Buy Oregon crafted spirits, wine and beer!

Oregon Distilleries have made the grade!  We are now part of the 'Buy Oregon" campaign started by Ed King of King Estates Winery in Eugene.  Check it out and support your local craft liquor producers that are your local businesses who create living wage jobs and . . .  keep the money in Oregon!  These spirits, wines, and beers are some of the best in the World!

Oregon Chocolate Festival March 1-3, 2013

Salisha, pre-eminent Mixologist at LARKS Restaurant at the Ashland Springs Hotel did her handy work and infused Organic Nation vodka with vanilla bean and concocted a tasty Martini also including Rogue's Chocolate Stout and Umpqua's Vanilla Ice Cream.  Besides being tasty, it was a fun time.  Diane got to get behind the bar at LARKS and tell a little bit about the story behind Cascade Peak Spirits and Organic Nation. You can check out the love story in an article featured in Artisan Spirits magazine "Love at first Sip".

ORGANIC NATION wins the Gold!

Cascade Peak Spirits Distillery, home of ORGANIC NATION has done it again and more!  both our certified organic vodka and gin won Gold medals at the third annual GOOD FOOD AWARDS competition for artisan food and beverage producers throughout the U.S.  This competition is the brain child of the famous Alice Waters of the internationally renowned Chez Panisse restaurant in Berkeley, CA.  It honors crafters of chocolate, charcuterie, pickles, preserves, convections, cheese, coffee, beer and SPIRITS!
We are proud to be the top Gold Medal winners amongst the quality artisan producers that won this year.  In order to receive the Gold Medal distinction, you have to be certified organic, which of course, we are!

I was fortunate enough to meet Alice and get a hug, made my day! Along with being given the honor to receive the Spirits Category awards for the other nine distilleries.  I gave a 3.09 minute speech that validated and rewarded all of the Micro-Distilleries for crafting more palatable quality spirits.

ORGANIC NATION gin in CA

Once again, our lovely, savory, tasty, and wonderfully unique ORGANIC NATION gin inspired a FAN! Patrick from Pacific Catch Fresh Fish Grill contacted us about carrying our gin.  He came to us in a fun round about route.  Diane Paulson, one of the Co-Founders and CEO of Cascade Peak Spirits Distillery in Ashland, home of ORGANIC NATION Spirits, grew up in So. Ca.  A couple of good friends from high school came to Ashland in May and tasted and toured at the distillery.  Diana Lobosky (formerly Diana Merryfield) bought a bottle of our spectacular gin and took it home to her Bartending son, Grayson, in San Francisco, who is Patrick's housemate!  So, Patrick tasted ORGANIC NATION gin and decided he had to order it for Pacific Catch!   Stop in when you are in San Francisco and say "Thanks for supporting a handcrafted organic spirit from a micro-distillery."

Gigi, Concierge` Extraordinaire @ Ashland Spring Hotel

Gigi La Rossa, is a great fan and supporter of ORGANIC NATION!  She has even been known to make her own Bourbon Balls using some of our Bourbon that David created in 2008 with the helpful hands of Thomas McKenzie of Finger Lakes Distillery in NY.

She is tireless and always ready with a helpful hint about where to go, what to do and even sometimes what to Imbibe! (that would be local certified organic spirits~ORGANIC NATION vodka and gin!)   Thanks Gigi, it is friends like you who help a small little business make a go of it!  

Check out LARKS, restaurant & bar in the Ashland Springs Hotel for great food, atmosphere and Salisha, their bartender, who is continually crafting delicious ORGANIC NATION cocktails.

Support for Small Biz Development Center

The Oregon Small Business Development Center in Medford was instrumental in helping us get organized in the very beginning. This types of non-profit programs are very important the Oregon Entrepreneurs. Thanks, Gary, Ruthie and Jack!

Taking Chocolate to new extremes

Extreme Chocolates is a quality based confection and patisserie company that just keeps pushing the envelope!

Flavors run amok, ideas whirl uncontrolled and the result is a fabulous chaos. They explore how to take a conventional product and take them over the edge! Owner and Chef/Chocolatier, Carrie Wong, has been a fan and advocate of our products since we met at the Oregon Chocolate Festival at the Ashland Springs Hotel, Mar. 2009. At the time, she was using an imported French vodka. Once we introduced ourselves, chatted about local, organic, it was an easy sale and Carrie and Organic Nation started doing business. It is great to collaborate with another Oregon business to create a superior product that supports the Oregon economy. And yes we LOVE her chocolates!

