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Showing posts with label cocktails. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cocktails. Show all posts
Sunday, May 7, 2017
BLOGGER PACKAGE: OLD ORCHARD CRANBERRY

 For the summer season, it's important to stay rehydrated. OLD ORCHARD CRANBERRY is one way to do it. Made with CRANBERRY JUICE EXTRACT, this classic is perfect to mix and match to create concoctions.
 Crafted with the finest ingredients, this results to a high quality of juice that's a perfect mix with everything in between. Available in local supermarkets, no artificial coloring, reduced calories and reduced sugar content makes this appropriate for everyday mixes.
Here's a few recipes to help you make use of Old Orchard Cranberry.

Non-Alcoholic Sangria

Ingredients:
1 bottle Old Orchard Cranberry 64 oz.
1.5 liter lemon soda
1 orange
1 lemon
24 pieces of grapes

Directions:
1.     Combine chilled Old Orchard Cranberry  and chilled soda in a punch bowl.
2.     Wash fruit. Halve grapes and place in the bunch bowl.
3.     Cut the orange and lemon into wedges.
4.     Place the orange and lemon slices into the punch bowl. Stir and enjoy.

Cranberry Mocktail

Ingredients:
1/2 cup Old Orchard Cranberry
½ cup ginger ale
Ice
Fruit for garnish
Directions:
1.     Pour Old Orchard Cranberry in a large glass over ice.
2.     Slowly add ginger ale.
3.     Garnish with a fruit slice, if desired.



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Tuesday, February 14, 2017
MIREIO TERRACE: SUNSET DRINKS and STORIES



I get it. The allure of MIREIO is impressive. The colors and the bright lights yet calculated tones are there. Everything was meticulously planned and executed. The food is delicious as it is simple (Mireio: More than just fine french dining.).
 
 Drinks are always never an issue at RAFLLES more so when in MIREIO. One particular spot that is a must go to though would be MIREIO TERRACES. Years in the making, it became into one of the hottest sunset bars in the metro.
 Located just one floor above the main dining area, the TERRACE is where your MAKATI SUNSET sessions should be begin. Come at a little past 5pm and wait for the sun to set. You get to see the golden hour. Lights turn and change from left to right. On one side, you feel how the sun says "see you in a few". Then, the clouds follow it as if begging it not to go.
While waiting for this to occur, one could enjoy some refreshing drinks. Spritz would definitely delight anyone that wants something refreshing and sparkling.
 A mixture of wine and some carbonated drinks, the added flavor from a particular mix would keep you hydrated and happy. Liquor has been known as a gift from above and could be an enjoyment on its own. At MIREIO, it's always fun to waste the time away with one hand holding a drink. It lets you feel as if there is no tomorrow worth living without the experience to enjoy.
Since MIREIO is of French origin, cocktails were created and named in relation to it. The 1947 was inspired when the PHILIPPINES and FRANCE agreed to start having a bilateral relationship. Something close to a agreement between brothers, you get a sense of patriotism from this drink. IT says blood compact with the way it is presented. Dip the container to release the flavors from the berries. Once done, enjoy it to your hearts content.
 Another must is the ABSINTHE. Known as a crazy drink, guests need not worry as it became illegal to have those original versions. This one is a more tamed drink. With a licorice flavor, one might compare it to a gum or a toothpaste. Needless to say, it's an acquired taste. Properly mixed with water and sugar, it gives off a different concoction that is mellow downed for the general public.
 Food is an integral part of any event. At MIREIO TERRACE, they serve some fine dishes that is easily some of the best in the area. From a Roast Duck Foie Gras on tosted country bread to some gazpacho and even some smoked salmon blinis, you won't go wrong with any of them.
 For big gorups, PLANCHES are in order. Some might go for a bread and a variety of dips that include some tapenade and even anchovies. Wine drinkers might want to go for the Cheese Platter. A selection of exquisite cheese from all over. For meat lovers though, the FRENCH COLD CUTS and TERRINE PLATTER is a must. Charcuteries et terrines as the the French calls it is something out of a dream. Freshly baked bread accompanies a sea of meat. Just pure orgasmic.

