Valentine’s Day will be hear before you know it. With love in the air, why not try a delicious cocktail recipe from some of the favorite restaurants across the country.

Whether it’s a romantic evening for two with the ‘Red Over Heels’ cocktail from Sullivan’s Steakhouse; a sensual first date with the ‘Noir Rouge’ from La Toque; or a girl’s night out with ‘The Vixen’ from EPIC Roasthouse – the six, saucy cocktails below will help make any Valentine’s Day a memorable one.

Expert mixologists have shared their love-inspired cocktails to make for the perfect Valentine’s Day celebration.

‘Red Over Heels’ from Sullivan’s Steakhouse
2 ½ oz SKYY Raspberry Vodka
½ oz Chambord
1 oz sweet & sour
1 oz simple syrup
½ oz fresh lemon juice

With a vibe that evokes Prohibition-era America, Sullivan’s Steakhouse is a top destination for guests to experience a complete night out on the town – with food, drinks and entertainment under one roof in all of its 20 locations across the country.

‘The Vixen’ from EPIC Roasthouse
½ lemon juiced
1 ½ oz Skyy vodka
½ oz King’s Ginger Liqueur
1 oz Apple Juice
1 oz Cranberry Juice
Directions: Shake and strain into a Collins glass and top with Bundaberg Ginger Beer

San Francisco’s EPIC Roasthouse blends stunning bay views, award-winning design, and delicious, innovative cotemporary roasthouse and traditional steakhouse cuisine.

‘Noir Rouge’ from La Toque
1.5 oz No. 209 gin
.75 oz Campari
.75 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
.5 oz Simple Syrup
Directions: Line rim of Martini glass with crushed Black Lava Salt and garnish with Lime twist.

La Toque is Chef Ken Frank’s Michelin-starred, contemporary French cuisine located in downtown Napa.

‘Love Potion 88’ from The St. Regis Atlanta’s Paces 88
3 oz. Raspberry vodka (Hangar)
2 oz. Cointreau
Splash of sour mix
Squeeze of fresh lime
Splash of Rose’s Lime Juice
Directions: Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake well. Strain and pour into a martini glass and drop a piece of dry ice into the mixture.

Combining timeless sophistication with an unrivaled dimension of luxury, The St. Regis Atlanta and its restaurant Paces 88 (named for its street in the enclave of Buckhead) offers guests an unparalleled in-town resort.

‘Pier Valentine’ from Michael Minna
1.5 oz No. 209 Gin
.5 oz Campari
.75 oz Lemon Juice
3 Strawberries
Directions: Combine the ingredients into a Shaker Tin with no ice. Muddle the strawberries, add ice and shake for 10 seconds. Fine strain into a Coupe or a V shape Cocktail Glass, Garnish with Rose Petal.

At Michael Mina’s eponymous namesake restaurant in San Francisco, master mixologist Carlo Splendorini offers this inventive Valentine’s Day cocktail featuring the locally-produced, artisanal No. 209 Gin.

‘Breathless Charm’ from Distillery No. 209
1.5 oz Distillery No. 209 Gin
2 Dashes Bitter Truth Jerry Thomas’ Decanter Bitters
.5 oz Blood Orange Juice
.5 oz Hibiscus Syrup
Prosecco, Sage Leaf Garnish

Directions: Combine ingredients minus Prosecco in mixing tin. Add ice and shake vigorously for 6 seconds. Strain up into champagne coupe or flute and top with Prosecco. Float Sage Leaf on liquid for aromatherapy.

For Valentine’s Day, Los Angeles’ top femme mixologist Tricia Alley (Rolling Stone Restaurant & Lounge) has crafted the Breathless Charm featuring San Francisco’s handcrafted No. 209 gin with a balance of fruit, floral and spiced notes for a very sensual cocktail that tickle one’s senses.

Martell Cognac

To me, cognac is one of the hardest things to evaluate.  Unlike wines, where you can appreciate the fruit, spice, or woody flavor and undertones, cognac is created from fruit brandy, eau de vie, intended for distillation and aging.  Martell now has tasty tips on how to enjoy distinguished features of each type of cognac.

Best known for its cognac, Martell remains to be the oldest and one of the most prestigious brand of its kind.  Part of Martell’s success and longevity is its craftsmanship in the creation of cognac.  Martell carefully selects specific crus, has a strict double distillation method and aging process, and uses only vins clairs and grains fins.

