H.I.P. Trade Publication
Taste of Florida Sponsors ‘In the Biz’ Cruise to Key West Monday June 28 Mark your calendars and make sure you are ready to party with other Hospitality Industry Professionals on Monday June 28th when Beverage Underground and Taste of Florida will board the Key West Express for a getaway day on the water. This is the first event of a summer that will feature the great all-natural Taste Of Florida Mixers, including their award winning Bloody Mary mix in a trip designed for the working staffs of restaurants and bars throughout Southwest Florida. The trip begins at 8:30 am from Ft. Myers Beach on the sleek, clean, modern, air-conditioned high-speed Key West Express Bloody Mary cruise, we will dock in Key West for lunch at noon and have the day to sight-see, hit the beach or just try another tropical cocktail featuring one of the many premixed, shelf stable Taste Of Florida Mixes. This party will be nonstop fun with samples, raffles, giveaways and prizes on a luxury cruise that features sundecks, a snack bar, cocktails, and big-screen TV’s. There will be chances to Win FREE Tickets! This trip is a bargain especially designed for the Hospitality Industry. Log on to www.BeverageUnderground.com for the locations to win tickets and or to get more information. Call to reserve your place now on the Taste Of Florida - Key West Express Mon., June, 28. Call (888) 539 2628.
PURE Urban Oasis Opens Strong and is the New Destination at Mercato LOCAL EVENTS We will be out and about and on-location all month long and offering great chances to win prizes like free tickets for the Taste Of Florida - Key West Express Cruise on Mon., June 28. Log on to BeverageUnderground.com for all the details.
Tuesday June 15: Hospitality Night Voda Lounge, Bonita Springs 9 PM
Friday June 18: Cusano Cigar of the Month Party World Famous Cigar Bar, GCTC 8 PM
Thursday June 24: Clos Du Bois Autism Wine Dinner The Grillroom, Estero 6:30 PM
Sunday June 27: Hospitality Night Pure Urban Oasis, Naples 9 PM
Monday June 28: Taste of Florida Key West Cruise Fort Myers Beach 8:30 AM
Bonita Liquors Liquors Bonita
Weekly ‘In the Biz’ Underground Specials (239) 495-8050
W h e n PURE opened last month in North Naples there was no doubt it would be a great new option for both those seeking exquisite fusions of food as well as those looking for a new nightlife and a new vibe. Pure Urban Oasis is the hip new concept of Restaurateur and Master Chef Peter Schmid who has quickly created a winning combination of fine food and PURE cocktails along with a familiar and professional staff. Located at the Mercato Shops, PURE will always be friends to the ‘biz’ and has established a discount program for Hospitality Industry Professionals that includes a 20% off ‘hook-up’ on all purchases after 10 PM during the week, but has also extended the offer to include the same discounts all day, every Sunday. Wednesday is the area’s hottest Ladies Night and weekends are filled with dining guests and late night partiers. Schmid who created Peter’s LaCuisine, The Brick Bar, and The Sky Bar in Downtown Fort Myers, also was the Managing Partner for the launch of BluSushi in 2003. Schmid has assembled a great bar staff led by former Blu bartenders Brad Polacek and Beata Zoladz and along with creative director, Christopher Fous; they have made PURE the hot spot for summer.
Great Selection of World Class Spirits, Fine Wines, and Speciality Beers 10347 Bonita Beach Road Southeast Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Sponsors of Beverage Underground Radio AM 1410 & 1660 - Sat. 10 AM
BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND RADIO EVERY SATURDAY @ 10AM - DETAILS PAGE 3
all around the
Whatever You Do...
Underground
Don’t Spill This Wine!
Fleming’s Steakhouse in Naples has introduced a new menu that has several ‘Must Try’ items, including a (real) Crab Louie Lettuce Wrap. Paul Fleming is the PF in P.F. Changs so you know that this is a delicious twist on a now classic appetizer. Voda Lounge in Bonita’s Promenade is lighting up Tuesday Nights with a weekly Hospitality Night that gives restaurant pro’s a great night out and a great chance to see all of those pros that work weekends but still want to hit the dance floor at a ‘Hot’ club. Gather up the crew, get a Diamond Limo and party at Voda every Tuesday Night for a H.I.P. hook up.
Albariño. Say it again…but when you find this delicious Spanish varietal, it’s going to be a lot better…and easier if you just say ‘Paco & Lola’. Made with 100% native Spanish grapes, Paco & Lola is a ‘great white’ that comes from 500 sun-kissed acres of vineyards in Meaño, located in the Rias Baixas wine region in the northwest of Spain. Paco & Lola has a brilliant yellow straw color with hints of fruit such as apricot, green apple, and lime with touches of herbs such as basil. Priced right and versatile, Paco & Lola is perhaps the perfect wine of summer.
99x’s Zito & Garrett are celebrating 7 years of being SWFL’s top rock morning show and on Wednesday July 21 they’ll celebrate with their anniversary with a Carnival of Madness that features Shinedown, Chevelle, Sevendust, Puddle of Mudd & 10 Years in Concert at Germain Arena. Beverage Underground raises a glass…or three to our favourite morning and to our friends Jeff Zito & Bob Garrett.
BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND IS Larry Genta Jr Publisher/Editor
Rusty Benzing
Designer/Developer
Rick Vaske
Sales/Promotions
Underground Associates
Judy Church, Christine Williams, Suzanne Peters, Debra Welsh
Available From
Alcohol 12.5% Serving Temp: 50-54 ºF
Call Us - 239.694.5000 - info@BeverageUnderground.com Listen to Beverage Underground Radio Saturday’s 10 AM BEVERAGEUNDERGROUND.COM - A SUBSIDIARY OF BAR MECHANICS LLC
Answers On Page 5
AMERICA’S
Craziest Towns
MISS FT MYERS - MISS LATINA FT MYERS MISS TEEN FT MYERS - WORLD MISS TEEN LATINA FT MYERS - WORLD
There are actually people in four states that have grown up in Looneyville. Citizens in the states of Minnesota, New York, Texas and West Virginia that live in Looneyville must dream of a better life in Smartville, New York. Do you know what States to find these ‘Crazy Hometowns’?
MATCH TOWNS WITH STATES
STATES
Suzi Hosfeld
(239) 822-4661
envypageantproductions.com famemodeltalent@aol.com
_____ A. Louisiana 1. Red Wine 2. Puseyville 3. Nimrod 4. Crook City 5. Bucklick
_____ F. Alabama
_____ B. South Dakota _____ G. Arizona
6. Dicktown 7. Fort Misery 8. Spanker 9. Merry Hell 10. Glasscock
_____ C. Pennsylvania _____ H. Minnesota _____ D. Tennessee
_____ I. Ohio
_____ E. New Jersey
_____ J. Mississippi
Bonita Liquors
Great Selection of World Class Spirits, Fine Wines, and Speciality Beers
Weekly ‘In the Biz’ Underground Specials 1105 Cape Coral Pkwy, Suite G, Cape Coral, FL 33904
PAGE 2
(239) 495-8050
10347 Bonita Beach Road Southeast Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Sponsors of Beverage Underground Radio AM 1410 & 1660 - Sat. 10 AM
READ BACK ISSUES OF THE BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND ONLINE VISIT WWW.BEVERAGEUNDERGROUND.COM
Beverage Underground
Radio Hour Saturdays 10-11 AM
Lively, informative and fun, the Beverage Underground has expanded to a full hour. Every Saturday Morning host Larry ‘Smokey’ Genta entertains you with insider news that connects listeners with the people, places and events that create the buzz in the beverage and bar business. The new expanded time slot allows time for studio guests and more features that introduce products and open discussions of the ever-changing beverage industry. Archive shows available 24/7 on: www.BeverageUnderground.com Sponsored In Part By
Bonita Liquors
Discover Shipwreck Now
Available from Opici Wine Company www.BrinleyGoldRum.com
Phone: (239) 495-7400
Hablamos Español
Radio Sponsorship & Guest Opportunities Call 239-694-5000 “When You Need Cash There’s Only One Place To Go”
I.D.E.
WE’LL BUY ANYTHING OF VALUE
International Diamond Exchange Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Estate Buyers
Dr. Sonia Rocha has 20 years experience and expertise. Guaranteed for a beautiful simile and gentle touch!
Top Prices On Gold & Coins
Invisalign Special! 00 $1000 $1000 Off Treatment Full Treatment - Top & Bottom
Special - $9900 Comprehensive Exam
Comprehensive Exam Full Mouth Prophylaxis Cosmetic Exam Comprehensive Exam • FullSeries Mouth Series • Prophylaxis Special applies unless gun gum disease is present Cosmetic Exam • Bottom (unless disease is present)
Call Today!
(239) 495-7400 Take advantage of our
FINANCING PROGRAM!
Same-Day Emergencies Welcome! Evening & Saturday hours available for your convenience.
Sonia Rocha, DDS 27400 Riverview Center Blvd., Building VIII, Suite 8 Bonita Springs, FL 34134 (239) 495-7400 www.DrSonia.com
Best Prices Naples to Ft. Myers
BEST PRICES
We Buy Diamonds, Watches Jewellery, Collectables & Antiques
239-278-5367
Corner of U.S. 41 & Colonial Blvd. Ft. Myers Mon-Fri 9-6pm, Sat 12-5pm Dedicated to giving the hospitality industry the best prices anywhere
www.fortmyersbuyers.com
MAKE YOUR OWN BEER WITH A MR. BEER KIT - VISIT WWW.BEVERAGEUNDERGROUNDMALL.COM
PAGE 3
On The Street - RECENT PRODUCT LAUNCHES Svedka Cherry Vodka Coruba Mango Rum Coruba Spiced Rum Absolut Brooklyn Vodka Ketel One Oranje Vodka Crown Royal Black Whiskey Skyy Infusions Ginger Vodka Blackheart Spiced Rum Firefly Mint Tea Vodka Stolichnaya White Pomegranik Vodka Smirnoff Blue Spiced Root Beer Vodka Belvedere Pink Grapefruit Vodka Beefeater Summer Gin Bacardi Torched Cherry Rum 7 Crown Honey Whiskey For more product info and reviews from real pros: www.BeverageUnderground.com
Blue Point Brewing Company
RASTAFARYE
Is a Dreadlock Holiday LADIES NIGHT HAPPY HOUR ALL NIGHT!
