Sip Tips: May 2018

Fine libations and heartfelt music enjoy a partnership that goes back millennia. Whether you rock red Solo cups at outdoor festivals or immerse yourself in a wine glass at the opera, we’ve got three grooves to get you in a musical mood.

Clement Rhum Agricole “Select Barrel”
($40, Washburn)

Global beats and Caribbean melodies are woven into the fabric of spring and summer outdoor festivals, and we can’t imagine a spirit more connected to tropical culture than rum. This special bottling will elevate any dark rum cocktail, but enjoy it straight, as well. Its soft strains of spice and warm vanilla notes deserve to be savored on their own.

G.D. Vajra Barolo “Bricco Viole” 2013
($80, Country Vintner)

It’s a tired cliché to compare fine wine to classical music, so we’ll take a more literal approach: This stunning bottle of Northern Italian red can be likened to the orchestra itself. Firm structured tannins are the low-frequency foundation of the wine, supporting the compact red fruit tones akin to the role of cellos and violas. Finally, high-toned delicate floral aromas ornament the experience like a virtuoso violinist.

North Coast “Brother Thelonious”
($13 4-pack bottles, DOPS)

Jazz represents a rich tapestry of styles and moods, unified by a willingness to push boundaries and blend influences. Strap on your best headphones and settle in with this Belgian-Style Abbey Ale brewed in California. Its subtly sweet timbres of caramel, plums, raisins, and brioche are best enjoyed at a contemplative pace. A portion of all proceeds support the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz.