Wine & Dine

Tuthill House at the Mill

March 1, 2016

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More then 5 years ago I did a story on Tuthill House at the Mill for a local tourism publication and it was too long since I visited. This past Saturday, I enjoyed a delightful late lunch and cocktails while speaking with Lucia Civile; the Front House Manager and George Gorsky the General Manager.

We knew that Ralph Erenzo and Brian Lee founders of Tuthilltown Spirits had purchased the restaurant. We have featured Tuthill Distillery on THEHVStory last year. But, this was the first chance we had to actually experience the restaurant for ourselves. Here’s a word of advice, if you have not been to the restaurant make sure you get here soon, because it will become a fast favorite! Locals and tourists flock here for some of the freshest and unique cocktails made from spirits right here at the distillery! Unique, fresh cocktails, local farm to table dishes and great service is what you’ll experience.

Grist Mill History

This rustic, historic restaurant makes fantastic food and cocktails using local products and infuses their signature line of spirits in the cocktails and dishes they serve. Tuthilltown Spirits produces the Hudson Whiskey, Gin, Vodka and bitters.

The Tuthilltown Gristmill has a history as the oldest continuously operated water powered gristmill and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The original gristmill structure was constructed in 1788, by 18 year old Selah Tuthill. It was one of three gristmills that operated on the Shawangunk over the past 300 years. In the early 1980’s, the mill began grinding kosher matzoh flour which continued through 2003. The grist mill also produces it’s own Cacao Liqueur, Triple Sec and Cassis.

Today

We had heard about the good food and fantastic cocktails served weekly to locals and tourists and couldn’t wait to find out for ourselves! The Tuthill House team filled us in. Lucia and George are excited to announce that Jeremy Berlin a graduate of The French Culinary Institute in New York City will be the new Executive Chef. He is well seasoned chef that has worked in restaurants in New York City, Colorado and California. In addition, Tuthill House will launch a new menu this spring and will be working with many more local farms and companies as possible. The restaurant changes it’s menu seasonally.

Cocktails

Our barman; Sean Davis recommended we try a Fresh Blackberry & Plum Gimlet. It included Half Moon Gin, fresh blackberries, plum bitters, fresh lime, simple syrup and egg white. It had a very unique berry taste that was very complimentary to the dishes I ordered. As I sipped my drink and watched Sean and my server Rachel make cocktails for other patrons, I knew I was in the presence of great mixologists. I’ve never had such fresh tasting cocktails and that’s because they are made fresh with the Tuthill Spirits brand. Patrick Pierpoint, the bar manager created all the cocktails on the menu.

Let’s Lunch

For lunch, I had the Roasted Mushroom Cakes and Roasted Apple Flat-bread. Both were incredibly delicious! The flavors were all so different but yet blended together so well with my cocktail!

Lunch is served from noon – 5pm on Saturday and Sundays and starting April 1st, they will be open every day except Wednesday. Other customer favorites include are classic and chorizo burgers, baked jalapeno bacon and mac n’ cheese. Menu’s change seasonally, so we look forward to visiting again in Spring and Summer when the outdoor deck will also be open.

Dinner

The evening really showcases the mood of this restaurant. The lighting, the music…their is a vibe to this restaurant that the customers enjoy. Even if it’s your first visit the friendly staff is known for making people feel welcomed and the ambiance is homey and comforting. Whether your sitting at the long copper bar or dining under beautiful crystal chandeliers with candles on the table. This restaurant exudes ambiance! Popular favorite dishes for dinner are Cauliflower Gratin for an appetizer, Braised Bison Short Ribs and Seared Salmon.

The restaurant will also be serving Sunday Brunch starting Easter Sunday. It is an al a cart menu with breakfast and lunch items, burgers, flat-breads and smoked items that feature an infusion with Tuthill brand liquors.

Tasting Flights + Events + Weddings

Tasting Flights are available and they can be ordered different ways. You can choose a beer or wine flight or a Tuthill Spirits flight. This is where you can taste a selection of four different Tuthill spirits distilled from right here at the distillery.

Customers and tourists both like the rustic historic decor, the post and beams, the old staircase and the decor and the history of what was the original grist mill. Tuthill is also known as a place to celebrate events and weddings. This year they will be bringing more events to the restaurant and the grounds that house the distillery. One popular event is the Sunflower Festival. Tuthill also accommodates banquets, weddings, luncheons, town and business meetings and more. You can also inquiry to rent out the restaurant for an event. With over 30 acres to walk around no wonder this is a destination place in Gardiner!

A variety of events are offered and more are coming this year including live music, arts, sip and paint events and more!

THEHVStory advises you to experience this restaurant for the first time or all over again!

