Cool Springs Wines & Spirits

Vox Vodka

How many times do you run across spirits in middle Tennessee that the rest of the world considers to be Superlative?  Cool Springs Wines & Spirits does not leave any stone unturned in our search for the very best products to offer our customers and in this review we have unearthed a real treasure that everyone can afford – Vox Vodka.  With Memorial Day rapidly approaching, the choice for a versatile and quality spirit is prerequisite for a party weekend.  This magical spirit is vodka.  There are so many cocktails that can be made from vodka it is mind boggling.  However, at the end of the day, Vodka must have wonderful aromatics and a great flavor to be a classic.  Vox Vodka delivers all of this and much, much more. Vodka can be the base spirit for hundreds of cocktails, but the true test is in a vodka martini, a vodka tonic or vodka soda.  This is where Vox Vodka really shines.  The independent Chicago based Beverage Tasting Institute had this to say about the 96 point “Superlative” rated Vox Vodka, “Clear. Very clean and neutral aromas have just a hint of cream and angel food cake and follow through on a round, satiny entry to a dryish, oily medium-to-full body with powdered sugar and wet stone notes. Finishes with a long, talc and delicate sweet spice accented fade. A delicious, elegant vodka.”  We can’t say anything else other than Vox Vodka is very affordable, comes in a beautiful bottle and we have it in stock now! 

Three Olives Marilyn Monroe Strawberry Vodka

This week, just like every week, you might expect to read about a high end Scotch, Bourbon, Gin, Tequila or Liqueur that is very limited or is one of the best bottles of Spirits in the store. You might even expect me to review the NEW JACK DANIEL'S SINATRA SELECT edition that has just been released. Yes, the Frank Sinatra bottle is a beautiful package that comes in a classy box with a huge 1L bottle of 90 proof Jack Daniel's that has Sinatra written all over it plus all documentation that comes along with it too. You would probably expect to hear about how they have only sold it in Vegas and in the state of Tennessee and how people all over the world have anticipated it's release and that we still have a few in stock at this very moment. That is the review you might expect but the real review this week is for the new Three Olives Marilyn Monroe Strawberry Vodka. I'm not a huge flavored Vodka fan and that probably isn't a surprise, however, I have to say that the Three Olives Marilyn Monroe Strawberry Vodka comes in one of the most beautiful bottles that has been released recently. It features a great photo of the iconic Marilyn Monroe inside the bottle that people love to look at. I must admit I had my doubts about this one when they first showed it to me even thought the package is just about as perfect as it can be. I kept thinking "there is no way this stuff can be good" but then I remembered how authentic ALL of the Three Olives flavored Vodkas taste and thought I had better give it a chance. Three Olives has a huge selection of flavored Vodkas like Mountain Dew flavor, Fruit Loop flavor, Grape Flavor and Root Beer flavor and so many more that I think taste just like what they say. I tasted the new Marilyn Monroe Strawberry flavored vodka and absolutely loved it. It wasn't overly sweet, tasted just like fresh Strawberries and it had a slight creaminess that accentuated the flavor perfectly. The finish was just right as well because it didn't burn, or have any type of off flavors. This collectible Marilyn Monroe Three Olives is described as being "symbolic to Marilyn's sweet, flirty, luscious and sultry personality." If you are a Marilyn Monroe fan or like really tasty flavored Vodkas, this beauty is for you.

Smirnoff Iced Cake and Kissed Caramel

Is this review really about flavored Vodka? These reviews are always about some high end Whiskey or Tequila giving points about how rare a certain product is, how expensive it is, or even how old the product is. This is not a trick. We all know that flavored Vodka has grown exponentially as a category over the last few years and the Vodka selection at Cool Springs Wines and Spirits can't be beat. Smirnoff has introduced two new flavors to go along with all the others that are so popular. Introducing Smirnoff Iced Cake and Kissed Caramel. I had the opportunity to taste these two products recently and was so impressed that I just have to write about them. These products go hand in hand with Smirnoff Fluffed Marshmallow, Smirnoff Whipped, and Smirnoff Coconut. These flavored vodkas taste so authentic you would almost swear that they are the real thing. Smirnoff Iced Cake has a slightly sweet and creamy texture that offers flavors of vanilla cake and light icing. The Smirnoff Kissed Caramel is rich, creamy and tastes just like a good caramel snack! There are dozens of recipes that can be made with these two Vodkas or because of how smooth and authentic tasting they are, they can be enjoyed straight or over Ice. Check out our recipe recommendations this week on our Cool Springs Wines and Spirits website as well for more information about delicious cocktails that our famous Bartender Steve would love for you to try. Let us know what you think!

