Liquor Industry News/Links

02-04-17

Franklin Liquors

By: Mark C Lenzi

CSW, CSS, CWAS, FWS, IWS*

February Education/Tasting Events

http://ow.ly/86eX308EiPH

 

Our Valentines Gift Guide

http://ow.ly/wQq4308EhSd

 

Time To Vote!

2017 Readers Choice Awards Ballots

Week of January 16, 2017 through

week of February 6, 2017

Please Vote Us For Best Liquor Store

http://ballot.wickedlocalfavorites.com

 

GO PATS!

Take Care

Franklin Liquors

Mike & Mark

#shopfranklin

Liquor Industry Week In Review

This Weeks Highlights:

New Products

Which Beer Should You Drink During the Big Game?

Super Bowl beer matchup: Georgia vs. Massachusetts

This bag of chips can sense if you’ve been drinking and call you an Uber

AND MORE!

Franklin Liquors New Daily Newspaper

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)

 Our Daily Wine Newspaper

https://t.co/uSKfS74nvQ 

Here’s the Scientific Reason Drinking Alcohol Makes You So Hungry

Ever wondered why a couple of rounds of beer in a bar leaves you longing for hot wings, mozzarella sticks, and loaded potato skins?

http://www.rd.com/health/wellness/alcohol-hunger-and-appetite/

 

Aged 12 Seconds?

The whiskey rules are pretty strict when it comes to straight whiskey. It has to be aged two years or more, in oak. But for many other types of whiskey, the rules have gotten pretty lax, and it seems like it only has to be aged but a moment.

http://www.bevlaw.com/bevlog/whisky/aged-12-seconds

 

Smelling Terroir: A New Study Suggests People Can Smell the Difference Between Wines Solely Based on Terroir (but can we, really?)

A new paper in the journal Food Quality and Preference aimed to address the issue of terroir, specifically as it relates to identifying where a wine comes from solely by the smell.

http://www.academicwino.com/2017/01/smelling-terroir.html/

 

Calif vineyard acreage & wine production beginning to plateau

 

13 phenomenal reasons to drink more wine

Sure, overconsumption can be hazardous, and you may have made some terrible life choices thanks to wine. But drink wine in moderation, and it will improve your life — and your health

http://nypost.com/2017/01/27/13-phenomenal-reasons-to-drink-more-wine/

 

Burger and Wine Pairings Done Right

Hamburgers are the headlining feature in American comfort food and wine has been collecting fans for thousands of years all over the globe – but can the two really stand side by side on a menu?

http://winefolly.com/tutorial/burger-and-wine-pairings-done-right/

 

U.S. wine tops $10-a-bottle average for first time, expert says

For the first time, the average price for the equivalent of a standard-sized 750-milliliter bottle of wine sold by U.S. retailers passed $10 a bottle, said Danny Brager, senior vice president of Nielsen’s Beverage Alcohol Practice, at the 23rd annual Unified Wine & Grape Symposium in Sacramento.

http://www.northbaybusinessjournal.com/northbay/sonomacounty/6588305-181/us-wine-tops-10-a-bottle-average?artslide=0

 

This bag of chips can sense if you’ve been drinking and call you an Uber

Tostitos’ new bag wants to chaperone your Super Bowl party.

In honor of the big game, the chip maker is launching a special-edition version of its packaging with a built-in sensor that can detect trace levels of alcohol in your breath

http://mashable.com/2017/01/25/tostitos-breathalyzer-bag-super-bowl/#CWb9.tOm9qqX

 

10 Adulting Wine Apps to Help You Survive 2017

Check out 10 wine apps that’ll help us expand our knowledge of all things vino.

https://www.brit.co/10-adulting-wine-apps-to-help-you-survive-2017/

 

A Sip Of History: The Hidden Wine Cellars Under The Brooklyn Bridge

The wine cellars had originally been constructed as a sort of compromise

http://krvs.org/post/sip-history-hidden-wine-cellars-under-brooklyn-bridge

 

JOHNNY DEPP ‘SPENDS $30,000 A MONTH ON WINE’

Johnny Depp’s profligate lifestyle, which includes spending $30,000 a month on wine, has left the Hollywood actor in serious financial difficulty, according to his former business managers.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/02/johnny-depp-spends-30000-a-month-on-wine/

 

PIC SAINT LOUP AWAITS FINAL AOC NOD

The Languedoc region of Pic Saint Loup is waiting for the final ministerial seal of approval that will see its elevation to a standalone AOC confirmed.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/02/pic-saint-loup-awaits-final-aoc-nod/

 

Super Bowl beer matchup: Georgia vs. Massachusetts

A look at the craft beer scenes in the two states represented in the Super Bowl: Georgia and Massachusetts.

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/lifestyle/rocflavors/2017/01/31/super-bowl-beer-matchup-georgia-vs-massachusetts/97166436/

 

New Craft Beer-Focused Website October Launches

A new site dedicated to beer and the culture surrounding it, developed by Pitchfork’s creative studio

http://pitchfork.com/news/71269-new-craft-beer-focused-website-october-launches/

 

Don’t wine about it: A guide to pairing wines and food

Sip, sip, hooray.

http://move.themaneater.com/stories/2017/1/31/dont-wine-about-it-guide-pairing-wines-and-food/#.WJHZTxiZOT8

 

Gloria Ferrer Winery Releases Signature Sparkling Wine Flute Designed by Co-Founder Gloria Ferrer

In honor of the winery’s 30th anniversary in 2016, Mrs. Gloria Ferrer commissioned her first-ever collectible wine flute

http://wineindustryadvisor.com/2017/01/31/gloria-ferrer-signature-wine-flute-design

 

Guinness Is Bringing Brewing Back To U.S. After 63-Year Drought

Guinness is planning to spend about $50 million to open a brewery in Maryland, bringing brewing capabilities back to the United States for the first time after decades away from the market.

http://fortune.com/2017/01/31/guinness-opens-usa-brewery/?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=51bed47f55-The+Daily+Brew%3A+January+31%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-51bed47f55-36686829

 

Henry’s Hard Soda Launches New Grape Flavor

Henry’s Hard Soda gives fans the flavor they’ve been craving, Henry’s Hard Grape Soda.

http://www.brewbound.com/news/henrys-hard-soda-launches-new-grape-flavor?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=51bed47f55-The+Daily+Brew%3A+January+31%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-51bed47f55-36686829

 

Don’t punt on a Super opportunity for beer-food pairings

To begin, deconstruct the ingredients and flavor components of the beer and food individually

http://host.madison.com/wsj/entertainment/dining/beer/beer-baron-don-t-punt-on-a-super-opportunity-for/article_88cfe987-0540-5497-94fb-a6a575bdd622.html?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=51bed47f55-The+Daily+Brew%3A+January+31%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-51bed47f55-36686829

 

PROSECCO BIDS FOR UNESCO HERITAGE STATUS

The Conegliano Valdobbiadene region – home to Prosecco DOCG – has formally submitted its bid to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been confirmed.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/01/prosecco-bids-for-unesco-heritage-status/

 

These 18 attributes determine how consumers buy your wine.

 

The 9 Top Trends in Wine Consumption to Watch Right Now

The Wine Market Council, together with Nielsen and expert panelists, sound off on what, where and why Americans are drinking, with a few surprises revealed.

http://www.winemag.com/2017/02/01/the-9-top-trends-in-wine-consumption-to-watch-right-now/

 

What’s up with the little black sticker on some wine bottles?

Now in its third year, North Carolina’s Quality Assurance Program — an independent and confidential diagnosis and analysis of faults in N.C. wines — has begun issuing its stamps of approval to those wines passing muster.

http://www.greensboro.com/life/uncorked-what-s-up-with-the-little-black-sticker-on/article_7f6a9f8f-eb70-50a9-8619-5dc79e90b67a.html

 

In the cans versus bottles battle, craft beer brewers and drinkers differ

Cans save weight, space and costs, but many drinkers prefer bottles

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/in-the-cans-versus-bottles-battle-craft-beer-brewers-and-drinkers-differ-2017-01-31?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=98f4be9ac8-The+Daily+Brew%3A+February+1%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-98f4be9ac8-36686829

Which Beer Should You Drink During the Big Game?

