The Sip and Story of Stateside Vodka

As July rolls around, the sun-kissed days and balmy evenings beckon for something refreshing to sip on. Look no further than Stateside Vodka, the quintessential companion for summer gatherings and rooftop soirées. This isn't just any vodka; it's a testament to innovation, determination, and a whole lot of brotherly love.

Stateside Vodka isn't just about what's inside the bottle; it's about the story behind it. You might expect a tale steeped in tradition, passed down through generations, but the reality is refreshingly different. Picture two brothers, bored and broke, with a simple question: "Hey, do you want to start a vodka company?" And just like that, a journey began.

With no money and minimal knowledge of vodka-making, they turned to the basement gym of their parents' house. In that unlikely setting, amidst dusty treadmills and forgotten weights, Stateside Vodka was born. Armed with determination and a makeshift still cobbled together from eBay finds and high school lab equipment, they set out to create something truly exceptional.

Their journey wasn't without its hurdles; a run-in with their father, reminiscent of a scene from Breaking Bad, led to eviction from the family home. But setbacks only fueled their resolve. They sought education and experience, from distilling fellowships at Michigan State University to consulting gigs in vodka's birthplace, Poland.

Fast forward to today, and Stateside Vodka stands as a testament to American ingenuity and the power of perseverance. From humble beginnings in a suburban basement to becoming Philly's favorite hometown vodka and Pennsylvania's top-selling craft spirit, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

So, what sets Stateside Urbancraft Vodka apart? For starters, it's gluten-free, kosher, and distilled seven times for unparalleled smoothness. With zero sugar and zero carbs, it's tailor-made for those with active lifestyles who refuse to compromise on quality. Plus, it's mineral-enhanced and cold-filtered, because why shouldn't your vodka be as pure and refreshing as a mountain spring?

But enough about the story; let's talk about the taste. Stateside Vodka is crisp, clean, and endlessly versatile. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or in a delightful cocktail, it's sure to impress even the most discerning palate.

And speaking of cocktails, why not try your hand at crafting the perfect July sipper? Allow us to introduce the "Stateside Sunset," a refreshing concoction that's as vibrant as a summer evening.

Stateside Sunset

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Stateside Vodka
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, heated until combined)
  • 2-3 fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 4-5 basil leaves
  • Soda water, to top

Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the sliced strawberries and basil leaves.
  2. Add Stateside Vodka, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
  4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
  5. Top with soda water and garnish with a basil leaf and strawberry slice.
  6. Enjoy your Stateside Sunset!

Sipping Your Way Through Summer with Sauvignon Blanc

As the sun warms your skin and the days long, what better way to celebrate summer than with a glass of crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc? Join us on a journey through the world of this beloved varietal, exploring four exquisite bottles guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.

The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc: Purity in a Glass

The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc

Journey to New Zealand's Marlborough region with The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc. This wine boasts enticing aromas of flowering herbs, tropical fruits, and citrus, followed by a palate brimming with concentrated fruit and bright acidity. The finish is complex and mineral, leaving you wanting more.

Food Pairings: Enjoy The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc with fresh seafood dishes like oysters or barbecue prawns.

Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc: A Kiwi Classic

Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc

New Zealand's Sauvignon Blanc reputation is legendary, and Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc lives up to the hype. This classic expression offers vibrant aromas of grapefruit, white peach, and passionfruit, with a refreshing minerality on the palate.

Food Pairings: Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc shines with delicate seafood dishes like mussels or white meat drizzled with lemon. Tangy cheeses, especially goat cheese, also make a perfect match.

Natura Sauvignon Blanc: Light and Bright from Chile

Natura Sauvignon Blanc

Travel to South America with Natura Sauvignon Blanc. This Chilean delight boasts a light yellow color and a complex nose of lime, grapefruit, and herbal notes. The palate echoes the citrus and herb characteristics, making for a bright and refreshing experience.

Food Pairings: Natura Sauvignon Blanc complements poultry, seafood, soft cheeses, and salads perfectly.

Ferrari-Carano Fumé Blanc: A California Pioneer

Ferrari-Carano Fumé Blanc

Sonoma County's Ferrari-Carano Fumé Blanc is a true Californian gem. This Fumé Blanc, a term for Sauvignon Blanc in some parts of California, offers enticing aromas of pineapple, mango, and peach, interwoven with citrus and lemongrass. The palate is equally delightful, with ripe stone fruits balanced by crisp acidity. Subtle oak aging adds complexity and depth to this delightful wine.

Food Pairings: Ferrari-Carano Fumé Blanc pairs beautifully with an array of dishes. Enjoy it with classic seafood and poultry, or get adventurous with veal, pork, or even spicy ethnic cuisines.

Espresso Yourself with These 3 Coffee Liqueur Cocktails

Coffee: the elixir of life, the fuel of champions, and the perfect companion for a cozy morning (or afternoon, or evening...). But what if you could take your love of coffee to the next level? Enter the wonderful world of coffee liqueurs! These delightful concoctions combine the rich flavors of coffee with the smooth touch of alcohol, creating a symphony of taste that will tantalize your senses.