We might just be sitting at the bar next to you!

Photos By Melissa Tyler

Keegan Ales THE Hudson Valley’s Brewery

February 20, 2016

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Wine & Dine

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When Tommy Keegan was a Marine Chemist living in San Francisco and studying chemistry and bio-chemistry for a career he pursued home brewing as a hobby. Little did he realize at that time, how that would lead him back east to Kingston NY, where he had family.

In the search for a building to launch Keegan Ales he would learn of a building that was empty. This building had exactly what Tommy was looking for because it was once known as the Woodstock Brewing Company in the early 1800’s! That my friends, is what you call SERENDIPITY!

We had heard about the Keegan Ale brand for years, and I have to admit I have been late to the game in a visit. So yesterday evening, I took a drive and sat down and talked BEER with Tommy Keegan and Josh Brown, Director of Sales for Keegan Ale. We were very impressed with the tasting Beer flight.

We tasted the 7 flight that Keegan Ales offers and were quite impressed and yes we had our favorites. Old Capital, Mother’s Milk, Joe Mama’s Milk (which incredible tastes like coffee and beer at the same time), were 3 of our favorites! Tommy and Josh told me that Mother’s Milk is the flagship beer in the 9 states and Canada that they distribute to. Yes, Keegan Ales distributes to NY, VT, NJ, CT, PA, DE, MD, VI and Washington DC. The top three selling beers at Keegan Ales are Mother’s Milk, Old Capital and Hurricane Kitty.

The area well known brand opened and started distribution in 2003, and the pub opened in 2007. The “KEEGAN ARMY” as their customers are known even create beers by mixing and naming them. Yes, the customers are the ones that create the names! They mix beers like Old Capital and Bine Climber and call it a “Florida”.

Toni, has been the bartender at Keegan Ales for five years and help us navigate our experience. Josh also tells us what people say about the beers. Some of the comments they hear the most are ” I think this beer was made for me” and “Thank GOD finely a good Craft Stout Beer, I am sick of IPA’s”. Josh goes on to say that the Keegan Ale brand is one of the big, little guys and they are gearing up to take the next steps to become even stronger in the states they do distribute.

Bands play almost every night of the week and that evening the Paul Luke Band was setting up for the night. The Food is good too,the Ruben we ordered was delicious! Keegan Ale also is very community minded and it turns out the well known O+ Fest had it’s first meeting here. Other associations include: the Kingston Stockade an semi pro soccer team coming to the area, Autism partnerships with Woodstock Harley Davidson, The Kiwanis Club, Benedict Hospital and others. The pub also features local artists on their walls. So Check one of the North Easts favorite beers and pub. You can also find the Keegan Ale brand locally at other area pubs in the Hudson Valley as well as places like Half Time Beverages in Poughkeepsie and other beverage centers.

Check their events calendar for events coming up here and beyond the Hudson Valley as they just participated in Saratoga Beer Week. We encourage you visit Keegan Ale’s in Kingston or order some rounds at a local pub. They are another example of a Hudson Valley company that is embraced by their customers + that is The Essence of #THEHVStory.

Photos by Melissa Tyler

6 Things You Should Know about The Hudson Valley Wine Goddess

February 16, 2016

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Events, Wine & Dine

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1. Ranked #38 out of 100 Most Influential Wine Bloggers by Excel Wines in 2015!

Excel Wines is a leading wine retailer in the UK. Their ratings are based on metrics that concluded that these individuals have mastered the process of spreading influence among several outlets including their own websites and on various social media channels. The study took advantage of some of the best tools for measuring website success and social media activity.

2. Million Dollar Sips Launch

Million Dollar Sips is a new website launching in March 2015. It’s about taking the intimidation out of wine! A FREE seminar will be offered for the person who has to wine and dine for business. The webinar is titled “powerful Tips for Your Business Dinner” it includes 6 wine tips for a successful business dinner! This event is Thursday, March 3rd at 3pm ET.

3. Mastering the Business Dinner

Is a six module course that gives the tips and tricks to successfully planning that important business dinner. Some of the topics covered are: How to seek out the proper restaurant and plan a menu, how to budget for dinner and stay within your expense account, How Wine lists are organized, How to Taste Wine and What the different bottle sizes are and the proper size of the wine pour.

4. Get To Know Your Wine

Webinar for the wine lover coming in mid-March. Sign up for wine and food pairing guide at Hudson Valley Wine Goddess and you will be the first to know of the date of the webinar.

5. Hudson Valley Uncorked

Debbie will be releasing her first book in late Spring 2016 called “Hudson Valley Uncorked” Day Trips and Weekend Getaways in Hudson Valley Wine Country. Stay Tuned to THEHVStory for more on this.