There’s no right or wrong way to pick a good beer, but if you’re having trouble making a decision, our handy chart can help.

https://www.craftbeer.com/craft-beer-muses/super-bowl-craft-beer-big-game-flowchart

 

Bud Light’s Super Bowl Ad Resurrects 80’s Star Spuds MacKenzie

Bud Light’s original party animal is back from the grave.

http://fortune.com/2017/02/02/bud-light-super-bowl-2017/?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=30cb627f29-The+Daily+Brew%3A+February+2%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-30cb627f29-36686829

 

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Upcoming Events

Our 2017 Education Schedule

American Wine Specialist Program

Franklin Liquors ( www.franklinliquors.com )along with Vinitas Wineworks ( http://vinitaswineworks.com )and Wine Empire ( http://www.mywineempire.com ) are proud to host the North American Sommelier Association for an American Wine Specialist (AWS) Class.

 

The AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® covers each of the 50 American states. Classic wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma will be covered, in addition to all other California American Viticultural Areas.   Oregon’s Willamette Valley and Washington’s Columbia Valley – both home tosignificant investment by Old World wine families – will be explored at length.  We will study the rapidly upcoming regions of New York’s Finger Lakes,  Texas Hill Country, and Virginia’s Piedmont.  We will also taste a number of native and hybrid varieties from all over the country…this will be an enlightening experience with depth of information and diversity of American wines.

The course consists of 24 hours (4 full days) of class time and tasting, with a final written exam (5th day) required to achieve the official AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® certification and pin, issued by the North American Sommelier Association and recognized internationally by the Worldwide Sommelier Association (www.worldwidesommelier.com).

WHEN: 2017 MAR 25th, 26th, APR 1st & 2nd  – 9:00AM to 4:00pm (with break)

Exam: 2017 MAY 7th (9:00am – 1 hour)

WHERE: Franklin Liquors – 363 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

Cost $650

Details And Sign Up Here:

https://www.nasommelier.com/american-wine-specialist-aws

Franklin Liquors Class At The Creative Sewing Studio

Saturday, February 18th, 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Do you really know what’s in a bottle? How about if it’s really organic? Do you know only 5 corporations own 80-90% of wines for sale? Do you know how to get more value for your money or find the best for your specific palate when shopping for wines?This year we are re-opening after our winter break with a new and exciting Creative Arts Workshop, The Art Of Wine Buying! There is no better time for lively, educational conversation and the warmth created by sipping on wine than in the chill of winter!

Mark Lenzi, co-owner of Franklin Liquors will provide us with information on Wine Buying Tips Using Wine Labels that mostly only those in the industry know. No longer will you purchase a bottle solely based on its label design. This sit down wine tasting/education will explain all the truths and lies on a wine label. After this event buying wine will never be the same! http://www.franklinliquors.com

Cost: $38 includes cheese, meats and crackers, wine and information.

https://thecreativesewingstudio.com/products/adult-art-workshops-knitting-beading-painting

 

Franklin Wine Club 

Wine Explorers wanted!

Join Our 470 Club Members!

How To attend and join

http://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/

http://www.facebook.com/FranklinwineclubMA

 

February 7^th 7pm

Valentine Wine Tasting

 

At this tasting we will explore wines that will be great to pair on Valentines Day.

Mix of types and styles to get you in the ready for the big day.

Lets taste and explore.

https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/events/236822859/

Franklin Adult Education 2017 Classes

More Soon!

Medway Community Education Winter Programs

Exploring French Wines

Thursday February 9^th 7-9pm

Lets take a trip to France in this education and tasting class.

We will cover French wine growing regions and what wines to look for.

French wine laws and labels will be examined.

What is difference between Champagne and a Cremant?

What are the grapes in Burgundy?

What is the one red grape grown in Alsace?

What are French Dessert wines?

After this class you will have all the tips needed to start buying and enjoying the wines of France!

Participants must be 21 years of age

Cost $20

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Tri-County Adult Education  

2017 French Wine Scholar Program

Vinitas WineWorks LLC, Tri-County Adult Education, and Franklin Liquors are excited to announce the Fall session of the French Wine Scholar Certification program!

Now you don’t have to go to Boston for this world-class French wine course! Set yourself apart from your peers and specialize in the wines of France. Gain the confidence to taste, sell, and speak meaningfully about all aspects of French wine, from Champagne to Bordeaux and everything in between. Pass the exam and earn the title French Wine Scholar and FWS post-nominal.

Developed by the Wine Scholar Guild with the support of the French Ministry of Agriculture, this specialization program is designed for advanced students of wine, whether professionals or serious wine hobbyists. This is NOT an introductory wine class; students should have professional wine experience or previous classroom study. Students must be familiar with the concepts of viticulture and vinification, major grape varieties, wine regions, and wine styles from across the globe, and have experience tasting wine in a formal setting.

Date: 9 Tuesdays: February 28 – November May 30; Review May 16; Exam date: May 30, 2017

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: Franklin Liquors, 363 E. Central Street, Franklin MA

Tuition: $999

http://www.tri-county.tc/wine-scholar-program

February 16^th 

Oscars Truffle and Wine Tasting

Explore the world of truffles and a minimum of 6 fabulous wine pairings. The Sugar Shoppe’s Courtney Nappa and Franklin Liquor’s Mark Lenzi and show you the way for this educational sit-down tasting.

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2099

 

March 9^th French wines

Lets take a tasting tour around France.

We will discuss regions, laws and explore unique wines from Champagne to the Southwest. Don’t let wines from France confuse you, learn what grapes grow best where and become an expert!

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2098

 

Wine And Chocolate Events

Franklin Liquors And The Sugar Shoppe Partners For

Your Chocolate And Wine Events

Contact Us!

Food And Wine Events

Our Partner

The Moonlight Chef

Watch For Our Upcoming TV Show!

Franklin Liquors Wine Education

Certified Specialist Of Wine-CSW

Certified Specialist Of Spirits-CSS

Society Of Wine Educators

California Wine Appellation Specialist-CWAS-San Francisco Wine School (First In MA)

French Wine Scholar FWS-(Instructor) Wine Scholar Guild

Quini Certified Educator- QCE (First In USA)

Italian Wine Specialist-IWS-North American Sommelier Association

Liquor Industry News/Links

01-28-17

Franklin Liquors

By: Mark C Lenzi

CSW, CSS, CWAS, FWS, IWS*

Bevy of Booze Bills on the Docket in Massachusetts

Big THANK YOU to Rep Jeff Roy in listening and putting together legislation!

 

A house bill (HD.1350) aimed at limiting inducements via category management practices would prohibit alcohol beverage licensees from “furnishing a retailer with human resources to perform merchandising or other functions, with the expectation of stocking, rotation or pricing services of the industry member’s own product;”

 

What does this mean?

And What Do You Think?

As a small business we want to stay competitive in our pricing. One cost is labor. Did you know that many “BIG” stores get free labor from distributors to receive, stack, stock and merchandize product?

You may say well I see the soda, chips and bread being stocked by outside companies in my “BIG store’ why does this matter?

In the liquor industry any “extra” value to support a product is illegal. If a retailer does not have to touch a product with their own staff then they basically give the product away. If that value was given equally the smaller retailer could have more competitive pricing,

With MA laws changing yearly the amount of locations you have to buy is expanding. We believe this bill would make it easier for the smaller retailer to compete.

Thank you again to Jeff Roy and Richard Ross for listening way back to us and for helping start a conversation.

https://www.brewbound.com/news/bevy-booze-bills-docket-massachusetts

Read The Bill:

 inducements-in-alcohol-sales

Held In Our Wine Room This Week

 Medway Community Education Winter Program

WINE TASTING 101

 

Time To Vote!

2017 Readers Choice Awards Ballots

Week of January 16, 2017 through

week of February 6, 2017

Please Vote Us For Best Liquor Store

http://ballot.wickedlocalfavorites.com

Upcoming Franklin Wine Club Event

February 7^th 7pm

Valentine Wine Tasting

At this tasting we will explore wines that will be great to pair on Valentines Day.

Mix of types and styles to get you in the ready for the big day.

Lets taste and explore.

https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/events/236822859/

 

 

GO PATS!

Take Care

Franklin Liquors

Mike & Mark

#shopfranklin

Liquor Industry Week In Review

This Weeks Highlights:

New Products

Wine experts are putting salt in their glasses to improve the flavor

Turn to Piedmont region’s fizzy brachetto for a Tasty, low-alcohol treat

Tricks to Make a Bad Wine Better

 

AND MORE!

