Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/221505
Bright and Bubbly Downton You Can Drink Although pop culture calls this time of year a "Winter Wonderland," those of us living in the tundra might beg to disagree after 60 days of consecutive slush and sleet. Let your inner warm-weather child out to play this winter with Day Trippers Bubbly, a sun-drenched Australian sparkler that's bright and feisty, with a sweet summer fruit bouquet. Fun and fearless, the Vespa-driving couple on the label will whisk you away, and rules are broken with this cork-free twist-off cap that preserves bubbles for days. So when it's cold and frosty out, take your mind on a mini-vacay to warmer weather–it's just a Day Trip away! www.debortoliwines.com Once the holidays are over, the decorations are put away and the winter weight has been put on, there's really only one thing left to look forward to: the return of Downton Abbey to U.S. screens on January 5. If you and your staff spend as much time giggling at the Dowager's latest quip or bemoaning the latest Crawley family tragedy as we do in the offices of THE TASTING PANEL, Downton Abbey Wines are a must-have for your season four premiere party. Open a bottle of the Bordeaux Blanc blend, and rest assured that each sip has been approved by Mr. Carson; open a bottle of the Bordeaux Claret and channel your inner Lord or Lady Grantham. www.downtonabbeywine.com Saké To Me If the mere thought of bubbly makes your head hurt, Marketplace thinks saké might be the solution to your New Year's woes. The hot category will see a boost in 2013 from new innovative products like SakTea, a unique saké-green tea mixture that's served in a can and is so delicious you'll be thankful for it's go-anywhere (or shall we say can-do) portability. Perfect for consumers who are looking to explore new categories SakTea is also a godsend to the beer-andwine-only accounts looking to up their cocktail game in 2014. So what are you waiting for? Raise your can to SakTea in 2014! www.saktea.com I Dream of Spring This time of year, there's a certain flavor set in favor: pumpkin, spicy cloves, rich chocolate, and the occasional peppermint abound. But take a break from the heavy holiday fare with Belvoir Elderflower Pressé, a sparkling potion that's as light, crisp and refreshing as the first buds of spring. Made from real elderflowers and offering a lovely balance of floral sweetness and lemon acidity, this simple soda is a breath of fresh air, and sure to remind you that once the snow melts, fresher things will follow. New Year, New Adventures As the minutes left in 2013 dwindle down to zero, it's time to consider the obligatory New Year's resolutions. Whether you're looking to slim down or save up, one thing everyone will want to work for in the coming year is the promise of new adventure. Created by a woman who gave up her career as a designer to move to Nuits St Georges in Burgundy and follow her dream of creating an award-winning sparkling wine, Le Grand Courtâge celebrates the brave. Pretty with sun-ripened fruit, Le Grande Courtâge Brut is toasty and warm, while the Rosé offers fresh berry fruit and smooth sweetness that reminds you what life's all about after all. december 2013 / the tasting panel / 103 TP1213_064-103.indd 103 11/23/13 8:35 PM