ON THE FENCE ABOUT BRINGING BAE HOME FOR THANKSGIVING? RITAS SAYS “GO FOR IT”
RITAS is Footing the Bill to Fly Your S.O. Home for the Holiday
Maybe it’s their table manners. Maybe it’s their face tattoo. Whatever it is, 70% of Americans aged between 25-34, are scared or anxious about bringing their new partner home to meet the family. Once RITAS learned these results, they said “Hold my Cran-Ber-RITA,” and took action.
RITAS believes you should #NeverApologize for who you are or who you’re bringing to the Thanksgiving table. So, to celebrate the seasonal return of Cran-Ber-RITA, they’re offering couples a boost of cash-powered confidence: RITAS will cover the cost of a ticket to fly your S.O. home for family dinner. Plus, they’ll throw in a case of Cran-Ber-RITA, so neither of you have to arrive empty-handed.
Watch real-life stories, curated by RITAS, showcasing the value of taking the next step with your partner (and your family) this Thanksgiving
“Whether it’s a conversation, a drink, or a person, you should never apologize for what you bring to the table,” said Chelsea Phillips, VP of Beyond Beer Brands at Anheuser Busch. “RITAS believes in this wholeheartedly, so we are removing travel as a barrier so our fans can take that leap and celebrate who they love with their family.”
RITAS also teamed up with New York City-based Relationship Expert Susan Winter to advise couples through this time of heightened nerves.
“The holidays are the time we get together with those closest to our hearts. Why not magnify the joy by introducing your significant other to your family on this special occasion,” said Winter. “While the first introduction may seem scary and uncertain, the benefits far outweigh any temporary fears. Trust that your family will see the reasons why you love your mate and join in this celebration with you.”
To take part, head to @RITAS Instagram page and tell the world what you’ll #NeverApologize for loving about your boo. Make sure to include #NeverApologize and #Sweepstakes between November 14 – November 19. 20 lucky winners will be selected and notified on November 20, scoring a $1,500 voucher to put toward a flight of their choice and will be provided with a case of Cran-Ber-RITA so they don’t have to show up to dinner empty-handed.*
Cran-Ber-RITA is packed with a sweet and tart flavor and has returned for the fall-winter season after a long hiatus and an outcry from fans to see it back on shelves. Cran-Ber-RITA is available in 8 FL OZ, 12 OZ, 16 OZ, and 25 OZ cans in selected retailers nationwide for a limited time. For more information on Cran-Ber-RITA, visit www.theritas.com or follow the conversation on social @TheRITAS.
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*For a full list of the official contest rules and entry directions, visit www.theritas.com/meettheparents after November 14, 2019.
Absolut Elyx is the handcrafted luxury expression of multi award-winning Absolut Vodka, built on a commitment to quality craftsmanship and a pioneering spirit. Every drop of Absolut Elyx is made with soft winter wheat from a single estate in Åhus, Sweden, manually distilled in a 1921 copper column, removing all impurities and resulting in the vodka’s exceptionally silky finish. The entire production of Absolut Elyx takes place within a 15 mile radius and is overseen by master distiller Krister Asplund, who supervises the century-old distillation process that has been passed down through generations of Swedish vodka-makers. Absolut Elyx is admired globally for its playful spirit and tradition of standing out from the crowd, it is bottled at 42.3% alcohol by volume to deliver optimal flavour and character.
For more information about Absolut Elyx, please visit: absolutelyx.com
Extending the Hand of A.A. Alcoholics who are Deaf can access A.A.’s program of recovery in an updated American Sign Language translation of Alcoholics Anonymous
With over 35 million printed copies sold, the book Alcoholics Anonymous is now available in an updated abridged translation into American Sign Language. Commonly referred to as “The Big Book” this basic text of the worldwide Fellowship that bears its name is now available on DVD to the Deaf community, the Hard-of-Hearing community and the hearing community as well. DVD features:
Professional ASL signers and DVD video production
Updated translation inspired and reviewed by A.A. members who are Deaf
Audio track and subtitles for use among ASL and non-ASL users
The basic principles and practices of the Fellowship that have provided a pathway to recovery for alcoholics for over 80 years
Can be ordered at www.aa.org or may be available through a local A.A. office near you
A.A. has always been committed to making its program of recovery available to anyone, anywhere who reaches out for help with a drinking problem. This translation has been updated with current language and signing most familiar in today’s Deaf community.