6. Getting Social

The first Monday of the month join the Hudson Valley Wine Goddess on BLAB as she covers different topics related to wine. The March 7th Blab will be “Discover the Secrets to Wine Country Travel” Debbie’s guests are Pat from Dolce Vita Wine Tours and Kristie Unsworth from Kristie’s Cruise and Land Destinations and perhaps another special guest. You can register https://blab.im/hvwinegoddess

Foster’s Coach House Tavern

February 7, 2016

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Wine & Dine

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New Menu Meet the Old Menu and Our Favorite HV Bartender Mary!

Chicken Parm Dinner and Champagne Cocktails at Foster’s Coach House Tavern in Rhinebeck

It’s always great to do something with one intention and get surprised when something wonderful happens! Case in point, about one and a half years ago I moved back to the Hudson Valley from spending a year out on Cape Cod. I was living just outside Rhinebeck and remembered Foster’s for their great food and cozy little bar. That’s the night I met Mary! Guess what? There is something about MARY! My bet is the patrons and the regulars of Foster’s know that too! At least that’s the impression we get. She may like to be called “Scary Mary” but there’s nothing scary about her in our opinion she is the best bartender in the Hudson Valley.

Champagne Cocktails served by our favorite bartender Mary. Lamarca Pointsetta a splash of cranberry juice and fresh cranberries soaked in Grand Mernier.

Champagne Cocktails served by our favorite HV bartender Mary. Lamarca Pointsetta a splash of cranberry juice and fresh cranberries soaked in Grand Mernier.

The first thing she will ask you after saying hello or asking what you would like to drink is “what’s your name”? Now, where not going to assume she remembers every person’s name…but she has a good track record. Just ask the regulars! What else? She introduces you to other people at the bar. She is a quick thinker, courteous, funny and all you expect someone who works in the hospitality field should be at a busy Rhinebeck bar and restaurant.

Ok, so fast forward… this past friday nite. Oh, buy the way, Mary works Friday and Saturday evenings. I decided, I have been hibernating way to long and going to take the 45 minute ride up to Rhinebeck from Fishkill. Here’s what I was talking about earlier. Turn’s out Foster’s Coach House Tavern is premiering their NEW – old menu.

Seems that after their renovation, they came out with a different menu and the regulars didn’t like it much. So we were there for the premiere of all the favorites and back to the moderate prices that the regulars are used to paying. Yes,there are a few new menu twists…cause of course you have to update things sometimes…even just a little. But, for the most part…the old menu is the new menu at Foster’s Coach House Tavern again. So what ever you enjoyed before for lunch or dinner; shrimp, french dip, steaks, chicken, it’s all still there!

So there it is! We enjoyed champagne cocktails that Mary suggested, a delicious hot meal and great people to talk to on both sides of the bar in this cozy bar restaurant. Oh, did I also mention it was owner Phoebe Kirwood’s Birthday too! That’s the serendipity part of the night out. We were on hand to enjoy talking to other patrons as well as other members of the staff that Phoebe and Mary introduced me to.

Vincent Massa and Dustin Kittle are now the two head chefs that attended the CIA. Vincent has a background at restaurants in Florida and Dustin comes from another restaurant in the area. Dustin was quick to say how “Rhinebeck has a huge food culture and Foster’s is a cornerstone experience. It’s a night out for locals and families and known for a lot of good inexpensive comfort food.”

That’s also a good feeling when you know you have the right staff. We also want to give a shout out to Gidget another bartender here and her hospitality and Carrie who is always funny on both sides of the bar…in particular this night sitting three seats away.

So, if you didn’t know they closed, reopened or changed their menu….give Foster’s another try! This family second generation restaurant is operated by the late Bob Kirwood’s daughter Phoebe Kirwood. The regulars and weekenders will always have fond memories of Bob bartending behind the bar. My guess is if you visit this cozy bar and restaurant you’ll be adding to those memories for generations to come.

Sunday Brunch – Weekend Getaway: The Thayer Hotel

January 27, 2016

Melissa Tyler

Accommodations, Blog, Entertainment, Events, HV Highlights, Uncategorized, Wine & Dine

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The Thayer Hotel at West Point is a landmark hotel celebrating it’s 90th anniversary this year. It is rich in our nation’s history and provides guests with a memorable experience.

Did you know the Thayer Hotel is the only hotel on the Hudson River between Albany and New York City? Plus it has the prestigious 10996 West Point zip code. It is a favorite for locals as well as weekend getaways and a stop for people who transition south for the winter also known as snowbirds. People also travel from all over the country as well as from all over the world to stay at the Thayer.