THURSDAY
Includes Premium Wines and Spirits $5 Appetizers 7 nights a week 4-7 PM
(239) 489-2226
13451-16 McGregor Blvd. Ft. Myers, FL
PAGE 4
RastafarRye Ale is a hearty rye malt blended with fresh west coast hops, resulting in a delicious, deep copper ale with a rye flavor to offset the spicy, floral characteristics of hops. Despite the rye malt and high alcohol this beer is incredibly smooth and not a strange craft brew. Blue Point Brewing Company continues to win critical acclaim and awards for their Toasted Lager, Hoptical Illusion and their entire portfolio of over 15 high quality hand crafted beers. A portion of RastafaRye sales will be donated to TOCO (They Often Cry Outreach) to help underprivileged children around the world. Silver Medal - 2009 Great American Beer Festival 45 IBU’s - 7.5% ABV www.BluePointBrewing.com
CONNECTING THE INDUSTRY. IN PRINT. ONLINE. BY RADIO WAVES. WWW.BEVERAGEUNDERGROUND.COM
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
BRINLEY GOLD ‘SHIPWRECK’ SPICED RUM IS AGED PERFECTION
Kevin Bacon Was Not In Every Movie Ever Made! Contrary to popular belief, there are movies in this list that Kevin Bacon wasn’t in. Pick out the goose eggs out of all these Bacon Movies.
1.
1941
2.
Once Upon A Time in America
3.
JFK
4.
Sleepers
5.
The Outsiders
6.
Friday the 13th
7.
Beauty Shop
8.
Diner
9.
Coupe de Ville
Get ready for spiced rum that is so smooth that you’ll only need a splash…but you’ll want to find a bottle. The father & son team of Bob and Zach Brinley have conquered the odds and have been selling more and more of their awardwinning flavoured rums from St. Kitts every year. They have won Double Gold’s for their family of flavoured rums, but this summer they are launching Shipwreck Spiced Rum and it’s outstanding. Not only is it the first spiced rum that uses Caribbean rum it is aged for four years. You can…and will want to drink it on the rocks. The spice is true as well, with hints of premium orange, vanilla, clove and nutmeg flavors. Brinley Gold Rums including Shipwreck are available in Florida exclusively from Opici Wine Company.
‘Lucky Star’ Wines Surprise Critics and Satisfy Retail Needs
‘Best Buy’! ‘Best Value’! ‘Gold Medal’! That’s what the trades and critics are saying about the recently released and value priced 2008 California wines from Lucky Star. Available in only two varietals, their Chardonnay received a ‘Best Buy’ 87 point rating while their first release Pinot Noir received a Gold Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle 2010 Wine Competition. We know you might be wondering…but NO… Madonna has nothing to do with this one. Lucky Star Wines are available exclusively from Premier Beverage Company.
10. Animal House Answers Bottom Right
Strange Brews Quiz These brews are fake: #4 & #7 America’s Craziest Towns Quiz 1:F,2:C,3:H,4:B,5:D,6:E,7:G,8:I,9:J,10:A
ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND • CALL 239-694-5000
QUIZ ANSWERS
1518 SE 46th Ln Cape Coral, FL (239) 542-2452
Kevin Bacon Movie Quiz He was not in: #1,#5,#6 & #9
For All Your Printing Needs
- Posters - Brochures - Flyers - Business Cards - Newsletters - Invitations - Menus - Signs - Window Vinyl - Cards - Etc. -
PAGE 5
POINT OF SALE SOFTWARE > > >
Easy To Use Full Inventory Control Expandable
WWW.BENSERON.COM
> > >
Free 30 day trial!
One POS for all types of restaurants Supported Mobile Ordering
1(866) 620-2785
Underground The Edible Mollusk Festival at The Timbers held back in April was such a great success that it will become an annual event. The turn out was great and the Oyster Eating Contest was a huge success as teams were formed and individuals slurped their way too raising money for The Bailey-Mathews Shell Museum. Looks like ‘The Gator Club’ has found a new home for the upcoming football season. University of Florida Fans will be at Shoeless Joe’s at the Crown Plaza at the Bell Tower. The wait isn’t quite over and it looks like Siku Glacier Ice Vodka is still a few months away according to their National Sales Director and Fort Myers resident Dennis Larson. New launch date is scheduled for August. You heard it here first, look for more great brands to be added to Siku’s portfolio. The Red Rock Saloon in Downtown Fort Myers is certainly making it happen on their great stage but if you are looking for some great Nawlins’ Cuisine you’ll find it there too. Po’Boys, Gumbo and Muffaletta Sandwiches are authentic and delicious but count on being tempted by the Lobster Mac n’ Cheese.
Available Now from Suncoast Beverage & Coastal Beverage
Get Started Today! VISIT
YRGFitness.com
When the Pewter Mug reopened in Naples recently, it reunited bartender Pat ‘Murph the Surf’ Murphy with kitchen manager and Grill man Mike Pilarski. Both grew up working together at the Mug starting as waiters there almost 25 years ago. Mike started at the Mug in 1973 and Murph began his run in 1976! Congratulations to Charles Cheatham who was recently promoted to Beverage Manager at Yabba Island Grill on Fifth Avenue in Naples. Charles has been with Culinary Concepts and has worked at both Yabba and Blue Water Bistro in Coconut Point. The News in Estero is that the restaurant and night spot recently known as Johnny Malloy’s and at one time was Stoney’s Sport’s Café will transform to ‘The Olympia’.
OR CALL
1-800-699-9180
Heard about a place called ‘Ale Mary’s’? It’s the new game and new name of Benchwarmers in South Fort Myers.
