The Charlotte is the newest restaurant on Henderson Ave, and it’s the perfect spot for a brunch or lunch with your girls.
It’s an “an all-day neighborhood American bistro and bar” that moved into the former Enrique Tomas spot on Henderson and made some serious changes. It’s much brighter and lighter than the previous restaurant, and you can find their signature teddy bears seated around the restaurant. (I’m not kidding … life size teddy bears, y’all.)
The cocktails were a mix of classics made to spec and signatures made with creativity. I was delighted to introduce my boyfriend to the classic Pornstar Martini that I was so happy to see on the menu—a simple cocktail with vanilla vodka, passion fruit, and sparkling wine. (And the frozen espresso martini is not to be missed.) Overall, the cocktails are on the sweeter side, which I think fits the venue’s target market. I will be back for the Aztec Sour soon, which features repo Tequila, spicy liqueur, and mango.
For the non-drinkers, they offer a few mocktails featuring both Lyre’s and Ritual products. We opted to try one, the Virtuous Ritual (the red cocktail above), and it was lovely … nicely balanced, and the fresh strawberry really popped.
As for food, we enjoyed the Charred Elite on the Cob and Crab Fingers to start—both were tasty, if a little messy to eat. (Messy is fun, though, right?) We followed that with the Bibb Salad (because we’re trying to be all healthy), and it was simple but strangely delightful.
On our waitress’s recommendation, we ordered the Cajun Truffle Mafaldine (pasta) and the Spicy Lamb Chops. Both were fantastic and, honestly, not a scrap was left on the table.
Service was lovely and food came out quickly. I especially appreciated the hostess’ suits that coordinate with the space’s color.
In recent years, China’s whisky landscape has experienced significant growth, marked by both an increase in domestic production and a rising appreciation for international brands. This evolution reflects China’s expanding palate for diverse whisky profiles and its burgeoning role in the global whisky market. With the arrival of the Year of the Snake, there is no better time to explore and celebrate the richness of Chinese whiskey, a spirit that embodies both tradition and innovation.
Emergence of Chinese Whisky
Traditionally, China’s spirits market has been dominated by baijiu, a potent grain-based liquor deeply embedded in Chinese culture. However, the past decade has witnessed a surge in whisky consumption, leading to the establishment of numerous distilleries across the country. As of recent reports, there are approximately 48 whisky distilleries either operational or under construction in China, indicating a robust commitment to developing a homegrown whisky industry.
The increased demand for whisky in China is driven by multiple factors, including changing consumer preferences, growing middle-class affluence, and exposure to global trends. Younger generations, in particular, are more willing to experiment with whisky, seeking out new and unique flavors beyond traditional spirits. Additionally, whisky is gaining traction in high-end social settings, where it is often associated with status and sophistication.
Notable Chinese Whisky Brands
Several Chinese whisky brands have begun to make their mark on the global stage, demonstrating the country’s capability to produce high-quality spirits:
Goalong Distillery: Located in Hunan Province, Goalong has gained attention for its single malt offerings. In 2023, it became the first Chinese distillery to have its products stocked by The Whisky Exchange in the UK, signaling international recognition and appreciation.
Pernod Ricard’s “The Chuan” Distillery: Situated in Emeishan, this distillery represents a significant investment in Chinese whisky production by the global spirits giant. The decision to establish operations in China underscores the vast potential seen in the country’s whisky market and aims to cater to local tastes while introducing Chinese whisky to the global audience.
The Qinghai Distillery: A relatively new entrant, this distillery focuses on high-altitude whisky production, taking advantage of the unique climatic conditions to craft distinctive flavor profiles. It aims to compete with established international brands by offering innovative cask finishes and aging techniques.
Popular Whisky Types in China
As the whisky culture expands in China, certain styles have emerged as favorites among Chinese consumers. The preferences reflect both international influences and a growing appreciation for locally produced spirits.
Sherried Whiskies
Whiskies matured in sherry casks have found particular favor among Chinese consumers. Brands like Glendronach and Glenallachie, known for their rich, sherried profiles, are among the top choices. This preference is especially prominent in regions like Hong Kong, where these brands are highly sought after during festive occasions such as the Chinese New Year. The sweetness and complexity of sherried whiskies make them an appealing option for those accustomed to the flavors of baijiu and other traditional Chinese spirits.