This past Sunday, I shared Sunday Brunch at the MacArthur Riverview Restaurant and a tour of the hotel with Jose Tejedor; Director of Sales and Marketing of the historic hotel. The Thayer Hotel opened it’s doors in the 1920’s and went through a huge transition about six years ago both in renovations and management. Jose talks about the hotel and it’s ambiance to the feel of a mid-evil castle on the outside but with all the modern amenities on the inside.

Sunday Champagne Brunch is served from 10:30am – 2:30pm and consists of tables and tables of food including an omelette and waffle station.

Fresh fruit, bagels and salmon, and other cold salads are featured as well as traditional breakfast egg and sausage dishes and lunch options are all ready in a circle of hot chafing dishes.

Then of course there is the desert station and a complimentary Mimosa or Bloody Mary.

Reservations are suggested. Reservations are now being taken for Easter and Mother’s Day Brunch. This is a great place to share with someone special or the whole family!

Weekenders from New York City as well as all over the country and the world love to visit this hotel on weekends. Special packages are available for a shopping experience at Woodbury Common Outlets. Did you know that Woodbury Common Outlet’s is the #1 Tourism destination in Orange County? Jose and his team can also plan a trip that includes Storm King Art Center; one of the world’s leading outdoor sculpture parks. Boscobel, the elegant Federal home with it’s own spectacular history and views of the Hudson River. Wine tastings and tours are available at local wineries since the hotel is located in the center of Hudson Valley Wine Country.

Leisure is what people come for on the weekends or a day or evening out for lunch or dinner. The restaurant is now reserving Valentine’s Weekend at MacArthur’s Riverview Restaurant with a romantic 4-course dinner offered Friday, February 12th thru Sunday, February 14th.

The rooms and suites have been remodeled and offer a modern look in the prestigious historic setting. Each of the suites have a bit of a different look paying homage to West Point.

General Patton’s Tavern is a favorite place to watch any game including ARMY football, and basketball. This tavern originally opened in 1926 and has river views and all the feeling of your favorite tavern with a long bar and leather couches and chairs which make it a cozy place to watch the game! Drink specials are offered and appetizers and sandwiches are served.

Zulo is the rooftop outdoor bar open April through the fall. Here too, the views are spectacular and in season things kick off at happy hour.

If your a local and you have cabin fever be sure to take a short scenic drive to West Point for Sunday Brunch, an evening out with dinner or watching the game with some friends. If your a weekender or coming up from New York City for a getaway you will love the “Getaway Experience” at The Thayer.

During the week the hotel’s clientele serves many name companies in the tri-state area and beyond. It’s a favorite place for meetings and conferences accommodating up to 300. The hotel has several large rooms for events and weddings.

Photos By Melissa Tyler

Hudson Whiskey Celebrates 10th Anniversary!

June 12, 2015

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Events, Wine & Dine

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Hudson Whiskey celebrates their 10^th Anniversary, this Saturday, June 13^th at Tuthilltown Spirits in Gardiner from 11am – 9pm.

They’ll be Free Tours and Tastings, Amazing cocktails, local vendors, food trucks and a Barbecue!

There’s Magic In Those Bottles!

This is the story of how a historic grist mill, some old pharmacy bottles and two men with vision became business partners and created an empire!

Ralph Erenzo and Brian Lee are business partners and the driving force behind the Whiskey craze in New York and beyond and certainly here in the Hudson Valley.

How do I Know? It’s not because The New York Times, Artisan Spirit, Huff Post or Forbes writes articles about them and their Hudson Whiskey brand or Tuthilltown Spirits. It’s because I live in the Hudson Valley and did a tasting about five years ago! I’ve been a fan ever since! I’ve even brought friends for tastings…and they’ve been fans…and I think you will be too!

Tuthilltown Spirits Farm Distillery was New York’s FIRST Whiskey distillery since prohibition, distilling some of America’s most prized spirits from right here in the Hudson Valley.

Before Prohibition there were more than 1,000 farm distilleries that produced alcohol from New York grains and fruits. Tuthilltown Gristmill in Gardiner is a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic places. The mill was water powered to render grains to flour with a history dating back more than 220 years.

In 2001, RalphErenzo and Vicki Morgan acquired the riverfront property. In 2003, Ralph and Brian Lee created TuthilltownSpirits LLC. They converted one of the mill granaries to a MICRO DISTILLERY. Two and a half years later in 2005, Tuthilltown Spirits produced batches of VODKA from scraps they collected at a local apple slicing plant and the tradition of small batch spirits production back to the Hudson Valley.

Today, Tuthilltown Spirits distills vodka from apples grown at orchards less than 5 miles away and highly awarded whiskey line using grain harvested by farms less than 10 miles away.