Now they have taken that same approach to gastronomy (the art and science of food and culture): Pure Gourmet.

Eric Danger and Christophe Pienkowski, the two resident chefs of Martell’s Château de Chanteloup, alongside Martell’s Cellar Master Benoit Fil, developed an ingredient-centric recipes that blend each of Martell’s cognac with three key ingredients that highlights its characteristics.

Coined as “the perfect bite”, Benoit Fil explained the that it “consists of three ingredients but you can decide the way that you discover the facet of each iconic recipe by mixing the three central elements however you wish.  Each recipe should be served with its corresponding Martell cognac.”  Pure Gourmet is the perfect union of food and beverage.

Andre’s Cigar & Cognac Lounge

Located upstairs from Andre’s Restaurant inside the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, you will find the warm and welcoming Cigar & Cognac Lounge.

Immerse yourself in the Cigar & Cognac Lounge and enjoy ultimate privacy while enjoying a fine cigar or spirit.

With the seductive aroma of fine cigars in the air, the cracking of the nearby fire, relax and enjoy a spirit, maybe an aged cognac, in luxury style.

Cigar & Cognac Lounge features rich leather decor and intimate lighting.

You will find an incredible selection of fine cigars and spirits to choose from. If you’re unsure what to choose, don’t worry. Allow the experts to help recommend a professional cognac and cigar pairing.

Cigar connoisseurs will be in for a royal treat. The majority of the cigar selection comes from Honduras and the Dominican Republic.

So no matter whether you’ve just finished a fine dining experience at Andre’s Restaurant, watched a show in the Monte Carlo Theatre or just want to unwind after a full day of sightseeing or gambling in Las Vegas,  it’s the perfect way to cap off a dinner at Andre’s, a show in the Monte Carlo Theatre or to simply wind down before turning in for the evening.

The Monte Carlo Cigar & Cognac Lounge houses an amazing selection of rare cognacs and Armagnacs in their ornate bottles that shouldn’t be missed.

For more info on the Cigar & Cognac Lounge in the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino, please visit: Cigar & Cognac Lounge

DeLeon Tequila

This is not your typical tequila shots at a party.  At an average of $150-$250 per bottle, DeLeón Tequila lacks the harsh edge that tequila is typically known for.  It’s unlikely you’ll find a pale, hung partier regretting what little events he could recall, on the other side of this tequila.

Produced at a family-owned agave field and fabria in Purisima del Rincon, Guanajuato “The Purest of the Corner”, Mexico, the DeLeón Tequila is known for its sweeter, honey, citrus, and floral notes. The unique taste of DeLeón Tequila is due to the cultivation in the iron-rich soil of a mountainous region higher than 7,500 feet above sea level.

Since launching in 2009, DeLeón has become a staple for those seeking only the highest quality tequila. DeLeon Tequila has quickly become the new benchmark for superior quality and refined luxury within the tequila market.

Not only known for its taste among celebrities, its unique bottle and cap design illustrates the essence of DeLeón: sophistication with an edgy undertone.

Please view the DeLeon website at www.deleontequila.com

Universal Whisky Experience

I have a love/hate relationship with Las Vegas. I’ve experienced two disastrous work-related conferences, lost all of the cash I had on me, and had my shoes vomited on by a drunken stranger. But on the flip side, I was astounded by multiple amazing Cirque du Soleil shows, tasted the most exquisite food and wine, and most importantly, Vegas was where my fiance proposed.

I vowed to never return to Vegas after each calamitous encounter, but the allure of luxury and the promise of adventure always kept me revisiting Sin City. It looks like next March would be another excuse for me to escape my day job for a weekend and sneak away to the Universal Whisky Experience at the Wynn Las Vegas.

Taking place on between 2-3 of March in 2012 is world’s first premier luxury whisky show, the Universal Whisky Experience. Created by commercial real estate mogul, Mahesh Patel, these shows are designed to promote super-premium whisky.

Mahesh’s great passion in life is whisky, namely “Scotch” whisky. A connoisseur and enthusiast, he frequently attends exclusive whisky events and gatherings both domestically and abroad. He has been a collector of fine and rare whiskies for more than 20 years.