Heroes Vodka

This week at CSWS on Saturday May 19th we will celebrate and honor our Veterans on Armed Forces Day.  We will also be launching a new vodka in the market, Heroes Vodka.  With its smooth, ultra premium taste, Heroes Vodka gives back by donating a portion of its proceeds to veteran and other service organizations.  Heroes Vodka is made from 100% American grain and each hand-crafted batch is distilled 4 times to create an ultra-pure, world class spirit.  With a 90 points and an “Excellent, Highly Recommended” rating at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, its is easy to see why Heroes Vodka has Monumental Taste!  Stop in on Saturday May 19th from 1:00 – 4:00pm and taste this exceptional vodka for yourself!

Flor de Caña 18 year old Centenario Gold Rum

While sitting down to enjoy some of last week’s spirit review, we thought it would be a good idea to make an inquiry into the oldest brother in the Flor de Caña rum line, the Flor de Caña 18 year old Centenario Gold rum.  Wow, are we glad we did! First, we are going to throw out something somewhat sacrilegious, aged rum is as good a sipping spirit as bourbon.  Aged rums offer so much flavor, aroma and enjoyment that it deserves serious consideration for a reserved section in your spirits cabinet.  Keeping this in mind, we thought we would discuss the many attributes of the Flor de Caña 18 year old Centenario Gold Rum. Previously, we have documented how eco-friendly the Flor de Caña distillery is in Nicaragua and they have received many awards for their re-forestation efforts in their home country.  Knowing that the parent company, Compañia Licorera de Nicaragua, is so dedicated to the environment and their country only makes their rums that much more interesting.  The Beverage Institute of America had this to say about the 94 point Flor de Caña 18 year old Centenario Gold rum, “Deep amber color. Aromas of cacao nib, tobacco leaf, toasty caramelized Brazil and macadamia nuts, and fig follow through on a round, silky entry to a dryish medium-to-full body with elegant depth and balance. Finishes with a long, polished dissolve of pepper spice, earthy minerality, vanilla custard, and gingerbread wafer. A very reserved and stylish sipping rum.” If their Double Gold award wins at the 2006 and 2008 San Francisco World Spirits competition doesn’t get you running down to CSWS for a bottle, how about the fact that it’s amazing, reasonably priced, and will make you wish you had stock piled this years ago.  Phenomenal is a fitting word for this spirit.  Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or with a splash of ginger ale and a lime wedge.

Flor de Cana 4 year old Extra Dry Silver Rum

Looking for a great rum when making rum and cokes for Steeplechase?  Not only is Flor de Caña 4 year old Extra Dry Silver Rum awesome, it is also a highly rated and a best buy rum.  Remember that the distiller of this fine range of rums is one of the most eco-friendly distilleries in the world.  According to the company’s web site; “Compañia Licorera de Nicaragua has been characterized as always exceeding legal and regulatory standards on environmental issues. It was the first Nicaraguan company to obtain ISO 14001 certification, a rigorous international standard that establishes criteria for implementing an effective environmental management system. The honor lends confidence and prestige to all Flor de Caña products. Compañia Licorera de Nicaragua is one of an elite group of companies in the world that have earned this certification. Not only does this distiller have their act together ethically and environmentally, this distiller makes great rums.  Simply put, this is an amazing rum at a ridiculously affordable price.
The Beverage Institute of America had this to say about the 91 point – Best Buy rated Flor de Caña 4 year old Extra Dry Silver Rum, “Clear. Gentle aromas of coconut milk and husk, celery soup, blanched almond, and delicate dried tropical fruits follow through on a soft, silky entry to a dryish medium body with oily cocoa butter and almond butter notes. Finishes with a nutty, cane stalk and leaf accented fade with stimulating heat. A very lively and earthy white rum with a lot of character. Will make fabulous cocktails.”
If their Best in Class award at the 2009 International Wine and Spirits competition in London doesn’t get your attention or the eco-friendly approach to making world class rums doesn’t move you, what will?   Maybe the fact that Flor de Caña rum delivers world class flavor at real world prices and is readily available at Cool Springs Wines & Spirits.  This should bring you down to the shop.  Do yourself the favor and sample this range of rums.