THE BOTTLE

Brian Lee’s father was a Pharmacist. There were a lot of old pharmacy bottles that were around…..and that was how the FIRST batch of HUDSON BABY BOURBON WHISKEY was bottled and transported to New York City and at LeNell Smothers shop in the Red Hook section.

The rest as they say his history! Ralph and Brian agreed that the APOTHECARY look was well suited to the spirits Tuthilltown was intending on introducing.

After some research, Ralph designed a glass bottle by beefing up the glass to make it more sustainable and less likely to break if dropped.

At the start, everyone in the industry told us the bottle in the small size (375ml) would not work. Retailers would not put it on the shelf and bars would not use it! But, the OPPOSITE actually happened! Now everyone tells us “Don’t change the bottle”. IT HAS BECOME ICONIC CRAFT WHISKEY!

Recently, Tuthill just released their first 750 ml full sized bottles for Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey and Manhattan Rye to world Acclaim.

Smaller Barrel…Tastes Great!

Smaller barrels were used because of a cost factor. Turns out the smaller size barrels used to store the whiskey actually sped up the maturation process substantially due to the increased wood to whiskey ratio. It gave it a wonderful characteristic of bourbon!

Give Credit Where Credit Is Due

Be sure to include a visit to Tuthilltown Spirits for a tasting of their TUTHILL COLLECTION of Whiskeys, Vodkas, Gins, Liqueurs and other unique handmade spirits. They’ve won more awards than we can mention here you can check their website for that but here are a couple of highlights.

*2014 – Outstanding Packaging Design Planned & Executed by O. Berek Company

*2011 Craft Whiskey Distillery of the Year by Whiskey Magazine

*2010 Best US Artisian Distiller – American Distilling Institute

*2010 Best New American Whiskey – Food & Wine Magazine

*2008 & 2009 – Best Whiskey Distillery – Hudson Valley Magazine

Be sure to plan on having lunch or dinner in the newly acquired restaurant Tuthill House at the Mill that serves homemade American Cuisine featuring prime steaks, grass fed beef, seafood and locally grown produce. The menu is inspired by modern American cooking, showcasing fresh, local artisan products and ingredients of the Hudson Valley. We hear Darren their Mixologist makes perfect cocktails!

14 Grist Mill Lane, Gardiner

Click On Photo for Website and Info on Tours and Tastings

Follow Tuthilltown Spirits on social media

Gully’s Open For The Season

June 11, 2015

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Wine & Dine

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The Waterfront’s Most Unique Destination is Celebrating their 29th year, under new management and open for the season!

One of everyone’s favorite Newburgh waterfront destinations has a brand new menu and now features New York State Beers including beers from Newburgh Brewing Company. We were recently invited to sit down with the new management team and talk, sip and dine with samples from their new menu.

Gully’s is still that casual, cool, come as you are place to go on he waterfront with fantastic panoramic views of the Hudson River and Mt. Beacon. he new management team has created a brand new menu of good quality food with the preference from local companies. They’ve also added local New York State Beers on tap. Gully’s is family friendly during the day with a new kids menu and a Gastro Pub style restaurant by evening. Gully’s is re-positioning itself as the trend for Kraft Beer Gastro Pub trend get’s stronger here in the Hudson Valley. With the spectacular views and cool summertime breezes this well known pub-restaurant boat is known for…can you say you blame them for a little revamp!

BULLISH ON NEWBURGH

Gui Tepedino and Ryan Black of R Black Global are the New York City real estate development team that are managing the property this season. They are a management team that work in the hospitality arm in development. Gui handles partnerships and new business operations and Ryan specializes in construction and real estate development.

Together and friends for twelve years, they are very interested in further development in the Newburgh and Beacon area. This is just the first of many more projects to come for this savvy team. They love the history of Newburgh and the area and are committed to new opportunities and growth. Music, Art, Food and Drink are the subject of projects this dynamic duo are interested in!

NEW MENU

Gully’s by day is a casual, family place to go to get a good fresh bite to eat on the historic and scenic Hudson River. A new kids menu has been created that will feature chicken fingers and kid size burgers. The beef is is all organic and grass feed.

In the evening, Gully’s turns into a true Gastro Pub Bar on the waterfront! New York State Beers are featured on tap including Newburgh Brewing Company favorite ales: Newburgh Brown Ale and Newburgh Cream Ale. Other beers include: Ithaca Apricot Wheat ( a great Summer beer), Keegan’s Mother Milk Stout and Adirondack Bare Naked Ale and others.They will also continue to serve Corona’s, Bud and Bud Light.

Fresh and local ingredients are the two things Gully’s new menu has to offer!

