Wednesday, February 21, 2024
QT Newcastle partners with Mount Pleasant Vineyard and Earp Distilling Co. to launch the 2024 Lovedale Smash, a unique cocktail blending Hunter Valley flavors. Inspired by Mount Pleasant’s renowned 2024 Sémillon harvest, the cocktail features 100 kilograms of freshly crushed Sémillon juice, skipping fermentation and paired with Earp’s No. 8 Dry Gin. Available exclusively until March 12th at select bars in Newcastle, this cocktail offers a taste of the Hunter Valley in every sip.
Mount Pleasant’s General Manager and Chief Winemaker, Adrian Sparks, expressed his excitement for local partnership and future plans saying, “this collaboration is something that we can do to promote the Newcastle and Hunter region, and we’re already in conversation about recreating the ‘smash’ with red grape varieties”.
The 2024 Lovedale Smash honors local traditions and the roots of cocktail culture, with its style originating from Jerry Thomas’ 1862 book, ‘How to Mix Drinks.’ Thomas’ recipe featured a straightforward mix of spirit, sugar, and fruit. Venue Manager Dave Watkins found the choice to pair it with Earp Distilling Co.’s No. 8 Dry Gin obvious. Produced and bottled locally, Watkins praises the gin for being “well-rounded and refreshing from taste to tail.”Reaffirming the perfect pair in the Sémillon juice and No.8 Dry Gin, Earp Distillery’s Venue Manager, Mitch Luke says, “the sweetness and the slight acidity of the grape juice lends itself to the spicy undertone of the gin”, creating a harmonious blend of flavours in every sip.
The 2024 Lovedale Smash can be enjoyed for $14 at QT Newcastle and Earp Distilling Co. until March 12, 2024. For every sale, $4 will be donated to the Pokolbin Rural Fire Brigade.
Tags: collaboration, distillery, Hotel, hunter valley, Lovedale Smash, vineyard
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Saturday, April 27, 2024
