Tag: Ireland

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Featured Fitness Health Sports Travel

Take a Bike Trip to Remember with Wilderness Ireland

Between wild and rugged coastlines, sprawling green fields and charming rural villages, the wonders of Ireland are almost always best seen from the saddle. And while cycling adventures to the Emerald Isle are certainly growing in popularity, they’re not exactly a travel style for freewheelers. For a successful ride, travelers need to know the terrain, get the right gear, and most importantly, plan ahead. Fortunately, the adventure specialists at Wilderness Ireland are experts in the realm of biking trips abroad and can provide first-time cyclists with everything from helmet to pedal.

Thinking of hopping in the saddle this year for a whirlwind, two-wheel tour? Here are 5 tips for cyclists of all skill levels preparing for their first biking trip abroad, courtesy of the expert guides at Wilderness Ireland:

1. Pick the Bike Trip That’s Best for You

“Ask yourself, first of all, what you want to get out of your bike trip in Ireland?” says Patricia Doe, Wilderness Ireland General Manager and Road Cycling Enthusiast. “Are you looking to explore a particular region, or to challenge yourself? Or do you just want an easier-paced option that allows you to explore Ireland’s nature, history and culture along the way? Understanding your reasons for taking this bike trip will help narrow down the options.

Finally, and most importantly, consider your fitness level and current biking experience. You’ll be joining a small group bike tour, so you want to pick the trip that best matches your interests and fitness level. In many cases, you will need to design a training workout to build up your cycling fitness before arriving for your tour, or else maintain your current fitness levels. So another thing to keep in mind is how long you have to get fit before deciding on which grade of trip to join.”

Blend fitness and cycling with a Biking & Yoga Escape (Level 3)

2. Break in Your Gear Beforehand

“Avoid buying new bike gear just before you head off on a cycling vacation,” advises Duncan Warner, Head of Wilderness Ireland Guides.

“You must make sure that your clothing fits comfortably and helps you stay at the right temperature. It’s also best not to buy new cycling shoes and pedals without testing them out at home for a while. Your first day on a cycling adventure in Ireland is not the best time to learn how to clip in and out of your shiny new pedals.” 

Put your new gear to use while peddling Donegal from Cliffs to Coast (Level 6)

3. Put Fitness First

“I would always recommend that anyone joining a group biking trip start with fitness first, so go on at least one to two rides a week whether it’s on a turbo trainer or out on the roads,” states Warner Wilders, Wilderness Ireland Guide & Fully Qualified Mountain Bike Instructor.

“Prepare yourself for your upcoming trip with some regular exercise – everything else should come after. Your equipment and gear don’t really matter if you’re not fit enough to use it!”

Up for a challenge? Bike the best of the Wild Atlantic Way (Level 7)

4. Be Prepared for a (Somewhat) Bumpy Ride!

“The vast majority of Ireland’s (more than 67,000 miles’ worth of) roads are based on ancient pathways that have crisscrossed the countryside for centuries,” says Eoin Warner, Wilderness Ireland Guide & RTE Nature Documentary Host.

In fact, the Gaelic word for ‘road’ is bóthar – bó being the Irish word for ‘cow’ – so it literally means a ‘cow-way’ (so you may even find yourself sharing these roads with cows heading home for milking)!

Ireland’s country roads are part of its charm when cycling. While biking the meandering country lanes, be sure to watch out for uneven road surfaces, sharp turns and lumbering tractors. Just remember: stay on the left and share the road!”

Cycle the countryside’s winding roads of Dingle with the Kerry Peninsulas Bike Tour (Level 5)

5. Consider Renting Your Wheels

“Some say taking your own bike on a cycling trip is best because you can jump straight in with your old friend right away,” shares Dean McMenamin, Wilderness Ireland Guide & Long-Distance Bikepacking Expert.