Founded in 1935 on the principle of one alcoholic helping another to achieve sobriety, A.A. is an effective and enduring program of recovery that has changed countless lives. As explained in the book, A.A.’s recovery program of twelve suggested Steps was formulated through the experience of its first 100 members and has reached millions of sufferers around the world.
For more information about A.A. resources for alcoholics who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing, please contact the Accessibilities and Remote Communities Coordinator at the General Service Office at Access@aa.org or by phone at 212-870-3344.
Jai Ho Midnight IPA offers some reasons why those celebrating World Vegan Month will want to opt for organic beer
November is World Vegan Month, making it the perfect time to raise awareness about vegan food and beverage choices. It’s also a good time to remind people of the importance of opting for organic beer when they make their selections. With so many people focusing on vegan lifestyles this month, it’s an ideal time to look at how organic beer fits right in.
“Anyone can see that there’s a major vegan and plant-based movement taking place right now,” explains Jai Patel, chief executive officer of NDN BV, Inc. “We’re going to see even more about vegan food and beer in November and in the months to come. As many people transition to that lifestyle, it’s a good idea to explore new beer options, too.”
The term “vegan” was coined in 1944 by a man named Donald Watson. It is a lifestyle seeking to reduce contributions to animal cruelty. Those who follow a vegan lifestyle avoid consuming or using any animal-derived products, as well as animals being used in entertainment when possible. Most vegans also try to be mindful of their environmental footprint, because when caring for the planet you’re also protecting it for all beings inhabiting it.
In addition to the millions of people who adhere to a vegan lifestyle, interest in plant-based foods also continues to steadily rise. According to the Plant Based Foods Association, U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods have grown 11% in the last year, and now have a market share value of $4.5 billion.
Due to some of the ingredients used, or because of the animal products used during the refining process, many beer and wine options are not vegan. Vegans seek out beer options that match their lifestyle choice, and organic beer makes for a great match.
Here are 5 reasons to pair vegan food with organic beer:
Organic beer is more environmentally friendly. It’s made with ingredients that are grown without chemical fertilizers and pesticides, including barley and hops.
When beer is made with organic ingredients the environment is protected from chemical runoff. Chemical runoff is responsible for harming water sources and the ecosystem in general.
Organic beer is also thought to be healthier because it’s made with better ingredients. Plus, many people find that this process leads to a better tasting final product.
Organic beer is the best option for pairing with vegan or plant-based lifestyles. Due to the way it is made, it’s a natural fit for people who are more mindful of what they consume. Jai Ho 100% organic beer, for example, pairs well with spicy and savory dishes. Whether having an ethnic meal, such as Indian or Thai, or savory vegan entrées like mushroom stroganoff, baked mac and cheese, or tacos, Jai Ho 100% organic beer makes for perfect pairing. Vegan sushi is another good option for pairing with Jai Ho beer.
Opting for a beer that’s labeled 100% organic, consumers will be avoiding chemically added sulfites. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, only beer that contains organic ingredients and processing aids with no chemically added sulfites can use the “100% organic” label. Those using just the “organic” label must contain at least 95% organic ingredients, with no chemically added sulfites.
“The decision about going organic when it comes to drinking beer is a personal choice,” added Patel. “If you’re concerned about what you put into your body and how your food choices affect the planet, then some extra money spent on organic beer seems well worth it.”
Jai Ho Midnight is a craft India Pale Ale (IPA) beer featuring a red/orange pour with a frothy white head and a smooth citrus aroma. Having already caught the attention of many craft beer enthusiasts, it’s currently available in numerous cities around the country. It’s 100% organic and made with high-quality barley malt, hops and crystal-clear water from the Scandinavian underground. Unfiltered and slow brewed over 49 days, Jai Ho Beer is rated IBU 57, meaning it’s less bitter than other IPAs.
