Posts Written OnJanuary 05, 2011

By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor After an extended period of relative radio silence (except for HARVEST), the Long Island Merlot Alliance (LIMA) today announced its newly elected officers while providing a glimpse into its plans for 2011. In a press release, executive director Donnell Brown said “It will be a busy year for the organization — one that stands to bring breakthroughs in the regard for our region and for Long Island merlot. Our new leaders bring so much experience and enthusiasm to their roles. Their influence will guide all that we do to new and greater heights.” New president…

By Julia Burke, Beer Editor I love this description: "A Hoppy Upstate Ale Brewed With Barley Malt, New York State Grown Cascade Hops, Local Alfalfa Honey, Pure Cayuga Lake Water and American Yeast." Visually appealing, Ithaca Brewing Company's AlpHalpHa pours cloudy amber orange into a goblet  with a puffy one-finger head and elegant lacing. A floral, spring-like nose of orange peel, fresh-mowed grass, and dandelions is inviting and balanced.  The mouthfeel, on the other hand, is intense: good carbonation, powerfully bright citrus fruits, and the mouthwatering prickle of Cascade hops. The sweetness of the honey is hard to pick out on…