Franklin Liquors New Daily Newspaper

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)

 Our Daily Wine Newspaper

https://t.co/uSKfS74nvQ 

2016 U.S. Wine Sales Give UPS And FedEx Reason To Smile

Nearly 4% of U.S. wine sales in 2016 ($2.33 billion) was not handled by traditional wholesaling and retailing channels. Instead, the wines were sold by and delivered from wine producers direct to consumers (DtC).

http://www.forbes.com/sites/thomaspellechia/2017/01/20/2016-u-s-wine-sales-give-ups-and-fedex-reason-to-smile/#37c6c3024394

 

Pairing Bold Red Wines With Vegetarian (or Vegan) Food

If you’re a vegetarian (or the person responsible for feeding one), you might be under the impression that wine pairing with vegetarian food is limited.

http://winefolly.com/tutorial/pairing-bold-red-wines-with-vegetarian-or-vegan-food/

 

The Myth of the Producer Ride Along

It is thrilling to hear the tales of the product and create a relationship, but do these visits garner case sales? And the better question; do they garner repeat orders?

http://wineindustryadvisor.com/2017/01/20/myth-producer-ride-along

 

The War of the Rosés Breaks Out in France

One of the French appellation contrôlée regions for Méthode Ancestrale sparkling wines, Clairette de Die, has been given the green light to produce a rosé version, despite an ongoing battle with the appellation Bugey-Cerdon Méthode Ancestrale, which has hitherto been the only one to make a rosé.

http://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2017/01/the-war-of-the-roses-breaks-out-in-france

 

Here’s the wines on Trump’s inauguration lunch menu

US officials have risked re-opening old wounds with Champagne houses by picking a ‘California Champagne’ for president Donald Trump’s inauguration lunch. and it doesn’t include bottles from the Trump winery in Virginia.

http://www.decanter.com/wine-news/trump-inauguration-menu-wines-353341/

Sam Adams Just ‘Significantly’ Changed One of Its Most Popular Beers

Samuel Adams is ready to unveil the results of “Project Lupulus,” a four-year experiment the Boston brewers undertook to entirely reimagine one of their most popular flagship beers.

http://bostinno.streetwise.co/2017/01/19/sam-adams-just-significantly-changed-its-rebel-ipa-recipe/?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=4d09b77d38-The+Daily+Brew%3A+January+20%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-4d09b77d38-36686829

Strongbow Hard Apple Ciders Introduces New Orange Blossom Flavor

Strongbow Hard Apple Ciders, the number one selling global cider brand, unveils its newest flavor, Strongbow Orange Blossom.

http://www.brewbound.com/news/strongbow-hard-apple-ciders-introduces-new-orange-blossom-flavor?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=4d09b77d38-The+Daily+Brew%3A+January+20%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-4d09b77d38-36686829

 

When an Empty Wine Bottle Is Worth $300

One man’s trash is another’s counterfeit gold.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-19/when-an-empty-wine-bottle-is-worth-300

California Drought: What a difference a year makes!

 

New Narragansett Beer

Narragansett Beer has unveiled the latest brew in its Lovecraft series, The Unnamable Black Lager. Made with Chocolate Rye, Cara Red, Carafa Special 1 and Pilsner malts and Citra hops, The Unnamable is at 7.5% abv and retails at around $12 a six-pack of 16-ounce cans. The new entry is rolling out now across Narragansett’s distribution footprint, which includes New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington, D.C., Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Oregon and Tennessee.

5 Secrets for Buying Italian Wine

Italy has the most diversity of ideal grape growing terroir of any place in the world and also the most native grape varieties (700+). Even two winegrowers a few hundred meters from each other with the same grape variety make different wine.

http://uncorkedinitaly.com/5-secrets-for-buying-italian-wine/?utm_source=Uncorked+in+Italy&utm_campaign=316fc5c25f-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_884179c0bd-316fc5c25f-130695701

 

Tricks to Make a Bad Wine Better

Wine tricks every oenophile needs to know, from saving a corked wine with Saran wrap to using a spoon to preserve the bubbles in an unfinished bottle of Champagne

http://www.wsj.com/articles/tricks-to-make-a-bad-wine-better-1484841139

 

Corsican Reds, a Case Study in Wine Terroir

What a difference a place makes. A single type of grape, planted in one region, may yield insipid, uninteresting wines. Grown somewhere else, however, the grapes can become wines that astonish and inspire.

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/19/dining/review-red-wine-corsica-terroir.html?_r=0

 

Turn to Piedmont region’s fizzy brachetto for a Tasty, low-alcohol treat

Brachetto, a red grape from Italy’s Piedmont region, makes a middling red wine but really shines when it puts on some bubbles.

http://the570.com/wine-jan-19-2017/

 

New Ballast Point

San Diego’s Ballast Point, part of the Constellation Brands portfolio, is introducing its first bottled nitro beer, Red Velvet Nitro Stout. Red Velvet (5.5% abv) is an oatmeal stout brewed with beets and chocolate, which pours a deep red color. According to Ballast Point, the addition of nitrogen to the brew results in a creamy mouthfeel reminiscent of icing. The limited edition beer is rolling out now in bottled six-packs across the country.

Sierra Nevada Brewery Issues 36-State Recall of Select Beers

The affected beer has a package date that falls between Dec. 5, 2016, and Jan. 13, 2017 and a brewery code of “M” — which stands of Mills River — printed directly on bottles and the packaging of cardboard cases.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/sierra-nevada-brewery-issues-36-state-recall-select-44973853

 

INTRODUCING THE WORLD’S MOST EXPENSIVE PROSECCO

A Prosecco brand named Casanova has set a new level of bling-tastic ultra-luxury for the Italian sparkling wine with the launch of a Swarovski crystal-encrusted DOC Prosecco.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/01/introducing-the-worlds-most-expensive-prosecco/

 

WINES AND SIGNS: BIVB MATCHES APPELLATIONS TO CHINESE ZODIAC

From the playful Petit Chablis to the masculine Morey-Saint-Denis, we bring you BIBV’s appellation and Zodiac pairing guide so everyone knows which auspicious wines to drink this Chinese New Year…

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/01/wines-and-signs-bivb-matches-appellations-to-chinese-zodiac/

 

Wine experts are putting salt in their glasses to improve the flavor

It will instantly transform your cheap bottle of plonk

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/wine-experts-add-salt-critics-hyper-decanting-nathan-myhrvold-improve-flavour-fruit-tanin-alcohol-a7538001.html

 

 The Ever Expanding World of Wine Takes Your Palate to Unexpected Places

Never before have so many diverse wines, from so many places, been available to so many people around the globe

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/ever-expanding-world-wines-cultural-travel-180961654/

Behind a Wine Brand’s Arduous Journey to a Super Bowl Ad Buy

Bud’s exclusive category ad rights with Fox covered not just beer, but all of alcohol, shutting out wine brands.

http://adage.com/article/special-report-super-bowl/a-wine-brand-s-arduous-journey-a-super-bowl-ad-buy/307626/

 

Grapes of wrath: French wine industry angry at plans for bigger pregnancy health warnings on bottles

A quarter of French mothers-to-be continue to drink alcohol, according to the National Institute for Health and Medical Research, and the government says the warning needs to be larger to increase awareness of the dangers.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/01/24/grapes-wrath-french-wine-industry-angry-plans-bigger-pregnancy/

 

Beyond Napa: The Lessor Known North Coast Wine Regions

Not only do these regions have true grit, they also produce incredible wines that can easily rival their star-studded neighbors.

http://winefolly.com/review/beyond-napa-the-lessor-known-north-coast-wine-regions/

 

Tom Brady is world’s greatest beer chugger, former teammate Ross Tucker says

Tucker went on to say Brady put to shame a friend of his who he once thought to be the world’s greatest beer chugger.

http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/tom-brady-ross-tucker-beer-chugger-patriots-falcons-super-bowl-51/7y1dvdv1t1gg19tzf15vrmmcy

 

Prosecco vs Franciacorta: Fizz Fight

We all know about the unfaltering grip Prosecco seems to have on the sparkling wine market, but how does it match up to the ambitions of Franciacorta – especially in their Italian home?

http://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2017/01/prosecco-vs-franciacorta-fizz-fight

 

Gruet: French Quality Bubbles From The American Desert

Last year Wine Spectator Magazine ranked their Brut as one of the year’s top 100 value wines.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/tmullen/2017/01/23/gruet-french-quality-bubbles-from-the-american-desert/#728480734fe1

 

Brotherhood is America’s oldest winery, thriving during Prohibition

Read about the winery in Washingtonville, N.Y.

http://www.palmbeachdailynews.com/travel/brotherhood-america-oldest-winery-thriving-during-prohibition/uhKIzIdgfl6RC3lvLu7GgK/

New Castle Rock Wine

California’s Castle Rock Winery has extended its lineup with the launch of a new Rosé of Pinot Noir. Sourced from Mendocino County, Castle Rock’s Rosé of Pinot Noir is rolling out across select U.S. markets, retailing at around $12 a 750-ml. The offering is limited to 12,000 cases. Rosé of Pinot Noir marks the 10th varietal in Castle Rock’s portfolio, joining the brand’s Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petite Sirah and Pinot Grigio, among others. Castle Rock’s eponymous brand sells around 450,000 cases annually in the U.S. market, according to Impact Databank.