Jai Ho Midnight IPA is currently available in restaurants, bars and fine dining establishments in the following cities and states: Los Angeles, CA – San Francisco, CA – Las Vegas, NV – Houston, TX – Northern Virginia and New Jersey.
Coming soon: Jai Ho Midday, a full-bodied lager that features notes of fruit and hops. Follow on Instagram (@jaihobeer), Twitter (@jaihobeer) and Facebook.
About NDN BV, Inc. The NDN BV, Inc. mission is to create premium, organic alcoholic beverages made with the highest-quality ingredients. The company’s flagship craft beer brand is Jai Ho, with two SKUs, Midnight IPA and Midday. For more news and to learn more about Jai Ho or investing in NDN BV, Inc. please visit: http://www.ndnbv.com and http://www.jaihobeer.com
Give the gift everyone will love this holiday season—alcohol! Whether they are vodka drinkers, brandy connoisseurs or tequila lovers, CÎROC, CÎROC VS and DeLeón have options that will make any liquor aficionado happy. Both CÎROC and CÎROC VS Brandy are distilled by time and sold at a reasonable price that will not hurt your bank account. DeLeón Platinum is everyone’s go-to tequila with the smoothest finish, and when you are wondering what to get the person who has everything, the high-end and luxurious DeLeón Leona Tequila is just the gift for them. Crisp and refreshing, this must-try tequila is a favorite among the elite tequila enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
CÎROC $29.99 CÎROC White Grape is a limited time flavor of rich tasting spirit made with vodka five times distilled from fine French grapes, finished in a tailor-made copper pot still in Southern France. The sweet complexity of distilled grapes, clean finish and absence of alcohol burn can be savored alone or mixed to release the true flavors in every cocktail.
CÎROC VS Brandy $42.99 CÎROC VS is a sophisticated spirit crafted from fine French grapes for a modern expression of classic French Brandy. True to the brand and its value, VS stands for “Very Special,” signifying the superior quality and craftsmanship of CÎROC VS.
DeLeón Platinum Tequila $60 A crowning jewel among tequilas, experience the top shelf and high-class tone of DeLeón Platinum Tequila. Exquisite highland agave is slowly roasted in traditional clay ovens for a subtle taste profile with a whisper of sweet agave, citrus, warm spice and smooth vanilla on the finish.
DeLeón Leóna Tequila $799.99 If presentation is everything, DeLeón Leona Tequila wins. It is beautifully paired with a python-skin flask in a limited edition box. Selected from a private reserve, this exceptional liquid is aged in robust American Oak, and then rested for more than a year in the finest French Sauternes casks. The result is a deep amber color with notes of fresh fruit.
A.S.K. AND UNLOCK THE SECRETS: FEW SPIRITS, SEATTLE GRUNGE LEGENDS ALICE IN CHAINS COLLABORATE ON ALL SECRETS KNOWN, 101-PROOF BOURBON FINISHED IN TEQUILA BARRELS
“For us distilling, like making music, is about having the courage to ASK, ‘What if we…’ and being excited to find the answers – unlocking those secrets.” – Paul Hletko, Master Distiller, FEW Spirits
FEW Spirits and Warner Music Artist Services announce today the release of All Secrets Known, a new, limited-release bourbon distilled by FEW Spirits Master Distiller Paul Hletko in collaboration with Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum selling Seattle Grunge pioneers Alice In Chains, whose music has stood the test of time and influenced a generation. Bottles feature a custom-designed label by artist Justin Helton.
The Whiskey All Secrets Known (SRP: $75/750 ml), a nod to the name of the opening track of Alice In Chains’ 2009 certified Gold release Black Gives Way To Blue, is FEW Bourbon finished for six months in tequila barrels and bottled at the most rock and roll of proofs, 101 (50.5% ABV). Bold, sweet, and spicy bourbon top notes that have become the hallmark of FEW and led to multiple category awards, are accentuated by grassy agave undertones.
