Category Archives: Spirits + Cocktails

The Dead Rabbit…Going Live

Posted on February 8, 2013 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews As a history buff — not only of 19th century America and the Civil War, but also of libations — I was immediately intrigued by a preview invitation for The Dead Rabbit, a highly anticipated new drinking establishment … Continue reading →

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Healthy Twist for Cocktails: Korean Red Ginseng

Posted on December 13, 2012 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews Ginseng, with its herbaceous flavor profile and some new, drink-friendly forms — not to mention its purported healthful attributes — could be the next hot bar ingredient. At a launch event last week for Korean Ginseng Corp (KGC), three top … Continue reading →

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Despite Tough Vintages, Some Hudson Valley Wines Shine

Posted on September 13, 2012 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews In one sense, the 2012 Hudson Valley Wine and Spirits Competition was like Ground Hog Day: as usual, Millbrook Vineyards & Winery  took home multiple honors, winning Winery of the Year, and picking up not only Best White … Continue reading →

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Best Hudson Valley Wines (Right Now)

Posted on September 25, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews Here at Upstate-Downtown, we’ve been distracted lately by some unruly house guests, namely Irene and Lee. And while we didn’t fare as badly as our neighbors on the west side of the Hudson River, in the Catskills, … Continue reading →

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A Thirst-quenching Summer Tonic

Posted on August 7, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews This summer’s relentless heat and humidity has stretched into August, a happy reason to sip some cooling “silly season” cocktails. The ideal summer drink should “invigorate, restore, refresh or stimulate”— Webster’s literal definition of “tonic” — but without a high alcohol content, … Continue reading →

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Americano Cocktail: Italian for “Refreshing”

Posted on July 19, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews If you like the Negroni,  try its “parent” cocktail, the summer-friendly Americano….

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Negroni: Manhattan Cocktail Classic’s Comeback Kid

Posted on May 16, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews On Friday evening, May 13, the stately New York Public Library (NYPL) transformed into the City’s — if not the nation’s — largest cocktail party for the kick-off Gala of the five-day 2011 Manhattan Cocktail Classic. Massive … Continue reading →

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