wine Archives - Page 2 of 3 - blonde behind the bucket

Classic Champagne Cocktail

Try not to wince at what I am about to suggest. I didn’t invent it. Same stance with my post on Kir Royal. Sometimes there is a sometimes, and this is one of those times. Hear me out, this is one of the most elegant cocktails. I won’t try to sell it to you; the cocktail can do that itself. I chose Veuve Clicquot for this one because this wine has structure and finesse. This champagne is a Pinot Noir-forward champagne followed by Chardonnay grapes and Pinot Meunier grapes for balance. The honesty of the bitters and sugar cube with this wine creates a beautifully blended cocktail. It maintains bold bubbles bright minerality with spice and a hint of sweetness in the finish.

This cocktail can be enjoyed anytime of day with or without food. I always picture it consumed in a sexy cocktail lounge bar. Poolside or at dinner. Basically anywhere anytime. I mostly prepare and serve them. The champagne cocktail pairs well with triple crème cheese and crusty baguette. This I know for sure, and I recommend you do too. Worth noting, this is one of the few times I drink champagne from a flute, if I can help it.

Champagne cocktail recap: elegant, super simple. Just three ingredients. No excuse not to try this classic. Sugar cubes, bitters, champagne – that’s it! Build in glass, ready for serving.

Classic Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label

Sugar cubes

A few drops of Angostura bitters

Method

Place a sugar cube at the bottom of a champagne flute (chilled glass recommended) and add a few drops of Angostura bitters. The sugar cube will dissolve as you pour in the champagne, creating a delicious aromatic drink with a touch of sweetness and spices because of the bitters.

Glass: champagne flute

Garnish: none

Side note: Bitters are herbal and spice extracts that often include botanicals and aromatics. “Traditional Bitters” do contain alcohol, although there are some modern versions that don’t. They are used in many cocktails to add balance or create a low ABV option (lowest being bitters and soda for example), remaining a staple in many bartender and home bars.

Bar Chef Notes:

There are several renditions of this cocktail. Some include cognac, some use only a sugar cube and bitters, while others incorporate a twist of orange and/or lemon, with some including all of the above and so forth. I prefer this version. It’s the one I have made the most throughout my career. Here it is, this is it.

Where to buy the goods?

Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront of course. I may receive commissions from eligible purchases. Thank you.

Billecart-Salmon Rosé Champagne 2010

This wine is I couldn’t keep it in the bucket. This wine is strawberries. This wine is Old World. This wine is birthday toasted in a bottle. This wine is longevity. This wine is bright. This wine is earth and chalk. This wine is pink. This wine is effervescence at its finest. This wine is delicate. This wine is Aÿ-Champagne. This wine is family. This wine is history. This wine is elegant. This wine is champagne. This wine is 55% Chardonnay from the Crus of Chouilly, Mesnil, and Cramant and 45% Pinot Noir from Verzenay, Mareuil, and Ludes. This wine is clear. This wine is Billecart-Champagne rosé 2010. This wine is.

Drink now or hold. Hold, if you can. Better yet, buy two bottles. This wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, from oysters and caviar to beef burgers with stinky cheese, charcuterie boards, roasted chestnuts, salmon beurre blanc, sushi, eggs Benedict, ice cream, chocolate cake and soufflé. This wine retails range is $119-$250 USD 750ml.

Where to buy the goods? Ice buckets, champagne stoppers, wine corkscrew, stemware and other stuffs? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront of course. Please know I may receive compensation for eligible purchases. Thank you so much! Cheers!

Ruinart Rosé Champagne 375ml

This wine is pink and sparkling. This wine has a floral, fruity nose. This wine is red berries. This wine is crisp with bright mineral character. This wine is delicate and vibrant. This wine is champagne. This wine is specifically Ruinart Rosé Champagne. This wine is.

This bottle is in a smaller format, measuring 375ml. This size bottle is equivalent to about two and a half glasses. Smaller format wines tend to age faster and are typically brighter and crisper. This wine is predominantly made from Pinot Noir grapes. It was gifted to me with the agreement that if I opened the bottle to pour a single glass, I would take the remainder home. This wine does not disappoint.