Shellback Silver and Spiced Rums

The sun is casting a warm glow on our skin recently and summer’s blazing, humid days will soon be upon us.  At Cool Springs Wines & Spirits, we can’t help but think of summer and rum in the same moment.  Rum forms a base for so many refreshing and delightful summer drinks that it is time to look more closely at this spirit category.  A very new arrival to CSWS is the Barbados rum Shellback.  Shellback is available in clear Silver Rum and a Spiced Rum.  The Silver Rum uses specially selected Caribbean sugar cane that is rushed to the distillery and crushed to make molasses.  From this point, yeast is added and the fermentation process begins.  After fermentation the distillation process begins. Once the distillation process is complete Shellback is aged and then blended to become Shellback Silver Rum.  Twelve spices from around the world are then blended and added to batches of the Silver and barrel aged to produce the Shellback Spiced Rum.  Shellback states that their Silver has “floral overtones layered with a suggestion of vanilla and tropical fruit.”  Their Spiced Rum has “unique overtones of caramelized honey, cinnamon and vanilla.”  Each of these rums will add amazing flavor to your favorite summer time cocktails.

El Dorado Special Reserve 15 year Rum

The El Dorado 15 Year Old Rum is a blend of Demerara rums ranging in age from 15 years to 25 years. Rums are aged in oak casks, and then blended by the master blender to achieve a consistent flavor. El Dorado 15 has received numerous awards over the years, including the highly coveted Wray and Nephew Trophy in 1998, and several gold medals. The color of the 15 year old is clear, dark and inviting. The nose offers almonds, vanilla, cherries, and some citrus along with nice oak. A sweet, sugary entry is followed by flavors of vanilla and cocoa. There's a touch of dried cherries at the mid-palate and finish, with smokey top notes. The finish is smokey and sweet and is nicely balanced. On the tongue the rum is fairly light, but with a good body and texture. The body is slightly oily which lends a nice, velvety feeling to a rich and savory rum.

Aberlour 12 year old Single Malt Scotch

There are times in one’s life when you find a spirit that is both ethereal and somewhat life changing.  It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is or what your bank account says.  There are times when you must pull the trigger on a spirit instead of spending years second guessing yourself.  This is one of those times.  The Non-chill filtered bottling of Aberlour’s 12 year old Scotch whisky preserves the full flavor of the malt.  We at Cool Springs Wines & Spirits are thrilled to have a good, but small stash of this new and limited marvel.  Originally launched by owner Chivas Brothers in France, this spirit will become a collector’s item.  Not yet rated, as it is that new to the United States, the buzz however is already out. Aberlour 12 year old Non-chill filtered Single Malt Scotch whisky is simply amazing.  Rich, sweet, spicy and just what the doctor ordered. The Aberlour Distillery is at the heart of Speyside, the country's premier whisky-making region. Situated at the junction of the Lour and Spey Rivers, the distillery has a never-ending source of pure spring water which they utilize to create their spirits. This element, combined with hand-selected sherry casks, results in a balanced, complex spirit with a distinct flavor profile. This expression of Aberlour 12 Year Old has been bottled omitting modern chill-filtering, allowing the whisky to retain the full flavor of the malt. A rich, fruit-forward nose of strawberry, plum, vanilla, oak and baking spice leads to a rich, full-bodied palate with bright sherry notes balanced by chocolate, toffee, cinnamon and raisin. The finish is long and slightly spicy with hints of sweetness.  Bottled at 48% alcohol by volume or 96 proof and double matured in both sherry butts and bourbons casks, this is what dreams are made of and should be hidden in the back of your spirits cabinet.  Supplies are limited, get your trigger finger limbered up and get this beauty while bottles are available.

