With Valentine’s Day 2018 right around the corner, many of us at A Global Lifestyle are in need of a pick-me-up. Whether you need a gift for a loved one or an escape from the “joys” of Valentine’s Day, a distinguished spirit might be the gift that keeps on giving. In the spirit of a holiday based on consumption, below are five fine beverages worthy of your hard-earned dollars when shopping for Valentine’s Day.
1) Don Papa Rum
Don Papa Rum is the first small-batch premium rum from the Philippines, launched in the United States last year. Known for its rich, sweet style and fruity notes, Don Papa is handcrafted on the ethereal Philippine island of Negros, also known as “Sugarlandia.” Its complexity and high-quality craftsmanship yield a finished product that seeks to transcend the rum category, appealing to both rum drinkers and other brown spirit aficionados.
2) Belvedere Vodka
The (RED)-themed limited-edition bottle of Belvedere is available at select retailers. Proceeds of the limited edition bottle support the critical work of The Global Fund in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa. Beyond that audacious, sleek red color and stunning pearl, matte finish, the bottle makes for both a striking and meaningful gift. This release marks the 6th year of Belvedere Vodka’s partnership with (RED), as sales of the special bottles help to provide treatment for nearly 40,000 women living with HIV.
3) Cuvée Du Centenaire
Introduced in 1927 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Maison’s founding, Cuvée du Centenaire is an exceptional blend of refined XO Cognacs from the Grand Crus of Grande and Petite Champagne, combined with the essence of wild tropical oranges. The cognac blends found in Cuvée du Centenaire are aged up to 25 years, which results in a perfect balance of smoothness and intense flavors with a complex, lingering finish. Grand Marnier has further interesting sister products in the Cordon Rouge, Cuvée 1880, and Quintessence.
4) Bonterra Wines
Nestled in the Mendocino mountains, just north of Sonoma and Napa Valley, Bonterra Organic Vineyards was founded by organic winemaking pioneer Bob Blue who, in 1987, recognized Mendocino County’s ideal conditions for farming organic grapes. Bonterra’s collection of wines stems from an approach to farming that creates organic grapes that are pure, vibrant, and intensely flavorful. Its 2016 Viognier and 2015 Merlot — both retailing for $16 USD — are acclaimed selections from the label.
5) McBride Sisters Wines
Winemaking sisters Andréa and Robin McBride grew up on separate continents as only children in California and New Zealand, but today lead the largest African American winery in the U.S. All four of the wines from their sustainable namesake collection are priced under $20. The collection uniquely reflects the McBrides’ one-in-a-million story, vinified from the emerging wine regions of their childhoods, and each wine is strong enough to stand alone or serve alongside the entire collection. The Sparkling Rosé and the Sauvignon Blanc have both been getting lots of attention.