(239) 332-5483 PAGE 6
ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND • CALL 239-694-5000
BEVERAGES ENERGY, SPORT AND BEVERAGES IN THE MIX
Cool Calm and Cukey…Mr Q Mixes Well
JOLT Cola was created in 1985 as a refreshing alternative to coffee and in essence was The Espresso of Colas. The invention of C.J. Rapp of Rochester, NY. JOLT was the original “energized” beverage in both name and product. Every can and bottle had the slogan “All the Sugar and Twice the Caffeine.” JOLT became an instant hit and fuelled a generation from college students, to rock stars and anyone else needing a quick pick me up. JOLT Cola became ‘news’ with more than 1,000 newspaper features and mentions in almost every lifestyle periodical from People to Playboy and has been seen in more than a dozen motion pictures, including Jurassic Park, and Wayne’s World. JOLT was the first soft drink to sell at a premium price above Coke and Pepsi but in recent years JOLT resurfaced as energy drinks in metal oil can bottles and an energy gum. The Jolt Company, Inc. filed Chapter 11 September 28, 2009, and is currently restructuring.
Mr. Q Cucumber is a great find as a mixer or just as a “sparkling cucumber beverage”. Designed to taste just like you’ve bitten into a carbonated, naturally sweetened cucumber, the product delivers extremely accurate cucumber flavor that’s surprisingly delicious when paired with the carbonation and sweetness. It’s packaged in a 7 oz. glass bottle with minimal text on the paper label. Global Beverage Enterprises, Inc., which owns the proprietary formulations and trademarks for “Mr. Q-Cumber ™”, recently entered into a distribution agreement with Tree of Life, Inc. a leading marketer and distributor of natural, organic, gourmet and speciality food products throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Plant –a-Tree Program Extends to State Parks Across the Entire Country
Odwalla, Inc., the nations’ leading natural health beverage company, and family of juice beverages, smoothies, dairyfree shakes, and certified organic juices has expanded their Plant a Tree program to all 50 states. The program is a partnership between Odwalla and America’s State Parks to support the environment and help with important reforestation and planting initiatives Visitors to www. odwalla.com/plantatree can click on one of 50 state park systems where they would like to plant a tree, free of charge. Odwalla will double last year’s donation – which went to the 11 participating states – and plant 200,000 trees through the 2010 program.
Taste of Florida Bloody Mixes Wins Awards and New Fans
If you are still mixing your own Bloody Mary Mix, you have been trumped again by consistency and quality. Taste of Florida Bloody Mary Mixes are outstanding and a shelf stable, delicious mix of pure roasted tomato, celery, cracked pepper and horseradish aromas with a thick and zesty texture with lots of chunks of pepper, herbs, and veggies. But when they received their Gold Medal, the critics especially liked the adding of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and a splash of au jus. Available from your AB/InBev Distributor locally, Taste of Florida and the Beverage Underground will be sponsoring a Bloody Mary Party on the Key West Express on Monday, June 28. For details, call (888) 539-2628. LISTEN ONLINE TO BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND RADIO EVERY SATURDAY MORNING @ 10 AM
PAGE 7
HOT BRANDS White Rock Distilleries and Pinnacle Vodka are on fire. Pinnacle is ranked #1 in the world for growth against all premium spirit brands, according to Impact Magazine. The premium, French imported vodka grew 67% last year, and reached the milestone of 1million cases last year, with a 2010 projection of 1.5 million cases. Their 80 proof vodka is selling strong, and their proprietary flavors such as Cotton Candy, Kiwi Strawberry, Tropical Punch and Cherry Lemonade are bringing attention and huge sales. Pinnacle will continue advertising this year, and kicked off their new $5 million campaign in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. In addition to print advertising, online advertising and event sponsorships will also play a key role in 2010. Paul Coulombe, CEO of White Rock Distilleries, who has a winter home in Southwest Florida said “I am very excited about White Rock’s growth prospects for the foreseeable future and believe that the sales force, both new additions and existing, are among the best in the industry and will be leading the company’s growth,” said Coulombe. Pinnacle is distributed in Florida by Republic-National Distributing
Jameson Irish Whiskey has been one of the most dynamic spirits brands in the US in recent years and holds the lead on all other ‘brown’ liquors, in every other category, as the the nation’s top non-vodka ‘Hot Brand’. Their 2009 $5.5 million investment into an aggressive marketing campaign has been doubled for 2010 to $11 million and the sales are tallying faster. The fact that Jameson represents two-thirds of ALL Irish Whiskey sales in the US has made the Irish Whiskey category one of the fast rising market for overall sales. Their ad campaign celebrates the brand history by telling the tale of John Jameson, credited with creating the Irish whiskey brand in the late 18th century.
Constellation Brands import from Sweden SVEDKA not stands as the nation’s ‘largest sprits ‘Hot Brand’, according to IMPACT Marketing sales analysis. Svedka has found a growing market and has reached rockstar status off and on premises, and from the country clubs to the nightclubs adding 600,000 cases in 2009. Svedka Clementine has blasted onto the flavored Vodka scene on-premise, and value driven off-premise sales have led to the introduction to all age demographics.
What Brands are NOT so Hot?
Check out http://www.beverageunderground.com/category/biz-news/
Protecting Your Business Is Our Business Responsible Vendor Alcohol Compliance Training
Debbie Talbott
Food Handler & Food Manager Training and Certification
239-936-2701 dtalbott@frla.org
www.RegComplianceUSA.com www.FRLA.org
PAGE 8
Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
BECOME A FAN VISIT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BEVERAGEUNDERGROUND • CALL 239-694-5000
TASTING ROOM NOTES: Summer Two Reds
Two Whites Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Pinot Gris ‘08 Delicious and refreshing! Grand Reserve Pinot Gris is a recent release for KendallJackson’s Master Winemaker Randy Ollum and he has scored huge. A perfect alternative white with a bright look and crisp mouth feel, you’ll be enthused by the floral tones and complex layers of lemon, apple and honeysuckle with a hint of spice. The more popular Pinot Grigio is a clone of Pinot Gris… and Pinot Gris is a clone of the Pinot Noir grape. While the Pinot Gris crush produces white juice, the grapes are normally a grayish-blue in appearance.