Glenfiddich Malt Master's Edition

Since I have not reviewed a fancy or rare Scotch in a while Cool Springs Wines and Spirits would like to introduce the new limited-release Malt Master's Edition. For 125 years, five generations of Malt Masters have helped make Glenfiddich the World's most awarded single malt with pioneering techniques and expertise. Glenfiddich's sixth Malt Master, Brian Kinsman, continues the tradition of innovation with his latest creation. The Malt Master's Edition is matured twice, each time for a number of years, in two seperate casks. Usually if a Scotch distillery uses two different barrels, the second barrel is used for a few months, not years but there are exceptions. First this whisky is aged in traditional Oak Bourbon barrels for a number of years then the whiskey was transferred to the highest quality Sherry barrels for its final years of maturation. By aging in two different barrels for many years, this creates a rich, complex whisky with distinct flavors coming from both barrels. The resulting whisky is 43% ABV with a nose that offers vanilla, sherry, wood and slight smoke. The palate shows obvious Bourbon and Sherry flavors as well as plum and spice with hints of almonds. The flavor complexity just keeps getting better as it lingers on the tongue. The finish is silky smooth but don't let it fool you because the flavors will stick with you for a long period of time. This is a very limited offering from Glenfiddich so there is not many bottles of this in stock. If you like Glenfiddich, you owe it to yourself to have this in your collection.

Signatory Glenroths Distillery 1994

Signatory Vintage Scotch Whisky Co. was founded in 1988. It is a family owned and managed company, being one of only three true independent bottlers. Signatory always like to draw a distinction between the independent companies who bottle their own products, and the independent companies whose products are bottled under contract. They set-up a small line bottling system, primarily geared towards the bottling of single casks. Although the actual bottling of whisky is semi-automated, the emphasis is very much a hands-on operation, with hand labeling and packing of products. To add to the exclusivity of their bottlings, they often declare the cask number, date of distillation,and date of bottling on their labels. In addition,each bottle is individually hand numbered.

It is their aim, as an independent bottler to offer a range of whiskies, some of which are not bottled by the proprietor of a particular distillery, and some at different ages/strengths to those offered as distillery bottlings. The majority of their bottlings are the product of single casks, with the malt whisky enthusiast being given the opportunity to sample the subtle differences which occur with each different cask.

The Glenrothes 1994 Signatory edition is what I will be reviewing this week. With all the information/education on what Signatory does above, this paragraph will focus on just the Glenrothes Scotch. Distilled in 1994 and bottled in 2009, this vintage is aged to full maturity. Due to no chillfiltration, this whiskey is full bodied and bold. That is what I like! The rich Sherry flavors envelope your mouth right on the entry and slowly coat your palate with a fat and luscious texture. The flavors of dried red fruits, caramel, and baking spice meander there way over the tongue and blend together with the perfect amount of sweetness. The finish is long and lazy with more sweet Sherry wood and honey. Signatory has many distilleries to temp you with but are very limited in production so get it while they last. Only 688 bottles produced.

Uncle Val’s Gin

In continuing our dialog on spirits and horse racing from last week, here is a spirit subject from across the Atlantic; gin.  Yes I said it, gin.  For some, gin is what their father or grandfather drank and the smell reminded them of a cleaning solvent.  Just as with all spirits, there are inexpensive spirits that are best left to their own devices and then there are world class spirits that require us to sing their praises from the mountain tops.  Cool Springs Wines & Spirits just received Uncle Val’s Botanical Gin in time for warm weather drinking and of course, racing season. Uncle Val’s Gin is from Sonoma, California of all places.  This gin in one word is stunning.  Why you ask, well for starters the aroma on this gin is fantastic.  Secondly, the flavor is amazing and the finish is oh so smooth.  We kept thinking as we were sampling this gin is that it doesn’t need anything else other than a chilling to be perfect. Uncle Val’s Botanical Gin in a Gin and Tonic would be the hit of the paddock tailgate or the winner’s circle.  Uncle Val’s features the quintessential juniper accent, but never over-powering, cucumber for softness and its cooling effect, lemon, yes lemon for a fabulous citrus note both in taste and the nose.  A little lavender and finish this off with sage again for its taste and aromatic effect.  This is a
K-I-L-L-E-R gin. The Tasting Panel magazine in its August 2012 issue gave it a 96 point rating.  The Beverage Institute had this to say about Uncle Val’s gin – “Clear. Very distinctive aromas of fresh honeyed orange and lemon zests lead, followed by cucumber, juniper blossoms and delicate spices. Very soft and silky texture with a dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a lemon oil and balm, pine, candied lilac, and peppery spice finish. Nice vibrancy and powerful citrus forward character.” If you like gin, try this bottling.  If you don’t like gin but feel adventurous, try this.  This is a spirit not to miss out on.  It is amazing.