Said Hletko, “There are no two spirits that have a closer association with rock and roll than whiskey and tequila. Bringing together elements of both, but in an unconventional, innovative way, is an illustration of what we try to do every time we distill a new product.”
The Collaboration “Alice In Chains is part of one of very few movements that can be legitimately credited with shapeshifting an entire culture, beginning with their first album, Facelift,” continues Hletko. “For us distilling, like making music, is about having the courage to ASK, ‘What if we…’ and being excited to find the answers – unlocking those secrets. Nobody sounds like Alice In Chains. We were inspired by their courage to create a sound that flouted convention and thought, ‘There are lots of tequilas finished in bourbon barrels, but it’s rare to find a widely-available bourbon finished in tequila barrels. Let’s do that instead’.”
Added Matt Young, EVP of Warner Music Artist Services, “Our team always seeks out the best in the business when it comes to our artist product collaborations. FEW Spirits was a no brainer when the idea first came up to create an Alice In Chains Bourbon Whiskey.”
The Label Design Artist Justin Helton, of Status Serigraph, is no stranger to working with musical giants like Phish, The Avett Brothers, My Morning Jacket, Ween, and The Black Keys created the custom label.
“I’ve been a fan of Alice In Chains forever with Jar of Flies being one of the first CD’s I ever owned,” says Helton. “‘I Stay Away’ and ‘No Excuses’ were on repeat in my room. For this design I found inspiration in the name All Secrets Known. The eye in the mouth is a play on seeing all that’s been spoken. The color scheme is a nod to Black Gives Way to Blue, the album on which the song ‘All Secret Known’ appears.”
Helton designed the label in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, also using a mix of hand-rendered illustrations with imagery from the 1800’s to create a distinct look.
A Legacy of Rock and Roll Partnerships All Secrets Known is yet another foray for FEW Spirits into partnerships with internationally-renowned music acts. In 2006, Hletko partnered with The Flaming Lips to create Brainville Rye Whiskey.
“Brainville led to access,” Hletko said. “Doors started opening and I’ve always felt like when you get a chance to work with cool people you admire, you’ve got to at least check it out. As a long-time fan of Alice In Chains and someone who has at various points made his living as a guitar player, the opportunity to work with someone like Jerry Cantrell, whose sound is unlike any other, was one we were determined to see through come hell or high water.
Limited-release All Secrets Known will be available in CA, CO, IL, NY, and WA and for purchase online through ReserveBar.com.
About FEW Spirits A grain-to-glass distillery since 2011, FEW Spirits produces award–winning craft whiskey and gin in a tucked away alley located in the growing Chicago suburb of Evanston, IL.. A historical town where Prohibition lasted until 1972, Founder & Master Distiller Paul Hletko changed the future of Evanston when he opened FEW Spirits Distillery, the first (legal) alcohol-production facility of any kind to ever open there.
Paul Hletko always knew he wanted to make craft spirits —produced in the local Chicago area—that offered something different, delicious and fun. Living in Evanston, a town that was prime for change after being dry for four decades post the repeal of prohibition, Paul felt it was the perfect home and backdrop for FEW and the brand. Deeply integrated into the brand story, both Evanston and Chicago are crucial elements of the FEW DNA and its inspiration. From its liquid, created from locally grown or sourced ingredients, to the look & feel of the design, which pays homage to the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago— FEW is the true definition of a local Illinois craft spirit.
FEW Spirits features a refreshing and innovative portfolio including a stable of core spirits and several small batch limited edition specialty expressions. Each flagship spirit is a new take on the timeless liquors of the past; distilled from the very best grains, aged to perfection, and bottled under the FEW roof. The small batch limited editions hold true to the premium quality FEW drinkers have to come to love and expect from the brand, but offer something novel to the oft-ordinary taste and style we’ve all grown accustomed to.
In a world over saturated with mass-produced spirits, only few remain truly handcrafted, locally sourced and small-batched. FEW has never strayed from this—even as it grows, Paul and his team continue to provide consistently impeccable spirits that are true to their craft roots and reminiscent of their home base.