This wine pairs with shellfish, cheeses (cow and vegan), pork pâte, salads and chocolate mousse and ganache desserts.

This wine retails for about $50 USD retail. Drink now.

Ruinart is one of the oldest Champagne houses in the world, founded in 1729 in Reims, France.

Ruinart has a rich history and has been associated with art and culture throughout the years. The house has collaborated with renowned artists to create unique and artistic packaging for their Champagnes, reflecting their commitment to craftsmanship and creativity. Find out more from their website and social media accounts.

Where to buy stemware, champagne toppers, ice buckets and stuffs? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront of course. Please know I will receive commissions on all eligible purchases.

Les-Rendez Vous De Billecart-Salmon No. 1

This wine is clear. This wine is a golden yellow. This wine is sparkling. This wine is Old World, European. This wine is apple and pear. This wine is citrus. This wine is brioche. This fresh crisp lively and delicate with fine bubbles. This wine is dry with subtle minerality. This wine is personality and finesse. This wine is Pinot Meunier. This wine is from maison Billecart-Salmon. This wine is limited edition. This wine is Les-Rendez Vous De Billecart-Salmon No. 1. This wine is.

Those that may have underestimated this one will figure out with a few sips that it does just fine all on its own. No. 1 is a fun sparkling wine that pairs well with shellfish, sushi, patte, caviar, soft cheeses and French fries.

This wine retails $65-$110 USD depending on the site. Drink now.

Pinot Meunier is Pinot Noir’s fraternal twin, let’s say. This grape is one of three grapes that is often used in many non-vintage champagne blends to balance or soften the non-vintage.

Billecart-Salmon is located in the village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in northern France near Épernay. (Épernay is left bank of Marne and the capital of Champagne.) It was founded in 1818. This house has been family owned and operated for seven generations. More available on their website.

Where to buy the glasses ice buckets and stuff?

Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront

*i may receive commissions from eligible purchases

Please be of the legal limit drinking age and please drink responsibly

wine tasting The Domaines Rothschild Prestige Selection 2020

This wine is clear. This wine is ruby crimson. This wine is casis with berries. This wine is medium body with mild notable tannins. This wine is earthy. This wine is Old World. This wine is a Bordeaux blend. This wine is Rothchild Prestige Bordeaux Rogue Selection. This wine is.

Domaines Rothschild Bordeaux wine refers specifically to wines produced by the Rothschild family, who are renowned for their winemaking heritage and expertise dating back to the 17th century. They have several prestigious wine estates in Bordeaux, France, including Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Mouton Rothschild, and Château Clarke. These wines are highly regarded and sought after by wine enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Bordeaux wines are typically made from a blend of different grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec for red wines, and Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle for white wines. The specific blend of grapes used can vary depending on the winemakers and the specific appellation (region) within Bordeaux.

The Prestige Collection is a reflection the of Les Domaines Barons de Rothschild to producing wines even if they don’t undergo the same long aging process. This wine is can be found on various wine websites. The price is around $16-$18USD per bottle. It can be paired with marinated tofu, mushroom dishes, cheese, and meats. Drink now.

Please enjoy responsibly and be of the legal drinking age

Where to buy glasses and decanter and corkscrews and stuffs related? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront

Springtime In A Glass

I don’t know about you, but I am ready for a little Spring, linen wardrobe, later sunsets, tulips, daffodils, green peas, kite flying, and more of my Springtime In A Glass.

Before we get to the recipe, here is a little bit about some of the ingredients included.

What is St. Germain elderflower liqueur? St. Germain elderflower liqueur is a popular French liqueur made from elderflower blossoms. It has a delicate floral and slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in cocktails and mixed drinks. Yes, even mock-tails.

What is rose water? It is a flavored water made by steeping rose petals in water. It is commonly used in cooking, baking, and skincare products for its delicate floral aroma and flavor. Rose water adds a subtle floral note to dishes and can also be used as a natural fragrance or toner for the skin. And, of course, cocktails.

Lastly, what’s the difference between liquor and liqueur you ask? Mainly the production process and the strength of the liquid as a result.

