File Under Hot Dates: The 9th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar

Photo by Clay Williams.

Kick off the season of entertaining with an annual celebration of wintry cocktailing on Tuesday, November 20 at the 9th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar! Guests will sip their way through an unlimited array of holiday cocktails and punches made by some of NYC’s best bartenders, each competing for the top title in a friendly Punch-Off. Using text-to-vote technology, the crowd will pick a People’s Choice winner for the ultimate bragging rights.

Hosted by The Dizzy Fizz, this year the spectacular bash will be held at VNYL (100 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10003), transforming the chic boho venue into a cozy, woodland scene.

VIP hour is from 6 to 7 p.m., giving guests an extra hour of imbibing before the crowds arrive. General admission is from 7 to 10 p.m. All ticket-holders can enjoy unlimited libations as well as small bites from local purveyors, including vegan options. For more information, visit holidayspiritsbazaar.com.

New this year: Blaine Ashley of 'The FIZZ is Female' (formerly New York Champagne Week) will feature bubbly aperitifs celebrating female winemakers and distillers. Look for female-owned Le Grand Courtage French sparkling wine mixed with female-owned or made spirits from Drinks EMD founded by industry vet, Martin Peters. The Main Bar will be helmed by Portland, Oregon's House Spirits, serving seasonal cocktails made with Westward Whiskey, Magdalena Rum, and Krogstad Aquavit.

Also look for a pop-up shop by Love & Victory, designer of charmingly stylish barware, accessories, and more to get your holiday gift-giving off to a spirited start!

A portion of ticket proceeds benefits Brooklyn Service Association, a non-profit providing outdoor education to NYC children from all backgrounds. Guests are also encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots.

Additional exhibitors include: Four Roses Bourbon, Rhum Clement, Singleton Scotch Whisky, Diplomatico Rum, Chairman’s Reserve Rum, Ketel One Vodka, Mr. Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, Starward Whisky, Don Q Rum, Malfy Gin, Domaine Select Wine Estates, Deadwood Bourbon, and more!

Don’t miss your chance to join one of New York’s most spirited celebrations! Must be 21-plus to attend. Please drink responsibly.

“For New York’s cocktail elite and casual imbibers alike” —Societe Perrier

Photo by Stephanie Mei Ling.

File Under Hot Dates: June Drinking Events in NYC

Summer is in the air, and in NYC that means there are rooftops to ascend, picnic lawns to sprawl on, and even some island-hopping to do. (Ok, maybe commuting to Manhattan doesn't count, but hopping a ferry to Governor's Island or Fire Island could be fun.) It seems the city is in sync with our desire to escape our stuffy apartments and overly air-conditioned offices — there are plenty of opportunities this month to refresh your palate. And in light of recent tragic events, including the loss of industry legend John Lermayer, the beverage community is even more inclined to connect and heal. Show your face and pursue happiness at these June drinking events:

Bar Convent Berlin. Photo by Gili Shani.

Bar Convent Brooklyn

June 12-13, Brooklyn Expo Center, 79 Franklin Street, Brooklyn. $65. barconventbrooklyn.com

New this year, Bar Convent Berlin, a renowned bar industry trade show, is expanding to Brooklyn. Designed for bar and beverage professionals only, attendees are invited to network and learn about the latest trends, techniques, and products in the national and international markets. In addition to tastings and educational sessions, expect the usual debauchery that circumnavigates bar industry festivities.

Harlem Whiskey Renaissance

June 15, Museum of the City of New York, 1220 5th Avenue, New York. $125-$175. harlemwhiskeyrenaissance.com

Head uptown for this rousing celebration of whiskey and the spirit of Harlem's grand history. Choose from a wide selection of brown spirits (Smooth Ambler, Johnnie Walker, Bunnahabhain, among others), small bites, and Jazz-age entertainment by Dandy Wellington. Get into the swing of things with lessons by Harlem Dance Society. Proceeds benefit Boys & Girls Harbor, a Harlem organization providing educational support to local youth.

Arte Agave

June 29, Bowery Hotel, 335 Bowery, New York. $85. arteagave.com.

This annual festival puts agave spirits on center stage, with endless samples of both craft and big-name tequilas and mezcals (Milagro, Cazadores, Ilegal, Del Maguey, and many more). Get inspired to make your own cocktails while feasting on tacos, churros, and corn, and taking in a variety of Latin music, art, and dance. 

Dizzy Gift Guide 2017

If you're a fellow procrastinator like me, you still have some holiday gifting to do, not to mention entertaining, baking, wrapping—the works. If you're in a pinch, nothing warms the cockles quite like a top-shelf bottle of liquor, and with all of the booze delivery options these days, you really have no excuse. You could also check with your favorite bar about gift certificates—a great way to spread cheer and support the hospitality scene at the same time. Here are some more last-minute gift ideas to make the holidays merry and bright for all the cocktail lovers on your list.

Brooklyn design shop Love & Victory offers lots of charming gifts, from hand-engraved decanters and glassware to the most adorable cocktail pins. This set of flamingo tiki glasses ($29) caught my eye, and the packaging includes a handy pina colada recipe. You'll want to act fast, as Love & VIctory's shipping deadline for holiday is December 15.

I've been a fan of Owl's Brew tea mixers for some time now, and their holiday gift set ($28) is perfect for anyone looking to spice up a drink or punch without too much effort. The set includes three 8-oz bottles: Wicked Green, White & Vine, and the oh-so-seasonal Mulling Spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom), cranberry, apple pieces, brown sugar, apple juice, cranberry juice, maple syrup, and citric acid.

Last year, Cocktail Kingdom teamed up with spirits historian and author David Wondrich to release a line of vintage-inspired cocktail tools and serverware. The punch set ($130) features an English style ladle, six elegant punch cups, and a stoneware bowl featuring a Cicero quote that translates to “Let us eat, drink, enjoy life, after death there is no pleasure.” Once again shipping deadlines are upon us, so act quickly for any Cocktail Kingdom orders.

Cocktail Courier, a cocktail subscription box service, has partnered with Williams Sonoma to offer a variety of cocktail kits for the holiday season. Start with the mini cocktail kit ($29) in tasty options such as the Cinnamon Daiquiri, Improper Gin and Tonic, and the French 75, among others.