About Alice In Chains Seminal rock band ALICE IN CHAINS recently toured in support of RAINIER FOG, which hit No. 1 across Billboard’s Rock, Alternative and Hard Music Charts and No. 1 on the iTunes Rock Album Chart and earned them a Grammy nom for “Best Rock Album.” Over the course of their remarkable career, ALICE IN CHAINS (vocalist/guitarist Jerry Cantrell, drummer Sean Kinney, bassist Mike Inez and vocalist/guitarist William DuVall) have garnered multiple Grammy nominations, sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and amassed a diehard international fanbase whose members number in the millions.
Their discography features some of the biggest and most important albums in rock history, including 1992’s quadruple-platinum-certified “DIRT,” 1994’s triple-platinum-certified EP JAR OF FLIES, which was the first EP in music history to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 and 1995’s self-titled double-platinum-certified ALICE IN CHAINS, which also entered the Billboard Top 200 at No. 1. They returned in grand style in 2009 with the critically acclaimed BLACK GIVES WAY TO BLUE, which hit No. 1 across the rock and alternative charts, earned a Grammy nomination, was certified Gold and hailed by Vice as “a record that’s as powerful as anything the band has done.” ALICE IN CHAINS remains one of the most successful and influential American rock bands of all time.
Kahlúa has some new, exciting cocktails this season including the Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini and the Cold Brew Martini.
Whether you’re into the traditional taste of pumpkin or you are still drinking cold brew coffee (because honestly who cares what the temperature is), Kahlúa crafted these two delicious and refreshing martinis that will have everyone falling for this season’s specialty cocktails.
Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
Ingredients:
1 Part Kahlúa
1 Part Absolut Vodka
1 Part Espresso
1/2 part Monin Pumpkin Spice
Method: Add all of the ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake. Fine-strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with 3 coffee beans.
Cold Brew Martini
Ingredients:
1 part Absolut Vodka
2 parts Kahlúa
3 parts cold brew
Method: Fill shaker with ice. Add one part Absolut Vodka, two parts Kahlúa and 3 parts cold brew coffee. Shake the ingredients hard for at least 10 seconds to create a nice foam. Strain into a cocktail glass to get rid of all the small ice chips. Garnish with coffee beans.
The culture of craft cocktails is wildly growing, incredibly tasty, and now more convenient than ever, with The Cocktail Box Co. Whether you’re a seasoned boozy vet or a newbie exploring the world of libations, The Cocktail Box Co helps you create premium cocktails whenever, wherever.
Imagine having the ingredients and tools of a professional bartender in the convenience of your pocket. How delightful! The perfect travel cocktail companion, these genius little kits can be taken anywhere; a plane ride, tailgate, hotel room, a party with friends and family. Stumped on a gift idea, but looking for something creative, useful and fun? The Cocktail Box Co is the perfect gift for anyone that appreciates a satisfying adult-beverage experience.
Housed in perfectly pleasing, beautifully designed tin boxes, they’re currently offered in 4 delectable flavors:
● Old Fashioned ($21.99): A classic! This kit serves 6 hand-crafted premium Old Fashioned cocktails. (Pro Tip! Replenish your own sugar cubes and you can make up to 25 cocktails) Includes high-quality organic ingredients like orange, grapefruit & aromatic bitters as well as 6 perfectly cubed pieces of raw cane sugar. Includes a custom designed fancy pants bartender’s spoon & muddler, 3 cocktail picks and also a hand-knit cocktail napkin.
● Champagne Cocktail ($21.99): Whether you’re celebrating a huge milestone, or just because you made it through another work day, the Champagne kit is timeless. Lavender, lemon & aromatic bitters as well as 6 perfectly cubed pieces of raw cane sugar, round out this exquisite assortment of ingredients.
● Moscow Mule ($21.99): Spicy, invigorating and modern, the Moscow Mule kit is easily adaptable to any alcohol preference. Grapefruit & lemon bitters, as well as 3 packs of ginger syrup and lime juice, set the stage for a party in your mouth.
● Gin & Tonic ($21.99): Not your parent’s aperitif! This kit boasts orange and lavender bitters, tonic syrup and lime juice and is damn refreshing. As always, included is a custom designed bartender’s spoon & muddler, 3 cocktail picks and a hand-knit cocktail napkin for spillage.