An event unlike any other, it attracts globe trotting whisky aficionados, collectors, and industry experts to one location where guests can share their passion for high-end whiskies. Taking place between March 2-3, 2012 at the Wynn Las Vegas, the Universal Whisky Experience consists of over 25 distilleries, exclusive VIP tasting events, Master Classes and gourmet dinners. In addition, attendees have the rare opportunity to savor samples from Mahesh’s distinctive whisky collection.

Just remember to drink responsibly. No woman likes having their shoes vomited on.

Russian Standard Gold

Russian Standard Gold is a new luxury vodka that is made with Siberian ginseng extract.

Just launched in the United States, Russian Standard Gold uses the finest Russian ingredients, including carefully selected Siberian Golden Roots, giving it a uniquely rich, smooth taste.

Not only is Russian Standard Gold a delicious tasting vodka from Russia, but the bottle is quite unique and includes many unique design details including:

• The bottle design incorporates a proprietary motif inspired by the vyaz’ (Russian for ligature)
• About the iconic bear & eagle logo:
– The Russian Bear: A centuries-old symbol of Russians’ strength and determination, it occupies a central role in many enduring Russian fables (the Bear always faces the right/East).
– The Eagle: A centuries-old symbol of dynamism and intelligence, the double-headed eagle crest was the mark of the Czar’s family and the Imperial Russian state. It is now the official insignia of the Russian Federation (the Eagle always faces left/West).
• The unique shape and specially textured bottle of the Russian Standard Vodka is inspired by the 200 tonne bell commissioned by Tsarina Anna I, which stands at the foot of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower in Moscow.
• The spirit’s visual language is a testament to a Russian preference for rich, maximalist patterns, ornaments, and symbols in all their expressions of design, from the Fabergé egg to the Imperial carriages.
• Its gift box is embossed with a gold-foiled label expressing the tradition of Russian generosity and gift-giving.

So whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or having fun at an upcoming holiday party, Russian Standard Gold is a new spirit that should be on your “must have” list.

Russian Standard Gold is available from Russian Standard Vodka, providing of high-quality vodka and has a suggested retail price of $45.00.

For additional information about Russian Standard Gold, please visit: www.RussianStandardVodkaGold.com

Tequila Don Juilo 1942

New Year’s is quickly approaching. As you plan for that big holiday party, do it in style. You want to toast with the very best, so go with Tequila Don Julio 1942.

Tequila Don Julio 1942 is an ultra-premium añejo tequila and is definitely a favorite of celebrities. Use Tequila Don Julio 1942 to make your ideal drink and truly elevate your cocktail experience on New Year’s or any special occasion.

If you are planning on being in classy Aspen, Colorado then enjoy their delicious cocktail that combines Tequila Don Julio 1942 with Mezcal. For your own party, then consider a wonderful 21st Century margarita named “Midnight Revelry.”

Midnight Revelry

Ingredients:
1 1/4 ounces Tequila Don Julio 1942
1/4 ounce Grand Marnier®
1/2 ounce Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1/4 ounce Simple Syrup
1/4 teaspoon of Chipotle Chili Powder
Sugar or salt to taste
Lime wedge for garnish

Preparation:
1. Combine Tequila Don Julio 1942, Grand Marnier, lime juice, simple syrup and chili powder into a cocktail shaker.
2. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass.
3. Rim glass with sugar or salt to taste.
4. Garnish with lime wedge.

Ideal Serving Glass:
Rocks Glass

Yield:
1 drink

Montecristo New York Connoisseur Edition Cigar

The new Montecristo New York Connoisseur Edition cigar was made for iconic New York City and provides fine cigar aficionados a smoke with exceptional character.

The Montecristo New York Connoisseur Edition cigar includes hand selected tobaccos and features a truly rich and fulfilling smoke

Montecristo is often recognized as the world’s most revered premium cigar brand and the Montecristo New York Connoisseur Edition cigar does not disappoint.

The fine cigar from Montecristo creates a true connoisseur experience for cigar lovers around the world.

The Montecristo New York Connoisseur Edition cigar is finished with a gorgeous Ecuadorian Habano wrapper.

Look f or this amazing cigar in your favorite fine cigar retail establishment.

Perrier Jouët

The Christmas holiday season is always a great time to try new Champagnes.

In addition, with New year’s Eve just a few short weeks away, we wanted to introduce you to several, wonderful champagnes we have come across.