Decorative cocktail picks paired with a jar of brandied cherries or martini olives always makes for a nice gift for the home bar enthusiast who has everything. This pineapple cocktail pick set ($40) comes in a handy pineapple holder, making for a snazzy addition to the bar top.

Let's say you ran out of time to find the perfect gift for your party host, and you want to offer a bit more than just another bottle of wine or bubbly—bottleneck accessories ($8) to the rescue! This is one of those "Why didn't I think of that?" ideas—a package of balloons and confetti ready to hang around the neck of a gifted bottle, bringing instant party vibes. Brilliant.

Event Recap: The 8th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar!

Photo by Stephanie Mei-Ling.

New Yorkers kicked off the holiday season with festive holiday punches and cocktails on November 18 at Astor Center

Guests were treated to endless ladles of spiced punch and whimsical wintry ballerinas amid a cozy rustic scene at The Dizzy Fizz's 8th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar. The sold-out event featured 25+ holiday punches and cocktails made by some of NYC's best bartenders. In advance of the busy season of entertaining, guests were inspired by concoctions such as the Rum and Raisin (Diplomatico Rum, fig preserve, lemon juice, and agave nectar), Chronic Munrosis No. 3 (served warm with Hendrick's Gin, apple juice, Mandarin juice, Rooibos tea, hibiscus syrup, and lemon juice), and the Spiced Old Fashioned (Westward American Single Malt, spiced demerara sugar, and orange oil). All of the recipes from the event can be found at holidayspiritsbazaar.com/recipes.

As guests sipped their way through the holiday libations, they used text-to-vote technology to select a People's Choice winner. Eric Ribeiro's Northern Spice Cider featuring Crown Royal (recipe below) took home the trophy and the ultimate bragging rights.

Masked ballerinas from Shien Artists delighted the crowd throughout the evening, while DJ Tomas Delos Reyes kept the vibe upbeat. VIP guests enjoyed an early oyster hour featuring Bluepoint Oysters catered by Eddie's Oysters, and all guests enjoyed an array of cheese and charcuterie from Stinky Brooklyn. The merry-making took place between two themed rooms—a Fireplace Tavern and a Sparkling Spirited Parlor.

As is tradition every year, a portion of ticket proceeds benefits Children’s Aid Society, a non-profit supporting some of NYC’s neediest children.

Exhibitors included: Westward Whiskey, Casa Magdalena Rum, Krogstad Aquavit, Four Roses Bourbon, Rhum Clement, Hendrick’s Gin, Reyka Vodka, Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky, Crown Royal, Don Papa Rum, Malfy Gin, Diplomatico Rum, Amaro Lucano, Monkey Shoulder Whisky, Drambuie, Chairman’s Reserve Rum, Poland Select Wodka, Montanaro, Spytail Rum, Black Button Apple Pie Moonshine, and non-alcoholic drinks by Curious Elixirs.

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People's Choice Winner:

Photo by Stephanie Mei-Ling.

Northern Spice Cider
Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye  
Union Mezcal  
Chai ginger cordial
Lemon juice
Pom Wonderful
Apple cider

A special thanks to my husband, Damien Good, event assistant Dani Shanberg and team, and digital partners Pulsd and Google.

File Under Hot Dates: The 8th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar

Sip your way into the season of entertaining on Saturday, November 18 at the 8th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar! This annual celebration of winter imbibing features an unlimited array of holiday cocktails and punches made by some of NYC’s best bartenders, each competing for the top title in a friendly Punch-Off. Using text-to-vote technology, the crowd will pick a People’s Choice winner for the ultimate bragging rights.

Hosted by The Dizzy Fizz, this year the spectacular bash will be held at Astor Center (339 Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10003), transforming the modern industrial venue into a cozy, woodland scene. This year, the merry-making is spread over two rooms—a Fireplace Tavern and a Sparkling Spirited Parlor. DJ Tomas Delos Reyes will keep the party beats flowing while whimsical wintry ballerinas delight the crowd.

VIP hour is from 6 to 7 p.m., giving guests an extra hour of imbibing before the crowds arrive, plus access to an oyster bar featuring Bluepoint Oysters. General admission is from 7 to 10 p.m. All ticket-holders can enjoy unlimited libations as well as small bites from local purveyors, including cheese and charcuterie. For more information, please visit holidayspiritsbazaar.com.

A portion of ticket proceeds benefits Children’s Aid Society, a non-profit supporting some of NYC’s neediest children. Guests are also encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots.

Exhibitors include: Westward Whiskey, Magdalena Rum, Krogstad Aquavit, Four Roses Bourbon, Rhum Clement, Hendrick’s Gin, Reyka Vodka, Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky, Crown Royal, Don Papa Rum, Malfy Gin, Diplomatico Rum, Amaro Lucano, Monkey Shoulder Whisky, Drambuie, Chairman’s Reserve Rum, Poland Select Wodka, Montanaro, Spytail Rum, Black Button Apple Pie Moonshine, Curious Elixirs, and more!

Don’t miss your chance to join one of New York’s most spirited celebrations! Must be 21-plus to attend. Please drink responsibly.

Photo by Clay Williams.

File Under Hot Dates: Hurricane Relief Fundraiser

Following widespread damage from hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the NYC food and beverage industry has pulled together to raise money to support relief efforts by doing what it does best—throwing one heck of a bash. NYC Loves TX + FL takes place on Sunday, September 24 at Pier A Harbor House, 22 Battery Place.

Members of the city's top cocktail and culinary talent will offer tastings, and the evening will also include a silent auction and live entertainment, including one of the Dizzy Fizz's favorite DJs, Tomas Delos Reyes, as well as DJ and producer Jillionaire of Major Lazer. VIP admission ($125) at 3 p.m. will feature oysters and martinis presented by VDKA 6100. General admission ($75) is from 4-8 p.m.

One hundred percent of proceeds will go to the John Besh Foundation, a non-profit organization established by New Orleans chef John Besh in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The organization is leading efforts on the ground in both Texas and Florida to feed those in need and rebuild homes and businesses.