New Harpoon

Boston’s Harpoon Brewery is releasing Fresh Tracks, a new spring seasonal. A 6.2%-abv pale ale, Fresh Tracks is a single-hop brew made only with the Centennial hop variety, known for its piney, citrusy character. The newcomer is launching now in 12-ounce bottles and cans as well as on draft. Harpoon ranks as the nation’s 19th-largest craft brewer, according to the Brewers Association.

The everyday sparkle

As Prosecco continue to thrive, we investigate how it has managed to become a fixture on every supermarket shelf and wine list

http://www.wineintelligence.com/the-everyday-sparkle/

Mass. Liquor Laws

Massachusetts’ liquor laws are some of the oldest on the books. Most date back to the end of prohibition. State Treasurer Deb Goldberg has announced a new task force to revisit the regulations

http://news.wgbh.org/2017/01/24/local-news/mass-liquor-laws

 

Understanding Napa Cabernet

By learning more about Napa’s great Cabernet wines, we can better understand what makes this varietal exceptional and learn to spot Napa Valley and California wines with great promise and potential.

http://winefolly.com/review/understanding-napa-cabernet/?utm_source=Wine+Folly&utm_campaign=387a9c767f-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_a18d8bdc1b-387a9c767f-62472929&mc_cid=387a9c767f&mc_eid=d73340fcba

 

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Get updated On Liquor Industry News, Events, Sales And More!

http://bit.ly/1q72JV3

Find Us Online

VOTED BEST (GOLD) LIQUOR STORE IN 16 TOWN REGION 

2014, 2015 AND 2016!

www.franklinliquors.com

Like Us On Facebook

www.facebook.com/franklinliquorsMA

Follow Us On Twitter

www.twitter.com/franklinliquors

Our Latest Specials

Liquor

Liquor Sale Items

Wine

Wine Sale Items

Beer

Beer Sale Items

Beer Keg Information Page

Stop In And Try!!

MORE ON TAP In Store Kiosk

Interactive Technology While You Shop:

Sale Items

Drink Recipes

Product Information

Events

Food And Wine Pairings

Staff Picks

And More!

https://youtu.be/aPIr_vEF9Jc

 

Upcoming Events

Our 2017 Education Schedule

American Wine Specialist Program

Franklin Liquors ( www.franklinliquors.com )along with Vinitas Wineworks ( http://vinitaswineworks.com )and Wine Empire ( http://www.mywineempire.com ) are proud to host the North American Sommelier Association for an American Wine Specialist (AWS) Class.

 

The AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® covers each of the 50 American states. Classic wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma will be covered, in addition to all other California American Viticultural Areas.   Oregon’s Willamette Valley and Washington’s Columbia Valley – both home tosignificant investment by Old World wine families – will be explored at length.  We will study the rapidly upcoming regions of New York’s Finger Lakes,  Texas Hill Country, and Virginia’s Piedmont.  We will also taste a number of native and hybrid varieties from all over the country…this will be an enlightening experience with depth of information and diversity of American wines.

The course consists of 24 hours (4 full days) of class time and tasting, with a final written exam (5th day) required to achieve the official AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® certification and pin, issued by the North American Sommelier Association and recognized internationally by the Worldwide Sommelier Association (www.worldwidesommelier.com).

WHEN: 2017 MAR 25th, 26th, APR 1st & 2nd  – 9:00AM to 4:00pm (with break)

Exam: 2017 MAY 7th (9:00am – 1 hour)

WHERE: Franklin Liquors – 363 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

Cost $650

Details And Sign Up Here:

https://www.nasommelier.com/american-wine-specialist-aws

Franklin Liquors Class At The Creative Sewing Studio

Saturday, February 18th, 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Do you really know what’s in a bottle? How about if it’s really organic? Do you know only 5 corporations own 80-90% of wines for sale? Do you know how to get more value for your money or find the best for your specific palate when shopping for wines?This year we are re-opening after our winter break with a new and exciting Creative Arts Workshop, The Art Of Wine Buying! There is no better time for lively, educational conversation and the warmth created by sipping on wine than in the chill of winter!

Mark Lenzi, co-owner of Franklin Liquors will provide us with information on Wine Buying Tips Using Wine Labels that mostly only those in the industry know. No longer will you purchase a bottle solely based on its label design. This sit down wine tasting/education will explain all the truths and lies on a wine label. After this event buying wine will never be the same! http://www.franklinliquors.com

Cost: $38 includes cheese, meats and crackers, wine and information.

https://thecreativesewingstudio.com/products/adult-art-workshops-knitting-beading-painting

 

Franklin Wine Club 

Wine Explorers wanted!

Join Our 460 Club Members!

How To attend and join

http://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/

http://www.facebook.com/FranklinwineclubMA

 

February 7^th 7pm

Valentine Wine Tasting

 

At this tasting we will explore wines that will be great to pair on Valentines Day.

Mix of types and styles to get you in the ready for the big day.

Lets taste and explore.

https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/events/236822859/

Franklin Adult Education 2017 Classes

More Soon!

Medway Community Education Winter Programs

Exploring French Wines

Thursday February 9^th 7-9pm

Lets take a trip to France in this education and tasting class.

We will cover French wine growing regions and what wines to look for.

French wine laws and labels will be examined.

What is difference between Champagne and a Cremant?

What are the grapes in Burgundy?

What is the one red grape grown in Alsace?

What are French Dessert wines?

After this class you will have all the tips needed to start buying and enjoying the wines of France!

Participants must be 21 years of age

Cost $20

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Tri-County Adult Education  

2017 French Wine Scholar Program

Vinitas WineWorks LLC, Tri-County Adult Education, and Franklin Liquors are excited to announce the Fall session of the French Wine Scholar Certification program!

Now you don’t have to go to Boston for this world-class French wine course! Set yourself apart from your peers and specialize in the wines of France. Gain the confidence to taste, sell, and speak meaningfully about all aspects of French wine, from Champagne to Bordeaux and everything in between. Pass the exam and earn the title French Wine Scholar and FWS post-nominal.

Developed by the Wine Scholar Guild with the support of the French Ministry of Agriculture, this specialization program is designed for advanced students of wine, whether professionals or serious wine hobbyists. This is NOT an introductory wine class; students should have professional wine experience or previous classroom study. Students must be familiar with the concepts of viticulture and vinification, major grape varieties, wine regions, and wine styles from across the globe, and have experience tasting wine in a formal setting.

Date: 9 Tuesdays: February 28 – November May 30; Review May 16; Exam date: May 30, 2017

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: Franklin Liquors, 363 E. Central Street, Franklin MA

Tuition: $999

http://www.tri-county.tc/wine-scholar-program

February 16^th 

Oscars Truffle and Wine Tasting

Explore the world of truffles and a minimum of 6 fabulous wine pairings. The Sugar Shoppe’s Courtney Nappa and Franklin Liquor’s Mark Lenzi and show you the way for this educational sit-down tasting.

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2099

 

March 9^th French wines

Lets take a tasting tour around France.

We will discuss regions, laws and explore unique wines from Champagne to the Southwest. Don’t let wines from France confuse you, learn what grapes grow best where and become an expert!