The Cocktail Box Co has spent years (and many hungover mornings) working alongside accomplished mixologists and fellow cocktail enthusiasts to create a line of “on the go” kits, with precisely proportioned ingredients and handy, charmingly crafted tools.
Visit http://thecocktailboxco.com for more information and recipes, and join the community on FB & IG: @thecocktailboxco
Yesterday in Philadelphia (9/24), New York’s Mark Tubridy (21 Club) was crowned the Regional Winner of Bombay Sapphire’s 13th Annual Most Imaginative Bartender (MIB) Competition. Tubridy beat out other top bartenders from Orlando, New York, Savannah, Massachusetts, and Philadelphia, showcasing the artistry that goes into making an imaginative cocktail. Next month in October, Tubridy and the 11 other top mixologists from across North America will head to England – the home of Bombay Sapphire and its Laverstoke Distillery – for an immersive gin education tour before competing in the competition finals in February 2020 in Chicago. Tubridy will also compete in the Canvas Challenge, a new component of the program which will task the top 12 finalists to bring an original creative idea of any medium to life for a chance to win a $25,000 grant prize and a mentorship by a creative visionary.
Over the last two days, 12 of eastern North America’s top bartenders stirred creativity and presented their most elaborate cocktails to an esteemed panel of judges. As the regional competition came to an end, Tubridy’s “Songbird” cocktail (recipe below) was named the Most Imaginative based on flavor, appearance, presentation, and imagination. Also claiming a spot in the top 12 and advancing to the finale are Atlanta’s Keyatta Mincey-Parker (Bonton), Miami’s Derek Stilmann (The Sylvester Bar), and New Orleans’ Maggie Morgan (Bar Tonique).
Just in time for the Oktoberfest in Munich, Lufthansa’s Trachten- crew is getting ready for takeoff. This year, the world’s largest crew in folk costume will take off in Lufthansa’s flagship Airbus A380 for the first time. A total of 21 Lufthansa flight attendants will be trading their uniforms for traditional Bavarian garb. The first Lufthansa ‘Trachten’ flight will take off from Munich on 23 September and head to Beijing while the flight on 3 October will be from Munich to Los Angeles. In addition to this, crews on a selection of European routes will also be taking off in traditional costume.
Lufthansa employees in traditional Bavarian clothing
The traditional costumes worn by Lufthansa’s long-haul crew were designed and tailored by Angermaier, a Munich-based specialist for traditional Bavarian clothing. The dirndls of the female flight attendants are dark blue with silver-gray aprons, while the men will be wearing short lederhosen with dark blue vests made of the same material as the dirndls. As in previous years, Lufthansa passengers can also experience the ‘Trachten’ flights on a selection of European routes from Munich. In September and October, a Lufthansa CityLine crew will be exchanging their uniforms for dirndls. Their flight destinations are Amsterdam, Lyon, Gdansk, Milan, Sofia, Brussels, Ancona, Belgrade, Warsaw, Cologne and Münster.
For Lufthansa’s passenger support staff in Munich’s Terminal 2, it has been a tradition for years now to welcome passengers in traditional costume during the Oktoberfest. In addition to the Lufthansa uniform, ladies may also wear dirndls and the gentlemen may wear traditional Trachten suits.
Oktoberfest in the Lufthansa lounges
Munich’s Lufthansa lounges are also prepared for the Oktoberfest. In the twelve lounges in Terminal 2 and the satellite building, over 4,000 kilograms of Leberkäs’ will be served, along with over 38,000 pretzels and approximately 750 kilograms of Weißwurst sausages. This year’s Oktoberfest menu in the festively decorated Lufthansa First Class lounges will start with Festtagssuppe, a traditional soup, followed by farmers’ duck and closing with homemade apple strudel served with vanilla sauce, roasted almonds and rum-soaked raisins. In the Senator and Business lounges, passengers will enjoy typical Bavarian dishes such as Leberkäs’, Fleischpflanzerl meatballs and quark mousse with plum topping.