Participating NYC bars and restaurants include: Basík, BlackTail, Blind Barber, Boulton and Watt, Clover Club, Clyde’s, Coup, Daddy-O, Dante, Drexler’s, Employees Only, FLAGSHIP Montauk, Ladybird, Leyenda, Llama Inn, Loverboy, Nitecap, Porchlight, Pouring Ribbons, Rosé Bar Provided by SevenFifty Daily, Suffolk Arms, Sundays in Brooklyn, Sweetwater Social, The Dead Rabbit, The Raines Law Room and Underdog.

For tickets and more information, visit the Eventbrite page.

Dizzy Recap: The 7th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar!

Sleigh Bells Punch. Photo by Clay Williams.

More than 500 New Yorkers kicked off the holiday season with festive holiday punches and cocktails on November 19 at Astor Center

More than 500 imbibers joined New York's annual celebration of wintry cocktailing at the 7th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar. The sold-out event featured 25+ holiday punches and cocktails made by some of NYC's best bartenders.

Perhaps sensing the impending winter chill, hot drinks were popular this year, such as the Merry Mulled Punch (Drambuie, red wine, honey, peppermint tea, citrus, and spices), Rosy Cheeks (Owl's Brew Mulling Spices and Deadwood Bourbon), and the Big Apple Cider (Indigenous Apple Vodka, spiced apple cider, maple syrup, Bitter Frost Basement Bitters, and cinnamon whipped cream). Agave spirits found themselves mixed into eggnogs, such as the La Loba's Rompope (Montelobos Mezcal, Ancho Reyes, almond milk holiday nog and spices), and A Crafted Eggnog (Blue Nectar Tequila Reposado "Special Craft," Ronnybrook Farms eggnog, vanilla, and spices). Be sure to check out all of the punch recipes at holidayspiritsbazaar.com/recipes so you can make them at home.

As guests sipped their way through the holiday libations, they used text-to-vote technology to pick a People’s Choice winner. Kelvin Uffre's Arak My World featuring Domaine des Tourelles Arak Brun (scroll down for the full recipe) took home the trophy as well as a $200 gift card courtesy of the NightOwl Nightlife App. 

Spirits writer Robert Simonson of The New York Times signed copies of his latest book, A Proper Drink, while guests circulated between two themed areas—a Winter Whiskey Tavern and a Sparkling Spirited Parlor. VIPs enjoyed an oyster bar featuring Bluepoint oysters, and all guests nibbled on an endless spread of artisanal cheese and charcuterie from Stinky Brooklyn. DJ Tomas Delos Reyes got the spirited crowd on their feet all through the night.

As is tradition every year, a portion of proceeds benefitted Children’s Aid Society, a non-profit supporting some of NYC’s neediest children. 

Exhibitors included: Westward Whiskey, Don Q Rum, Aviation Gin, Krogstad Aquavit, Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur, Four Roses Bourbon, Rhum Clement, Montelobos Mezcal, Reyka Vodka, Blue Nectar Tequila, Half Moon Orchard Gin, Usquaebach Blended Scotch Whisky, Diplomatico Rum, Amaro Lucano, Domaine des Tourelles Arak Brun, Hudson Whiskey, Indigenous Vodka, Drambuie, Montanya Distillers Platino Rum, Delord Blanche d'Armagnac, Deadwood Whiskey, Owl's Brew, and more.

Event photography by Clay Williams. For more photos, please visit The Dizzy Fizz's Facebook page.

Photo by Clay Williams.

Kelvin Uffre, winner of the Punch-Off, and yours truly. Photo by Clay Wiliams.

Arak My World, winner of the Punch-Off. Photo by Clay Williams.

Spirited guests Nicole and Joe Desmond. Photo by Clay Williams.

Brian Quinn of Taste Talks and author Robert Simonson. Photo by Clay Williams.

Photo by Clay Williams.

Arak My World
By Kelvin Uffre

750 ml Domaine des Tourelles Arak Brun
1 Liter Drapo Vermouth Bianco
500 ml Hidalgo-La Gitana Manzanilla "La Gitana" Sherry
6 oz Letherbee Besk
Meyer lemon juice
Grapefruit juice
Ylang ylang infused water
Toasted vanilla, mace and cardamom
Zest of pomelo fruits and Meyer lemons
32 oz granulated white sugar

Toast vanilla, mace and cardamom at 300 degrees for 20 minutes or until room is consumed in the aroma. Stir occasionally to avoid burning cardamom and mace. Once roasted, let rest. Add toasted botanicals and spices to spirits batch.

Zest 5 Pomelo fruits and 33 Meyer lemons with microplane, zest gently to avoid bitter pith.  Add granulated white sugar to citrus zest and mix with love until the mixture has homogenized. Juice the 33 zested Meyer lemons and juice 4 grapefruits. Combine both juices with sugar mixture then combine with spirits mixture. Macerate for 24 hours then strain mixture. Add ylang ylang water (1 drop of ylang ylang essence per 1 gallon of water) diluting punch to taste. A good measure is 2 parts punch mixture to 1 part ylang ylang water. Serve over ice and garnish with sunflower petals and milk thistle.

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A special thanks to my husband Damien Good, event assistants Adam Albert and Emily Elliott, as well as digital partners Pulsd, Nightowl Nightlife App, and Lyft. 

File Under Hot Dates: November Drinking Events in NYC

Swig 'n Swine returns to Brooklyn this Sunday.

November brings a cornucopia of drinking events to NYC, in addition to the Holiday Spirits Bazaar. Break out your favorite fall sweater, assemble your crew, and experience the tastiest events the city has to offer.  

5th Annual Swig 'n Swine Brooklyn

November 6, Union Pool, 484 Union Avenue, Brooklyn. $40. pigandpunch.party

Get ready for barrels of punch--San Francisco's Bon Vivants are bringing their pig roast fundraiser back to Williamsburg this weekend. The annual pork and punch event that started at Tales of the Cocktail is now held at cities around the world, and the team has donated more than $300,000 and more than 8,500 of volunteer time to schools and youth centers in need. Enjoy all-you-can-eat BBQ and all-you-can-drink punch featuring spirits such as Don Q Rum, Leblon Cachaca, Don Julio Tequila, Beefeater Gin, and lots more, all while supporting an important cause.