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2098

 

Wine And Chocolate Events

Franklin Liquors And The Sugar Shoppe Partners For

Your Chocolate And Wine Events

Contact Us!

Food And Wine Events

Our Partner

The Moonlight Chef

Watch For Our Upcoming TV Show!

Franklin Liquors Wine Education

Certified Specialist Of Wine-CSW

Certified Specialist Of Spirits-CSS

Society Of Wine Educators

California Wine Appellation Specialist-CWAS-San Francisco Wine School (First In MA)

French Wine Scholar FWS-(Instructor) Wine Scholar Guild

Quini Certified Educator- QCE (First In USA)

Italian Wine Specialist-IWS-North American Sommelier Association

Liquor Industry News/Links

01-21-17

Franklin Liquors

By: Mark C Lenzi

CSW, CSS, CWAS, FWS, IWS*

Upcoming Medway Community Education Winter Programs

WINE TASTING 101

Thursday January 26^th 7-9pm

 

This wine tasting and educational class will help you develop your wine profile.

We will explore the 5 steps in how to taste wine. The results of this will make you a better wine taster and buyer and develop your unique wine profile. With this profile you can walk into any store or restaurant and explain what you like.

What do you smell? Do you like oaked or unoaked wines? Why do we swirl and spit?

We will talk about wine technology that can assist in building your palate.

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Exploring French Wines

Thursday February 9^th 7-9pm

 

Lets take a trip to France in this education and tasting class.

We will cover French wine growing regions and what wines to look for.

French wine laws and labels will be examined.

What is difference between Champagne and a Cremant?

What are the grapes in Burgundy?

What is the one red grape grown in Alsace?

What are French Dessert wines?

After this class you will have all the tips needed to start buying and enjoying the wines of France!

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Time To Vote!

2017 Readers Choice Awards Ballots

Week of January 16, 2017 through

week of February 6, 2017

Please Vote Us For Best Liquor Store

http://ballot.wickedlocalfavorites.com

 

GO PATS!

Take Care

Franklin Liquors

Mike & Mark

#shopfranklin

Liquor Industry Week In Review

This Weeks Highlights:

What those lines on Solo cups really mean

JACK DANIEL’S LAUNCHES WHISKEY-INFUSED COFFEE

Spain Bans Blue Wine for Being the Wrong Color

AND MORE!

Franklin Liquors New Daily Newspaper

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)

 Our Daily Wine Newspaper

https://t.co/uSKfS74nvQ 

The Top 12 Underrated Wine Regions To Visit In 2017: A Month-By-Month Guide

If it’s true that travel planning and anticipation bring as much if not more joy as the trip itself, then the post-holiday wintry start of the year is a great time to boost your “happy hormones” with a wine travel porn.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/lmowery/2017/01/13/the-top-twelve-underrated-wine-regions-to-visit-in-2017-a-month-by-month-guide/#609c696c61fe

 

The top 10 things you need to make wine your new hobby

It’s 2017. Learning about wine is your new hobby.

http://www.bizjournals.com/bizjournals/how-to/growth-strategies/2017/01/the-top-10-things-you-need-to-make-wine-new-hobby.html

 

Announcing the Chronicle’s 2017 wine competition winners

The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC) is the largest wine contest of solely American wines in the world.

http://www.sfgate.com/chroniclewinecompetition/article/SF-Chronicle-Wine-Competition-Winners-2017-10856547.php

 

How One Red Grape Can Make Red, Rosé and White Wine

Let’s take a look at how different winemaking methods change the resulting wine–all with one grape: Pinot Noir!

http://winefolly.com/tutorial/how-one-red-grape-makes-red-rose-white-and-sparkling-wine/

Don’t fall for those declaring war on alcohol

Moderate wine consumption, with dinner or after, has proven health benefits; those who say alcohol causes cancer are trying to scare up money for studies.

http://www.modbee.com/opinion/national-opinions/article126254144.html

Is some French wine really from Spain?

Spain’s bulk wine industry is the largest in the world. And guess where it sells the most bulk wine? That’s right, France. Spain sells twice as much bulk wine to France as it does to Germany, its second-biggest market.

http://blog.wblakegray.com/2017/01/is-some-french-wine-really-from-spain.html

Chianti Classico Confusion Hits Sales

A stalwart of Italian restaurant wine lists worldwide, drinkers are going cold on a once-proud appellation.

http://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2017/01/chianti-classico-confusion-hits-sales

 

Italian Wine Courses in a Tuscan Castle

Join a small group (max 12) in either May or September for a four-day, full immersion course on Italian wine, food and culture in Tuscan castle

http://uncorkedinitaly.com/2017-italian-wine-courses-in-a-tuscan-castle/?utm_source=Uncorked+in+Italy&utm_campaign=7a0b291c4b-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_884179c0bd-7a0b291c4b-130695701

 

How to Navigate Cruise-Ship Wine Lists

Whether you’re going for an all-inclusive drinks deal, buying wine by the bottle or bringing it on board with you, these tips and tricks will help you get the most out of your cruise

http://www.wsj.com/articles/how-to-navigate-cruise-ship-wine-lists-1484239937

 

Wine: why it makes sense to pair what you drink with music as well as with food

Start to see wine as part of a broad cultural experience, and expand your drinking horizons

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2017/jan/12/wine-pairing-with-music-not-just-with-food

 

What IS Minerality, Anyway?: An Evaluation of Consumer Understanding of Minerality Using Analysis of Language

The term “minerality” itself is relatively new, with most of the references to the term

http://www.academicwino.com/2017/01/minerality-evaluation-of-language.html/

 

9 GREAT GLUTEN-FREE BEERS THAT TASTE GLUTEN-FUL

Folks with gluten intolerances and Celiac have to deal with a lot of crap, not the least of which is explaining that they’re not one of the many people who think that going “gluten-free” is a fad diet rather than a serious medical issue. One thing they no longer have to deal with: shitty beer.

https://www.thrillist.com/drink/nation/best-gluten-free-beer-list-breweries

 

What It’s Like To Work in Wine: 5 Stories

We interviewed 5 people in the wine trade to find out what it’s like and what it takes to get there. Surprisingly enough, you’ll see a theme that carries through and it’s really inspiring.

http://winefolly.com/update/what-its-like-to-work-in-wine/?utm_source=Wine+Folly&utm_campaign=6bf8365515-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_a18d8bdc1b-6bf8365515-62472929&mc_cid=6bf8365515&mc_eid=d73340fcba

 

Spain Bans Blue Wine for Being the Wrong Color

Now they’ve been forced to stop calling their product wine, and now it’s marketed under the “other alcoholic drinks” category, and not shelved with wine in stores. They also had to change their labels to read: “99 percent wine and 1 percent grape must.”

http://www.thedailymeal.com/spain-bans-gik-blue-wine-for-being-wrong-color/11417

 

Nebbiolo’s Northern Lights: Alto Piemonte & Valtellina

There aren’t too many secrets left anymore in the world of wine. Alto Piemonte and Valtellina are two of them

http://vinous.com/articles/nebbiolo-s-northern-lights-alto-piemonte-valtellina-apr-2016

 

UB40 LAUNCHES RED RED WINE

It’s finally happening. Brummie reggae hitmakers UB40 are launching their own brand of Red Red Wine.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/01/ub40-launches-red-red-wine/

 

JACK DANIEL’S LAUNCHES WHISKEY-INFUSED COFFEE

Caffeine-crazed Jack Daniel’s lovers can now have a taste of their favorite tipple in the morning with the launch of the brand’s new whiskey-infused Arabica coffee.

http://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2017/01/jack-daniels-launches-whiskey-infused-coffee/

 

This startup is taking the mystery out of wine pricing—and making the good stuff cheaper

Tarlov clearly lists the input costs for his on Alit’s website, outlining just what customers are paying for when they fork over $27.45 for a bottle of his 2015 Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley:

https://qz.com/884169/the-good-stuff-for-less-meet-alit-the-everlane-of-wine/

 

Four Napa Valley dessert wines will no longer be called ‘port’

In late October, Portuguese wine industry leaders officially recognized four NVV members for voluntarily discontinuing the use of the term “port” for their fortified dessert wines.

http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/four-napa-valley-dessert-wines-will-no-longer-be-called/article_5a7094db-63ff-5ffc-9aed-9f171a8c3910.html

 

Five Italian microbrews you need to try now

Yes, the land of Peroni is actually home to a bustling microbrew scene.

https://www.pri.org/stories/2017-01-16/five-italian-microbrews-you-need-try-now

Beer and soda cans found to have traces of bisphenol A in laquer coating

Scientists from the Danish Consumer Council, THINK Chemicals, have found eight out of 14 cans tested in a laboratory contain endocrine disrupting bisphenols in the lacquer on the inside of a can.

http://www.beveragedaily.com/Processing-Packaging/Beer-and-soda-cans-found-to-have-traces-of-bisphenol-A

WINE SHIPMENTS INTO US REACH 400 MILLION CASES FOR CALENDAR 2016. BEER, WINE, AND SPIRITS ALL SHOW GROWTH.

