Try 60 new wines or cocktails of all varieties.
This intention was originally to try 60 new bottles of wine. I've since expanded it to include cocktails and, more specifically, I also want to learn to make some signature cocktails in the process. I'll probably pair this intention with some of my others like listening to books and albums in the evenings, connecting with friends and family, and my travels. An easy two-fer of sorts. If I can come away with an expanded palette, some cocktail recipe go-to's, and having shared new drinks and wine with my girlfriend and lots of people in my life, then this one will be a win.
The wines
Done: Jean-Paul Brun Beaujolais Blanc Chardonnay
August 29, 2027
A nice light un-oaked French chard enjoyed chilled at Knoxville’s delectable Au Bon Coin.
Au Bon Coin
Done: E.L.A. Imperial/Double Stout, barrel-aged by Bond Brothers Beer Company
September 1, 2027
Exceptionally good bourbon barrel aged stout. Enjoyed with clients at Bond Brothers in Cary, NC.
Bond Brothers Beer Company
Done: 2023 Bourgogne Blanc from Maison Henri & Gilles Buisson
September 15, 2026
DL at the incredible wine shop, Central Bottle, recommended this wine. Took it for a sunset drive on the Foothills Parkway only to be accosted by an overzealous park ranger. Ended up corking it at Cazzy’s corner grill as a suitable Plan B. Not the story I was looking for but a story nonetheless. The wine itself. Delicious. Best enjoyed young. Crisp, refreshing. Citrus, apple, and some mineral. Light to no oak.
Central Bottle
Done: Domaine des Terres Dorées Chardonnay from Jean-Paul Brun
September 18, 2026
Foothills Parkway take two! No pesky park ranger this time and an even better bottle of wine and a stunning sunset. This bottle was good enough that I’m including a full review. Strongly recommend. Paired with homemade salsa and chips and strawberries. The label says "Récolté, vinifié et embouteillé par", meaning he grows, makes, and bottles it himself. The producer: Jean-Paul Brun is one of Beaujolais's most respected vignerons. He founded the domaine in 1979 in Charnay, in the Pierres Dorées ("golden stones") area south of the main crus. The region is named for the honey-colored limestone that colors its villages. He's known for restrained, low-intervention winemaking: native yeasts, minimal sulfur, and no chaptalization. He's best known for his Gamay, and the Chardonnay is a smaller-production side of the estate. The wine: Beaujolais Blanc is 100% Chardonnay, and it's rare, under 2% of the region's production. The limestone-clay soils give it a Burgundian feel but with more freshness and less weight. Style: Dry, crisp, and unoaked or lightly oaked, with a mineral edge. Flavors: Green apple, lemon, pear, white flowers, and a chalky or slightly almond finish.
Foothills Parkway
Done: The Obsidian Blade
September 19, 2026
I love a good Old Fashioned. It’s probably my go to cocktail most of the time. I also enjoy trying seasonal variations and twists on the classic. Well, this may be the best riff I’ve ever tried. Meet the Obsidian Blade served up at the Raven Steakhouse and Lounge in Maryville, TN. Five stars for sure and highly recommend both the drink and the restaurant. If they are busy, book the lounge and enjoy all the restaurant has to offer in a quaint but more casual setting. Here’s the description of this delightful drink: brown butter traveler whisky, black cardamon reduction, Demerara, chocolate and aromatic bitters. A little toasted orange slice for some smoke on the nose. This was just simply a smoother, more buttery and sweet old fashioned with a more chocolate than cherry finish. Yum!
RAVEN Steakhouse & LoungeNot yet: Next bottle
Posts
Nothing written here yet — the story of this intention is still ahead.