describe because there's never been anything else quite like it. Fermented with our 150 year old strain of top-fermenting English yeast." -- Magic Hat

From Vermont

Tequila Tasting!

Just a little room left.

Tequila Tasting/Class

Tomorrow -- June 16, 2009

6pm-7:30pm

$15/person

Our favorite spirit expert is back for another great class. Ed Kohl will lead you through the "ins and outs" of tequila and will present some new Tequila to St. Louis. We are still waiting to get the full line up, but he will feature the new
Dos Lunas Silver
Dos Lunas Anejo
Dos Lunas Reposado
Rancho Blanco
La Cava del Mayoral Blanco
La Cava del Mayoral Reposado
La Cava del Mayoral Anejo
Hacienda Vieja Reposado

Watch for an update on the other tequilas we will taste.

Seating is limited!

sign up online now - click here

Single Malt Tasting!

Single Malt Scotch Tasting!
June 17 - 6pm

$20 / person

Bruichladdich Single Malt Scotches
We are proud to welcome Scotch expert, Andrew Gray, to our store to run this tasting. Andrew Gray is one of the founding shareholders of Bruichladdich, and is currently their Sales Director, living in Glasgow.

Here is what we will taste:
Bruichladdich "Rocks"....$44.99
Bruichladdich "Waves"....$48.99
Bruichladdich 1993 (Aged in casks from Gaja's wine from Bolgheri)....$75.99
Bruichladdich 1998 (Aged in Oloroso Sherry casks)....$87.99
Bruichladdich 2001 "The Resurrection Dram"....$69.99
Bruichladdich 12 Year Old (2nd Edition)....$55.99
Bruichladdich 15 Year Old "Links-Torrey Pines"....$77.99
(commemorative bottling)
Bruichladdich16 Year Old "Cuvee A-Pauillac".....$89.99
(Aged in casks from Chateau Lafite Rothschild)

Sign up on line -- click here

New Beers!

We just got a great shipment of beer late afternoon on 6/12/09....

Back in stock now --
De la Senne Stouterik
De Molen Rasputin -- (Bottled 03/16/09, 480 bottles)
Haandbryggeriet Dark Force
Farsons Lacto Milk Stout
Harviestoun Twisted and Bitter
Dieu du Ciel Peche Mortel
Gale's Prize Old Ale 1996, 1997, 2000, and 2005
(four vintages in stock now)


New ones -- read the posts below
Some are very limited and rare offerings.
Mikkeller Single Hop Cascade IPA
Mikkeller Single Hop Warrior IPA
Mikkeller US Alive!
Nogne O - Dobble Toshi IPA
Nogne O - Dugges Sahti
Nogno O - Sunturnbrew
Baladin Xyauyu Silver, Copper, and Gold
Birrificio Chiostro
Montegioco Tibir
Montegioco Runa Bianca

Italian beer rarities...

Birrificio MontegiocoTibir....$22.99 / 750ml

"White grapes lager, 7.5° alc/vol, golden with thin and compact foam. It is a highly carbonated sparkling beer produced through the processing of the one and only local wine grape: Timorasso. Floral and fruity aroma which recalls pear and rose. Great freshness due to its sparkling consistency and sourness.Tibir belongs to a new class which has been growing up during the last few years and it has not a really definite name. In fact even if it is a fruit beer, an already existing category, its liaison with wine represents its distinguishing mark. Tibir for instance is produced using Timorasso, local white grapes, and wine yeast but some other techniques include a barrique-maturation-method." -- importer

Alc/vol: 7.5%

Style: Italian Specialty

Another rare one -- note even on BeerAdvocate and only 5 reviews on RateBeer (and no distribution)

order online now

Birrificio Montegioco Runa Bianca....$31.99 / 750ml

"Wheat lager, spiced with coriander and orange peel, high fermentation, 4.5° alc/vol. This beer is refermentated within the bottle. Its foam is dense and longlasting, its colour is gold. It has a very intense fragrance with defined coriander and orange peel perfume, followed by honey and yeast aroma. Its distinguishing mark is a very soft lemon taste. Its longlasting persistence and a slight bitter taste of the hop make Runa Bianca a light and refreshing beer.Biere Blanche, flavored with coriander and orange peel. Top-fermented, 4.5° alc/vol. This beer is refermented in the bottle. The beer is golden with a dense and long lasting head. It has a very intense fragrance with defined coriander and orange peel perfumes, with honey and yeast notes. The very soft lemon taste in the mouth is this beer’s distinguishing mark. Its long persistence and a slight bitter taste of the hops make Runa Bianca a light and refreshing beer." -- importer

Malts: Barley & wheat

Alc/vol: 4.5%

Only 3 reviews so far on RateBeer.com, none on BeerAdvocate

Order online now

Piccolo Birrificio Chiostro....$17.99 / 750ml

"Brewed using Wormwood / Absinthe leaves (Arthemisia absinthium)Malt: Pilsner malt, wheat malt, rye maltYeast: TrappisteHops: HallertauerSpices/Herbs: Absinthe leaves and flowers {Arthemisia absinthium} => added to the brewkettle

Alc/vol: 5%

Appearance: Huge white foam sitting on top of golden colored Chiostro

Aroma: Fruity, citrusy {apricots}, herbal nose {absinthe/woodworm influence}

Flavor/taste profile: malt-sweet with deep herbal & minerally notes. Ending in a long hyper-dry/bitter finish {absinthe/woodworm influence}"

-- importer

order online now

.

.

Speaking of Absinthe --- we have a lot of "real" absinthes in stock now --

Lucid, Pernod Absinthe, Mata Hari, La Valote, Pere Francois, Le Tourment Verte, Grande Absente. We also sell them online.

read more - click here