For twelve months ending December, the bw166 Total Beverage Alcohol Overview shows total consumer spending on beverage alcohol at $233.5 billion, an increase of 4.2% and a slight deceleration from the 4.7% growth in 2015.

http://bw166.com/2017/01/15/beer-wine-spirits-show-growth-calendar-2016-wine-shipments-us-reach-400-million-cases/

Meritage – Death of a Marketing Label

There is good news on the Meritage front: the world’s best winery that makes the world’s best and most awesome wines, Trump Winery in Virginia, makes a Meritage. And it is, no doubt, super awesome.

http://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2017/01/meritage-e-death-of-a-marketing-label

 

Better than Tinder? App matches your favorite cheese with the best wine

University of Toronto are the scientists behind www.wineandcheesemap.com. The app and website allows you to search for either your desired wine or cheese and a list of possible suggestions will appear.

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/wine-cheese-app-map-match-best-together-a7532266.html

Imported Wine

 

4 ANIMATED RELIEF MAPS OF EUROPE’S FAMOUS WINE REGIONS

The four animated maps below, of France, Italy, Germany and Spain, allow you to see one important aspect of this for yourself — the shape and height of the land throughout each of their wine growing regions. While each country is unique, and soil and climate play equally vital roles in what sort of wine you can produce, these maps offer a unique view of how and where wine is grown in Europe.

http://vinepair.com/wine-blog/4-animated-relief-maps-europes-famous-wine-regions/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=pagepost

 

New Zealand recovers from earthquake and is set for average 2017 vintage

Despite suffering major earthquake damage in the country’s key wine producing regions of its South Island, New Zealand is on course for an average 2017

http://www.winebehindthelabel.org/wine-news/new-zealand-ready-for-an-average-wine-harvest/

 

What those lines on Solo cups really mean

It revolutionized how drinks are poured and perhaps saved some livers along the way.

http://www.businessinsider.com/what-are-lines-on-solo-cups-2017-1

 

Let’s Talk Beer Styles: Russian Imperial Stout

The “Russia” connection in particular has been the subject of mythologizing over the course of hundreds of years, with information that began as marketing/advertising copy from breweries eventually finding its way into textbooks and historical records.

https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2017/01/lets-talk-beer-styles-russian-imperial-stout.html

How to Buy the Best Possible Wine at the Grocery Store

Or a liquor store. Or a gas station. Really anywhere but a wine shop. Because although wine shops are always preferable, sometimes it’s just not possible where you happen to be. Here’s how to get a decent bottle when you are left to your own devices in the beverage aisle.

http://www.bonappetit.com/story/wine-buying-tips-grocery-store

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Get updated On Liquor Industry News, Events, Sales And More!

http://bit.ly/1q72JV3

Find Us Online

VOTED BEST (GOLD) LIQUOR STORE IN 16 TOWN REGION 

2014, 2015 AND 2016!

www.franklinliquors.com

Like Us On Facebook

www.facebook.com/franklinliquorsMA

Follow Us On Twitter

www.twitter.com/franklinliquors

Our Latest Specials

Liquor

Liquor Sale Items

Wine

Wine Sale Items

Beer

Beer Sale Items

Beer Keg Information Page

Stop In And Try!!

MORE ON TAP In Store Kiosk

Interactive Technology While You Shop:

Sale Items

Drink Recipes

Product Information

Events

Food And Wine Pairings

Staff Picks

And More!

https://youtu.be/aPIr_vEF9Jc

 

Upcoming Events

Our 2017 Education Schedule

American Wine Specialist Program

Franklin Liquors ( www.franklinliquors.com )along with Vinitas Wineworks ( http://vinitaswineworks.com )and Wine Empire ( http://www.mywineempire.com ) are proud to host the North American Sommelier Association for an American Wine Specialist (AWS) Class.

 

The AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® covers each of the 50 American states. Classic wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma will be covered, in addition to all other California American Viticultural Areas.   Oregon’s Willamette Valley and Washington’s Columbia Valley – both home tosignificant investment by Old World wine families – will be explored at length.  We will study the rapidly upcoming regions of New York’s Finger Lakes,  Texas Hill Country, and Virginia’s Piedmont.  We will also taste a number of native and hybrid varieties from all over the country…this will be an enlightening experience with depth of information and diversity of American wines.

The course consists of 24 hours (4 full days) of class time and tasting, with a final written exam (5th day) required to achieve the official AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® certification and pin, issued by the North American Sommelier Association and recognized internationally by the Worldwide Sommelier Association (www.worldwidesommelier.com).

WHEN: 2017 MAR 25th, 26th, APR 1st & 2nd  – 9:00AM to 4:00pm (with break)

Exam: 2017 MAY 7th (9:00am – 1 hour)

WHERE: Franklin Liquors – 363 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

Cost $650

Details And Sign Up Here:

https://www.nasommelier.com/american-wine-specialist-aws

Franklin Liquors Class At The Creative Sewing Studio

Saturday, February 18th, 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Do you really know what’s in a bottle? How about if it’s really organic? Do you know only 5 corporations own 80-90% of wines for sale? Do you know how to get more value for your money or find the best for your specific palate when shopping for wines?This year we are re-opening after our winter break with a new and exciting Creative Arts Workshop, The Art Of Wine Buying! There is no better time for lively, educational conversation and the warmth created by sipping on wine than in the chill of winter!

Mark Lenzi, co-owner of Franklin Liquors will provide us with information on Wine Buying Tips Using Wine Labels that mostly only those in the industry know. No longer will you purchase a bottle solely based on its label design. This sit down wine tasting/education will explain all the truths and lies on a wine label. After this event buying wine will never be the same! http://www.franklinliquors.com

Cost: $38 includes cheese, meats and crackers, wine and information.

https://thecreativesewingstudio.com/products/adult-art-workshops-knitting-beading-painting

 

Franklin Wine Club Meeting

Wine Explorers wanted!

Join Our 460 Club Members!

How To attend and join

http://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/

http://www.facebook.com/FranklinwineclubMA

 

February 7^th 7pm

Valentine Wine Tasting

 

At this tasting we will explore wines that will be great to pair on Valentines Day.

Mix of types and styles to get you in the ready for the big day.

Lets taste and explore.

https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/events/236822859/

Franklin Adult Education 2017 Classes

More Soon!

Medway Community Education Winter Programs

WINE TASTING 101

Thursday January 26^th 7-9pm

This wine tasting and educational class will help you develop your wine profile.

We will explore the 5 steps in how to taste wine. The results of this will make you a better wine taster and buyer and develop your unique wine profile. With this profile you can walk into any store or restaurant and explain what you like.

What do you smell? Do you like oaked or unoaked wines? Why do we swirl and spit?

We will talk about wine technology that can assist in building your palate.

Participants must be 21 years of age

Cost $20

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Exploring French Wines

Thursday February 9^th 7-9pm

Lets take a trip to France in this education and tasting class.

We will cover French wine growing regions and what wines to look for.

French wine laws and labels will be examined.

What is difference between Champagne and a Cremant?

What are the grapes in Burgundy?

What is the one red grape grown in Alsace?

What are French Dessert wines?

After this class you will have all the tips needed to start buying and enjoying the wines of France!

Participants must be 21 years of age

Cost $20

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Tri-County Adult Education  

2017 French Wine Scholar Program

Vinitas WineWorks LLC, Tri-County Adult Education, and Franklin Liquors are excited to announce the Fall session of the French Wine Scholar Certification program!