This month, we're spotlighting three coffee liqueurs that are sure to become your new favorites: Patron XO Cafe, Cantera Negra Cafe, and Mr. Black. Let's dive into each one and explore the delicious cocktails you can create with them!

 

Patrón XO Cafe: A Dark and Delicious Delight

Patrón XO Cafe

Patrón XO Cafe is a luxurious coffee liqueur made with Patrón tequila and the essence of Arabica coffee. Unlike many coffee liqueurs, Patrón XO Cafe is dry, not sweet, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a more sophisticated flavor profile.

Here's a recipe for a classic Espresso Martini with a Patrón XO twist:

Ingredients: 

1.5 oz PATRÓN Reposado or PATRÓN EL ALTO (tequila)

1 oz Chilled espresso

0.75 oz Patrón XO Cafe

0.25 oz Simple syrup

Small pinch of sea salt

Coffee beans for garnish

Directions: 

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into a chilled cocktail coupe. Garnish with 3 coffee beans for an extra touch of elegance.

 

Cantera Negra Cafe: A Smooth and Silky Symphony

Cantera Negra Cafe

Cantera Negra Cafe is a premium coffee liqueur known for its smooth, silky finish and notes of hazelnut and dark stone fruit. It pairs beautifully with award-winning Cantera Negra tequilas, creating delectable and balanced cocktails.

Cantera Cold Brew Martini

Ingredients:

1.5 oz Cantera Negra Reposado Tequila (for a smoother tequila flavor)

1 oz Cantera Negra Cafe

1 oz Cold brew coffee (chilled)

0.5 oz Agave nectar

3 coffee beans for garnish

Directions: 

  1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice.
  2. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until well chilled and frothy.
  3. Double strain (using a fine-mesh strainer) into a chilled martini glass.
  4. Garnish with 3 coffee beans for a classic touch.

 

Mr. Black: The Original Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur

Mr. Black

 

Mr. Black is the OG of cold brew coffee liqueurs, hailing from the land down under – Australia! Made with 100% specialty Arabica beans sourced from the finest growing regions, Mr. Black boasts a rich, decadent coffee flavor that's both bold and balanced.

Craving a classic? Here's a simple White Russian recipe made with Mr. Black:

Ingredients: 

2 oz Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur

Milk or milk alternative (macadamia or oat milk work great!)

Directions: 

Fill a glass with ice, pour in Mr. Black, and then top it off with your choice of milk. Sit back, relax, and savor the creamy coffee goodness!

These are just a few ideas to get you started on your coffee liqueur adventure. With so many delicious options available, there's a perfect cup (or rather, glass) out there for everyone. So next time you're looking for a way to elevate your coffee experience, reach for one of these fantastic coffee liqueurs and discover a world of flavor possibilities!

Crafting the Perfect Smoky Margarita with Código 1530 Añejo

Get ready to elevate your tequila experience with Código 1530 Añejo, a carefully aged masterpiece that's designed for sipping and savoring. Crafted with precision, this premium añejo tequila spends 18 months maturing in French White Oak red wine barrels, resulting in a complex flavor profile that's a true testament to the art of tequila-making.

The Perfectly-Balanced Flavor Journey

LOOK: Amber

TASTE: Vanilla & Caramel

AROMA: Vanilla, Butterscotch, Oak & Caramel

FINISH: Smooth & Delicate

Every sip of Código 1530 Añejo is a journey through a perfectly balanced landscape of flavors. From the enticing amber hue to the rich notes of vanilla and caramel, the aroma of butterscotch and oak, and the smooth, delicate finish, this añejo tequila is a celebration of craftsmanship and time.

Premium Añejo Tequila Perfected Over Time

This award-winning añejo tequila is the result of meticulous aging in French White Oak wine barrels for a year and a half. The commitment to quality is evident in every drop, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life. What sets Código 1530 Añejo apart is not just its rich flavor but also its adherence to pure, unadulterated craftsmanship:

  • 100% Lowlands Agave
  • Aged 18 Months
  • Single NOM Distillery
  • Bottled at Origin
  • No Added Chemicals, Sweeteners, Flavoring, or Coloring

It's tequila in its purest form, allowing you to experience the essence of agave and the artistry of aging.

Smoky Margarita Recipe

codigo

Now that you've discovered the exquisite flavor of Código 1530 Añejo, why not take it up a notch with a Smoky Margarita? This cocktail not only complements the vanilla and caramel undertones of the tequila but also adds a touch of theatrical flair. Here's how to create the magic:

Ingredients:

2 oz Código 1530 Añejo Tequila

1 oz Fresh Lime Juice

3/4 oz Agave Syrup

Ice Cubes

Lime Wheel for Garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a shaker, combine Código 1530 Añejo Tequila, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup.
  2. Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake well to chill the ingredients.
  3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
  4. Now, for the smoky twist – take a smoking gun or a smoker box filled with wood chips and gently infuse the cocktail with a puff of smoke. Quickly cover the glass to trap the smokiness.
  5. Garnish with a lime wheel.