To end the night, always go for these scrumptious ball looking desserts. Plain looking as they are, there is a big difference in the taste however. The fillings are not your ordinary chocolate based cream. It is mixed with some sort of crunchy delight that would make you crave for more. Something oddly familiar but delicious none the less.
 Drinks are never overrated at MIREIO TERRACE. That's one of the reasons why people live, laugh and have fun. With friends and loved ones, MIREIO TERRACE is the place to relax and watch the sunset whenever in Makati.
 
You can never go wrong with RAFFLES. Congratulations Raffles on your 4th anniversary.



RELATED LINKS:

MIREIO TERRACE
Raffles Hotel
Makati Ave, Makati City,
Metro Manila
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Friday, November 18, 2016
RAFFLES MAKATI: Time for a cold one in LONG BAR

The progression of alcohol has never been so fun and easy. As students, we started off with chugging and drinking whatever drinks we could get our hands on. At RAFFLES' Long Bar, we are introduced to quality drinks that are delicious and world class.
When one enters, you are greeted by a long bar filled with high end alcohol drinks that could make your liver proud. Stepping up a bit, you are greeted by RAFFLE'S very own gin. Yes, they are part of an elite fewthat has their own liquor named and created for them.
One whiff and you are greeted by a sensual odor. Very smooth and delicate, that is what the SIPSMITH RAFFLES 1915 GIN is all about.
Award winning and bespoke bar tenders partnered with the LONG BAR to create delicious worth while drinks that makes you go back for more.
Aside from the flavor, it's all about the presentation. Our eyes taste the drinks first then our nose and lastly our mouth. At RAFFLES' LONG BAR, they make sure it's a thrill for the senses.
Aside from the cocktails, creative dishes welcomes the guests. This Grapes with cheese pizza is weird but to die for. Works well with the different flavors of the cocktails.
IF there was one thing guests have learned, it would be to stay at the bar. Talking to bar tenders and drink mixologists creates a different kind of experience. It adds to the way you interpret and drink that delicious mix.
New drinks would include the SOUTH EAST TEMPTATION, SMITH JULEP, JASMINE, PEARL OF THE ORIENT SLING, and GARDEN SLING.
Hands down a crowd favorite the SMITH JULEP is fruity and light. Garnished with a black tea bag, the citrus flavors come out perfectly.
On the other hand, the JASMINE is filled with pineapple flavors and some orange liquor. The product is a sophisticated lime mix that goes well with the gin.
All of these drinks won't be able to provide the same level of taste and quality if not for the RAFFLES' SIPSMITH. The hotel's very own gin. Elegant and with a hint of sophistication, you won't be satisfied with just a sip.

RELATED LINKS:
TAPAS at FAIRMONT LOUNGE
Raffles: Afternoon Tea
Raffles and Fairmont: Happy Hour and Oysters
Spectrum Sunday Seafood Brunch
Spectrum Sunday Brunch at The Ranch

FAIRMONT HOTEL
Lobby Lounge
Makati Ave, Makati City,
Metro Manila


Disclaimer: wrote this based on my experience
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Sunday, November 6, 2016
WHAT'S in the BAG?: Drinks to Start Your Day

A few days back while I was out of town, a package came and it was glorious.
 What first greeted me was this JOLLY COW FRESH MILK . Patrons of this milk brand would agree that this is one creamy drink. Being sourced from Germany, you are assured of its quality.
 The milk goes through a process in which any harmful bacteria are killed. This would also go perfect with your breakfast cereals. Yummy.
 Another surprise was the OLD ORCHARD APPLE CRANBERRY. Aside from drinking it on its own, this one right here is perfect for cocktails.
 One quick and easy mix would have to be a few parts vodka and a lot of apple cranberry to give it a fruity taste. It will definitely depend on you but, having this on the rocks makes it a joy to drink.
Surprisingly, not only are these beverages healthy but they are also delicious and perfect to start and end any day. These drinks are available at all leading supermarket in the metro.




