Saturday, June 27, 2015

Wine Tasting - Saturday 1-4, June 27

Your Host:
Branden Hylwa 
Murphy Distributors




Delaroche Cotes du Rhone
Rosé 2014 . . . $14.99
Very charming pale rosé color. The wine displays lots of fresh fruit aromas such as strawberry and watermelon. The palate is focused and very well balanced with again some strawberry and ripe red fruit notes. The finish is quite pleasing and long with a little spiciness and freshness to it.

Höpler Pinot Blanc 2014 . . . $15.99
Light yellow in color with aromas of ripe lychee and ananas. Very juicy and mouthfilling on the palate, showing hints of citrus and fully ripe fruits. Full bodied with a lingering clean finish

Höpler Blaufränkisch 2009 . . . $18.99
Gentle red-cherry fruit, soft and pliable tannins and fresh acidity combine to make this a simple and cheerful light red for drinking now.

The Path Pinot Noir 2013 . . . $11.99
The aromas of crushed cherries dominating the nose and cola, wisteria blossom and vanilla playing significant roles. The palate is juicy wild strawberry, sweetened cranberry, tart cherry and soft caramel combine to make an instant crowd-pleaser. Moderate acidity frames the wine and vanilla ice cream flavors prevail due to the 10 months of French oak aging. This wine is medium-bodied, with nice structure and well-integrated tannins

Friday, June 26, 2015

Beer Tasting 4 - 7pm Friday, June 26

Your Host:
Caitlin 
Two Roads Brewing Company
Stratford, Connecticut





Henry's Farm Doppelbock . . . $4.99/22oz

Made in honor of our CEO's great-grandfather Henry, who made a doppelbock every year on his South Dakota farm to warrant the coming of spring. A classic strong German lager with a robust body and a deep ruby red color. Two Roads' recipe uses a generous amount of toasted German and North American barley that is lightly balanced with floral hops.

Conntucky Lightnin' . . . $12.99/750ml

The Connecticut Yankees at Two Roads have CONNjured up this moonshine inspired bourbon-like ale. Using good ol’ USA corn grits and aged in real bourbon barrels from a famous Kentucky distillery, this unique CONNcoction includes notes of whiskey, oak and vanilla.


Lil Heaven Session IPA . . . $9.69/6pcan

A session IPA in a can.  Made with four exotic hops - Azacca, Calypso, Mosaic and Equinox. Taste is of tropical fruits, specifically passion fruit, grapefruit and apricots. Finishes with just enough toasted malt character to balance.


Road Jam . . . $11.99/6pcan
A wheat ale fermented with real red and black raspberries and accented with fresh lemongrass.  It has a stunning red color and mouth-watering berry aroma.  Fruity and refreshingly dry.


Thursday, June 25, 2015

Let's get this party started! Fun ideas...

Summer 2015 offers a great deal of party opportunities and with everyone trying to figure out a way to make their gathering stand out and be the hit of the summer, there is quite a bit of Googling, and swapping of ideas through social media. We thought it would be fun to share some of our own ideas on ways to kick your gathering into high gear.

Consider this:

Start your party off with bubbles!
Something as simple as inexpensive Cava or Prosecco can set the stage. You can also pour a California sparkler or slide all the way up to the top of the market with a vintage Champagne if you prefer and your wallet can handle it, but the point is that bubbles are fun! Sparkling wine is refreshing and it puts people in a celebratory mood. Use the first half hour to an hour of your party to meet and greet your guests as they arrive and toast a fun evening ahead. Put out some light snacks (sparkling wine pairs great with a broad spectrum of foods) and then have a couple of extra bottles on hand for those that want to stick with it throughout the party as others opt to put down this glass in exchange for the next offering.

Rosé is the way!
In recent years Rosé has become a "go to" summer wine. They are very in vogue and more and more people are jumping on board with this fast growing trend. Use it as an addition to you wine choices for your guests and offer a red, a white and a rosé. Our guess is that if your party like many in our area, you will see great deal of interest in the wine with the ethereal pink hue.
Here is an idea... A Rosé party! Pick up a dozen or more rosés from different producers and areas around the globe, throw in a sparkler or two and mix it up. No two bottles are the same, I try this one and you try that one, everyone just enjoys tasting something new with each glass that they enjoy. Pour small amounts in each glass and keep things exciting by offering different types of foods from cheeses and salads to seafood and selections from the grill. Have your caterer make a giant Paella as the centerpiece if you like and really take it to the next level. The point is that Rosé is both chic and simple. They evoke a sense of elegance and are a wonderful dinner wine but also the perfect accompaniment to a simple picnic.