Kim Crawford Unoaked Chardonnay ‘08
The ideal Chardonnay for summer may be this succulent offering from New Zealand. Kim Crawford is recognized as the leading producer in New Zealand and this Unoaked Chardonnay allows for the true expression of this premium fruit. Even though he skipped the oak, this wine has an abundance of character with fruit forward blends of citrus and tropical fruits. It’s perfect with fusion foods, seafood, salads and light pastas.
Wine Fact #1:
Ravenswood Vintner’s Blend Zinfandel ‘07
The Summer of Zin starts with Ravenswood and whether you are grabbing a bottle of their Vintner’s Blend or one of their Single Vineyard or ‘County Series’ Zins you’ll be glad you did. Even though Zinfandel is a massive, meaty monster, it is also a very good wine when matched with chargrilled, marinated and barbecue-sauced ‘summer foods’. Joel Peterson of Ravenswood is known as the ‘Guru of Zin’ and giving this wine a slight chill will bring out its intense fruitiness and lush texture.
Sequana Sundawg Ridge Pinot Noir ‘07
This is Pinot Greatness. Sequana Vineyards is under the watchful eye of Pinot Noir specialist James MacPhail who focuses on gentle and traditional wine making techniques by handpicking hand-sorting and then cold soaking the grapes prior to fermentation. Sundawg Ridge is a tiny vineyard in the cool Green Valley of Sonoma County. This outstanding wine has received critically acclaim with every review and has earned a 97 point rating from The Wine Enthusiast who called it “Gorgeous, seductive and brilliant”.
Wineries are the second most popular tourist destination in California after Disneyland. Over 14 million tourists visit the wine regions each year.
Wine Fact #2:
Italy has been producing wine for over 2800 years, and is the largest wine producing country in the world.
Aromas of guava, peach and citrus that fan out on a rich mid-palate. “Perfect for summer fare”. www.HessCollection.com ADVERTISING INCLUDES ONLINE, IN PRINT, AND SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING • CALL 239-694-5000
PAGE 9
CA$H FOR
GOLD
BEST PRICES ANYWHERE! International Diamond Exchange 239-278-5367
Permitting Specialists of Food & Beverage Inc
Kathy Long Consultant
Voice & Fax
239-772-5050 Cell 239-850-9451 psfb@embarqmail.com
CORKS, CASKS & CELLARS IN THE UNDERGROUND
ROBERTO ANSELMI ‘RIDES’ TO THE BEAT OF HIS OWN DRUM
He’s as driven in his private life as he is at work, and if you catch Roberto Anselmi in his private life he may be streaking through Veneto on one of his seven collector motorbikes or flying over it in his helicopter. Besides having six BMW’s and a Ducati, he is known for his warmth and charm in the wine business he is regarded as a renegade and as one of Italy’s leading white wine producers. For Anselmi it is about having the philosophy to make the best wine possible. He’s a native to the area and grew up making wine after his father founded the winery in 1948. So when he became frustrated by the low quality and general lack of ambition in his Soave region, he dropped out of the Soave Classico Consorzio and since 2000 his wines have been labeled as IGT Veneto.
On a mission to upgrade quality, Anselmi reduced yields, and was selective in the vineyards, to achieve an intensity of flavor, fruit and bouquet throughout his entire award-winning portfolio. Ask your Southern Wine & Spirits Representative about an introduction to Anselmi’s excellence. Read more at http://www.BeverageUnderground.com/category/wine-2/
‘SIDEWAYS EFFECT OVER’, MERLOT IS “AMERICA’S FAVORITE RED WINE” California’s Blackstone Winery recently commissioned The Nielsen Company, a global information and media specialist, to survey 1,800 wine drinkers and the study determined that more American households buy Merlot than any other wine variety, red or white. In fact, the rise in Pinot Noir sales after the release of the 2004 movie “Sideways” didn’t hurt after all as Merlot sales have grown steadily, and 93 percent of those who saw “Sideways” said it had no effect on their opinion of Merlot. Nielsen determined that Merlot has the highest repeat purchase rate of any varietal in the U.S., and that purchases are more than double those of Pinot Noir.
NAPA COUNTY REIGNS AS TOP DOLLAR CALIFORNIA JUICE
Produced from the infusion of Alexander Grappa and Gianduia chocolate. The addition of the finest quality grappa from the Bottega family distillery in the Veneto region makes this a liqueur that is as smooth as silk.
PAGE 10
Napa County continued its reputation as the top producer of grapes with the highest value in California. Napa grapes sold for an average price of $3,400 per ton last year, and throughout the entire state, Chardonnay made up the bulk of the total crush at 17.8% of the volume, followed by Zinfandel at 10.9%. Pinot Grigio grew by 61% and once again was the second-most widely grown white varietal in California. Growers believe that increased tonnage in San Joaquin and the rising popularity of the white varietal in California could help displace foreign imports of Pinot Grigio. The San Joaquin Valley still produces the most juice at 1.3 million tons of fruit, but at an average price of $247 per ton, these grapes traditionally used to make grape juice and grape concentrate may make it to the California wine appellation.