According to Carrie Wong, Founder/CEO: "We grabbed the best Organic Vodka Produced in Oregon – Organic Nation- and began producing the finest slow brewed vanilla extract with amazing results – and that’s not just our opinion, Gourmet Magazine agrees! Now, we have released the creative juices once again and are brewing our own pure lemon extract in a base of Organic Nation premium Gin! Hang on – this one will rock your world! If we can create these items with a little great booze, vanilla beans and a lemon – imagine what we can do with chocolate! Oh My!"

Some of their inspirations: Grains of Paradise in Dark Sumpaz Single Origin Chocolate Truffles, Smoked Maracaibo Chocolate with Hawaiian Sea Salt Truffles,

Padron Cigar Infused Dark Chocolate Truffles

And so much more….keep an eye on them at www.extremechocolates.com

Extreme Chocolate Girl

2 oz Organic Nation Vodka

½ oz Extreme Chocolates' Dark Chocolate Pinot Sauce

½ oz Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur

½ tsp Extreme Chocolates' Vanilla Extract

2 oz Extreme Chocolates' Dark Chocolate, melted in a squeeze bottle

Take a chilled Cocktail glass and squeeze a swirl design inside the glass with the melted chocolate.

In a shaker, add ice cubes, then Vodka, Chocolate Sauce, Chocolate Liqueur & Vanilla

Shake vigorously for 30 seconds and strain into chilled glass – enjoy!

Thanks Carrie!

Cheers,

Melodie

Make the world your Organic Home

'To start a revolution we have to believe. The Organic Home believes that to achieve one's own aims and goals, a purity of intention, focused and applied gentle effort and clearly defined goals are the 3 components to achievement. What we put into our bodies, and what we put onto our bodies, and what we use around us in our homes all have an effect on our lives, health and well-being, and ultimately an effect on all those around us, and indeed the entire world.' To read the rest of this article, go here. Founder Mark Golding has been advocating a commitment to a Sustainable, Organic lifestyle. His hub, The Organic Home, in the UK has generated a peaceful attraction to those who share similar ideals and wish to do their part. You can read their recommendation of Organic Nation Spirits, here.

Trebol gets the Organic Cocktails on the Table

Trebol Restaurant and Bar, will be featuring an evening of Organic Nation Cocktails Dec 17th from 7-10pm. Tony, Trebol's Mixologist, has handcrafted a list of fine cocktails to show off Trebol's passion for Sustainable, Organic and Local.

Ciudad Cobarde

Organic Nation Vodka, Raspberry, Mint, Citrus and Soda

Jengibre

Organic Nation Gin, Ginger, Lemon and Sparkling wine

La Maura Monti

Organic Nation Gin, Apple, Orange, Agave, Cinnamon

El Rocoso Caliente

Organic Nation Vodka, Serrano Chillies, Mint, Citrus, Prickly Pear

El Santo

Organic Nation Vodka, Coconut, Serrano Chillies, Citrus

Trebol features Happy Hour from 5-6:30 and 9-Close.

You can find them at:

4835 North Albina Avenue

Portland, OR 97217

(503) 517-9347

See you there!

Melodie

Get your seat, before they are gone!

The folks at White Water Warehouse are reporting that they have signed up several guests for the August 29 - 31, 2010 Rogue River rafting, kayaking & ONS Martini Madness trip. There is limited space so call Joy or Renee (the friendly office staff at outfitter White Water Warehouse) today at 1-800-214-0579. Or, check out the 2010 schedule on-line, here.

Pair it up at The Original

Organic Nation Spirits will be the featured spirit in on menu packed with culinary delights and cocktails to pair. The Original is located on the corner of 6th and Oak in Downtown Bend. They feature classic american food with an evolved gourmet flair.

See you December 17 from 5-8pm!

300 SW 6TH Ave Portland, OR 97204 503.546.2666

Truly Vintage

This summer, a classic cocktail bar snuck into the Montavilla neighborhood. Veteran mixologist Justin Akins opened the doors of Vintage in July, and patrons and press have welcomed his vision and taste.