Ransom Old Tom Gin

One of the very few "Old Tom" style gins available in the US market, Ransom is sure to become a new favorite to stock in your cabinet. Old Tom recipes are almost unheard of now but Ransom has made the exception to the rule. Using a barley malt base and botanical essences in a corn base, Ransom is distilled in a alembic still - not some factory column still. It is then aged in oak - another unusual point for this gin. The color of this Old Tom could almost be mistaken for a great whiskey because of the oak aging. Ransom has a very soft mouthfeel and great balance of botanicals, oak, and citrus without going off the deep end with Juniper flavors. I typically do not drink gin but this one is so unique and easy drinking that it impressed me from the first sip to the last.

Hendricks Gin

Clear and inviting. Aromas of candied lime peel, lemon curd, dried flowers, and mild juniper follow through on a silky, vibrant entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-full body with great depth and attractive rose water and cucumber nuances. Finishes with a long, fruity,creamy, and lightly peppery, potpourri accented fade. A delicious, sensationally flavorful gin.

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Horse racing season is upon us and it is a prerequisite to review some of the quintessential drinks for the sport of kings and their respective base elixirs.  Every first Saturday in May America’s preeminent horse race takes place at Churchill Downs in Louisville.  Our featured spirit this week is the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve Straight Kentucky Bourbon.   Whether you are going to the derby, attending or hosting a derby party or going to Nashville’s horse racing extravaganza, the Iroquois Steeplechase, Woodford Reserve is the required bourbon.  Cool Springs Wine & Spirits is delighted to review this wonderful spirit we like to call the Nectar of the Gods. Produced by Brown – Foreman since 1996 in the old Oscar Pepper distillery, erected in 1838, Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon is column distilled in small batches.  Lightly toasted barrels give a kiss of flavor but allow the whisky’s smooth flavor to linger on the palate for a long time.  This has it all, aroma, flavor, finish and an amazing approachability to consuming neat.  All of the bottles have a certificate indicating the batch and bottle number.  Lincoln Henderson is the Master Distiller who divined this amazing spirit.  You don’t have to like or even enjoy bourbon to appreciate this oh so smooth whiskey. If you need any more encouragement, read what America’s number one think tank, the Beverage Tasting Institute, has to say about this special bourbon;
“Interesting aromas of freshly waxed wood, saddle soap, suede, tapioca and pecan nougat with a round, supple, dry-yet-fruity medium-full body and a long, dried fruit, roasted nut, grainy pastry dough, mint leaf, cola, sassafras, peppery spice, and mineral ore accented finish. Very distinctive, intricate, and stylish.”  A 91 point “Exceptional” spirit and less than thirty dollars! 

Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy Pot Still

I know we have already celebrated St. Patrick's day but there is a new Irish Whiskey that you may be interested in. The new Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy Single Pot Still has been created to be at the top of the range in the new Single Pot Still series. This is named after Midleton's long serving Master Distiller Barry Crockett. The new edition contains three levels of pure pot still whiskeys: Light, medium and what they call Mod4 or heavy pot still. There is another twist which is unusual as well is a proportion of the whiskey is matured in New American Oak along with the usual ex-Bourbon cask aging. This limited edition bottle is truly limited with only 2,500 bottles released every year. The Barry Crockett Legacy Pot Still edition is pale gold in color with soft and delicate aromas of honey, baked bread and some caramel toffee nuances. On the palate it is soft and light with a medium body but still remains quite complex. Citrus fruits, toffee, cocoa, honey and marshmallows show very well. Midleton is one of the best distilleries on the planet because they produce a couple of little brands called Jameson and Redbreast as well. This super rare edition of Midleton is exactly what collectors look for and want to buy so if you are looking to add a really nice bottle to your bar, this one would be outstanding among the rest.

Rock Hill Farms Bourbon

As many of you already know Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel is one of the default whiskies at my house. It is always open and I will always offer you a taste if you wish. When I first arrived in this industry, I was fascinated by the gigantic selection of whiskey that Cool Springs Wines and Spirits had and wanted to try each and every one of them. Of course, packaging played a role in what I first bought and Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel was one of the first that I just had to have. The package is beautiful and I thought the contents must be as well which isn't always the case. Once opened, it was like candy to a child. I couldn't get enough of it. The nose picks up seductive notes of toasted walnut, dried red fruit, pepper, cocoa and marshmellows. The initial flavor is zesty, fruity and almost Sherry like. The mid-palate bursts with chocolate, almonds, spice, tobacco and caramel. Even though this is 100 proof and full of Rye, Rock Hill Farms finishes silky smooth with toffee and honey.