Menu options include:

Little Neck Clams, Oysters, Steamers, Shrimp Cocktail and Black Angus Burgers.

Ceaser Salad with your choice of shrimp, salmon or chicken.

Salmon sandwich with garlic chives, wasabi mayo, grilled bok choy and a teriyaki drizzle with homemade chips. These chips are a great touch!

Devil on Horseback are bacon wrapped stuffed dates with blue cheese which are a real treat and go great with beer or your favorite cocktail.

Spicy Apricot Pork wings …..incredible good and falls off the bone!

Fish and chips and grilled chicken are also on the menu as well as a few other options.

Gully’s will also feature live entertainment that you have known them for every Tuesday through Sunday. Bands will start Tuesday – Saturday at 8pm.

Every Thursday Night there will be a DJ and they said they will be working with area radio station K104 on promotional theme nights as well.

Sunday is an acoustic day with the same menu listed above and acoustic music from 1-8pm.

A new website is being created so in the meantime the best place to get daily updates is on their Facebook page.

Summer is here and Gully’s and R Black Global are here to stay!

Be sure to visit one of the most popular and original destinations in Newburgh often this season on the waterfront. Gully’s will also stay open through October this year.

Gully’s – 2 Washingston Street – Newburgh

on the Historic waterfront!

Follow Gully’s on social media

Newburgh Brewing Company
Brewed With Heart in the Hudson Valley

May 19, 2015

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Wine & Dine

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This is a story of friendship, dedication, hard work, vision…and beer!

A story that takes time to develop…like beer…and the steamships that were once built in this very location in the 1850’s at William Wright Steamship in Newburgh.

Christopher Basso; Brew Master + Chief Executive Officer, Paul Halayko, President + Chief Operating Officer and Charlie Benedetti, Head of Sales are more than three partners in the Beer business…they are friends.

THE FRIENDS

Christopher and Paul have been best friends since they were 12 years old. They went to high school and Boston University together and Charlie is Paul’s uncle.

Christopher graduated from the French Culinary Institute and was a brewer at the Brooklyn Brewery for almost seven years before becoming the Brew Master at Newburgh Brewing Company

Paul and Christopher have been friends since age 12 and went to high school and Boston University together. Paul is a CPA with a background in working with start-up companies as well as financial consulting. He left a job at JP Morgan to run Newburgh Brewing Company.

Charlie was a career Wall Street trader and is now Head of Sales for the brewery.

These gents love making beer. They pour their passion into the brewery everyday!

THE BEER

Newburgh Brewing Company honors the rich history of Newburgh, a history that includes one infamous neighbor General George Washington who lived up the street. People have been brewing beer in Newburgh since before America was America. It is a tradition Newburgh Brewing Company is proud to be a part of.

The 3 most popular Beers are: Cream Ale, Brown Ale and Paper Box Pale Ale (Yes, this building was once a paper box company too)

THE SELECTION

Since opening, in April 2012 they have brewed 40 different styles in just 3 years! They make 6 beers year round and have an assortment of seasonal beers and specialty releases.

The Taproom is a large space with high ceilings and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. 16 different beers are served as well as a local cider and a selection of Hudson Valley wines.

6 Beers Made Year Round:

Cream Ale – Light, easy drinking, nice malt backbone with a hint of hop bitterness at the finish, a traditional NY style beer.

Brown Ale – English-style, dark roasted, hints of coffee, toffee and chocolate

Paper Box Pale Ale – Hop-forward American Pale Ale

HOP Drop DIPA – Big American Double IPA with large hop aroma and flavor, citrusy and dangerously drinkable although 9.5%ABV

East Kolsch – Pilsner-like, originally made for the 2 Blue Smoke restaurants in NYC . Light and easy drinking.

India Cream Ale – Bigger bodied version of our Cream Ale, aggressively hopped like an IPA with Sorachi Ace.

Honor, natural goodness of ingredient’s and friends working hard to make them shine through every sip.

The Food…The Mood + More

“Supporting Local” whenever possible and sourcing food from local farms and suppliers are a priority. Newburgh Brewing Company appreciates the hard work, traditions and dedication from local farmers.

You’ll find everything from all natural chicken wings, fish tacos, local farm fresh salads, New York State made cheeses, and more on the tap room menu.

The Mood is spacious with long tables and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. The walls feature a gallery of local artists and there are bands weekly including a Swing Band on Thursday nights. Tours of the facility are available on Saturdays. Always best to call or check website or Facebook page for updates.

Miss this beer…you don’t have to! It’s distributed throughout the Hudson Valley, New York City, Long Island and northern New York up to the Canadian border and 7 northern New Jersey counties.