Txakolina (pronounced Chocolie) steals the show!
This is a great addition or centerpiece to your summer party and just like the previous suggestions adds a sense of fun. For those that have never heard of this wine, it is "The" wine of Spain's San Sebastian area and it is served in virtually every Tapas bar across the region. Low in alcohol with bright acidity and a perfect pairing with so many foods, this one will get everyone's attention! Why? Just look at how it is served (see picture). The traditional pouring method is to hold the wine glass down low and pour it from way up high to force air into the wine and put a mousse on top which wakes the wine up and keeps everyone ooohing and ahhing while they watch. You will need a designated "pourer" for this one to keep the spillage to a minimum but once you get the hang of it (very easy) the party will quickly move to the realm of memorable.

Signature cocktail to seal the deal!
With so many mixologists out there mixing things up in our local bars and restaurants, there are ideas everywhere. Try adding a "Blueberry smash" or maybe a "Cucumber Lemonade" to the drinks menu. These eye-popping drinks are leaving the Kir Royale of yesteryear in the rearview mirror. Go to your local Farmer's Market and see what is in season then Google recipes on your phone while you consider what local ingredients to will make your party stand out from the rest. Need some other cool ideas? Every Saturday for the rest of the summer we will be adding a signature cocktail tasting to our weekend from 4-7pm at the store. Let us help you to find the next great thing.

It is summer 2015 people, let's have some fun!

Monday, June 22, 2015

Help Wanted - Part Time Cashier(s) & Craft Beer/Stock



HELP WANTED


   Harry's Wine & Liquor Market has a long history of great customer service, selection, and a knowledgeable staff. Today we begin our search for the next additions to that legacy and we are seeking a few exceptional people to work with our team.

Are you one of the people that we are looking for?



Some things we need to know as you consider applying with us:

Are you customer service oriented?

Local to Fairfield Connecticut?

Do you have your own transportation?

Have a valid drivers license?

Are you at least 18 years old?

Do you have a flexible schedule?

   If you are interested in our Craft Beer/Stock position, you will need to be physically fit, willing and able to do manual labor including Stocking shelves and coolers along with making deliveries in our company vehicle. You must also have a thirst for knowledge about great craft beer and artisan spirits. Our craft beer/spirits team is strong and led by some of the best in the industry. We are looking to pass that on to the next thirsty soul that is looking for an opportunity to work and learn at a top notch store.

   Maybe you want to work in our most important customer service position as a cashier. These girls and guys are the face of Harry's and work to be sure that each customer that comes through our door leaves satisfied. Every member of our team is important but this is truly the back bone of what we do. We are looking for people to fill day and evening shifts and we can work with your college schedule.

These are NOT summer positions. We are looking for people that will start with us now and be able to work with us in to the future.

Harry's is a great place to work with an inviting staff and an ownership that wants you to love your job 

Are you ready? 

Let's get started!

Please apply in person at our store located at 2094 Post Rd. Fairfield, Ct.
Ask for Patrick

Saturday, June 20, 2015

Wine Tasting - Saturday 1-4, June 20



Your Host:
Peter Slywka 
Michael Skurnik Wines

 





Skouras Zoe 2014 . . . $10.99
The color is bright white yellow, with green hues. The nose is complicated and the wine smells of fresh flowers, with hints of crushed blossoms and fruit aromas, such as avocado. A relaxed pace and luxurious texture gives flavors of citrus fruit and touches of jasmine and mint. In the aftertaste the acidity, travels across the palate for a clean extended finish.


Gobelsburger Rosé 2014 . . . $16.99
Very light in color and some nougat and Turkish honey notes. Cool and refreshing. Lean and piquant despite the dominance of Zweigelt, this wine points in the Burgundy direction. Very fresh with a long finish.


Charles & Charles Rosé 2014 . . . $12.99 The color is vibrant pink, salmon with fuchsia edges. More than ever, the wild red fruit of strawberry, raspberry and Bing cherry are interwoven with Herbs de Provence and grass, a touch of citrus and an even greater presence of minerality. It was generally a lower acid year, but you wouldn’t know that from the natural acid in the wine and bright finish.