The reason I'm giving you all this personal information and tasting notes on Rock Hill Farms is because you will have a chance to try it for yourself and many others at our private tasting on Febuary 12th 2013. We are tasting Rock Hill Farms, Blanton's Single Barrel, Eagle Rare, W. L. Weller 12, Angel's Envy and a couple more surprises. If you are interested in really nice Bourbon, make sure to mark your calendar for the Febuary 12th. RSVP to events@coolspringswines.com or sign up in-store. The best part is that it is all free of charge to you. We will have light food and water as well to break up the tastings so your pallet won't be overwhelmed. I hope to see you there because it will be a great time with delicious Bourbon.

Jack Daniel's Unaged Tennessee Rye

Hey Jack Daniel's fans, this week at Cool Springs Wines and Spirits is all about you. We have a new release from the famous distillery and we will have the current Master Taster, Jeff Norman here at Cool Springs Wines and Spirits to sign bottles and answer questions on Tuesday. How cool is that!? You can have the opportunity to buy one of the rarest, most anticipated releases from Jack Daniel's and get it signed. Jeff Norman will be here on Tuesday December 18th from 1pm-3pm so come out and show your support for Mr. Norman who is making it happen at Tennessee's largest Distillery. Now that we all know Mr. Norman will be here, we need to talk about the whiskey that Jack Daniel's released last week. This is the first time Jack Daniel's has changed their grain bill in over 100 years AND the first time Jack Daniel's has released a "White Dog" Unaged Tennessee Rye. The grain bill consists of 70% Rye, 18% corn and 12% Malted Barley. To keep it in the Tennessee tradition, the Spirit has been passed through Jack Daniel's signature charcoal mellowing process resulting in a taste that is spicy, mellow and complex. Jack Daniel's Unaged Tennessee Rye will only be available in the US with an initial December launch in certain Wine and Spirits stores in Tennessee before it is released to select markets in other states in the next year. Show up early on Tuesday and be ready to have a great time talking with Mr. Norman and getting your bottles signed! Get Excited!

Tyrconnell Single Malt Irish Whiskey

Cool Springs Wines has an Irish Whiskey that needs some love and attention. Irish Whiskey can be a nice change up if you want a break from the Scotch and Bourbon that are normally desired and consumed. Currently, there are only four active distilleries in Ireland although each produces a number of different labels. This week Cool Springs Wines and Spirits is focusing on Tyrconnell Single Malt Irish Whiskey which is made at an Independent distillery called Cooley Distillery. Most Irish malt whiskey has traditionally found its way into blended whiskeys thus it is rare to find Irish malt whiskey bottled in its pure form. Tyrconnell is named after a famous racehorse that won the Irish Derby with 100 to 1 odds thus the horse is pictured on the label. Irish Single Malts are more complex in character than their blended Irish cousins due to their rich malty flavours and have an absence of smoky characteristics associated with Scotch Single Malts. Irish single malts have emerged as a fast growing premium segment of the whiskey market. This charge has been lead by the independent Irish spirit of Tyrconnell. Tyrconnell's aroma consists of some fruit like apple and pear, the flavor is noticeably smooth without being hollow, and the finish will linger but will tease you into pouring more every time.