Bar Institute Northwest © Lush Life Productions

Bar Institute New York

November 6-10, Pier A Harbor House, Battery Place. $25-$60. thebarinstitute.com

Geared toward bartenders, bar proprietors, and other industry professionals, Bar Institute began as an educational component of Portland Cocktail Week. This year, Lush Life Productions embarked on a cross-country tour to bring advanced skills to the mixology masses, and New York is the final stop. After full days of classes, the evening event lineup--a Patron karaoke party at Marquee, a Jack Daniels big band bash at Bowery Hotel, a Monkey Shoulder Konga party at Dream Hotel--looks not-to-be-missed.

Get your fizz on at New York Champagne Week

New York Champagne Week

November 7-10, various locations. $60-$100. nychampagneweek.com

This week-long celebration of all things bubbly gets better every year. Expect a sparkling lineup of industry and public events, from educational tastings to an Election Night party at Corkbuzz and a St. Germain Champagne garden brunch at Bobo. This year's festival is even more special for founder Blaine Ashley of CitySip, as she releases a limited edition cuvee, "Bulle de Reve" from Champagne Lombard, available at select retailers and restaurants.

Cart Before the Horse at Slowly Shirley. Photo by Nick Voderman.

International Sherry Week

November 7-13, worldwide. sherry.wine/sherryweek

Look for sherry tastings, seminars, and events popping up as International Sherry Week kicks off at restaurants, bars, and bodegas worldwide. New York participants include Dante, which will feature a special menu of classic and original sherry cocktails, and Slowly Shirley, where the Southern Spanish wine is incorporated into inventive cocktails like the Cart Before the Horse (Oloroso Sherry, 123 Anejo Tequila, Neisson L’ Esprit, Lux Fernet, orange juice, carrot juice, root beer syrup, brown sugar, and acid phosphate). Follow the hashtag #sherryweek to stay informed.

File Under Hot Dates: The 7th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar!

Kick off the season of entertaining with an annual celebration of wintry cocktailing on Saturday, November 19 at the 7th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar! Guests will sip their way through an unlimited array of holiday cocktails and punches made by some of NYC’s best bartenders, each competing for the top title in a friendly Punch-Off. Using text-to-vote technology, the crowd will pick a People’s Choice winner for the ultimate bragging rights.

Hosted by The Dizzy Fizz, this year the spectacular bash will be held at Astor Center (339 Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10003), transforming the modern industrial venue into a cozy, woodland scene. This year, the merry-making is spread over two rooms—a Winter Whiskey Tavern and a Sparkling Spirited Parlor.

VIP hour is from 6 to 7 p.m., giving guests an extra hour of imbibing before the crowds arrive, plus access to an oyster bar featuring Bluepoint Oysters. General admission is from 7 to 10 p.m. All ticket-holders can enjoy unlimited libations as well as small bites from local purveyors, including cheese and charcuterie. For more information, please visit holidayspiritsbazaar.com.

The event also includes a mini pop-up cocktail book fair featuring some of the best spirits writers around signing and selling copies of their newest releases, adding to the festive spirit of the event while continuing the theme of encouraging guests to entertain at home.

A portion of ticket proceeds benefits Children’s Aid Society, a non-profit supporting some of NYC’s neediest children. Guests are also encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots or non-perishable food items for Food Bank NYC.

Exhibitors include: Westward Whiskey, Don Q Rum, Aviation Gin, Krogstad Aquavit, Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur, Four Roses Bourbon, Rhum Clement, Montelobos Mezcal, Reyka Vodka, Blue Nectar Tequila, Half Moon Orchard Gin, Usquaebach Blended Scotch Whisky, Diplomatico Rum, Amaro Lucano, Hudson Whiskey, Indigenous Vodka, Drambuie, Deadwood Whiskey, Arak Brun, Owl's Brew, and more!

Don’t miss your chance to join one of New York’s most spirited celebrations!

Must be 21-plus to attend. Please drink responsibly.

Photo by Clay Williams.

Best New Hotspots in FiDi and Tribeca + a Chance to Win $250!

Osteria della Pace. Photo by Selena Ricks-Good.

I was recently invited to visit the new Eataly Downtown, a stunning follow-up to Flatiron's gastronomical ode to Italy. Located on the third floor of World Trade Center 4, the 40,000-square-foot emporium serves up everything you can imagine from freshly-shaved prosciutto to hand-pulled pasta and mozzarella, all while overlooking the 9/11 memorials. Rather than shy away from that emotional view, Eataly embraces the significance of its site with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, and plans to highlight bread-makers from around the world as a way of bringing cultures together. All of this revitalization got me thinking about how attractive the nightlife scene is in the Financial District and TriBeCa at the moment.

Osteria della Pace at Eataly Downtown

While there are seven dining options at Eataly's newly-opened second New York location, Osteria della Pace is the anchor. Chef Riccardo Orfino serves Southern Italian fare in the airy, modern dining room, set behind a gem of a bar offering a large Italian wine selection and signature cocktails. 101 Liberty Street, New York, NY.

BlackTail

BlackTail

From the team behind the Dead Rabbit (winners of the Best Bar in the World award, and also in FiDi, mind you) comes this rum-soaked ode to Prohibition-era Cuba at Pier A in Battery Park City. Enter a scene inspired by Americans' sojourn from dry New York to hopping Havana via luxury seaplanes. Choose from nearly 50 reimagined classics such as highballs, punches, sours, Old Fashioneds, and cocktails, including four versions of daiquiries. Pier A Harbor House, 22 Battery Place, New York, NY.

The Bennett

The Bennett

Meaghan Dorman (Raines Law Room, Dear Irving) helms this beautiful bar, so you already know what to expect--a touch of glamour, immaculate cocktails, and call buttons that allow for concierge-level service.  The cocktail menu includes house originals as well as fan favorites from their sister bars. 134 West Broadway, New York, NY.