Mas de Gourgonnier Red 2013 . . . $15.99
The Mas de Gourgonnier Les Baux de Provence is an excellent red wine from the south of France. It is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Carignan, with rich black fruit notes and a distinctly earthy style leading to a very dry finish.


Friday, June 19, 2015

Beer Tasting 4 - 7pm Friday, June 19

Your Host:
Jaime 
Shebeen Brewing Company
Wolcott, Connecticut





Black Hop IPA . . . $10.49/6pcan

Our blackest beer made with special blackened grains.  This Cascadian Style IPA is balanced with sweetness, hop bitterness and aroma. 6.8% ABV

Cannoli Beer . . . $5.99/22oz

The ultimate dessert beer made with vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and special grains from France.  Best served with powdered sugar and shaved chocolate.  Heaven in a glass. 5.2% ABV



Irish Pale . . . $10.49/6pcan

This Irish style pale ale is a great session beer, light caramel notes, amber in color but light in body.  Its perfect for hanging in your favorite Irish Pub.  Slainte. 4.9% ABV


Thursday, June 18, 2015

Father's Day Ad 2015

Congratulations to all of the men fortunate enough to be dads. 
This weekend we celebrate you and what you mean to our lives!
__________________________________________________________________

There are also many graduations happening this weekend and we stand ready to help you to be sure you have everything you need to celebrate the special occasion. Whether you are celebrating your Dad, your Grad, or just having fun, Stop by and let us guide you through your purchase.

The ad below shows just a portion of the many great deals we have happening all weekend.



Saturday, June 13, 2015

Wine Tasting - Saturday 1-4, June 13

Your Host:
Elena Shulman 
New England Wine & Spirits


Vallesanta Orvieto 2013 . . . $11.99

This selection has more character than the average Orvieto with aromas of pie crust and mineral. Flavors of pear and apple are evident in its medium body and crisp flavor profile along with a slight note of lemon and apple skin on the light and clean finish.


Les Valentines Cotes de Provence Rosé 2014 . . . $19.99
Fresh citrus aromas follow through to the crisp, lemon and grapefruit flavors of this wine. To balance, a tangy texture, red currant fruits and intense acidity give this tasty wine all its poised presence. This blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Mouvédre is from certified organic vineyards.

Wente Riva Ranch Chardonnay 2013 . . . $21.99 Displaying the perfect balance of tropical fruit, acidity and creamy notes of butter, vanilla and subtle oak from barrel aging, this Chardonnay has a round mouth-feel and a crisp, long finish.

Bogle Essential Red 2013 . . . $10.99
Rich, enticing layers of complexity, starting with that first irresistible sip. Ripe fruit, intense with flavors of boysenberries and sweet cherries. Luscious vanilla, caressing the palate from barrel aging in American and French oak. Juicy and silky throughout, with a finish that lingers of black licorice and spicy pipe tobacco.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Beer Tasting 4 - 7pm Friday, June 5

Your Host:
Gerard 
Thomas Hooker Brewing Company



Defiance Double IPA Lager . . . $9.29/4pbtl

Defying conventional wisdom, this brew possess the robust hop character of and Indian Pale Ale, but finishes smooth like a lager, the best of both worlds.
Tenacious Belgian IPA . . . $9.29/4pbtl
Hopped with Citra and Amarillo and fermented with Belgian yeast, Tenacious has a juicy citrus flavor with a smooth finish.
MALTS: Pilsener, Vienna, Wheat, Caramunich 2, candy sugar
Watermelon Ale . . . $8.69/6pbtl
The light and crisp Ale has a hint of watermelon essence resulting in a very refreshing thirst quenching brew. Our Watermelon Ale is sure to please a variety of palates lending itself to being the perfect summer treat.
HOPS: Bittering (Saaz), Flavor (Saaz, Cascade), Aroma (Saaz, Cascade)
MALTS: Canadian 2-Row, Carapilis, Wheat Malt
Honey Berry Happiness Ale . . . $9.29/6pbtl
An ale brewed with the happy duo of sweet Connecticut honey and natural berry flavors.
MALTS: 2-Row, Carapils, Wheat
HOPS: Saaz and Cascade (aroma)
Other: Local CT honey from Stonewall Apiary in Hanover, CT and Natural Berry Flavors

Rum renaissance, The best value in Craft Spirits

The past decade has seen many changes in our industry. Single Malt Scotch, Craft Beer, and the Bourbon boom are undeniable shifts as savvy shoppers have turned away from big names and turned their attention to things that are "Hand Crafted" rather than the mass produced sameness. Customers are willing to pay more for products that are well made and the smaller producers, men and women with a specific passion, continue to make their mark while the corporate giants struggle to adjust to this growing trend.