Single Malt Whiskies
There is an increasing demand for premium single malts, both from international producers and emerging Chinese distilleries. This trend reflects a broader global movement towards high-quality, artisanal spirits. Single malt whisky is often associated with craftsmanship, making it an attractive choice for collectors and enthusiasts looking for unique expressions.
Innovative Cask Finishes
Chinese distilleries are experimenting with unique cask finishes, incorporating local elements such as tea, lychee wood, and traditional Chinese herbs to create distinct flavor profiles. These innovations not only cater to domestic palates but also aim to captivate international whisky drinkers looking for new experiences. Some distilleries are even collaborating with foreign whisky producers to create hybrid styles that blend Eastern and Western influences.
Pairing Whisky with Chinese Cuisine
Pairing whisky with food is an art, and Chinese cuisine provides an excellent canvas for whisky pairing due to its diverse flavors and cooking techniques. Here are some recommended pairings:
Dim Sum & Sherried Whisky: The richness of pork buns, dumplings, and spring rolls pairs beautifully with the deep, dried-fruit notes of sherried whisky.
Peking Duck & Peated Whisky: The smoky character of Laphroaig or a peated Chinese whisky complements the crispy, fatty richness of Peking duck.
Sichuan Hot Pot & Bourbon-Finished Whisky: The bold, spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine are balanced by the sweetness of a bourbon cask-finished whisky.
Seafood & Light Floral Whisky: Lighter whiskies with floral or citrus notes, such as Japanese-inspired Chinese whiskies, enhance the delicate flavors of seafood dishes like steamed fish and scallops.
The Future of Chinese Whisky
China’s whisky industry is still in its early stages, but its growth trajectory suggests a bright future. As more distilleries refine their techniques and gain recognition, Chinese whisky is likely to become a prominent player in the global whisky market. The combination of local craftsmanship, innovative aging techniques, and international collaborations will shape the future of whisky in China, making it a category to watch closely.
Moreover, events like the Year of the Snake celebrations offer the perfect opportunity to explore and enjoy Chinese whisky. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky lover or a curious newcomer, now is the time to experience the fascinating evolution of Chinese whisky and its unique flavors.
Conclusion
China’s whisky scene is rapidly evolving, characterized by a blend of traditional appreciation and innovative production. As domestic distilleries continue to emerge and international brands find enthusiastic audiences, China’s influence in the global whisky market is set to expand, offering diverse and rich experiences for whisky enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the Year of the Snake with a fine dram or simply explore new whisky styles, Chinese whisky is an exciting frontier worth discovering.
Raise a glass and toast to the future of Chinese whisky—Ganbei!
When is the last time you visited Pappas Bros. Steakhouse? I stopped into the Dallas location of the Texas institution recently, and was reminded why it’s one of my absolute favorite places to dine in Dallas, and not just for a special occasion … but even to watch a Mavs game at the bar after work.
This may SEEM like a man’s paradise thanks to the thick-cut steaks and cigar and rare spirits collections, but it’s also mine.
This Texas institution with locations in Dallas and Houston is best known for its award-winning wine program and premium dry-aged steaks, but we went to revisit their famous holiday cocktail feature, the Christmas in Kentucky Manhattan. This beauty was created by GM Rick Turner and has returned year after year because, well, it’s delicious. Beautifully combining Buffalo Trace, Giffard Vanille, Cointreau, and St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, this cocktail warms you from the inside-out.
We also tried out the new chef’s newest appetizer offerings, and each was better than the last. My favorite was the Hudson Valley Foie Gras served with a fermented blueberry reduction. I’ll be returning soon for that alone.
The Dallas wine program boasts more than 3,900 selections and an inventory of 35,000+ bottles. If you’re not having at least one glass of wine at this institution, you’re doing it wrong.
They’re all spiffed up for the holidays right now, so stop in for a tummy-warming Christmas in Kentucky Manhattan and stay for a steak and a song!
Have you ever wanted to take a bath in beer? Now you can at The Beer Spa in Denver!
When you visit, you’ll pour yourself a local brew (they partner with different local breweries throughout the year) then relax in one of the zero gravity massage chairs or book a private room.