Akins cut his teeth at Trebol, the Oaxacan-inspired North Albina eatery. Taking cues from Trebol’s quality and sustainable business practices, he’s distilled a former SE Stark wine bar into an intimate lounge. Pre-prohibition cocktail recipes mingle with the requisite two dollar Pabst, catering to both the refined palette, and the budget-conscious. The cuisine is modest and delectable, with a menu featuring panini and pizettas made from local organic ingredients.

Vintage is located conveniently in the heart of the Montavilla neighborhood, a block from the Academy Theater and Ya Halla. So the next time you’re on a date, out with friends, or just looking for an expertly-mixed drink, step into Vintage and make yourself at home.

Cocktail time! Join us for a tasting and cocktail extravaganza at Vintage Bar this Tuesday December 2nd from 6-8pm.

You can find Vintage at:

7907 SE Stark Street

Portland, OR 97215

You can look forward to:

Chipotle, bacon Bloody Mary:

Organic Nation vodka, chipotle, house made bacon tincture and tomato juice

Cherry Derby:

Organic Nation vodka, kirschwasser, lemon juice, sugar,egg white, and cherry heering

Tabor reservoir:

Organic Nation gin, Lemon juice, house made lavender tincture, sugar, mint and seltzer water

Vintage Cabaret:

Organic Nation gin, Carpano Antica sweet vermouth, house made star anise tincture and Angostura bitters

See you Wednesday!

Melodie

Drink Local Project at Urban Farmer

Drink Local Project features
Organic Nation Spirits
Tuesday, December 1st
Happy Hour 3-7pm


Urban Farmer continues the Drink Local Project next week featuring Organic Nation Spirits. Come enjoy cocktails crafted by mixologist Dan Stern, shown to the left, highlighting Organic Nation Vodka and Gin. Join us for an extended Happy Hour as we debut the week's Drink Local Project cocktails for $5.

If you can't make it to the Farm on Tuesday, come experience these hand crafted cocktails throughout the upcoming week!

We look forward to seeing you there!

525 SW Morrison, 15th Floor• Portland, Oregon 97204

Office: 503.802.4642| Fax: 503.802.5388

Urban Farmer: 503.802.4630

Nunan Estates Lights up the Palette.

A fabulous fun filled evening of spirits and fine food. Join us as we challenge your palette and mind with unexpected and exciting flavors set at an incredible venue.

Cheers to warm holidays!

An All Green Event!

Join us November 19, Thursday, at 5pm at Anjou Spa in Bend for Green Drinks, but plan to stay after for a fabulous and fun filled event including shopping, silent auction, a DJ, Organic Nation Cocktails and more, all to benefit Oregon Tilth Education Programs! Wait! The excitement doesn't stop there, Anjou Spa is Green. They use alternative choices and conserve resources in every way possible.

The after party starts at 7pm.

Anjou Spa is located at

225 NW Franklin Avenue, Ste. 3

Bend, OR 97701

(541) 382-1138

See you there!

Melodie

P.S. At the event you can even taste a variation of the cocktail" L'Anjou"!

Tis' the season

Extreme Chocolates could be a title easily misunderstood by the wrong consumer. Carrie Wong of Salem, has tackled a niche that most wouldn't even consider, hand crafting an organic vanilla extract, to be used for cooking and baking. That's extreme! She starts with Organic Nation Vodka, made in Ashland Oregon (and fulfilling the highest regiment of Organic Certification) and adds Madagascar Vanilla Beans and her own touch, 12 months later the delicate blend is bottled in 4oz frosted bottles and prepped for sale. Carrie is the only brewer on the west coast, you can find more information and where to buy here. Carrie also crafts some of the finest chocolates around. A lovely Holiday treat!

P.S. If you are itching for some crafty holiday gift ideas contact me (Melodie@OrganicNationSpirits.com ) or go onto Carries homepage for a collection of different dessert ideas.

Cocktails Served Earth Friendly

Paul Abercrombie invites all to attend his debut party of his new cocktail book, he mentioned Organic Nation Spirits in the book: "Spunky Oregon micro-distillery. . ." and ". . . O-N brand gin has a gentle herbaceous quality for a versatile mixer."