ADVERTISING INCLUDES ONLINE, IN PRINT, AND SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING • CALL 239-694-5000
Café A Taste Of Culture
Underground
Starbucks Deals Hot Hand in NYC
Starbucks Corp has been sued by a customer who allegedly suffered second-degree burns on his hands after being served tea that was too hot. According to the complaint, the plaintiff Zeynep Inanli suffered “great physical pain and mental anguish,” including the burns when served tea that was “unreasonably hot, in containers which were not safe,” at a Starbucks store in Manhattan. In 1994, a jury ordered McDonald’s to pay $2.86 million to Stella Liebeck, a woman who claimed she scalded herself with coffee. The parties later settled.
COFFEE FACT: Ethiopian shepherds first noticed the effects of caffeine when they saw their goats appearing to become frisky and “dance” after eating coffee berries.
Tea Popularity Grows With Exotic Blends and Premium Selections Tea overall remains hot, but major shifts within the category are emerging. The U.S. tea market is projected to expand by more than $7 billion by 2012, with nearly three-quarters of that growth from the speciality and premium markets (Packaged Facts, 2007). Despite the recent economic meltdown, the tea category has remained vibrant. COFFEE FACT: In 1675, the King of England banned coffee houses, claiming they were places where people met to conspire against him.
It’s Coffee Time, We Can’t Wait ‘til Eight O’Clock Eight O’Clock Coffee is the brand name of the roast of coffee introduced by the American supermarket chain A & P in 1859. In 1919, the roast was renamed and given its current trademark, which gradually evolved beyond the A&P grocery store chain in the 1970s until finally being spun off into its own brand in 2003. The company came up with the name by conducting a survey asking people what time of day they drank coffee most. The majority of those surveyed reported that they typically drank coffee at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Today Eight O’Clock coffee is the third largest seller of whole bean coffee in the U.S.
Jessica Russo Agent/Owner 239.849.0012 JessicaRusso@comcast.net
“17 Years Local Real Estate Experience” Visit Us Online www.AdvancedRealtySolutions.net
COFFEE FACT: Coffee grows on trees. BIG TREES! They can grow to be up to 30 feet tall, but are cultivated to be around 10 feet (3 meters) tall for easy-picking.
Mrs. Olsen, Dunkin Donuts & Millstone Raise Prices
The J.M. Smucker Co. said it is raising prices on many of its coffee products immediately. The brands include Folgers, Dunkin’ Donuts, Millstone and Folgers Gourmet Selections. Smucker said the price hike is due to higher costs for green coffee, fuel and packaging. Folgers a division of Smuker’s Jellies is still the largest producer of packaged coffee in United States. It also manufacturers Dunkin Donuts Coffee sold in Grocery Stores. Maxwell House #2 reports no increases.
Order Your Favourite Pies!
9930 Bonita Beach Road
BE A SPONSOR OR A GUEST OF BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND RADIO CALL 239-694-5000
PAGE 11
Reelin’ in the Beers FIND THIS BEER Local Celtic Band, West of Galway, will represent the United States and will be travelling to Castlewellan, County Down, Ireland on July 18, as one of the five finalists in Ireland’s Battle of the Bands II, sponsored by Irelands Strangford Lough Brewing Company. West of Galway won the competition beating over fifty bands from around the world competed in this on-line event. West of Galway will perform at the Celtic Fusion Music Arts Festivalon. “It’s going to be a trip of a lifetime, and an opportunity to be on a stage and be on a bill with people we’d pay to go see,” guitarist Bernie Green said. “We’re still just five good friends that enjoy playing and sharing this music that our grandparents taught us.” Strangford Lough Brewing Company, based in Killyleagh, Northern Ireland, exports Irish Beer to North America, but not Florida, including, St Patrick’s Best, St Patrick’s Ale, St Patrick’s Gold, Legbiter and Barelegs Brew. West of Galway plays every Tuesday night at Fitzgerald’s Irish Pub on Bonita Beach Road.
Full Sail Brewing Company LTD 3 Summer Seasonal 5.6% ABV - 35 IBU Full Sail Brewing of Hood River, Oregon, produces 4 seasonal selections, three of which are branded as LTD, which stands for both limited edition and also “Live The Dream.” LTD 3 is their summer brew and is a pale-golden pilsner-style beer perfect for warm summer weather and BBQs. It won a silver medal in 2009 at the World Beer Championships, and Full Sail LTD 3 features a spicy floral hop aroma, malty medium body, and a smooth, thirstquenching finish. This beer is just the thing to sip while ‘laying low’ this summer. Available through September from Republic National Distributing Company.
‘Game Day’ Beer for ‘who cares it’s cheap’ Beer Drinkers
It’s about price and availability and when 7-Eleven launched their Game Day Beer they immediately became the major player in the battle for beer sales at their 5900 US convenience stores. The beer is brewed at the 150-year-old City Brewery in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Game Day Light is 3.9 % ABV 110 calories and Game Day Ice is 5.5 % ABV and 155 calories and will be priced to sell fast. This is 7-Eleven’s second attempt at beer. In 2003, they tried to compete with imports like Corona with Santiago, but flopped when consumers refused to buy a second time. All US Stores are owned or governed by Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd and Game Day is only available for retail purchase at any 7-Eleven.