Tap Room Hours

Wednesday: 4pm-9pm Trivia at 7:30

Thursday: 4pm – 11 pm

Friday: 4pm to Midnight

Saturday: Noon to Midnight

Sunday: Noon to 5pm

Click on logo for website

80 South Colden Street, Newburgh

Follow Newburgh Brewing Company on Social Media

#RHONYWineChallenge

October 31, 2014

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Wine & Dine

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We’re asking you to take the #RHONYWineChallenge

Recently, THE Hudson Valley Story and our friend Debbie Gioquindo THE Hudson Valley Wine Goddess threw a party for some of our friends with #RHONY Wines by Ramona Singer and Bethenny Frankel Skinny Girl Cocktails.

Before the party took place, Debbie and I taped a short video that we are asking you to share the video and participate by creating your own!

Simply…Invite some friends over and serve #RHONY wines by Ramona Singer, Bethenny Frankel, Skinnygirl and videotape a short video under a minute and post on social media with the hashtag #RHONYWineChallenge

We know Ramona Singer, Bethenny Frankel and SkinnyGirl Fans are dedicated and will LOVE this ideas as much as we enjoyed doing it!

To help you pick out your wine selections see below.

RAMONA SINGER
We Got The Pinot Grigio Ramona!

For years, fans of #RHONY asked Ramona which Pinot Grigio was her favorite so she developed her own. She loved wine so much she put her name on it. Today, their are two selections Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese Merlot.

“When I developed Ramona Pinot, it was important to me that this was a smooth wine that could be enjoyed on it’s own, we really accomplished that” said Ramona.

Ramona Pinot Grigio is made from 100 percent Pinot Grigio grapes which are grown in picturesque Veneto region of Italy. The crisp pleasant white wine bears an elegant label designed by Ramona, who drew on her creativity and fashion design experience.

Ramona grew up in the Hudson Valley, hence the Hudson Valley connection to our story.

She is an astute business women and a true aficionado of fashion. From an early age she wanted a career in fashion and after graduating from The Fashion Institute of Technology in NY with a B.S Degree in business became a buyer at Macy’s. She went on to create her first company Ramona Singer Fashions, Tru Renewal Skin Care, True Faith Jewelry Collection, The Ramona Singer Jewelry on HSN and Amazon Store Ramona Singer Collection.

Ramona Pinot Grigio
Grapes: 100 % Pinot Grigio delle Venezie – Veneto, Italy
Fresh, Fruity, Clean and Crisp with hints of hazelnut. Soft and delicate.
Food Pairing: Enjoy by itself or paired with hors d’oeuvres. Excellent with seafood or delicately prepared white meat dishes.

Ramona Sangiovese Merlot
Grapes: 85% Sangiovese 15% Merlot – Tuscany, Italy
Made from a Sangiovese base blended with a small percentage of merlot to create a fresh, appealing fruit-forward wine. Refined in oak, it can be considered a “mini-super-Tuscan” with appealing aromatics and a fresh fruit-forward flavor profile.

Food Pairing: Pairs nicely with everyday fare from pastas to pizza to simple preparation red meats.

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Bethenny Frankel
Skinnygirl Cocktails

Bethenny returns to The Real Housewives of New York City for Season 7 and taping is currently under way. Skinnygirl Margarita was the brainchild of author, chef, tv star and entrepreneur Bethenny Frankel. Bethenny has helped create the COCKTAIL REVOLUTION that has been going strong. She has created more BUZZ around the word BRANDING than anyone else we know of which is one of our own personal favorite subjects here at The Hudson Valley Story.

Skinnygirl Margaritas, cocktails, wines, sparkers, water enhancers, books, exercise dvd’s, clothing, recipes, nutrition bars plus she even had time to Dance with the Stars! Skinnygirl isn’t just a brand, it’s a way of living!

MEET THE GIRLS
Discover a whole new way to cocktail with low-calorie alcoholic drinks, including wine, vodkas, margaritas and ready-to-serve cocktails.

Prosecco: Bubbly mix, light and crisp of sassy and classy.

Pinot Grigio: Lightly sweet and perfectly crisp.
Pair with crackers and cheese to delicate dishes.

Chardonnay: Low calorie twist on classic white. Light and fruity with hints of French Oak Vanilla. Perfectly balanced blend of richness and citrus.

Cabernet Sauvignon: Flavored with notes of dark fruit, this sophisticated cabernet Sauvignon is complemented by every lady’s most irresistible indulgence– Chocolate!

Moscato: Lightly effervescent, low-cal wine slightly sparkles with notes of pear, peach and mango for a refreshing yet delicate sip.

California Red Blend: Chocolate, berries, caramel and creme brulee. Need we say anything more!