Liquor, also known as spirits, refers to distilled alcoholic beverages that are typically made from grains or fruits. Examples of liquor include vodka, whiskey, rum, and gin. Liquor is distilled to increase its alcohol content and is often enjoyed neat or in cocktails.

On the other hand, liqueur is a sweetened and flavored distilled spirit that is often lower in alcohol content compared to liquor. Liqueurs are made by infusing fruits, herbs, spices, or other flavorings into a base spirit such as brandy or rum. In St. Germain’s case, elderflowers.

Liqueurs are known for their variety of flavors and are commonly used in cocktails and desserts for their unique taste profiles. Other examples of liqueurs include Grand Marnier, Kahlua, and Amaretto.

Springtime In A Glass

Ingredients

1 oz St Germain Elderflower liqueur

Bar spoon to 1/4 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice (double strain to remove the pulp optional)

Bar spoon to 1/4 oz of honey syrup

3-5 dashes of rose water

Champagne

*optional a couple of tiny drops of orange bitters

**Equal parts lime juice to honey syrup; the quantity depends on the desired level of sweetness

Method

For the honey syrup

To make honey syrup using a 3:1 ratio of honey to water, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

3/4 cup honey
1/4 cup water

Instructions:

In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water
Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the honey is fully dissolved into the water
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the honey syrup cool to room temperature
Transfer the honey syrup to a clean jar or bottle for storage
Store the honey syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks

For the drink

Add all ingredients, except the champagne, to a shaker with some ice. Shake gently to blend without watering down the mixture. Pour into flute stemware. Top with your choice of champagne. For a more delicate flavor, consider using Ruinart Blanc de Blanc. For a bolder taste and texture, opt for a Pinot Noir-forward Veuve Clicquot. Express a lemon and orange peel over the drink and garnish with a channel-cut lemon peel and a lavender (or any color) edible viola flower on top.

Cheers!

Please enjoy responsibly under the legal drinking age.

This photo taken by me in Paris has nothing to do with the actual St. Germain liqueur.

Where to buy stemware and stuff for squeezing those fresh limes and jiggers for accuracy? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront

*please know I may receive commissions from eligible purchases. Thank you Thank you.

Kir Royal

Why mess with a great thing called champagne? There are exceptions, and the Kir Royal is one of them. It combines champagne and blackcurrant liqueur, with a lemon twist as an optional addition. Kir Royal is a classic French cocktail that is a variation of the Kir cocktail. The Kir is made with a dry white wine, usually white Burgundy, and was named after Félix Kir. The Kir Royal came about later, replacing the white wine with champagne. It is a superb and luxurious choice for any drinking occasion. Whether you need a reason to celebrate or simply want to enjoy a refreshing drink before with or after dinner, the Kir Royal is a perfect.

To make the Kir Royal cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:

Champagne (brand of choice)
Crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur or Chambord but traditionally it’s cassis but you can’t go wrong with either)

Cassis is a blackcurrant liqueur and is made by macerating blackcurrants in alcohol, typically brandy or neutral spirits, and then sweetening the mixture with sugar. The result a sweet rich viscous and slightly tart spirit.

Chambord is a premium raspberry liqueur that is made in Loire Valley of France. It is known for its deep red color and rich, sweet flavor. Chambord is made from a blend of raspberries, blackberries, and other fruits, which are infused in a base spirit along with vanilla, honey, and other botanicals. Chambord is thinner consistency than Crème se cassis.

Lemon twist (optional, for garnish)

Method

Chill your champagne flutes in the refrigerator beforehand to keep the cocktail cold. A polished glass is best as spots become visible as glass warms.
Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 ounce (15-22 ml) of crème de cassis into each chilled flute. Adjust the amount to your taste preferences – more for a sweeter cocktail, less for a drier one.
Slowly pour the champagne into a flute, filling it up two horizontal fingers from the top. The ratio of champagne to crème de cassis is typically 5 parts champagne to 1 part crème de cassis, but you can adjust it to your liking of course.
Gently stir the cocktail with a bar spoon (or not) to mix the crème de cassis and champagne together.
If desired, garnish the cocktail with a lemon twist. Simply twist a strip of lemon peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it into the flute. Channel lemon peel looks prettiest of the twists.
Serve the Kir Royal immediately and enjoy! Duh!

