Spirit of Albany spills into the Times Union

Today's Times Union newspaper features an article on our Spirit of Albany promotion. The Spirit of Albany began last year to promote the talent of our local mixologists and to encourage visitors to try new restaurants while learning something about Albany along the way, as the cocktails must include an element that represents our destination.

Twenty two original cocktail recipes have been created over the past two years - and they are all delicious! I'm only guessing, but I think the journalist had a great time writing this article. Jealous? Don't be! Request a free recipe guide here and then plan your journey around Albany. Remember to be safe and designate a driver, though!

Read the full Times Union article here.

World of Beer Coming to Crossgates Mall

From the Albany Business Review:

World of Beer, a growing franchise that serves more than 500 craft beers in a tavern-like atmosphere, is coming to Crossgates Mall in suburban Albany, New York.

World of Beer will open June 23 on the mall's lower level, across from Regal Cinemas.

Besides serving craft beers in bottles, World of Beer offers 56 beers on tap from more than 40 countries.

"We understand the Albany craft beer scene is thriving, and we hope to bring patrons the most unique and complex beers from local, domestic and international brewers," said Joe Rice, general manager.

The food menu includes many items that use beer as a key ingredient.

The business will host live entertainment Thursdays through Saturdays with no cover charge.

A staff of 60 full- and part-time employees has been hired.

World of Beer was founded in Tampa, Florida in 2007 and now has more than 54 franchises in the United States.

Hudson-Chatham Winery Announces Summer Events!

We know you'll like this: Hudson-Chatham Winery recently announced a number of summer events that are perfect for weekends and weeknights alike! Take a look at the events below and make plans for your visit to the winery, located just southeast of Albany.

Wine Slushies Day
Saturday, June 7. 12-5
IceDelites will be making wine slushies from all-natural mixes and Hudson-Chatham wines. The perfect kick-off to summer. 12 to 5 pm

Wine & Cigars Night
Saturday, June 14. 5:30-7:30 pm (after regular winery hours)
The folks from Habana Cigar Shoppe in East Greenbush will be at the winery rolling cigars and sharing their expertise while guests smoke and taste wines and enjoy sliders and snacks. Reservations required. $25/person ($20 for our Case Club members). RSVP to info@hudsonchathamwinery.com.

Outdoor Movie Night
Saturday, July 12. 8 pm (after regular winery hours)
Join us as we show the highly entertaining wine-themed movie, Bottle Shock with Chris Pine. A fun movie based on a true story! Enjoy the movie under the stars! ($10 for movie and 1 glass of wine)

Clam Bake
Saturday, July 19. 1-4 open (winery open 12-5)
Clams, salads, corn, chicken, and dessert - all paired with your favorite Hudson-Chatham wines! More details to come.

7th Annual Sangria Festival
Saturday, August 9. 11-6
Our annual fiesta, complete with different sangrias, yummy foods, crafts, tarot card readings, henna tattoos, and flamenco guitar music by the renowned Maria Zemantauski & Jose Miralles!!

Other announcements from the winery:
We are now open Wednesdays through Sundays, 12 to 5 pm.
Back in Stock: Ghent Blush, Lindenwald White, Blanc de Blanc
Happy Hour Fridays start on June 6, when the winery remains open from 5 to 7 pm.
Sangria Sundays start on July 6, when we concoct a sangria to enjoy by the pitcher or the glass.

Hudson-Chatham Winery is part of the Hudson-Berkshire Beverage Trail. Other members of the trail include Brookview Station Winery at Goold Orchards, Harvest Spirits Distillery, Chatham Brewing, and others. Check out the trail website here for more details.

7th Annual Italian Cooking Show on June 5

Who doesn't love Italian food? Better yet, who doesn't love Italian Food when it's cooked right in front of you? 

Next Thursday night, treat yourself to some delicious cuisine while benefiting a great cause at the 7th Annual Italian Cooking Show. This tasteful and well-priced event will be held at the Glen Sanders Mansion at 6:30 PM.

Bring along a few guests and watch as the chefs demonstrate their skills while preparing a special menu. Wine and food samples will be provided and a cash bar will be available throughout.

Maybe you’re not the best chef, or maybe you are! But you will certainly pick up a few tips and perhaps a few new favorite dishes at this event.

Your $40 donation will benefit the American Italian Heritage Museum, a wonderful organization who preserves Italian culture in the Capital Region. For reservations, call 518-374-7262 or visit this website today!

Craft Brew Alliance Beer Pairing Dinner at The Hollow Bar + Kitchen

On Thursday, May 22nd, from 6 pm-9 pm, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen will be hosting a Craft Brew Alliance Beer Pairing dinner. If you haven't been to The Hollow, this is a perfect opportunity to see the many improvements that have been made to the historic space and sample some excellent food and paired brews.

Those interested in attending can pre-purchase tickets at the bar - and get an extra pint of one of the featured beers on the house! Call in your reservation today to (518) 426-8550 or email specialevents@thehollowalbany.com. 3 pints + 3 courses, just $40!

Here's the menu...

1st course:
Roasted + Grilled Spring Vegetables with Widmer Hefe Viniagrette
Beer Pairing: Widmer Hefe

Interior of The Hollow Bar + Kitchen
Photo credit: Times Union

2nd course:
Kona Castaway IPA-glazed Mahi-Mahi, Sautéed Chicken or Veggie Protein Filet, Grilled Tropical Fruit Salsa + served on Spring Risotto Cake.
Beer Pairing: Kona Castaway IPA

3rd course:
House-Made Macaroons with a Dark Chocolate Kona Koko Brown Sauce
Beer Pairing: Kona Koko Brown Ale

Guests that attend the dinner will also receive special pricing on subsequent pints of the Kona and Widmer featured beers for the rest of the evening.

Make your reservations today, as this event is sure to be a sell-out!