Three weeks, three people, three new tastes

Good things come in threes, right? So I’ve met some great people over the past few weeks and all of them have introduced me to some new drinks, all in different ‘categories’ — liquor, beer, wine. Great way to keep the mind and palette active. Wanted to share them so more people can learn about them (or nod and say — oh yeah, I’ve been loving that for ages, glad she’s finally caught on).

#1 — Gin & Tonic, the wonderful G&T, with cucumber vs. lime. The important part about this concoction is that you MUST muddle the cukes to release the juice, you need good gin (everybody does have their favorite — mine is Bombay Sapphire but I will never turn down a host who provides Hendrick’s) and apparently if you don’t use Q tonic, why bother making it? The things you learn. There are apparently some measurements to this drink which could/would not be revealed…

#2: Westmalle Trappist Ale Tripel. It was the kickoff to college football. Great Belgian beer to enjoy while sitting on the couch watching sports for many hours. This stuff is potent — 9.5% alcohol! It’s good to be watching football because you don’t want to drive for awhile and the food you eat while being sedentary for hours on end soaks up that percentage. My friend served it in the appropriate glass to which you fill to the 33cl line.

#3: Bloem Red. Amazing wine from the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. Since I’m headed there next year I want all the ‘amuse-bouche’ I can get. It had a light-medium body with fruit and spice. Was enjoying this over Labor Day weekend and it was served with just that perfect chill for a red that made it even better. It’s a blend of about 65/35 Syrah/Mourvedre.