El Ultimo Añejo
Emerging from winter’s last grip and breaking through to spring’s warming sun, we are reminded of summery drinks.  One of the spirits that reminds us most of summer is tequila.  Tequila comes in many guises, but the most authentic and pure are the 100% Blue Agave made tequilas.  Silver or Blanco tequilas are tasty in Margaritas or Tequila Sunrises, but the aged Reposados and especially the Añejo tequilas offer so much more.  Cool Springs Wines & Springs also offers our customers extreme value in aged tequilas.  El Ultimo Añejo is both a beautiful aged spirit, but this elixir also comes at an affordable price. Hacienda de Oro, SA de C.V. produces a range of tequilas, including El Ultimo, in Jalisco, Mexico.  They harvest their Blue Agave plants in the central lowlands, lending herbaceous flavors and aromas to their tequilas. Distilled in Pot Stills and bourbon barrel cask aged for a minimum of one year, El Ultimo Añejo is a bright, light amber colored tequila. This International Review of Spirits Gold Medal award winner is bold with fruity aromas and caramel corn, sweet pickling spice, and chocolate cherry bonbon flourishes follow through on a round, voluptuous entry to a fruity medium-to-full body with roasted nuts and toffee notes. El Ultimo Añejo finishes with long, leather and spice accents that fade softly on the pallet. It is a fun, flavorful añejo that would be great in cocktails but is smashing on the rocks sipped slowly. The Beverage Tasting Institute rated this stellar bargain “Exceptional” at 92 points.  Many of our in the know CSWS customers rate this bargain añejo even higher. Stop in and get your bottle today.

Tres Agaves

Tequila season is still here right? To us here at Cool Springs Wines and Spirits, Tequila is always in season. We have a new 100% Organic line in stock called Tres Agaves which is an award winning, estate bottled 100% agave Tequila. Tres Agaves is one of the last family owned distilleries in Mexico ensuring quality and flavor. The agave plants used are matured to an average of 9 years and produced in the old fashioned tradition at the boutique distillery which started producing Tequila in 1900. The Master Distiller of Tres Agaves is the former Mayor of the city Tequila and is a fifth generation artisan who specializes in handcrafted Tequila. The Reposado is aged for 6-9 months in a blend of Woodford Reserve, Jack Daniel, and Heaven Hill barrels giving it a well rounded flavorful taste. The Anejo is aged for 18 months in Woodford Reserve barrels as well giving it an approachable and exquisite balance. Come by Cool Springs Wines and Spirits and lets talk more about some tasty Tequila!

Don Julio Reposado Tequila

With Cinco De Mayo coming up this week obviously tequila is on my mind. For me, Don Julio Reposado is just about as good as it gets without spending a weeks pay on a bottle. Don Julio González began his journey in the world of tequila in 1942. He soon realized that to create a tequila that stands apart, one must control every aspect of the process, from the cultivation of the agave to the bottling of the final product. He then established his distillery, La Primavera, and spent nearly forty years perfecting the craft that would produce extraordinary tequila with every bottle. At first, Don Julio only shared his tequila with friends. But soon word spread, and Don Julio quickly became the most sought after tequila in Mexico. Today, the world is learning what Mexico already knows: that it is passion above all else that makes a great tequila.

The Reposado is 100% Blue Weber Agave, double distilled, and rested in charred oak bourbon barrels for up to 11 months. Each agave is hand selected at maturity and only the heart of the distillation is used, as it is the purest part, free from most impurities. Through taking time to make every step the best, Don Julio is a stand out product among the rest in it's class.

Don Julio Reposado has an inviting aroma of mellow, lemon citrus notes and spice layers with touches of ripe stone fruit that seems light and sweet with some lovely vanilla and chocolate notes as well. The taste is incredibly soft and elegant with hints of dark chocolate, vanilla and light cinnamon balanced with subtle notes of pear, apple and lemon for a lightly honeyed and smooth flavor to be savored. Remember to have fun and celebrate Cinco De Mayo Responsibly with a glass of smooth tequila!

Mandarine Napoleon Liqueur

Don't just have a good 2013, MAKE it a good 2013. To start this year off, lets start by focusing on a Liqueur. Why a Liqueur? We all need variety in our lives and liqueurs offer so much versatility to whatever is on the menu. Have you ever heard of or tasted Mandarine Napoleon Orange Liqueur? This stuff should be on everyone's bar at home because it has the potential to make just about any drink better. Mandarine Napoleon was started in the late 1700s and was originally created just for Napoleon Bonaparte! The liqueur was made famous by the short guy so the demand grew from the public until it was sold to the public in 1892. While the recipe is still a secret, we do know that its base is aged Cognac, Sicilian Mandarine orange peel, and a secret blend of herbs and spices. The Napoleon can be sipped neat, over ice, or in dozens of cocktails. Put it in coffee, make a Mandarine Sour, Mandarine Margarita... you get the idea. The rich mouthfeel with the fresh citrus flavor combine to make Mandarine Napoleon unique and very tasty. Happy New Year from all of us at CSWS!