Please join me in celebrating the publication of Organic, Shaken and Stirred, my new book about organic cocktails.

Oh, and enjoy some drinks from the book!

When: Thursday, October 15, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Where: Restaurant BT (in Tampa’s Old Hyde Park Village), 1633 West Snow Ave., Tampa, FL 33606 US

For advance reservations ($30 includes a copy of the book, two cocktails and appetizers), call Inkwood Books (www.InkwoodBooks.com) at 813-253-2638 or Restaurant BT (www.RestaurantBT.com) at 813-258-1916. Or drop by Restaurant BT the night of the party.

“Organic, Shaken and Stirred is a delightful read, chock-full of wonderful recipes. The book is well organized and gives an informative overview of the ‘green’ cocktail trend; it is a valuable resource.” 
—Natalie Bovis-Nelsen, founder and editor, The Liquid Muse.com

Read more here or buy the book!

Taste some Originality

Boldly located on the corner of SW 6th and Oak St. in Portland's classic Downtown area, The Original swoops you in. Its 50's lure, with a chic neuvo vibe, creates a curiosity about what's inside. The Original offers up a unique array of traditional American food that seems like it took a two week vacation to...somewhere. Duck confit on waffles, Lobster Corn Dog, Donut Burger, Poutine ... the Original ingenuity goes on.

Of course, when you are dining at The Original, be original and drink Organic Nation Spirits.

Cheers!

Melodie

Go ahead, Jinx yourself

Jinx, which just opened (last night) in the Pearl District is owned and operated by Casey Hopkin. They will be serving Organic Nation gin along with many other premium Spirits.

Jinx offers a hip atmosphere with a sprightly fresh, lounge feel. Although I didn't experience this late night, this review from yelp makes it sound like Jinx really brought the party. This new hot spot doesnt have a web-site up yet, but in the mean time you can join their Facebook page and check out their other half, Vault-Martini, located next door.

When you stop in and welcome Jinx, be sure to make your libation of choice Organic Nation.

Jinx is located near the corner of 12th and Everett in Portland's Pearl District.

Cheers!

Melodie

Love affair with Culinary Arts

Maralyn Hill brings a wealth of experience and passion to the Food & Spirits industry. Diane, owner of Organic Nation Spirits, has been in touch with Maralyn since their friendship developed at the Ashland Springs Hotel's Chocolate Festival in March '09. Learning about Maralyn's talents and where they come from has been a gift, so much that I wanted to bring it to light for our fans and followers to enjoy!

'My physical home is Arizona, but I consider the world my true home. I derive my energy from different cultures and love being exposed to all aspects of different cultures. It seems many times the gate or tarmac could be considered home if you count time spent in either place.

Born in Chicago, with my first train ride at 2 weeks, I developed my love of travel early. Having a family who excelled in food preparation of many cultures is somewhat responsible for introducing me to appreciation of all aspects of food.

I pursued careers that allowed me to follow my dream of food and travel worldwide. Now, as a freelance writer and author, I focus on food of all cultures: Attending 2009 Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France, with a French Master Chef friend and my frequent writing partner; covering the Taste of the Caribbean; and judging the Oregon Chocolate Festival and Taste of Fallbrook.

In addition to freelance writing, I’m President of the International Food, Wine and Travel Writers Association. I enjoy assisting our members in achieving more success with their careers (that goes back to my Masters in Organizational Development). I have a blog called “Where and What in the World,” as well as “Success,” a blog on writing. I’ve co-authored three books with Brenda C. Hill (no relation). The first was “Our Love Affairs with Food & Travel,” “Cooking Secrets…The Why and How,” co-authored with Master French Chef Herve Laurent, and INDIE Finalist, “Success, Your Path to a Successful Book.”

Maralyn enjoys writing about and supporting the lesser known artisan and delicious businesses. Seeing them grown and gain recognition from producing exceptional products is a wonderful reward. She is delighted to be introduced to new companies, tasting and promoting them through her writing. Her background is marketing and organizational development. She also enjoys being a judge and covering events just about anywhere. The people she meets and stories she hears make it worthwhile.'

You can contact Maralyn at mdhill@noralyn.com or call 480.840.3420. Check out her website:www.noralyn.com.

Cheers!

Melodie