THE NICE LIST.
We’ve done our best to be good this year…we’ve certainly been busy trying! We published the 10th Anniversary issues of Hudson Valley Wine Magazine, as well as a special Shawangunk Wine Trail edition. We sponsored several food and wine events around the region, and continued our work with the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition.
We want you to stay on the Nice List too, so below you’ll find some great gift ideas for the favorite people in your life – both tasty beverages and enriching experiences.
We look forward to bringing you more news in 2019 about the Hudson Valley’s remarkable, booming craft beverage industry. Until then…
Cheers and Happy Holidays!
— Linda Pierro, Bob Bedford, Cheryl Elkins, Susan O’Donnell
Experiences Worth Sharing
These culinary experiences are worth trying yourself — and are equally special as last-minute gifts for foodie friends and family.
Hudson Valley Wine Tasting Passport. Give the gift of winery visits! This Passport qualifies you for free tastings at all 15 wineries on the Shawangunk Wine Trail through August 2019.
NY Drinks NY Grand Tasting Tickets. The wineries of the Hudson Valley (and across New York) come to The Rainbow Room in Manhattan for one fabulous evening – March 26, 2019. Try wines from 50 wineries, New York cheeses and charcuterie with artisan breads.
Sweet & Sinful Cupcake & Wine Pairing. Promise your sweetheart a day of tasting and treats at Robibero Winery, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Beecher’s Wine & Cheese Class. The cheese makers at Beecher’s source milk from the Hudson Valley to make their award-winning cheeses. Take a class at their NYC location to learn about pairing them with different wines.
Surprising Sips for the Holidays
One for you, one for that relative who already has everything.
KAS Krupnikas Spirits. This Lithuanian honey-based spirit, made in Mahopac, makes a great hot drink to ward off winter’s cold. Consider their recipes for the Exotic Orchard Cocktail (above) or the Kas Kafe.
Naked Flock Santa’s Sauce. Hard Cider gets a spicy seasonal twist with the addition of cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne. Check their Facebook page for a list of retail locations where you can buy it.
Tousey Winery Bloomé. This floral dessert wine, made at a small family-run winery in Germantown, is perfect after dinner with a local cheese board.
Whitecliff Vineyard 2016 Cabernet Franc. Cab Franc is the Hudson Valley’s signature grape, and this vintage just brought home a prestigious Double Gold award from the San Francisco International Wine competition. Pick up your own bottle at the vineyard in Gardiner.