It was the pleasure to go to the Press Day at Michigan By The Bottle’s newest location in Royal Oak (29932 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073). The place is a fantastic partnership with Michigan wineries to have tasting locations closer to the major population hubs. The original location is in Shelby Township but new one is right in my backyard.
On January 24th (tomorrow), they have their official grand opening and it will be a hoot and a half. There are a number of special pricing on their products (15% off a case being a big one) but also live music, a free sample of wine and food.
There are 8 wineries that are represented; 2 Lads Winery, Chateau Aeronautique, Chateau de Leelanau, Domaine Berrien Cellars, Gill’s Pier, Peninsula Cellars, Sandhill Crane Vineyards and Verterra Winery.
The dynamic duo that put together this amazing offering are Shannon and Cortney Casey. The couple tirelessly is working to promote Michigan wine and is doing a great job doing such. I highly recommend following them on social media as their posts are both hilarious and informative – Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
The concept is simple. Saddle up to the bar or grab a table and pick from a selection of Michigan wines to customize your wine flight. There are a few different tasting options but some include nibbles and some even include the premium dessert wines. At the end of the sampling, you can choose to buy some bottles to take home and even get a little discount with some of the tasting packages.
The spot is great for a night on the town with friends but could event be rented for large parties. They offer options to bring in catering too.
At the opening, I got a chance to pick-up a Magnum (1.5 Liters ~ 2 regular bottles) of Chateau Aeronautique.
As a bonus Lorenzo Lizarralde (vintner) signed it and said to cellar it for a few years. We will see if I have the patience for that.
To wrap up this rambling post, I took a crack at making a wine based cocktail. Using BevMo’s World Record Splash as the inspiration/straight up theft. I put together my variation.
World Recordier Splash
1.5 Oz Silver Tequila (I used Herradura)
1.5 Oz 2 Lads Pinot Noir
1/2 Oz Lime Juice
1/2 Oz Agave Nectar
Top with Grapefruit Soda (I used San Pellegrino)Stir everything except the soda with ice then top with soda. Garnish with lime wedge or decorative peels.
I hope you take some time to check out this fun new place. This weekend would be an ideal time.
Budmo!