“That said, it can also be a hassle with extra costs. Most airlines accept bicycles as part of excess sports luggage, but fees vary. If you do decide to take your bike on the plane with you, it will have to be packed into a bicycle box. There’s also the chance it could be damaged in transit – or even worse, not arrive with you!

If this is your first time joining a group bike trip, compromise by taking your own saddle and pedals and attaching them to a rented bike.”

Saddle up for a trip through Connemara & the Aran Islands (Level 3)

Looking for more reasons to take a bike trip? Check out some other tips here.

Categories
Dining Living

Fraunces Tavern’s Jessica Baldwin Phillips & Brianna McHugh on history, the Feb. 24 George Washington Ball & more

Photo courtesy of Fraunces Tavern

Photo: Fraunces Tavern Museum
Photo: Fraunces Tavern Museum

Located at 54 Pearl Street, Fraunces Tavern is more than a museum and restaurant. More specifically, it is a complex of five interconnected buildings, as owned by the Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York since 1904. The location played a prominent role in history before, during and after the American Revolution, serving as a headquarters for George Washington, a venue for peace negotiations with the British, and housing federal offices in the Early Republic. Beyond that aforementioned history, the complex is home to the Porterhouse Brewing Company and was seen in the movie Two Weeks Notice.

In advance of the Fraunces Tavern-presented 140th Annual George Washington Birthday Ball on Feb. 24, Downtown spoke with Jessica Baldwin Phillips and Brianna McHugh. Jessica is the Executive Director of the Fraunces Tavern Museum, previously working with the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Martin Van Buren House and the Hudson River Valley Institute. Brianna has been Fraunces Tavern’s Director Of Special Events for over three years.

For more information on all things Fraunces Tavern, visit www.frauncestavernmuseum.org. The downtown landmark can also be followed via social media on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

How did you first become involved with the Fraunces Tavern team?

Brianna McHugh: I was an acquaintance with the owner’s friend who told me they were hiring.

Jessica B. Phillips: I was hired in 2011 as the Curator.

How will you be involved with the George Washington Birthday Ball 2017?

JBP: This will be my sixth Ball. It’s the 140th Ball organized by the Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, the organization that owns Fraunces Tavern and opened the public museum in 1907. I’m part of the Ball planning committee and I will be presenting on behalf of the Museum.

Aside from the Birthday Ball, what else is coming up for Fraunces Tavern?

BH: The Restaurant and Tavern will be celebrating the 20th year of The Porterhouse Brewing Company brewing craft beer. This will take place on Monday, November 28th at the tavern.

JBP: The Museum has a great public events calendar lined-up.

What is your favorite item on the menu there at Fraunces Tavern?

BH: My favorite item is the meat & cheese board.

Are the beers of the Porterhouse Brewing Company exclusive to Fraunces Tavern? How did that working relationship start?

BH: No, the beers are not exclusive to only Fraunces Tavern. The Porterhouse Brewing Company is an award-winning brewery in Ireland who has beer in restaurants and taverns all over the world. The Porterhouse Brewing Company has a financial partnership with The Fraunces Tavern Restaurant.

Is there something you wish more people knew about Fraunces Tavern?

JBP: Since it’s a museum and a restaurant it’s a historic site where you can spend an afternoon. The Fraunces Tavern complex is more than just 54 Pearl Street, it’s composed of five historic buildings on the Fraunces Tavern block. We have nine galleries and one to two new exhibitions annually. We have a collection of over 5,000 pieces.

Have you always been a history buff?

JBP: Yes. When I was a kid I wrote a love poem to George Washington.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6bHV81Hkhk

What do you like to do when not busy with Fraunces Tavern?

BH: Fortunately, I find myself always busy while inside the restaurant. If I am not in my office, I find something to do to help staff out on the floor or help the hostess with the busy front door. If I do have downtime, I enjoy reading and collecting books for my collection.

JBP: I rescue cats.

Fraunces Tavern aside, what is your favorite restaurant in Manhattan?

JBP: I love MAD.