The Beekman

Coming soon: The Beekman

According to their Instagram account, The Beekman hotel is set to open in less than five days. The 1881 landmark building features a jaw-dropping nine-story atrium with a pyramidal glass skylight. Still not clear is when the hotly anticipated culinary offerings will open. Keith McNally will operate Augustine, a brasserie that we can only imagine will live up to his trademark, and Tom Colicchio will open American restaurant Fowler & Wells as well as The Bar Room, serving signature cocktails on the atrium level. 5 Beekman Street, New York, NY.

And great news! In celebration of the launch of NightOwl 3.0 we’ve teamed up with an incredible roster of bloggers and nightlife luminaries that you’ll want to know and follow; be sure to visit their sites: John Romard of The Boston Attitude, Dara Pollak of The Skinny Pig NYC, Jess Hagadorn of JessHagadorn.com and Young Winos of DC, Ryan Shea of Manhattan Digest, Terry Dagrosa of Seduction Meals, G-LO of It's Just the Booze Dancing, Tara Fougner of Thirsty NYC, Jane Ko of A Taste of KoKo, Nicholas Feris of The Rum Collective, and Bella Magazine.

And what about that $250 you ask?

Just go to the entry link here. Each time you take an action listed– following a blogger, downloading the app, signing up for a newsletter – you’ll get additional entries, increasing your chances of winning.

Rules: You must be a US resident and 21 or older. Good luck!

3 Cocktail Books to Read This Summer

Whether your summer reading takes place sprawled out on a beach blanket or en route to a far-flung locale, some downtime with a good book is the ultimate exercise in leisure. There's plenty of literature out there to enlighten your mind while you kick back this summer, but for inspiration to mix up new drinks, check out these recently released tomes. Best to read them with a cocktail (or beverage of your choice) in hand. Spritz by Talia Baiocchi and Leslie Pariseau Baiocchi and Pariseau give a full breakdown of Italy's bitter and effervescent aperitif, made a home bar staple in recent years with the Aperol Spritz. Their envy-inducing research takes them from Venice to Turin to find variations of the category, which typically combines a sparkling wine and/or soda with a bitter liqueur for a low-alcohol pre-dinner sipper. Try one of dozens of recipes perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want to slow down and soak up the moment. Ten Speed Press, $18.99.

Smuggler's Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum, and the Cult of Tiki by Martin and Rebecca Cate Some day I'll tell my grandchildren how lucky I was to live in a time when tiki drinks were no longer a fad, but a respectable and adored cornerstone of cocktail kitsch and culture. Since opening in 2009, Cate's San Francisco shrine to rum, Smuggler's Cove, has become an icon of the category's revival. Here, Cate and his wife, Rebecca, offer more than 100 original and traditional recipes, a heavy dose of tiki and rum history, and a loving guide to living your own Polynesian fantasy. Ten Speed Press, $30.

The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book by Frank Caifa While the future is uncertain for the bar and restaurant program at the Waldorf Astoria in light of recent news that most of the iconic institution will become condos, the historic beverage program is sure to live on in Caifa's new edition of a rare bar guide. Based on two classic cocktail books by Albert Stevens Crockett, 1931 Old Waldorf Bar Days and The Old Waldorf-Astoria Bar Book (originally published in 1934), Caifa, who has managed the hotel's Peacock Alley bar since 2005, has updated the bar bible for modern times. Sift through this impressive compendium of 800 recipes—a mix of refined pre-Prohibition classics, celebrity favorites, and Caifa's own originals—for a taste of New York's spirited past, present, and future. Penguin Books, $25.

File Under Hot Dates: Summer Cocktail Events in NYC

Summer is off to a sizzling start in New York, and that means it's time for some alfresco imbibing. Here are three main events sailing into the city that promise a perfect mix of excellent drinks and buzzing summertime scenes.

Tequila y Mezcal Week & Arte Agave

June 5 - 10, Bowery Hotel, 335 Bowery. $59 - $85. arteagave.com

Bowery Collective's annual celebration of agave spirits returns this year, adding a full week of events leading up to the main tasting event on Friday, June 10. Head to Casa Mezcal's "Mexico in a Bottle" tasting of rare mezcals not yet available on the East Coast, sit down to an intimate dinner at La Contenta with agave spirit pairings, or go full tilt at Arte Agave at Bowery Hotel, where more than 100 varieties of tequila and mezcal will be available for sipping –remember, amigos don't let amigos do shots of the good stuff. Save 20% on all tickets using the code DIZZYFIZZ.

The Jazz Age Lawn Party

June 11 - 12 & August 13-14, Governor's Island. $55 - $5,000.  jazzagelawnparty.com

This swinging picnic party has become a summer tradition in New York, especially for those who like to gussy up in their vintage threads and kick up their heels to Michael Arenella's Dreamland Orchestra. Whether you're looking worthy of a Bill Cunningham snap or not, be sure to grab a St-Germain cocktail at the bar station helmed by Julie Reiner of Clover Club and Leyenda.

PINKNIC

July 9 - 10, Governor's Island. $55 - $95 (bottles of wine sold separately). pinknic.com

If sipping rosé all day on pink-hued picnic blankets to live DJ sets and performances sounds like a dream come true, head to La Nuit en Rosé's inaugural PINKNIC for a weekend full of the blush stuff. Sip varieties of still, sparkling and champagne rosé sold by the bottle, and if your picnic packing skills are lacking, pre-order boxes by chef Chris Santos. Suggested dress code is pink and white, just to add to the je ne sais quoi.

File Under Hot Dates: Cocktail Magic!

A good night out can truly be mind-blowing—why not add actual magic to the mix? This appears to be the inspiration behind Cocktail Magic, coming to Weylin B. Seymour's in Williamsburg on Saturday, March 19. Sip libations from some of the city's top drinking dens (Clover Club, Death & Co., PDT, Attaboy, Nitecap, among others) plus Chicago/Miami's Broken Shaker and Denver's Williams & Graham, all while scarfing down slices of Roberta's Pizza while DJs spin and magicians perform illusions throughout the night. Who knows, maybe they'll even make your hangover disappear. Produced by Superfly, the team behind Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, this dazzling cocktail affair will also make a stop in Boston on the following Saturday, March 26.