Art in the Age Root Liquor

This week, Cool Springs Wines and Spirits has a treat for all the Root Beer lovers out there. We all know the soft drink brands that produce that tasty drink we all enjoy but did you know it originally contained alcohol? The method of creating root liquor comes from native Americans who taught the technique to colonial settlers in the 1700s. Made from Sassafras, Sasparilla, Birch Bark and other wild roots and herbs, it became known as root tea. But in the late 1800s, the temperance movement conspired to remove the alcohol content and so root beer was born and the liquor disappeared. ART IN THE AGE decided to recreate the old drink using the original methods. All ingredients are organic and the result is a surprising and uplifting drink with complex flavors and a satisfying sweetness. ROOT is incredibly unique in flavor that is clean on the palate with strong notes of birch, peppery herbs, spices, citrus and vanilla beans. In the glass, ROOT is very aromatic and has a full body with a medium dry finish. ART IN THE AGE!

Tres Leches

Tres Leches is a Caribbean rum-based, triple-cream liqueur that's been popular all over the U.S. since it was introduced in September. It took two top honors at this year's Wine & Spirits of America Spirits Competition, including the coveted Best Spirit of Show award, and it won a double gold at the 2010 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It gives you the sweetness that you're looking for, but is so mellow, so smooth on your palate that it drinks really well.

Mixologists everywhere are creating many uniquely inspired drinks for every occasion with Tres Leches. Reminding me of sweet vanilla ice cream, which is my favorite, I tried this stuff for the first time a few months ago and was an instant believer. Come to Cool Springs Wines and Spirits to pick up a bottle and see what drink you can create.

A.E. Dor Cognac

The French are known for producing great alcohol whether it be sparkling wine, still wine, or spirits. It seems like Bordeaux and Champagne sparkling wines get all the attention so let's shine some light on A.E. Dor VSOP Cognac. Cognac is a region in France just like Bordeaux and Champagne are. There are different grades of Cognac known as Crus. Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne are among the top areas and that coincidentally is where the A.E. Dor VSOP grapes are sourced. There are strict regulations on what types of grapes can be used and Ugni Blanc is usually the most popular. A.E. Dor VSOP or (Very Special Old Pale) has a generous, floral bouquet with many subtleties of oak, fruit, butter, and apples. The flavor has finesse and length which is balanced by so many different flavors that evolve as it travels from the front of your palate to the finish. Cool Springs Wines and Spirits also has the A.E. Dor VS along with a wide selection of other Cognacs and Armagnacs.

Marie Duffau Bas Armagnac Hors d' Age

Marie Duffau Bas Armagnac Hors d' Age is what I am reviewing this week. At $49.99 this is an elegant and affordable example of what good Armagnac should be. Using quality grapes, 70% Ugni blanc (gives a good foundation), 20% Bacco (gives roundness), 5% Colombard (herbal aromas) and 5% Folle Blanche (floral notes) this combination is certainly balanced. Aged for 12 long years in Gascon oak, this Armagnac is full bodied and rich but still has a maturity that brings out a mellow side. Marie Duffau Bas Armagnac is slowly distilled once whereas cognac is usually distilled twice. For this reason, Armagnac is more complex , heavier in body, and has nice texture. The aromas are floral and intense with a nice oak touch. Flavors include raisins, toffee, oak, and structured tannins that bring along a nice round finish. Rated as one of the Top Ten benchmarks of all Armagnac produced today in April 2007 Wine Enthusiast.

Germain-Robin Select Barrel XO

Cool Springs Wines and Spirits has something special for Brandy lovers called Germain-Robin Select Barrel XO. This fine Brandy is made in California using 80% Pinot Noir grapes. Germain-Robin was started in the early 1980s by two men that wanted to carry on the traditional methods of distilling unlike most of the giant producers in France that use modern techniques to produce large quantities. Unlike most high volume Brandy/Cognac producers that use grapes that aren't fit for winemaking, Germain-Robin uses only best high quality grapes they can find which gives the finished product balance, flavor, and character. The Select Barrel XO is made in extremely small batches which only yields ten barrels per year and is then aged in limousin oak. The aroma is elegant, soft but full, and is pure delight. On the palate, this XO has a velvet smoothness that is fruit driven with a nice oak balance. The finish will linger on and on which is perfect because you won't want it to end. Come by Cool Springs Wines and Spirits and check it out for yourself!