BH: I do not have a favorite. But my top restaurants are not in Manhattan. I like to venture out into Queens and Brooklyn.

Finally, any last words for the kids?

BH: When visiting the restaurant and tavern, make sure to stop by The Dingle Whiskey Bar for a specialty cocktail!

JBP: Any subject has a history.

Categories
Dining

The Addison Hospitality Group’s Ric Addison on the Monarch Rooftop & Indoor Lounge, cocktails in New York & more

Addison Hospitality Group's Ric Addison
The Addison Hospitality Group’s founder Ric Addison

Addison Hospitality Group owner Ric Addison began a career in hospitality well over two decades ago. Originally from Ireland, Ric got his start in New York hospitality working alongside nightlife legends like Ian Schrager and Rande Gerber. The first notable establishment of his own was the AVA Lounge at the Dream Hotel, which he opened in 2002; New York Magazine would go on to name it “Best After Work Drink” spot in a Best Of New York issue. Further acclaim would come quickly from other establishments of Ric’s, like the Inc Lounge at The Time Hotel — which once hosted Lady Gaga and Madonna in its VIP “Pool Room” — and THE BAR at the Dream Hotel.

Four years ago in 2013, Ric opened the Monarch Rooftop & Indoor Lounge. Located 18 floors above Herald Square, the beautifully-decorated Monarch was designed by Natalie Todorova of Gene Kaufman Architects. Beyond its signature cocktails, Monarch offers an immaculate view of the Empire State Building and other parts of Midtown. Not just ideal for a summer visit, Monarch uses heat lamps when necessary, welcoming evening visitors to experience its Scandinavian-style décor throughout the year.

Downtown spoke with Ric in December 2016 to learn more about Monarch and other Addison Hospitality Group establishments. More info can be found at www.addisongroupnyc.com, while Monarch itself can be followed on social media via accounts on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

You are the owner of the Addison Hospitality Group. What inspired you to start your own hospitality group?

Ric Addison: My background in hospitality dates back from my roots in Ireland. My entire family has been in the hospitality business in some way or another. My father was the manager at an Executive social club in Ireland. When I came to the United States, I decided I wanted to pursue a career in hospitality. I worked my way up all the way from a barback, learning from the likes of the venerable Ian Schrager and Rande Gerber. I knew from then on that I wanted to bring a level of hospitality that the New York elites expect, but make it available to everyone.

What is a typical day for you like as the owner of a hospitality group?

RA: There is no typical day and never a humdrum moment. Everything is constantly changing at a rapid pace, and that is part of the reason why I love it. From finding and transforming new spaces into nightlife destinations, working with my team to develop ideas, and just meeting new customers, I consider myself fortunate to enjoy going to work every day.

You are known for sophisticated rooftop bars. What draws you to the rooftop bar concept?

RA: I think I truly found my niche with rooftop bars when I opened the AVA Lounge at the Dream Hotel. I noticed that Midtown professionals wanted a respite from the bustling city after a hard day’s work and AVA was a getaway in the middle of Manhattan.

The AVA Lounge at the Dream Hotel is reportedly the establishment that put you on the map. Where had you worked before then?

RA: Gerber Group bars with Randy Gerber, Ian Schrager at The Paramount Hotel, and every major nightclub in the 80s and 90s. I started as a manager at the Whiskey Bar and rose to Director of Operations for the Gerber Group.

What can you tell me about your two newest venues, Magnolia Restaurant and Lovage Rooftop & Indoor Lounge?

RA: I am proud to be opening Magnolia Restaurant and Lovage Rooftop & Indoor Lounge in 2017. Magnolia will be the first restaurant addition to the Addison Hospitality Group portfolio. It was designed to be elegant, but comfortable; a place that you want to visit because of its quality food at an affordable price. Lovage is a continuation of our beloved AVA Lounge, which recently closed. Loyal patrons of AVA will notice a lot of the same design elements in Lovage. We invite guests of all ages to visit, from ages 21 to 91. We think there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Do you have a favorite item served by Magnolia? What about Lovage?