Private room bookings are an hour and a half, and have the run of a private room for two, complete with an infrared sauna, shower, and, of course, a hot tub. Sweat it out in the sauna and then enjoy the 95º tub with water infused with hops, malt, and other herbs often found in beer. The “brew” is meant to be great for your skin and hair thanks to the vitamin and antioxidant-packed beer ingredients … and hops are apparently a natural sedative and have anti-aging benefits.
They send you into your private room with full beers in insulated mugs and a couple complimentary snacks. They offer a box of local chocolates and a charcuterie plate if you want to have something to snack on while you soak. And you can ring a bell for room service if you need a refill or want to re-up on snacks.
Visit the shop on the way out for a couple beer-infused beauty products. I loved the rich hair mask and my boyfriend took home some of their nicely scented beard oil.
If you’re planning a trip to Denver soon, make your reservation now because they do fill up!
The Beer Spa thebeerspa.com
3004 N Downing Street, Denver CO
(720) 810-1484 (text or call)
With a name like The Tipple Tourist, I better know how to both drink and travel But doing them at the same time shows true proficiency … and I’ve demonstrated said proficiency with my #30000ftcocktails series. So here are my absolute can’t-takeoff-without-them items … cheers, and happy trails!
Gone are the days of relying on the small, unstable tray table that’s subject to the whims of the passenger in front of you! This genius contraption, the Bevledge, gives the window seat occupant two extra cup holders, a place to store your phone and some other accoutrement, and even folds flat so it’s easy to throw into your travel bag.
Amazon, ~$22 (currently sold out, but it will be back in stock soon!)
Picture c/o Sip n’ Clip
Sip n’ Clip Airplane Drink Holder
For those not in the window seat, this simple, yet genius cup holder that hangs from your tray table allows you a little more leg room and frees up your hands. You can also use it as a phone prop!
If I could make y’all try one product in this roundup, it would be milk thistle, a natural supplement that supports healthy liver function. I started taking this seemingly miracle pill about nine months ago, and haven’t had a hangover since (as long as I remember to take it)!! If it was a rough night, I pop one more before heading to bed. And I always ALWAYS am sure to drink plenty of water before turning in. Because water is the real hero. Want to read the science behind it? Go nuts.
Making cocktails on a plane can get really messy, so when I need citrus for my #30000ftcocktails, I reach for True Citrus packets, which are cold-pressed, crystallized fruit. The packets are wildly convenient, and taste fresh enough to pass! (And actually, Southwest has started offering these on some flights!)
This cute bottle holder clips on to your luggage and even has a pocket for your phone. They also offer some cute options for the shoulder strap! … because who wants to carry their water bottle?
After you make the perfect drink (using booze provided by the airline, of course!), it’s nice to relax with your favorite show. So free up your knees and rig this brilliant, yet simple, “flight flap”. It is slightly rigid and holds its shape, so you can mold it to the shape you need to hold your phone. And it stores flat for easy transport!
BUZZ BUZZ
2 oz Aberfeldy 12 Year Scotch Whisky
1 oz lemon juice
.75 oz cinnamon-honey syrup*
Combine Aberfeldy, lemon, and syrup in a shaker and shake with ice until well chilled. Strain over fresh ice and garnish with a lemon.
*cinnamon-honey syrup: boil 1/2 cup water with two cinnamon sticks. Let sit for 10 minutes, then stir in 1/2 cup honey until incorporated. Allow to cool before using in your cocktail. (Best if cinnamon sticks are kept in overnight.) Store in the fridge and it’ll be good for a week.
I’ve been lucky enough to spend some extended time in Breckenridge, Colorado the last five years or so, and have seen the town’s beer and bar scene change greatly in that time. When it comes to breweries in Breckenridge, Breckenridge Brewery was always a stalwart in town (visit their tasting room on Main Street), but we’ve seen some new, intriguing breweries pop up in the county.
While I do love a good drink, I love a brand that supports its community even more. A couple of my friends work for the Summit Historical Society, and I was delighted to hear that a few local breweries I’ve enjoyed are supporters of their annual fundraiser, the Vintage Baseball Game*, which made me enjoy my brews at these spots even more!