Now you don’t have to go to Boston for this world-class French wine course! Set yourself apart from your peers and specialize in the wines of France. Gain the confidence to taste, sell, and speak meaningfully about all aspects of French wine, from Champagne to Bordeaux and everything in between. Pass the exam and earn the title French Wine Scholar and FWS post-nominal.

Developed by the Wine Scholar Guild with the support of the French Ministry of Agriculture, this specialization program is designed for advanced students of wine, whether professionals or serious wine hobbyists. This is NOT an introductory wine class; students should have professional wine experience or previous classroom study. Students must be familiar with the concepts of viticulture and vinification, major grape varieties, wine regions, and wine styles from across the globe, and have experience tasting wine in a formal setting.

Date: 9 Tuesdays: February 28 – November May 30; Review May 16; Exam date: May 30, 2017

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: Franklin Liquors, 363 E. Central Street, Franklin MA

Tuition: $999

http://www.tri-county.tc/wine-scholar-program

February 16^th 

Oscars Truffle and Wine Tasting

Explore the world of truffles and a minimum of 6 fabulous wine pairings. The Sugar Shoppe’s Courtney Nappa and Franklin Liquor’s Mark Lenzi and show you the way for this educational sit-down tasting.

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2099

 

March 9^th French wines

Lets take a tasting tour around France.

We will discuss regions, laws and explore unique wines from Champagne to the Southwest. Don’t let wines from France confuse you, learn what grapes grow best where and become an expert!

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2098

 

Wine And Chocolate Events

Franklin Liquors And The Sugar Shoppe Partners For

Your Chocolate And Wine Events

Contact Us!

Food And Wine Events

Our Partner

The Moonlight Chef

Watch For Our Upcoming TV Show!

Franklin Liquors Wine Education

Certified Specialist Of Wine-CSW

Certified Specialist Of Spirits-CSS

Society Of Wine Educators

California Wine Appellation Specialist-CWAS-San Francisco Wine School (First In MA)

French Wine Scholar FWS-(Instructor) Wine Scholar Guild

Quini Certified Educator- QCE (First In USA)

Italian Wine Specialist-IWS-North American Sommelier Association

Liquor Industry News/Links

01-14-17

Franklin Liquors

By: Mark C Lenzi

CSW, CSS, CWAS, FWS, IWS*

Upcoming Tri-County Classes

In Our Wine Room

Oscars Truffle and Wine Tasting    

Thursday             2/16/17                7pm -9pm

With The Sugar Shoppe

Explore the world of truffles and a minimum of 6 fabulous wine pairings. The Sugar Shoppe’s Courtney Nappa and Franklin Liquor’s Mark Lenzi and show you the way for this educational sit-down tasting.

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2099

Exploring French Wines         

                        Thursday             3/9/17            7pm to 9pmF

Lets take a tasting tour around France.

We will discuss regions, laws and explore unique wines from Champagne to the Southwest. Don’t let wines from France confuse you, learn what grapes grow best where and become an expert!

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2098

Time To Vote!

2017 Readers Choice Awards Ballots

Week of January 16, 2017 through

week of February 6, 2017

Please Vote Us For Best Liquor Store

GO PATS!

Take Care

Franklin Liquors

Mike & Mark

#shopfranklin

Liquor Industry Week In Review

This Weeks Highlights:

Beer Pairings for Girl Scout Cookies (2017 Update)

Notre Dame has its own wine

If That Wine You Love Suddenly Tastes Weird Don’t Blame The Cork

AND MORE!

Franklin Liquors New Daily Newspaper

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)

 Our Daily Wine Newspaper

https://t.co/uSKfS74nvQ 

‘Shower Beer’ Is a Dedicated Beer for the Bathroom (Yes, This Is Real)

The brew is specifically built for shower consumption: At only 18 centiliters, about 6 ounces, Shower Beer is half the size of your typical bottled or canned brew, a size “meant to gulp in three sips while standing in the shower getting ready for the night.”

http://people.com/food/shower-beer-bathroom-bottles/

 

How K-Cups Might Replace Keg Cups And Keep You Home From The Bar

Anheuser-Busch InBev announced a partnership with coffeemaker Keurig Green Mountain to develop a system for serving beer, spirits, cocktails and mixers at home that skips that pesky trip to the liquor store.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/taranurin/2017/01/06/next-on-tap-for-beer-k-cups-not-keg-cups/#2907b2503503

 

The Hater’s Guide to Loving Port Wine

Portugal’s popularity is booming as a tourist destination. Next up for world domination? Its signature drink.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-06/how-to-drink-port-and-why-you-ll-learn-to-love-it

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Miller Lite

When Miller Lite first hit the market in the early 1970s, it sent shockwaves through the American beer industry

http://www.thedailymeal.com/drink/5-things-you-didn-t-know-about-miller-lite?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=046d16615e-The+Daily+Brew%3A+January+6%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-046d16615e-36686829

 

If That Wine You Love Suddenly Tastes Weird Don’t Blame The Cork

To find out if it is indeed the wrong day for that wine, take a look at your calendar, but don’t focus on what day it is; focus on the moon cycle.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/thomaspellechia/2017/01/08/if-that-wine-you-love-suddenly-tastes-weird-dont-blame-the-cork/#3d401d087d40

 

Mexico’s Wine Renaissance

The Mexican wine industry is simultaneously the birthplace of North American wine and its newest frontier

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joseph-v-micallef/wine-stories-mexicos-wine_b_13985148.html

Notre Dame has its own wine

These are alumni and friends of the school, and just to be clear, none of them learned how to make wine in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame is not claiming to be a winemaking school.

http://www.providencejournal.com/entertainmentlife/20170107/football-drink-notre-dame-has-its-own-wine

 

The 14 Coolest Beer Label Designs You’ve Ever Seen

With so many beers competing for attention on the shelves, standout beer labels have become a critical part of any brewery’s marketing strategy.

https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/beer-label-designs#sm.0000ykvzdc71rf4hvw42eg7dyjnb9

 

Cameron Hughes Winery Saved from Oblivion

One of the best-known names in current American wine, Cameron Hughes, was sold this week by a bankruptcy court receiver to the highest bidder.

http://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2017/01/cameron-hughes-winery-saved-from-oblivion

 

You Don’t Need to Speak Wine to Read These Labels

If you are like 65 percent of the world’s population who happen to be visual learners, there is now a wine made just for you.

https://munchies.vice.com/en/articles/you-dont-need-to-speak-wine-to-read-these-labels

Red & sparkling wines dominated 2016 volume growth

But Sangria came on strong!

 Lohr Launches “Signature”

New Limited-Production Cabernet Sauvignon Celebrates Pioneering Winegrower Jerry Lohr’s 80^th Birthday.

http://wineindustryadvisor.com/2017/01/10/j-lohr-launches-signature

Bad News for Boston Beer in New Data

The maker of Sam Adams struggled with sales at convenience stores in December.

http://www.barrons.com/articles/bad-news-for-boston-beer-in-new-data-1484086781

SMARTPHONE GADGET TURNS FRUIT INTO ALCOHOL

A new gadget, controlled by your smartphone, claims to be able to turn leftover fruit into mead, cider, or wine.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/01/smartphone-gadget-turns-fruit-into-alcohol/

 

Where is Southwest France?

Southwest France (Sud Ouest) is best known for what it isn’t. Frankly, and unfortunately, it’s not widely recognized at all

https://www.winescholarguild.org/blog/where-is-southwest-france-with-map.html?utm_source=newsletter_1417&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=monthly-bulletin-sept-2016

 

Knackered mothers’ wine club: Is hangover free wine just too good to be true?

What exactly is an organic wine? Is it really better than ‘normal’ wine? And, most importantly, will it stop you getting a thumping hangover?

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-4111404/Knackered-mothers-wine-club-hangover-free-wine-just-good-true.html

Preserve your wine with QikVin

Is the QikVin Wine Preservation Invention the next new thing to rock the wine industry, or just another pitch in a world filled with wine sharks, dragons and inventors? We want you to decide! So here are the answers to the “FIVE W’s” – who, what, where, when and why?

http://www.decanter.com/sponsored/qikvin-preserves-wine-in-a-magical-new-bottle-352644/

This wine’s a bit flat! Your favourite red or white will now fit through your letterbox thanks to new slimline bottle

It’s the kind of idea you might dream up after one glass too many – but this one has matured nicely.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-4109186/Wine-lovers-rejoice-Innovative-plastic-bottles-squeeze-letterbox-ll-never-miss-delivery.html

The Fort Knox where Emirates stores 3.75-million bottles of wine

The airline has spent $500m in the past 12 years to develop the finest wine list in the sky

https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/companies/2017-01-12-the-fort-knox-where-emirates-stores-375-million-bottles-of-wine/

The name barleywine tends to create confusion.