California White Blend: Rich notes of honey, orange peel and tropical fruits.

California Rose Blend: Bursting with a bouquet of Cherry, pomegranate and ripe citrus fruit.

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www.skinnygirlcocktails.com

For information on Real Housewives of New York City Follow BRAVO

www.bravotv.com

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Photographs Melissa Tyler Photography

Our Favorite Cocktails – Hudson Valley Goddess and THE Hudson Valley Story

October 15, 2014

Melissa Tyler

Blog, Entertainment, Wine & Dine

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With Fall here…it’s time to start switching up to a new season of cocktails.

So we asked THE #HudsonValleyWineGoddess what her favorite cocktail of the moment is and shared ours!

Lemon Basil Martini made by Helen at the Virginia Hotel Ebbitt Room bar.

Here are the ingredients you will need to make yours!

4-5 Fresh Basil Leaves
15 ml (1/2 oz) Lemon Juice
15 ml (1/2 oz) Simple Syrup
60 ml (2 oz) Citrus Vodka
1 Basil Sprig
1 Lemon Wedge
1 cup Crushed Ice

Directions:

1. Add fresh basil leaves, lemon juice and simple syrup in cocktail shaker and muddle basil leaves. Let it soak in lemon juice for couple of minutes. This will let basil flavor mix well in resulting drink.

2. Add crushed ice in cocktail shaker. Pour citrus vodka over it and shake well for 25-30 seconds.

3. Take chilled martini glass, strain and pour lemon and basil mixed drink in it.

4. Skew basil sprig and lemon wedge in cocktail skewer and garnish martini as shown in photo above.

On Chilly nights, THE Hudson Valley Story says Hot Toddy’s are one of my personal favorites. I love using Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey from THE Hudson Valley’s own Tuthilltown Spirits in Gardiner.

Hot Toddy

Here are the ingredients you will need to make yours:

one Teaspoon of honey ( a bit more is good too)

2-3 ounces boiling water (depending on size of mg)

1 Teabag

1 shot of Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey

1 Cinnamon stick

1 lemon wedge

1 pinch of Nutmeg

Directions

1. Boil water and pour into glass with teabag and shot of whiskey and honey, squeeze lemon wedge and add a pinch of nutmeg and top off with a cinnamon stick.

Wine & Dine

Grist Mill History

Today

Cocktails

Let’s Lunch

Dinner

Tasting Flights + Events + Weddings

1. Ranked #38 out of 100 Most Influential Wine Bloggers by Excel Wines in 2015!

2. Million Dollar Sips Launch

3. Mastering the Business Dinner

4. Get To Know Your Wine

5. Hudson Valley Uncorked

6. Getting Social

New Menu Meet the Old Menu and Our Favorite HV Bartender Mary!

*2014 – Outstanding Packaging Design Planned & Executed by O. Berek Company

*2011 Craft Whiskey Distillery of the Year by Whiskey Magazine

*2010 Best US Artisian Distiller – American Distilling Institute

*2010 Best New American Whiskey – Food & Wine Magazine

*2008 & 2009 – Best Whiskey Distillery – Hudson Valley Magazine

14 Grist Mill Lane, Gardiner

80 South Colden Street, Newburgh

Bethenny Frankel Skinnygirl Cocktails

Here are the ingredients you will need to make yours!

4-5 Fresh Basil Leaves 15 ml (1/2 oz) Lemon Juice 15 ml (1/2 oz) Simple Syrup 60 ml (2 oz) Citrus Vodka 1 Basil Sprig 1 Lemon Wedge 1 cup Crushed Ice

Directions:

2. Add crushed ice in cocktail shaker. Pour citrus vodka over it and shake well for 25-30 seconds.

3. Take chilled martini glass, strain and pour lemon and basil mixed drink in it.

4. Skew basil sprig and lemon wedge in cocktail skewer and garnish martini as shown in photo above.

Hot Toddy

Here are the ingredients you will need to make yours:

one Teaspoon of honey ( a bit more is good too)

2-3 ounces boiling water (depending on size of mg)

1 Teabag

1 shot of Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey

1 Cinnamon stick

1 lemon wedge

1 pinch of Nutmeg

Directions

1. Boil water and pour into glass with teabag and shot of whiskey and honey, squeeze lemon wedge and add a pinch of nutmeg and top off with a cinnamon stick.

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Bethenny Frankel
Skinnygirl Cocktails

4-5 Fresh Basil Leaves
15 ml (1/2 oz) Lemon Juice
15 ml (1/2 oz) Simple Syrup
60 ml (2 oz) Citrus Vodka
1 Basil Sprig
1 Lemon Wedge
1 cup Crushed Ice