Tickets to the NYC event are $124.50 for general admission; and $159.50 gets you "first pour" status with an extra hour of early admission.

Saturday, March 19, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Weylin B. Seymour's, 175 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY.

Cocktail Book Giveaway!

Worried Santa's elves may not have received your wishlist this year? The Dizzy Fizz wants to make sure you get a little something for yourself, besides the usual eggnog hangover. Now through January 15, 2016, we'll be giving away signed copies of some of the best spirited books around, while supplies last. Winners can select one (1) book, choices include: "Whisk(e)y Distilled" by Heather Greene; "Cocktails for a Crowd" by Kara Newman; "The Art of American Whiskey" by Noah Rothbaum; "The Old Fashioned" by Robert Simonson; and "American Whiskey, Bourbon, & Rye" by Clay Risen. Choices will be offered while supplies last.

To enter:

1. Follow @thedizzyfizz on Instagram
2. Complete this entry form

By entering your information, you agree to receive occasional emails from The Dizzy Fizz. Entrants must be 18+ by January 15, 2016, and reside in the continental United States. Winners will be chosen at random and must claim their prize within 48 hours of initial contact.

Good luck!

Dizzy Recap (with VIDEO): The 6th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar!

Thanks to Art Basel Miami craziness, I'm a bit late getting this recap to you -- but still in time to give you new holiday punch recipes and party inspiration! More than 500 thirsty New Yorkers recently cozied up to ring in the season of merrymaking at the 6th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar, a raucous, sold-out affair held at the Bowery Hotel in Manhattan on November 19, 2015. More than 20 of the best bartenders in NYC competed for the title of top holiday punch, with tastings and festivities spread throughout the glamorous hotel terrace. Guests used text-to-vote technology to vote for their favorite punch bowl of the night, and Don Q bartender Nelson Lemus took home the People's Choice trophy with the “Don Q Holiday Punch” (recipe below) featuring a simple yet bewitching combination of rum, ginger liqueur, and lemon and orange juice.

New this year, the Bazaar featured a mini pop-up cocktail book fair, with some of the finest spirited authors around signing and selling copies of their newest releases. Authors included: Heather Greene, Kara Newman, Clay Risen, Noah Rothbaum, and Robert Simonson.

VIP-hour tipplers enjoyed freshly-shucked Bluepoint oysters delivered by Eddie "Oysters" Casiano, and all night long succulent BBQ was served up by Brooklyn's own Mable's Smokehouse. A portion of proceeds benefitted Children's Aid Society and guests also brought dozens of toys for Toys for Tots. Guests also bid on artwork for a silent auction to benefit Mana Fest, providing public arts programs to underserved communities. DJ Tomas Delos Reyes was a hit with the crowd, keeping the party vibe at full tilt.

Exhibitors included: Bulleit Bourbon, Partida Tequila, Don Q Rum, Grand Marnier, Reyka Vodka, Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur, Four Roses Bourbon, Rum Diplomatico, Sheep Dip Blended Malt, G’Vine Gin, Drambuie Liqueur, Black Bottle Scotch, Cutty Sark Blended Scotch Whisky, Brugal Rum, Highland Park Single Malt, Montelobos Mezcal, Pig’s Nose Scotch Whisky, Half Moon Orchard Gin, Hudson Whiskey, George Dickel Tennessee Whisky, The Feathery Blended Malt, Indigenous Vodka, Amaro Lucano, Edinburgh Gin, Bains Single Grain Whiskey, Brooklyn Gin, Wondermint Schnapps, Kringle Cream Liqueur, and more.

Don Q Holiday Punch By Nelson Lemus 2 oz DonQ Añejo Rum 1/2 oz Barrow's Intense Ginger 1 oz lemon juice 1 1/4 oz orange juice 1/2 oz infused Rosemary, cloves, cinnamon and orange peel syrup

See more holiday punch recipes at holidayspiritsbazaar.com.

Event photography by Clay Williams. For additional photos, please visit The Dizzy Fizz on Facebook.

© Clay Williams / claywilliamsphoto.com

© Clay Williams / claywilliamsphoto.com

© Clay Williams / claywilliamsphoto.com

© Clay Williams / claywilliamsphoto.com

© Clay Williams / claywilliamsphoto.com

Special thanks to my husband, Damien Good, event assistants Adam Alexander, Dani Shanberg, and Emily Elliott, as well as media partners Urban Daddy, Pulsd, Fever, and Craft Spirit Exchange.

Happy holidays everyone!

The Holiday Spirits Bazaar is Coming to the Bowery Hotel!

Kick off the season of entertaining with some of the best spirits around at the 6th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar on Thursday, November 19 at the Bowery Hotel. Sip your way through an unlimited array of holiday cocktails and punches made by some of NYC’s best bartenders, each competing for the top title in a friendly Punch-Off. A judging panel will choose the Best Bowl, and the crowd will help pick a People’s Choice winner for additional bragging rights.

Hosted by The Dizzy Fizz, this year the event takes over Manhattan's elegant Bowery Hotel ballroom -- creating room for more merry-making than ever before.

General admission is from 7 to 10 p.m., and tickets are $65. Ticket-holders can enjoy unlimited libations as well as well as small bites from local purveyors, including pulled pork sliders and coleslaw from Mable’s Smokehouse. VIP hour is from 6 to 7 p.m., giving guests an extra hour of imbibing before the crowds arrive, plus access to an oyster bar featuring Bluepoint Oysters and Mable’s carved beef brisket. For tickets, please visit holidayspiritsbazaar.com.

New this year, the Holiday Spirits Bazaar will feature a mini pop-up cocktail book fair. The best spirits writers around will sign and sell copies of their newest releases, adding to the festive spirit of the event while continuing the theme of encouraging guests to entertain at home. Authors include: Heather Greene, Kara Newman, Clay Risen, Noah Rothbaum, and Robert Simonson.

A silent art auction will benefit Mana Fest, which provides public arts programming to underserved communities, and a portion of ticket proceeds benefits Children’s Aid Society, a non-profit supporting some of NYC’s neediest children. Guests are also encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots or non-perishable food items for Food Bank NYC. Atmospheric beats will be provided by DJ Tomas Delos Reyes to keep the party going all night long.