Angry James
This small Silverthorne brewery that opened in 2018 is putting out some really nice brews, and the space itself serves as a community hub to the locals. Grab a seat and get settled for the afternoon to enjoy the live music on the pet-friendly patio, and order some food from the kitchen window. Make sure to get at least a sip of their Coffee Stout that’s dry hopped with coffee beans from Red Buffalo Coffee & Tea across the street, and don’t forget to purchase some of their awesome swag to show your support!
NOT TO MISS: Two Tone Footer Coffee Stout (5.6%), Wild Ruby Cherry Sour (6.3%), Citra Lager Hoppy IPL (5.7%, 35 IBU)
A Breckenridge local favorite, this brewery boasts cravable brews and friendly staff, pups, and regulars who make grabbing some suds here a really memorable experience. (We ended up there THREE TIMES during my last visit to town.) The brewery’s footprint has expanded since it opened in May 2014, but the feeling of camaraderie at the community tables hasn’t gone anywhere. While you’re enjoying your crisp beers, make sure to check out local artisans’ wares and art, all available for sale. … make sure to take in your growler so you can enjoy their beers at home.
NOT TO MISS: Coconut Porter Porter (4.28%), Imperial FDFH Brown Ale (4.33%), Slope Sipper Kölsch (3.88%), Tropical Sour (~4%)
Pug Ryan’s, named for a Colorado outlaw, sits in Downtown (new) Dillon at the top of a hill overlooking the lake, and has since 1997. This cozy brewery and restaurant recently changed hands, and is the home to many delicious brews and a cute little fish that oversees the dining room. Stop in for a family-friendly brewery experience and enjoy a little bit of local lure and a bite to eat. (Make sure to look in on their “tiki bar” outside, and grab a sixer on the way out!
NOT TO MISS: Pug’s Pilsner, Morning Wood American Pale Wheat (5.9%), Outlaw Vanilla Stout Stout (5.5%)
104 Village Pl, Dillon, CO 80435 pugryans.com
(970) 468-2145
Summit Historical Society’s Annual Vintage Baseball Game
*As I mentioned, all three of these breweries support the Summit Historical Society’s Annual Vintage Baseball Game, the third of which is coming up on August 27, 2022. This event is a tent pole for the community’s historical society where members of the society and community don their vintage (looking) baseball garb and play some innings by traditional 1864 rules.
It’s truly a sight to be seen, and a meaningful way to support the historical society in their efforts to preserve the history of their town.
Each year since 1801, fans of Scottish poet Robert Burns have remembered the lyricist on his birthday, January 25, with Burns Suppers. They gather to recite poetry and drink scotch over a meal as a celebration of art, the dram, and the man himself.
Many don’t realize that they start and end each year with Robert Burns. He is the author of the poem “Auld Lang Syne”, a poem that’s been put to music, and the song is traditionally sung on New Year’s Eve.
I enjoy scotch on its own, especially Bruichladdich’s Classic Laddie, which has been a staple at my home during quarantine. But sometimes it’s nice to try your hand at a scotch cocktail, and I discovered this cocktail that I’m preparing to celebrate with my own mini Burns Night celebration tomorrow, appropriately named the Robert Burns Cocktail.
ROBERT BURNS COCKTAIL
2 oz Bruichladdich Classic Laddie Scotch whisky .75 oz sweet vermouth 1 dash orange bitters 1 dash absinthe
Combine all ingredients except orange peel in a vessel with ice and stir until well chilled. Pour into a coupe and express the orange peel over the cocktail.
I took some time to prep for my mini Burns Night celebration this evening, which included writing my own toast … which was tougher than I thought it would be. So after about twelve versions of a worked, Burns-wanna-be poem, I decided good ol’ Bobby Burns did it better and to leave it to the master.
I love this excerpt from his poem “A Bottle and a Friend”, and it’ll be the toast for my Burns night this week. I’ll be toasting all the amazing friends I’ve gotten to see the last two years through the pandemic, and those who I haven’t.
“Here’s a bottle and an honest friend!
What wad ye wish for mair, man?
Wha kens, before his life may end,
What his share may be o’ care, man?”
So plan to find a bottle and a friend or two to share a dram and toast to the Laddies and Lassies tonight. I’ll be reading through some Burns poems with a dram (or two) of Bruichladdich’s The Classic Laddie with a couple friends.
Cheers to Bobby Burns, and cheers to a great scotch cocktail to celebrate!