RA: At Magnolia, the Deviled Duck Eggs with maple horseradish, mustard, a touch of cayenne pepper, and crispy bacon bits. At Lovage, I love to sip on our Hell’s Kitchen take on a Bloody Mary. We call it the Mahola Cocktail, with Smoky Mezcal, Roasted Tomatillos, Wasabi, Fresh Lemon and a Sweet Paprika and Sesame Salt Rim that will wake you right up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gF8i_q5iek

Any special events coming up at any of your establishments? Holiday specials?

RA: Yes, Magnolia and Lovage are booking up quickly for Fashion Week in February, along with a Valentine’s Day party at Lovage. Things will really heat up at Lovage when the warm weather arrives this spring and patrons can take advantage of the warm temperatures in New York City.

It’s been said that the Addison Hospitality Group aims to provide “white glove service without the white gloves.” Is there a particular entrepreneur that inspired that philosophy?

RA: I wanted to show people elegant service without being confined to the parameters of the Meatpacking District. Every guest is equally important to me. No particular entrepreneur inspired that philosophy in me, but myself. However, I do view Richard Branson as an inspiration of business.

When not busy with work, how do you like to spend your free time?

RA: I always enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter, sailing and golfing.

Other than your own, do you have a favorite restaurant in New York?

RA: Chinese Tuxedo, which recently opened in Chinatown.

Finally, Ric, any last words for the kids?

RA: Always apply yourself and the world is yours. Anything is possible. Never compromise your happiness.

Categories
Events Featured Living

Highlights From The Launch Party Of Downtown Magazine’s Fall 2016 Issue

 

 

On Oct. 18, Downtown Magazine held its Fall 2016 Cover Launch Party at the new Four Seasons Downtown Private Residences at 30 Park Place in Tribeca. Champagne and hors-d’oeuvres were served and guests had the luxury of enjoying the incredible interiors designed by Robert Couturier and stunning views of Lower Manhattan from the 78th Floor in one of the newly-finished penthouses.

 

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With a long guest list, the who’s who of the downtown area joined Downtown in celebration of this very special issue of the magazine. As the undeniable architect of Lower Manhattan, the man on the new issue’s cover story, Larry Silverstein, was the event’s special guest.

 

“The first time I came upon Grace Capobianco, I said to her ‘You’re a unique woman”

 

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“I never expected to have the opportunity of having a magazine as spectacular as the magazine we have with us tonight”

 

The elevators were overwhelmed with guests who included; VIPs and real estate power players including:

 

 

 

In tribute to the aforementioned Larry Silverstein — a pillar in the rebuilding of Lower Manhattan — Downtown prepared two surprises for the evening’s special guest. After Mr. Silverstein had given a speech, Downtown CEO & Publisher Grace A. Capobianco thanked Mr. Silverstein with a heartfelt video by Director & Cinematographer Zurab Katamadze and Photographer Dimitri Mais with help from the Downtown team, featuring many of Mr. Silverstein’s closest friends and collaborators, both in real estate as well as in the downtown area.

 

Friends such as Bruce Ratner, Norman Sturner, and Leonard Boxer spoke to Silverstein’s character, while local community figures including Jessica Lappin, Gale Brewer, and Catherine McVay Hughes talked about the incredible role Silverstein has played in the revitalization of downtown. Within the video, his daughter Lisa Silverstein and her husband Tal Kerret noted how incredibly lucky they are to be a part of the Silverstein family and how both Larry and Klara Silverstein inspire them every single day. Son Roger Silverstein offered similarly-touching sentiments.

“We’re blessed to have the magazine and we are blessed to have her”

The second surprise from Downtown was in the form of music. When Ms. Capobianco first learned of Mr. Silverstein’s love of classical music, she knew exactly who to call. Her dear friend Gregory Harrington, Ireland’s most recognized violinist, who has played all over the world for celebrities heads of states and several times at Carnegie Hall. Most recently he played for Hillary Clinton.