Q: WTF? ..I saw the letters IBU on my IPA? -Bud in Bonita A: Hey Bud…Lighten up. IBU stands for International Bittering Unit – it’s the scale they use to measure the hop bitterness in beer. If you like the snap and a bite of the ‘bitter’, then look for a higher IBU number. Quick Reference IBU Guide Ales
Lagers
Pale Ale / Amber Ale – 20-50 American Pale Lager – 10-15 (IPA) India Pale Ale – 40-60 Pilsner – 25-45 (ESB) (Extra Special Bitter) – 28-40 Bock – 20-30 English Brown Ale – 20
PAGE 12
Porter – 20-40 Irish Stout – 30-60 Coastal Beverage Naples
Suncoast Beverage Fort Myers
BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND TASTE OF FLORIDA - KEY WEST EXPRESS ‘H.I.P. IN THE BIZ‘ BOOZE CRUISE (888) 539-2628
Miller & Moulton’s
BAR STOOL BANTER
Super Big Beer Deal Worth More Than We Know Anheuser-Busch sponsors 28 of the 32 NFL teams. They have advertised in 22 consecutive Super Bowls. They are heavily invested and closely tied to the NFL. But apparently that was not enough. So when sales of Bud Light went down slightly in 2009 (first time ever, by the way), Anheuser-Busch took immediate action. They opened their checkbook.
Wide! To the tune of 1.2 billion dollars. That’s right. 1.2 BILLION. That’s how big the NFL is right now and how important sports and particularly football on Sundays is to selling beer. The deal takes effect in 2011. It lasts six years. So Anheuser-Busch is spending 200 million dollars a year so that Bud Light and not Coors Light is “the official beer of the NFL.” Wow! Is being associated with the NFL worth 200 million per year for any company? We’ll see. Personally, I would’ve saved the 1.2 billion and blamed the slight dip in sales on my marketing campaign. I mean the young guy who is a poor imitation of the late Billy Mays, screaming “tailgate tested, tailgate approved” has got to go. So Anheuser-Busch thinks the NFL is pretty important to selling beer. OK, but how important a factor is the ability to drink a beer in your decision to go watch sports live? I ask because recently I guesstimated that Everblades ticket sales would be half of what they currently are, if not for the ability to buy a beer. I also said that if FGCU wants to get more than a few hundred people to go see their basketball and/or baseball team play, they need to be able to sell beer.
Raise A Glass To 7 Rockin’ Great Years www.zitoandgarrett.com
Am I right? Let me know email Info@BeverageUnderground.com Two other marketing notes with Anheuser-Busch. Budwesier is a main sponsor of Major League Baseball and Boxing. They have been for decades. Two sports whose national appeal are dwindling, particularly among younger men. Do not be surprised if they pull back from these sports over the next few years. Something they are not doing with golf. Anheuser-Busch is continuing to make Michelob Ultra the “official beer of the PGA Tour.” It’s a 3 year-deal. The Michelob Ultra 19th Hole can be found at all PGA, Nationwide and Champions Tour events. O’Doul’s remains the non-alcoholic beer sponsor of those tours as well.
Miller & Moulton in the afternoon Weekdays 2-7 PM - www.770ESPN.com
“Raising a glass to another one that bit the dust”
There won’t be any “All you Can Eat’ Ribs and 2 for 1 Drinks” at Sam Seltzer’s six locations, as the chain restaurant has closed for good in six Florida Cities. “Closed for Business” is today’s special at Sam Seltzer’s stores in Fort Myers, Clearwater, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg, Tampa and Sarasota. leaving more than 300 employees jobless. Sam Seltzer’s Steakhouse was founded in Tampa in 1995.
Call Us Today (239) 275-5898 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND • CALL 239-694-5000
239.274.0088 239.277.0028 fax
www.GendronFuneralHome.com
PAGE 13
BEVERAGEUNDERGROUND
BEATA ZOLADZ CURRENT GIG: Pure Urban Oasis BAR EXPERIENCE/INDUSTRY AWARDS: 2008 BLU SKYY Summer Celebration Cocktail Competition 1st Award Winner
THE FACTS: HOMETOWN: Tarnow, Poland FAVORITE MOVIE: Seven Years In Tibet FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM: Red Sox - of course YOUR HIDDEN TALENT: Hula Hoop queen, and some more which I hide so good even I can’t find them. WHO TRAINED YOU: Accent Club In Chicago FAVORITE BAR TO DRINK AT? It is a tricky question? WHAT DO YOU DRINK? Sake FAVORITE BAR JOKE OR BAR TRICK? “I am from Paducah, Kentucky” PET PEEVE/CUSTOMER: Rude ones, finger snaps PET PEEVE FELLOW WORKER: Not a team player WHERE IS YOUR DREAM BARTENDING JOB? ... WHAT LIQUOR DO YOU WISH YOUR BAR CARRIED? Yazi Ginger Vodka
Here’s a few names of Strange Brews that are real and some that are just bogus beer. Real
Fake
2. Raging Bitch
___
___
3. 420 Brilliant
___
___
4. Cheating Spouse
___
___
5. Old Engine Oil
___
___
6. Cotton Mouth
___
___
7. Deuce Bag
___
___
8. Golden Shower
___
___
9. Alimony Ale
___
___
10. Atilla the Honey
___
___
1. Dog in Heat Wheat
___
___
Answers On Page 5
PAGE 14
REAL BARTENDERS BUY PROFESSIONAL TOOLS - HTTP://TOOLS.BEVERAGEUNDERGROUND.COM
WINE DINNER
Thursday, June 24 $60 per person includes donation
6:30pm - hors d’oeuvres, Silent Auction, & raffles
Coconut Point in Estero Proceeds Benefit
7:30 Dinner
Got Blues? Buckingham Bar Has Your Cure for Summertime Blues The Blues are on the rise, and if you got ‘em, you’ll be happy to hear that Tommy Lee Cook has the medicine. Blues Music lives on and strong at Cook’s Buckingham Blues Bar, located east of Ft. Myers that includes 1.6 acres that is home to monthly festivals. Cook, 55, is a Virginia native who has lived in Southwest Florida since his family moved here in the late 1960s and about three years ago he transformed a decaying roadhouse into the home of the blues in SWFL. Wednesday Nights bring out the area’s best bluesmen but on Sundays it’s a destination as the backyard opens wide to a beer garden, barbecue pit, picnic tables, horseshoe pits, a bandstand and a blues jam. Bucky, the Beer Drinking Mule, is the mascot and Tommy Lee Cook keeps the beer ice cold and blues red hot.