If you have every had a wine, spirit, or beer that has stopped you in your tracks. One that made you think "I didn't know it could be this good", You have probably joined the movement. A favorite passion of ours is to see the light go on as we introduce one of our customers to something new. Too often in life we wander through the days with our brains a little shut off as brand loyalty gets in the way of new discovery. The good news is that right now, more than ever, people are open to finding something new. There is such a surge of new artistry in this industry that people are asking questions and searching out new things.

So what's next?

In this case the phrase "What's old is new again" might be appropriate as Rum is making its come back. Perhaps the biggest reason the trend is on the rise is that there are lots of stocks of older, well aged rum all over the Caribbean. There are caches of these beautiful sipping spirits readily available and the prices are amazing when compared to other categories. Add to that the idea that there are many islands using different techniques that make their style quite unique. Some of these producers have also been watching what the folks in the Whiskey world are doing with different woods and you will begin to see why Rum is making noise as a Craft spirit option.

Lets take a look at a few that we are excited about...

Zafra 21yr (Panama) $48.99
The aroma is rich with dark fruit and devoid of the light alcohols aged far less than this blend of rums. Unlike most aged rums, this Panamanian rum is aged at least 21 years in used American bourbon whiskey barrels. The body is smooth, slightly viscous and leads to a slightly dry smoky tobacco and charred oak finish.  (When is the last time you saw a 21yr Whiskey under $100 nevermind under $50) It has seen time in Bourbon barrel and is a perfect bridge spirit for bourbon fans. Father's Day? Hmmm


Santa Teresa 1796 Solera (Venezeula) $43.99
Results from a careful blend of their finest aged spirits that is further aged in a style borrowed from the Spanish sherry producers. It is the first premium añejo rum in the world to be aged in the Solera method, which is unique to the entire rum world.

Ron Zacapa Rum Centenario 23 Year (Guatemala) $40.99
Smooth aroma honeyed with caramel and fruitiness. Sweet and mouth-warming with hints of oak, vanilla, dried fruits and some liquorice. The finish is long and sweet with vanilla, coffee, smoke and honey and it has the tiniest amount of marzipan creeping up to the palate.

Old Man Guavaberry Republic Rum 8yr (Saint Maarten) $24.99
Some years ago after many years in the making, we released our Republic Rum, an unsweetened golden blend of the finest Caribbean Rums, the youngest of which was aged in oak for five years. Republic Rum is a sipping quality golden spirit of the Caribbean but if all recipes depend on the quality of their ingredients, this rum will add depth and flavour to all Caribbean rum cocktails, traditional or modern.

The list goes on...

Friday, June 5, 2015

Beer Tasting 4 - 7pm Friday, June 5

Join us tonight as we kick-off our 3rd annual Best of Connecticut Brewers! Every week we will be featuring one of our favorite Ct's brewers - Buy Local!


Your Host: Mick Ferarro
City Steam

brewing Company-Hartford, CT


Blonde on Blind
. . . $8.99/6pcan - $17.99/12pcan

Our double Gold Medal winning American Pale Ale. German hops for bitterness, West Coast USA hops for aroma. Don’t let the word ‘blonde’ fool you: this beer has a huge amount of flavor for something that looks like a light beer. BoB has been served at City Steam off and on since the very beginning. IT is named after a 1966 Bob Dylan album.

Naughty Nurse . . .
$8.99/6pcan - $17.99/12pcan
Medium hop level consisting of all English varieties (Challenger, Fuggles, & Goldings). The bitterness is offset by the sweet caramel flavor of the English crystal malt, which also gives the ale its amber color. The Naughty Nurse is our most popular beer and has been on tap at City Steam almost since the beginning. The reason for its popularity probably has to do with its overall well balanced profile… or maybe it’s the name. It is perhaps a quintessential version of an English inspired American made ‘microbrew.’