Note: It’s important to pour the champagne slowly and carefully to avoid excessive fizzing and overflowing. Sometimes it helps to pour the champagne into the glass first, then the cassis or berry liqueur. Also, make sure to use a good quality champagne for the best flavor. I have been known to use a rosé champagne on occasion, fyi. Whatever you got is sometimes the answer.

Where to buy the goods? Glasses ice buckets and stuffs? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront

**please know I may receive commissions on all eligible purchases** thank you thank you thank you

Ruinart Blanc Singulier Champagne

This wine is bubbles. This wine is delicate and crisp. This wine is slate and mineral. This wine is chalk and citrus. This wine is acidic and bright. This wine is an offering of subtle sweetness. This wine is vanilla and spices with pear. This wine is champagne. This wine is Reims, France. This wine is Ruinart Blanc Singulier. This wine is.

This wine is a sweet, satisfying, lingering on the tongue finish, leaving me wanting more. This wine pairs well with pasta and parm, mushroom and pork, a crusty butter and jam-slathered baguette, French fries with Dijon mustard, oysters, and triple cream cheese doused in aged balsamic. Lemon meringues. In the early hours of New Year’s Day, I enjoyed it alongside a spaghetti noodles olive oil Parmigiana Reggiano and a Dom Perignon back.

This wine retails for $150 USD. Hold or drink now.

Best served chilled between 46-50 Fahrenheit.

Find out more about this wine on the Ruinart website.

Bar Chef Notes: no need to wait for a holiday or special occasion

Where to buy stemware, ice buckets and champagne stoppers (won’t need it with this one though) Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront of course

**I may receive commissions from eligible purchases** thank you

Ruinart Rosé Champagne 375ml

This wine is pink and sparkling. This wine has a floral, fruity nose. This wine is red berries. This wine is crisp with bright minerals. This wine is delicate. This wine is vibrant. This wine is a party. This wine is champagne. This wine is specifically Ruinart Rosé Champagne. This wine is.

This wine pairs with shellfish, cheeses (cow and vegan), pork pâte, salads and chocolate mousse and ganache desserts.

This wine retails for about $50 USD retail. Drink now.

Ruinart is one of the oldest Champagne houses in the world, founded in 1729 in Reims, France.

Where to buy stemware, champagne toppers, ice buckets and stuffs? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront of course. Please know I will receive commissions on all eligible purchases.

Kir Royal

To make the Kir Royal cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:

Champagne (brand of choice)
Crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur or Chambord but traditionally it’s cassis but you can’t go wrong with either)

Lemon twist (optional, for garnish)

Method

Chill your champagne flutes in the refrigerator beforehand to keep the cocktail cold. A polished glass is best as spots become visible as glass warms.
Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 ounce (15-22 ml) of crème de cassis into each chilled flute. Adjust the amount to your taste preferences – more for a sweeter cocktail, less for a drier one.
Slowly pour the champagne into a flute, filling it up two horizontal fingers from the top. The ratio of champagne to crème de cassis is typically 5 parts champagne to 1 part crème de cassis, but you can adjust it to your liking of course.
Gently stir the cocktail with a bar spoon (or not) to mix the crème de cassis and champagne together.
If desired, garnish the cocktail with a lemon twist. Simply twist a strip of lemon peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it into the flute. Channel lemon peel looks prettiest of the twists.
Serve the Kir Royal immediately and enjoy! Duh!

Note: It’s important to pour the champagne slowly and carefully to avoid excessive fizzing and overflowing. Sometimes it helps to pour the champagne into the glass first, then the cassis. Also, make sure to use a good quality champagne for the best flavor. I have been known to use a rosé champagne on occasion, fyi. Whatever you got is sometimes the answer.

Where to buy the goods? Glasses ice buckets and stuffs? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront

**please know I may receive commissions on all eligible purchases** thank you thank you thank you