 

 

Although it was Downtown honoring Mr. Silverstein, he spoke eloquently about Ms. Capobianco’s talent, passion and incredible job she’s done with launching Downtown Magazine almost 8 years ago. A much-needed vehicle for the new downtown.

 

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“I never expected to have the opportunity of having a magazine as spectacular as the magazine we have with us tonight and the person who is remarkable, responsible for everything in that magazine because of the passion that she has for this magazine — the passion she has for everything that exists down here in Lower Manhattan, at the end of the day, we’re blessed to have the magazine and we are blessed to have her. Lo and behold I’m on the front cover, so how can I say anything negative about this magazine. The first time I came upon Grace Capobianco, I said to her ‘You’re a unique woman.’ Unique because whatever she did, she did it with such zest, with such drive, with such passion that I finally said to her “You know, I’ve never met another magazine publisher like you.” She said, “Well, how many have you met?” I replied “Well, you’re the only one that I’ve met,” said Mr. Silverstein as he and the crowd roared with laughter.

Diamond Jewelry provided by Barbara Novak Diamonds.
The wardrobe of Grace Capobianco was provided by La Petite Robe Chiara Boni.

Photography by Sophie Kietzmann

 

A Video Tribute to Larry Silverstein – From Downtown Magazine – Videographer Zurab Katamadze
https://drive.google.com/open?id=15kHKfrJUz9s_nYiScGPNAZLm-oEqUNYZ

 

Categories
Dining Travel

Castle Brands’ Alejandra Peña talks Knappogue Castle whiskey, New York City and more

Alejandra Peña / Photo: Flash Rosenberg

Alejandra Peña / Photo: Gabi Porter
Alejandra Peña / Photo: Gabi Porter

Named after Knappogue Castle, a 15th century castle in western Ireland, Knappogue Castle Single Malt Whiskey is one of Castle Brands’ most popular offerings. Restored by Mark Edwin Andrews II upon purchasing it in 1966, Knappogue Castle’s legacy is now overseen by Mark Andrews III. Knappogue Castle’s renowned vintage offerings include its 12-Year Old Single Malt Whiskey, its Oloroso Sherry-infused 14-Year Old Twin Wood Irish Whiskey, its 16-Year Old Twin Wood Irish Whiskey, and its 1951 Pure Pot Still Irish Whiskey; the 1951 edition is 80 proof and retails for $1,600.

Alejandra Peña, Senior Vice President of Marketing, joined the Castle Brands team in September 2011. Prior to that, she was the Marketing Vice President for Liqueurs and Spirits at Rémy Cointreau USA beyond other marketing roles in the wine and spirits industry. Before being involved with these marketing positions within the world of alcohol, Alejandra received her B.S. degree in Electronic Engineering — with honors, of course — from Simon Bolivar University in Caracas, Venezuela, and her MBA degree in International Economics and Management from Milan’s Bocconi University. She is impressively trilingual, although her Q&A with Downtown was kept to English aside from a phrase in Gaelic.

Knappogue Castle can be followed on www.knappoguewhiskey.com, beyond keeping a page on Facebook. Its parent company, Castle Brands, is on Twitter.

K14 Yr Bottle Shot 2015

Where did the Knappogue Castle name come from?

Alejandra Peña: Knappogue Castle Single Malt Irish Whiskey is named after a majestic castle that stands in County Clare, Ireland, originally built in 1467. The castle was purchased in the 1960s by Mark Edwin Andrews, who also began buying casks of fine pot still whiskey and single malts from top distilleries in Ireland. The casks were further aged and bottled under the Knappogue Castle label. His last bottling, a 1951 vintage aged 36 years, is revered by connoisseurs as the oldest and rarest commercially available Irish whiskey on the planet. The work Knappogue (pronounced “nah’pogue”) translates to “hill of the kiss” in Gaelic.