Listen to Backyard Blues Radio Every Sunday 6 PM - The Avenue 1410/1660 AM ‘Timeless Cool’
Reserve Chardonnay Reserve Merlot Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Advanced Ticket Purchase Required
Call Elly at 239.994.3927
INDUSTRY EVENT CALENDAR June 13-20: 2nd Annual International Spirits Awards New York, NY, www.polishedpalate.com
June 20-21: The Bar & Wine Show
New York City, NY, www.newyorkbarshow.com
June 23:
Indy Spirits Expo New York, NY, www.indyspiritsexpo.com
July 21-25: Tales of the Cocktail
New Orleans, LA, www.talesofthecocktail.com
August 16-23: Spirits of Mexico Competition
San Diego, CA, www.polishedpalate.com
Bistro Italiano
239-262-8500 Hospitality Tuesday Twin Main $25 Lobster Tails
PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Chef Richard shows Special Love for Friends In the Biz
2500 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, Fl
Discover our “5 For $6 ’Til 7” Bar Menu 8985 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL 34108 - 239.598.2424
The World Famous Cigar Bar WALK-IN HUMIDOR @ TWO LOCATIONS
Downtown Fort Myers - 239-337-4662 | Gulf Coast Town Center - 239-267-6020 Visit us online @ www.WorldFamousCigarBar.com
SUNDAYS
Hospitality Industry Nite (H.I.P.) Anthony Wayne LIVE! 9 PM In The Biz? Most Drinks 1/2 Price
CUSANO ‘CIGAR OF THE MONTH’ PARTY - WORLD FAMOUS CIGAR BAR GCTC - FRIDAY JUNE, 18 @ 8PM
PAGE 15
Dan Aykroyd’s Many Fans Help ‘Crystal Head’ Vodka Reach One Million Bottle Milestone When Dan Aykroyd visited the ABC Liquors in Naples in mid-May over 500 fans turned out to meet, support and purchase his quadruple-distilled and triple-filtered ‘Crystal Head’ Vodka. It’s those appearances, and those fans that have helped Aykroyd become a ‘Rising Star’ in the spirits industry. Just prior to Dan Akyroyd’s visit, the makers of ‘Crystal Head’ announced the production of the brand’s onemillionth bottle, and according to 2008 data compiled from IMPACT, Crystal Head Vodka reached the one-million bottle mark faster than Grey Goose, Belvedere and Chopin Vodkas. “Crystal Head Vodka began as a 5,000 case project and sold 46,000 cases in our first year,” Aykroyd says. “Hitting this important milestone just six months later is a testament to the quality of our product and our ability to carve out a vibrant niche even in the crowded vodka category.” Those sales compiled in just the first 18 months earned ‘Crystal Head’ the distinction of being named a ‘Rising Star by the Beverage Information Group at the annual Cheers Beverage Conference.
Beverage Underground
Radio Hour
Saturday’s - 10 AM The Avenue 1410/1660 Listen to archived shows
Created by Aykroyd and American landscape artist and portraitist John Alexander, Crystal Head Vodka is filtered through Herkimer diamond crystals, and is made using water from a deep aquifer in Newfoundland, Canada. Although it is touted as a pure spirit, free of any additives such as sugar, glycerin or citrus oil, there is little doubt that the striking skull-shaped bottle has helped brand recognition. The bottle celebrates the mystical legend of the 13 Crystal Heads possessed by tribal cultures such as the Aztec, the Mayan and the Navajo and recalls the celebration of the Mexican “Day of The Dead” tradition. Crystal Head Vodka is distributed by Premier Beverage Company.
I.D.E.
International Diamond Exchange “When You Need Cash There’s Only One Place To Go”
www.BeverageUnderground.com
Sponsored By
Bonita Liquors Weekly ‘In the Biz’ Underground Specials
www.fortmyersbuyers.com
(239) 495-8050
Cool
Cool
Summer
‘We’ll Buy Anything of Value’
BEST PRICES
We Buy Diamonds, Watches Jewellery, Collectables & Antiques
Dedicated to giving the hospitality industry the best prices anywhere SUPERB (90-95) Highly Recommended --Wine Enthusiast Magazine
www.GreatVodka.com Republic-National Distributing
PAGE 16
Estate Buyers Top Prices On Gold & Coins Best Prices Naples to Ft. Myers
Located on the corner of U.S. 41 & Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers. Or call 239-278-5367 Mon-Fri 9-6pm, Sat 12-5pm Accreditations Graduate Gemologist (G.I.A.)
Watch Experts
Colored Stone Specialists
READ BY OVER 5000 HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONALS IN PRINT • ADVERTISE WITH US • CALL 239-694-5000