Exhibitors include: Bulleit Bourbon, Partida Tequila, Don Q Rum, Grand Marnier, Reyka Vodka, Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur, Four Roses Bourbon, Rum Diplomatico, Sheep Dip Blended Malt, G’Vine Gin, Drambuie Liqueur, Black Bottle Scotch, Cutty Sark Blended Scotch Whisky, Brugal Rum, Highland Park Single Malt, Montelobos Mezcal, Pig’s Nose Scotch Whisky, Half Moon Orchard Gin, Hudson Whiskey, George Dickel Tennessee Whisky, The Feathery Blended Malt, Indigenous Vodka, Amaro Lucano, Edinburgh Gin, Bains Single Grain Whiskey, Brooklyn Gin, Wondermint Schnapps, Kringle Cream Liqueur, and more!

Don’t miss your chance to join one of New York’s most spirited celebrations!

“For New York’s cocktail elite and casual imbibers alike” --Societe Perrier

Must be 21-plus to attend. Please drink responsibly.

Dizzy Gift Guide 2014

Still have some last-minute holiday shopping to do? You can always take the tried-and-true route and give all of those cocktail lovers on your list a shiny new bottle for their top shelf. Of course, you might be tempted to keep those kinds of gifts for yourself. Here are some other suggestions for the tipplers on your list. Cheers to a safe, warm, and peaceful holiday season, and please, be kind to your neighbors! Gents, need a dapper accessory for your holiday or New Year's Eve outfit? Look no further than Forage Haberdashery, a line of handcrafted bow ties, neck ties, handkerchiefs and more. They also offer a line of bows for the ladies. Reasonably priced with free domestic shipping, get 20 percent off with the code HOLIDAY, and as an added bonus, your package will arrive pre-wrapped in handsome black paper and string.

For the Zombie drinkers on your list, bring some goth to their tiki game with these Grave Digger cocktail picks ($10.50) made from howlite turquoise and food grade stainless steel. Plus, the seller's name is Dizzy Diva, so she's obviously doing something right.

For the party hosts who seem to have everything, you can't go wrong with gifting them a new set of rocks glasses. This Double Old Fashioned set from West Elm ($30 for 6) offers geometric intrigue and a modern touch that will liven up any bar top.

For the frequent flier, the Carry-On Cocktail Kit ($24) is a winning move. Have the most dignified flight ever with this handy kit that includes aromatic bitters, cane sugar, a muddling spoon, a recipe card, and a linen coaster. Just add a mini bottle of whiskey and ice, and you'll have yourself two Old Fashioneds at any altitude.

The growler craze has taken full hold 'round these parts, and NYC bars serving beer to go are a dime a dozen. Help your favorite beer drinkers keep their crafty suds mobile with this bicycle-friendly growler ($50) that holds 64 oz.

Taste your way through 500 original cocktail recipes from one of NYC's most celebrated drinking dens with Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails ($26) by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day. The elegant tome lays out instructions that are simple enough to follow at home. Soon enough you'll be whipping up Oaxaca Old Fashioneds of your own--just be sure to dim the lights down low and burn some candles for the full effect.

For the cocktail geeks on your list looking to sharpen their skills, hand them a copy of The Bar Book: Elements of Cocktail Technique ($20.95) by Jeffrey Morgenthaler. The Oregon bartender and blogger is known for his expertise, and here he breaks down every step needed to make cocktails that taste just as good as those from your favorite craft cocktail bar. Don't be surprised if the recipient of this gift starts crowding the refrigerator with jars of homemade syrups, sodas, and infused tinctures.

For the whiskey lover with an attention span, book a seat (or two, and save one for yourself, naturally) in the best kind of school around--the Spirit School at Brandy Library ($55-$120 per class). Not only will they expand their palates with tastings such as "Rare and Precious" and "Japanese Whiskey at its Best," but they'll be treated to expert guidance from the Brandy Library's spirit sommeliers.

The 5th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar Kicks Off the Season of Revelry with a Punch-Off!

More than 700 thirsty New Yorkers recently cozied up to ring in the season of merrymaking at the 5th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar, a raucous, sold-out affair held at the Invisible Dog Art Center in Brooklyn on November 22, 2014. Approximately 20 of the best bartenders in NYC competed for the title of top holiday punch, with tastings and festivities split over two floors of rustic gallery space: a Winter Whiskey Tavern kept guests buzzing on the first floor, while a Sparkling Spirited Parlor hosted a glittering scene on the third floor. Plaza Hotel bartender James Menite, representing the Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky, took home the First Place Punch trophy with the "Gloag's Traditional Scottish Holiday Punch" (recipe below) featuring a bewitching concoction of whisky, gin, Scottish tea, and blood orange juice. The esteemed judging panel included David Wondrich, cocktail historian and author; Lynnette Marrero, star bartender and co-founder of Speed Rack; and Leo DeGroff, cocktail consultant and educator. Additionally, Jack Mulhern, representing Calvados Boulard, won the People's Choice vote for the "Calvados Cider Punch," (recipe below) featuring the French apple brandy mixed with both hard and fresh apple ciders as well as ginger beer.

Not only were guests inspired to create seasonal sips for their own holiday parties, but the addition this year of a Cocktail Lovers' Pop-Up Shop gave them the opportunity to get a head start on gift-giving. Purveyors included Cocktail Kingdom's high end bar tools, Owl's Brew tea mixers, Tipsy Scoop booze-infused ice creams, Royal Rose flavored simple syrups, cocktail-flavored artisanal chocolates by Cesar Christian Ramirez, homemade pies and cheesecake by Brooklyn Baked and Fried, and Bloody Mary mix and crunchy pickles by McClure's Pickles. VIP hour guests were treated with an open oyster bar featuring Blue Island Oysters served by master shucker Eddie Oysters, and for the main event, guests were served artisanal cheese from Stinky Bklyn, rustic bread by Scratchbread, roasted veggies from 61 Local, Perrier Sparkling Water, and even holiday-themed Tic Tacs for the trip home.