What do you feel makes Knappogue Castle different from other whiskeys?

AP: Knappogue is one of the few Irish single malts available in the marketplace. In a time where age statements on whiskey are disappearing, we are proud to state that our whiskey is aged for 12 years in bourbon barrels. We have been doing interesting wood finishes since we started with Knappogue 1951. Two good examples are our special editions of Knappogue Castle, Twin Wood 16-year-old and 14-year-old, both aged in two types of wood, bourbon & sherry casks.

Is Knappogue Castle entirely made in Ireland? Is Irish water important to the overall process?

AP: Absolutely, our whiskey is entirely made in Ireland. The Irish water, along a delicate distillation process influenced by moist and a temperate climate, yields the distinct flavor of our whiskey.

What are some of its sister brands at Castle Brands?

AP: Our Castle Brands portfolio includes Gosling’s Rum and Gosling’s Ginger Beer, Jefferson’s Bourbons, Pallini Limoncello, Gozio Amaretto, Tierras Tequila, and four other Irish Brands: Clontarf Irish Whiskey, Brady’s Irish Cream, Celtic Honey Liqueur, and Boru Irish Vodka.

Are there plans to introduce more brands or varieties to the Castle portfolio?

AP: We are focusing on building our current portfolio at the moment and while we are not actively-searching for new brands, we remain open-minded to new opportunities that may cross our way.

Do you have a favorite of the Knappogue Castle varieties?

AP: I love the robustness of Knappogue Castle 14 Year Old and the complexity of the Knappogue 16 Year Old. However, the 12 Year Old is my go-to-single malt. It is so delicious neat, but it also mixes very well with a variety of ingredients for a wide range of cocktails.

How did you first get involved professionally with spirits and the overall industry? I mean, didn’t you study Electronic Engineering in college?

AP: I always loved marketing, even when I worked as an Electronic Engineer. I completed my MBA in International Business at Bocconi University, in Milan, Italy and when I moved to New York, and I was determined to find a job with a company that would allow me to work between Italy and the U.S. I had the opportunity then to work with the Italian Trade Commission in the Food and Wine Department, assisting Italian companies in building distribution in the US. That’s how I met people from the wine business, which led me to my marketing position with Banfi Vintners and the start of my career in wine and spirits.

What do you wish more people knew about your job?

AP: That it is not only about going to cool events and drinking. Our industry is highly-regulated and, in the U.S. market alone, we have to deal with 50 separate states that are basically like 50 different countries. So our job requires a great deal of due diligence and creativity to make our promotions compliant in as many markets as possible.

Were you always a whiskey drinker? Did you start out as a beer or wine drinker?

AP: I was raised in Venezuela, a very strong whiskey market. So in my early days I enjoyed whiskey. But I also loved beer, which is highly consumed as a refreshing beverage in our hot climate. My appreciation for wine started later, when I moved to Italy.

Do you have a favorite bar in New York City?

AP: I have many favorite bars in New York City. So many, that I’m not sure where to start. However, I can tell you right away that my favorite bar in Rome is Jerry Thomas Speakeasy.

Any idea what was the first bar in New York to carry Knappogue Castle?

AP: Oh, Knappogue Castle has been around for quite a few years, so I’m not sure which bar was the first to carry it. Luckily, today many of the best bars in New York carry Knappogue, including Up & Up, The Dead Rabbit, Vintry, Pouring Ribbons, Fraunces Tavern, Brandy Library, Porchlight, and many more.

What’s coming up for Knappogue Castle? Any events or promotions?

AP: We just launched a new packaging in the spring. So we are working on several promotions and events in select whiskey markets — with top-notch bartenders and cocktail bars — to introduce the new image of the brand and build awareness.

When not busy with work, how do you like to spend your free time?

AP: I love spending time with my husband and two kids. I also enjoy traveling, reading, and dancing.

Finally, Alejandra, any last words for the kids?

AP: Remember to hydrate, there is plenty of free water everywhere!