Champagne Perrier-Jouët features an iconic anemone bottle that was designed by Emile Galle way back in 1902. Perrier-Jouët has collaborated with master silversmiths Christofle to create a stunning limited edition vase to house a magnum of its prestige cuvee, Belle Epoque 1998.

This beautiful limited edition and exquisite silver-plated, filigree vase, which was inspired by the iconic bottle itself, can only be purchased at Harrods.

Next, we wanted to introduce you to Champagne G.H. Mumm. Due to it being pinot noir driven, this gastronomic champagne is ideal for food parings, with the Cordon Rouge having won best non vintage in a blind tasting of 57 of the top international non vintage champagnes .

Several of the UK’s best chefs have created wonderful tasting menus to pair with G.H. Mumm. Here are two for you to enjoy.

Glenfiddich 50 Year Old Single Malt Scotch

William Grant & Sons, Ltd. is an independent family-owned distiller located in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. William Grant & Sons proudly distils some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky, including the world’s most awarded single malt Glenfiddich®.

Just five short days after the extremely rare and precious Glenfiddich 50 Year was unveiled at LAX airport, the fine whisky was sold to a consumer for a eye-popping $17,000.

There are only six bottles of the rare and precious Glenfiddich 50 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky available in the U.S, but one was sold to an anonymous buyer at Los Angeles International Airport, who was traveling to Taipei last month.

Glenfiddich 50 stands as proof that only an independent, family-owned distillery can remain true to its founding principles and continually pioneer in its pursuit of excellence.

When first released in 2009, the first bottle of Glenfiddich 50 Year Old was sold at auction by Christie’s for a staggering $38,000, reaffirming the superior quality, rarity and desirability of the product.

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How To Smoke Fine Cigars Like a True Cigar Aficionado

The concept of cigar smoking dates back many years ago, to the 10th century. Indigenous inhabitants of the islands of the Caribbean Sea and Mesoamerica used to joyfully indulge in cigars.

Today a cigar is a tightly rolled bundle of dried and fermented tobacco. Cigars are smoked throughout the world and adored by true cigar lovers. However, it seems that the art of smoking a fine cigar is still unknown to many people.

As a background, the closed end of the cigar is called the ‘head’ of the cigar. This is the end that you smoke. The open end of the cigar is called the ‘foot’ and the location you light the cigar.

Now the outer leaf of the cigar is called the wrapper. As an important note, please be careful with how you handle fine cigars. They can be sensitive and the wrapper is the most delicate part of the entire cigar.

For cigar aficionados all around the world, it’s important to understand how to smoke cigars.

Here are some helpful tips on how to properly smoke a cigar.

1. Inspect the cigar and make sure that it is in good condition. Make sure that the outer tobacco leaf is whole and not cracked or pitted.  Also squeeze the cigar and make sure it is properly humidified. The cigar should not be too moist nor too hard, but should give a little while still maintaining firmness.
2. Cut the cigar using a sharp pair of cigar cutters. There are many styles of cutters, but make sure they are in good condition. Snip or punch through the top cap quickly and cleanly. Such a cut will prevent the wrapper from peeling, ensuring the integrity of the cigar for the entire duration of your smoke.
3. Make sure the cigar is ready to be smoked.  Blow on the cigar to make sure there is no sediment or any remains of the cap. Put the cigar in your mouth, and inhale a few times. Air should be able to draw through the cigar without any obstructions. If there are any obstructions, use the cigar cutters and clip the head of the cigar a little lower down.
4. Light the cigar.  Take the cigar out of your mouth and gently toast the end with your cigar lighter. Apply the lighter to the cigar while rocking the cigar back and forth, making sure to quickly hit the entire surface of the cigar end with the lighter. Your objective is to get the cigar evenly toasted so that the cigar does not burn raggedly during your smoke.  Some cigar lighters have unique lighting mechanisms, so always make sure you know where the flame is going when using your lighter.
5. Smoke your cigar. Once the cigar is fully lit, take a few puffs of it by sticking the head into your mouth and drawing air into your mouth through the cigar.  Allow the cigar smoke to swirl around your mouth. If the cigar tastes and draws smoke correctly, continue smoking your cigar. A cigar is meant to be savored, so take your time while smoking.  Also, cigars are not meant to be inhaled, so do not smoke your cigar like a cigarette, or you may find yourself sick.