Is it a wine? Is it a beer? Is it a blend of the two, or just beer aged in a wine barrel?

http://hrgrowler.com/barleywines-barely-wine/

 

Beer Pairings for Girl Scout Cookies (2017 Update)

It’s our favorite time of year once again—Girl Scout Cookies are here!

https://beerandbrewing.com/VKm9gisAAF-R_rap/article/beer-pairings-for-girl-scout-cookies-2016-update?utm_source=Daily+Brew&utm_campaign=4f6ee75d55-The+Daily+Brew%3A+January+11%2C+2017&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_935b7e0b70-4f6ee75d55-36686829

 

Tasting notes decoded

Get to grips with the some of the more obscure tasting notes used by wine experts, with graphics from the Decanter design team…

http://www.decanter.com/learn/advice/understand-tasting-notes-decoded-344920/

YANQI: CHINA’S UNKNOWN ORGANIC WINE REGION

With a population of just 120,000 (small by Chinese standards) Yanqi in northwestern China could be dismissed as a forgotten outpost of the bygone Silk Road. But this small town is making a comeback, thanks to the organic ambitions of its winemakers.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2017/01/yanqi-chinas-unknown-organic-wine-region/

 

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https://youtu.be/aPIr_vEF9Jc

 

Upcoming Events

Our 2017 Education Schedule

American Wine Specialist Program

Franklin Liquors ( www.franklinliquors.com )along with Vinitas Wineworks ( http://vinitaswineworks.com )and Wine Empire ( http://www.mywineempire.com ) are proud to host the North American Sommelier Association for an American Wine Specialist (AWS) Class.

 

The AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® covers each of the 50 American states. Classic wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma will be covered, in addition to all other California American Viticultural Areas.   Oregon’s Willamette Valley and Washington’s Columbia Valley – both home tosignificant investment by Old World wine families – will be explored at length.  We will study the rapidly upcoming regions of New York’s Finger Lakes,  Texas Hill Country, and Virginia’s Piedmont.  We will also taste a number of native and hybrid varieties from all over the country…this will be an enlightening experience with depth of information and diversity of American wines.

The course consists of 24 hours (4 full days) of class time and tasting, with a final written exam (5th day) required to achieve the official AMERICAN WINE SPECIALIST® certification and pin, issued by the North American Sommelier Association and recognized internationally by the Worldwide Sommelier Association (www.worldwidesommelier.com).

WHEN: 2017 MAR 25th, 26th, APR 1st & 2nd  – 9:00AM to 4:00pm (with break)

Exam: 2017 MAY 7th (9:00am – 1 hour)

WHERE: Franklin Liquors – 363 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

Cost $650

Details And Sign Up Here:

https://www.nasommelier.com/american-wine-specialist-aws

Franklin Liquors Class At The Creative Sewing Studio

Saturday, February 18th, 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Do you really know what’s in a bottle? How about if it’s really organic? Do you know only 5 corporations own 80-90% of wines for sale? Do you know how to get more value for your money or find the best for your specific palate when shopping for wines?This year we are re-opening after our winter break with a new and exciting Creative Arts Workshop, The Art Of Wine Buying! There is no better time for lively, educational conversation and the warmth created by sipping on wine than in the chill of winter!

Mark Lenzi, co-owner of Franklin Liquors will provide us with information on Wine Buying Tips Using Wine Labels that mostly only those in the industry know. No longer will you purchase a bottle solely based on its label design. This sit down wine tasting/education will explain all the truths and lies on a wine label. After this event buying wine will never be the same! http://www.franklinliquors.com

Cost: $38 includes cheese, meats and crackers, wine and information.

https://thecreativesewingstudio.com/products/adult-art-workshops-knitting-beading-painting

 

Franklin Wine Club Meeting

Wine Explorers wanted!

Join Our 460 Club Members!

How To attend and join

http://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/

http://www.facebook.com/FranklinwineclubMA

 

February 7^th 7pm

Valentine Wine Tasting

 

At this tasting we will explore wines that will be great to pair on Valentines Day.

Mix of types and styles to get you in the ready for the big day.

Lets taste and explore.

https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Wine-Club/events/236822859/

Franklin Adult Education 2017 Classes

Exploring Italian Wines

Tuesday January 17^th 7pm

Italian wines can be some of the most confusing to understand.

This tasting/education will cover history, geography, laws, regions and grapes.

Come explore Italy!

Cost $25

https://reg.abcsignup.com/reg/event_page.aspx?ek=0079-0003-b8f3b8004a574490909dde98efecf66a

Medway Community Education Winter Programs

WINE TASTING 101

Thursday January 26^th 7-9pm

This wine tasting and educational class will help you develop your wine profile.

We will explore the 5 steps in how to taste wine. The results of this will make you a better wine taster and buyer and develop your unique wine profile. With this profile you can walk into any store or restaurant and explain what you like.

What do you smell? Do you like oaked or unoaked wines? Why do we swirl and spit?

We will talk about wine technology that can assist in building your palate.

Participants must be 21 years of age

Cost $20

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Exploring French Wines

Thursday February 9^th 7-9pm

Lets take a trip to France in this education and tasting class.

We will cover French wine growing regions and what wines to look for.

French wine laws and labels will be examined.

What is difference between Champagne and a Cremant?

What are the grapes in Burgundy?

What is the one red grape grown in Alsace?

What are French Dessert wines?

After this class you will have all the tips needed to start buying and enjoying the wines of France!

Participants must be 21 years of age

Cost $20

http://www.medwayschools.org/sites/medwayps/files/file/file/winter_17_final_brochure_11-28.pdf

Tri-County Adult Education  

2017 French Wine Scholar Program

Vinitas WineWorks LLC, Tri-County Adult Education, and Franklin Liquors are excited to announce the Fall session of the French Wine Scholar Certification program!

Now you don’t have to go to Boston for this world-class French wine course! Set yourself apart from your peers and specialize in the wines of France. Gain the confidence to taste, sell, and speak meaningfully about all aspects of French wine, from Champagne to Bordeaux and everything in between. Pass the exam and earn the title French Wine Scholar and FWS post-nominal.

Developed by the Wine Scholar Guild with the support of the French Ministry of Agriculture, this specialization program is designed for advanced students of wine, whether professionals or serious wine hobbyists. This is NOT an introductory wine class; students should have professional wine experience or previous classroom study. Students must be familiar with the concepts of viticulture and vinification, major grape varieties, wine regions, and wine styles from across the globe, and have experience tasting wine in a formal setting.

Date: 9 Tuesdays: February 28 – November May 30; Review May 16; Exam date: May 30, 2017

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: Franklin Liquors, 363 E. Central Street, Franklin MA

Tuition: $999

http://www.tri-county.tc/wine-scholar-program

February 16^th 

Oscars Truffle and Wine Tasting

Explore the world of truffles and a minimum of 6 fabulous wine pairings. The Sugar Shoppe’s Courtney Nappa and Franklin Liquor’s Mark Lenzi and show you the way for this educational sit-down tasting.

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2099

 

March 9^th French wines

Lets take a tasting tour around France.

We will discuss regions, laws and explore unique wines from Champagne to the Southwest. Don’t let wines from France confuse you, learn what grapes grow best where and become an expert!

https://registration.xenegrade.com/tri-county/courseDisplay.cfm?schID=2098

 

Wine And Chocolate Events

Franklin Liquors And The Sugar Shoppe Partners For

Your Chocolate And Wine Events

Contact Us!

Food And Wine Events

Our Partner

The Moonlight Chef

Watch For Our Upcoming TV Show!

Franklin Liquors Wine Education

Certified Specialist Of Wine-CSW

Certified Specialist Of Spirits-CSS

Society Of Wine Educators

California Wine Appellation Specialist-CWAS-San Francisco Wine School (First In MA)

French Wine Scholar FWS-(Instructor) Wine Scholar Guild

Quini Certified Educator- QCE (First In USA)

Italian Wine Specialist-IWS-North American Sommelier Association