Disclaimer:  wrote this based on my experience. These drinks were sent on over.
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Tuesday, June 28, 2016
LA MAISON COINTREAU 2016 Cocktail Competition Manila Edition

One step in and you're in a different place. BELLE and DRAGON in MAKATI was transformed into the FINALS of LA MAISON COINTREAU 2016 COCKTAIL COMPETITION Manila Edition.
 Everything was set. A DJ booth to start the night and even a bed right in the middle of the bar. Something to prepare the crowd and get them in the mood.
 Making use of the main liquor, COINTREAU, 7 finalist took the stage and made use of their wits and taste buds into creating the best drink. Presentation, Story and Relevance, Technique, Taste and Flavor and use of Cointreau. These were the different criteria used to judge the drinks. They were tasked to create a drink that has a French Muse inspiration.
 Something different, the judging was somewhat secretive. Basically, the bartenders would make the cocktails for the whole place without them knowing who would be the Final Round Judges. I believe this is important as they are kept on their toes and create the drinks perfect every time.
 While waiting, the guests were served with different bar chows that were definitely mouth watering. I enjoyed BELLE and DRAGON'S version of tacos. In actuality, these are fried wanton wrappers drizzled with all the toppings of a normal taco. Also, their version of a chicken bao was pretty good as the bread was deep fried and slightly sweet. Perfect to go with the drinks.
 To get the ball rolling, there was an open bar just before the competition. Margarita and Cosmo were among my favorites.
After settling down, the bar masters did their thing and made all the drinks that one could ever want. COINTREAU, being a versatile ingredient, was well used. This orange spirit deserves a round of applause.

 If there was one drink that I really enjoyed it was GOSSIP by CEDRIC CELLO. The use of the Cointreau was phenomenal as it worked well in hand with the different ingredients of the drink. It was fruity and sweet. Perfect for someone to enjoy the night.

The night was amazing. Party and drinks all around. Entertainment was provided by HOOCHIE COOCHIE MIKKIE and DJ MISS BADKISS. There was even a special presentation of MANILA BURLESQUE.

Disclaimer: was invited to this event. wrote this based on my experience.
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Wednesday, May 25, 2016
RAFFLES and FAIRMONT in MAKATI: HAPPY HOUR and OYSTERS

On a nice day after work hours the LONG BAR in RAFFLES HOTEL MAKATI is filled with hungry and workaholic fellas from the nearby business hub.
I guess they heard that the HAPPY HOUR in LONG BAR was perfect. From 5pm to 8pm, patrons would be treated to an alcoholic delight. Free flowing beer, concoctions and a platter of bar chow is served.
All the local beers and some imported ones are served. 
But if it was me, I would be going for their signature cocktails.
If you didn't know, the bar staff at the LONG BAR has a great grasp of how and what to concoct for the bar goers. 
Here, they create their own bitters and different ingredients for their amazing list of alcoholic drinks.
If you can't decide, you could also ask them to create something from nothing.
That is how creative and knowledgeable the guys are behind the bar.
 Partnered with different bar chow, you will definitely enjoy your stay here.
Ask for their version of the CHICHARON. Partnered with a tasty vinegar, this crackling pork grind is perfect. Chorizos and cheese balls are great as well.
I'm not ashamed of it but I love their version of the amaretto sour. The guy that made it gave it a little bit of twang with the addition of a citrus. Love it. 
Moving on, one could enjoy a cocktail of sorts with Oysters at the lobby lounge of the FAIRMONT HOTEL in MAKATI.
Dubbed as the OYSTRAS Y CAVA at the FAIRMONT LOUNGE, this exquisite and well curated cocktail is perfect for the foodie. From 6pm to 9pm, Sparkling Cava is served alongside different tapas and pintxos for dinners.
Pegged at Php 1,200 ++ per person, the selection isn't huge but the dishes are simple and straight forward.
I would suggest that you get a whole lot of that chorizo.
Of course, the oysters are fresh and is partnered with a lot of sauces.

You could ask the wait staff to have them grilled or cook to your liking.
A simple yet delightful take would be when you have it cooked with garlic. 
Another one would be the classic cheese.
 and BACON.

With the unlimited CAVA, you would definitely enjoy the "light" dinner.
Forgive me as I share to you the different plates I had.
Chorizo, mushrooms, shrimps, and salmon with cream cheese.
Over and over again.
And again.
For dessert, I suggest you order a few of their luxurious macarons. These are flavored to the delight of your imagination. Cheers.

RAFFLES HOTEL
FAIRMONT HOTEL
Makati Ave, Makati City,
Metro Manila



Disclaimer: wrote this based on my experience. was invited to try out this event.
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