A portion of ticket proceeds benefits Children's Aid Society and guests also brought dozens of toys for Toys for Tots and non-perishable food for Food Bank NYC.

Sponsors included: Bulleit Bourbon, Don Q Rum, Lillet, Death’s Door Gin and Vodka, Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur, Four Roses Bourbon, Rum Diplomatico, G’Vine Gin, Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur, Angel’s Envy Bourbon, Famous Grouse Scotch, Montelobos Mezcal, Half Moon Orchard Gin, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur, George Dickel Tennessee Whisky, Molinari Sambuca, Tap Whisky, The Irishman Whiskey, Aviation Gin, Indigenous Vodka, Redemption Rye, Excellia Tequila, Fernet Branca, Carpano Antica, Suze Liqueur, Boulard Calvados, Ruffino Prosecco, and Perrier Sparkling Water.

For the full list of recipes from the event and more information, please visit holidayspiritsbazaar.com. For additional photos, please check out The Dizzy Fizz's Facebook page.

Gloag's Traditional Scottish Holiday Punch By James Menite 1.5 oz Black Grouse Blended Scotch Whiskey .5 oz Edinburgh Scottish Gin .75 oz blood orange juice .5 oz Scottish tea Grated lemon zest 2 blood orange slices Freshly grated nutmeg 1 dash Scrappy's Cardamom Bitters Topped with Fever Tree Bitter Lemon Served in Traditional Punch Glass

Calvados Cider Punch (Recipe serves 15-20) 1 1/2 cups Boulard Calvados 8 cups apple cider 1 750-ml-bottle of dry hard cider 3 12-oz-bottles of ginger beer Juice of one lemon Several dashes orange bitters orange sliced into rounds and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Special thanks to my husband, Damien Good, event assistant Adam Albert, my hardworking staff, The Invisible Dog team, and media partners Urban Daddy, Pulsd, and Shakestir.com.

Happy holidays everyone!

Announcing the 5th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar!

Kick off the season of entertaining with some of the best spirits around at the 5th Annual Holiday Spirits Bazaar on Saturday, November 22 at the Invisible Dog in Brooklyn. Sip your way through an unlimited array of holiday cocktails and punches made by some of NYC’s best bartenders, each competing for the top title in a friendly Punch-Off. A judging panel featuring cocktail historian and writer David Wondrich will choose the Best Bowl, and the crowd will help pick a People’s Choice winner for additional bragging rights.

Hosted by yours truly, this year the event spreads over two floors -- a Winter Whiskey Tavern and a Sparkling Spirited Parlor -- creating room for more merry-making than ever before. Also new this year, a Cocktail Lovers’ Pop-Up Shop will feature tasty treats and bartending gifts from local purveyors such as Cocktail Kingdom, Royal Rose Syrups, Tipsy Scoop, Brooklyn Baked ‘n’ Fried, Owl’s Brew, and more.

General admission is from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., and tickets are $50. Ticket-holders can enjoy unlimited libations as well as artisan bread from Scratchbread and cheese from Saxelby Cheesemongers. Subscribers to Urban Daddy Perks will get the scoop about a VIP hour starting at 5:30 p.m. featuring a raw bar supplied by Eddie “Oysters” Casiano. Use the code EARLYBIRD to save $10 before midnight on Monday, November 3!

A portion of proceeds benefits Children’s Aid Society, a non-profit supporting some of NYC’s neediest children. Guests are also encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots or non-perishable food items for Food Bank NYC.

Sponsors include: Bulleit Bourbon, Don Q Rum, Lillet, Death’s Door Gin and Vodka, Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur, Four Roses Bourbon, Rum Diplomatico, G’Vine Gin, Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur, Angel’s Envy Bourbon, Famous Grouse Scotch, Montelobos Mezcal, Half Moon Orchard Gin, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur, George Dickel Tennessee Whisky, Molinari Sambuca, Tap Whisky, Sorel Hibiscus Liqueur, The Irishman Whiskey, Aviation Gin, Indigenous Vodka, Redemption Rye, Excellia Tequila, Fernet Branca, Carpano Antica, Suze Liqueur, Boulard Calvados, and Ruffino Prosecco.

Don’t miss your chance to join one of New York’s most spirited celebrations!

“For New York’s cocktail elite and casual imbibers alike” --Societe Perrier

Must be 21-plus to attend. Please drink responsibly.

Saturday, November 22 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Invisible Dog, 51 Bergen St., Brooklyn, NY 11201. All ticket-holders must be 21-plus and present valid ID. For more information, please visit holidayspiritsbazaar.com.

Elsewhere in the Liquiverse

 

• Now that we've survived the great lime crisis of winter 2013-'14, it's time to raise a glass (or several) of agave spirits at tonight's Arte Agave at the Bowery Hotel. Featuring more than 100 different varieties of tequila and mezcal, the event also celebrates Latin American culture with food, music, and art. A limited number of tickets are still available, $120 for VIP entry at 7 p.m., or $85 for general admission at 8 p.m. Bowery Hotel, 335 Bowery, New York, NY 10003.
• There's still time to partake in the second annual Negroni Week, organized by Campari and Imbibe magazine, which promotes Negroni-drinking (like we needed encouragement) and philanthropy across the country. Hit up participating NYC bars through June 8, and a portion of proceeds from each delightfully bittersweet concoction sold goes to the bar's charity of choice, such as Meals on Wheels, Coney Island Recovers and Food Bank of New York City.
• Summer is here, and for New Yorkers, that means weekend escapes from our sizzling concrete abodes. If you're heading to the Hamptons via the Jitney, or taking a Grand Central train Upstate or elsewhere, the W New York on Lexington has a Summer Friday happy hour special for you. From 1 to 3 p.m., order a cocktail at the W's Living Room and receive a complimentary tote bag designed by artist Shantell Martin full of summer goodies like Kiehl's sunscreen (while supplies last). Even if you're staying in town, cocktails such as the Lemongrass Drop (Tito's Handmade Vodka, St-Germain, lemongrass syrup, lemon juice, pineapple, mint) should put you in a sunny mood.  W New York, 541 Lexington Avenue (at 49th Street), New York, NY 10022.