Elevating the concept of “single barrel” to the next level, Russell’s Reserve now not only shares single barrels but also highlights and labels the exact rickhouse and location on their Lawrenceburg campus where the whiskey was aged. A step in transparency sure to thrill the nerdiest of bourbon enthusiasts everywhere.
Fittingly for the inaugural edition of their new “Single Rickhouse Series,” Wild Turkey’s renown Master Distiller Eddie Russell chose warehouse Camp Nelson C—long sought after by the most selective of whiskey enthusiasts for its unique maturing properties.
Apparently the seven-story wood and tin structure’s airy design and location on top of a hill by the Kentucky River lend Camp C an ideal bourbon aging climate.
“When I tasted this liquid from Camp Nelson C, I knew it deserved its own place in Russell’s history,” Eddie explains.
“It’s a little different from what folks have come to expect from our whiskies, and even though we all personally enjoy different flavor profiles, Dad, myself and my son, Bruce all agreed instantly—this is a once-in-a-blue-moon kind of whiskey and deserving of being the first release in this special series.”
Seeing as Wild Turkey recently revealed the beloved rickhouse—built in 1946—was decommissioned and razed last year only makes this small batch bourbon release all the more coveted. Perfect for the inaugural limited edition annual release.
Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse Series: Camp Nelson C was sourced from only 72 barrels hand-picked from the center cut of Camp Nelson C’s third and fourth floors, the bullseye climate for many of Wild Turkey’s honey barrels over the years.
Each barrel aged in this unique environment for at least 10 years, bestowing the liquid with some unorthodox elements, like hints of coconut and chocolate complimenting the more traditional Wild Turkey notes of apple, toasted pecan, brown sugar and dried fruit. The luxurious mouthfeel inspires Eddie to label this bourbon as a “five-star liquid.”
Bottled at 112.4 proof, Camp Nelson C will hit shelves in early October and retail for $250.
Five members of the Oath Keepers, including founder Stewart Rhodes, are being tried in federal court for their role in the riots of Jan. 6, 2021. The Onion tells you everything you need to know about the Oath Keepers and their trial.
PHILADELPHIA—Alarmed and horrified by the dog’s sudden attack, onlookers reportedly screamed Friday as a pit bull clamped down on an 8-year-old child’s hoagie. “Stop! Stop! Someone get him off,” shouted local resident Tracy Boganski, who was out for a walk when she witnessed the off-leash Staffordshire terrier lunge…
Lars Ulrich’s signature batons are no longer the only Metallica-branded sticks you can buy. The famed metal band’s Blackened American whiskey brand is launching a cigar dubbed M81, the name being an apparent homage to Metallica’s founding in 1981.
Singer/guitarist James Hetfield and Blackened Master Distiller/Blender Rob Dietrich teamed up with Jonathan Drew, founder and president of the Drew Estate tobacco company, to create the Metallica-approved stogies. Over the course of two years, samples from the Drew Estate portfolio were sent to Hetfield and Dietrich, who journaled about their preferences picking a final flavor profile.
(Blackened)
Drew Estate then crafted a custom triple Maduro smoke accordingly, starting with a thick and oily Maduro wrapper that’s grown in the rich volcanic soil of Mexico’s San Andres Valley. The blend includes a thick and meaty Connecticut River Valley Broadleaf Maduro binder, as well as a filler blend of Nicaraguan and Pennsylvania Broadleaf Maduro tobaccos, including the boldest Pennsylvania Broadleaf ligero in Drew Estate’s inventory.
“My buddy, Rob Dietrich, and I frequently enjoy cigars together, and he introduced me to Jonathan from Drew Estate,” Hetfield said in a statement. “The three of us connected and shared each other’s vision and story about where we’ve been, what we like to see, what is important to us now, and we all came up with what a Blackened ‘M81’ Cigar would look and taste like. I love the Maduro leaf, and I’m super excited for everyone to try this.”
(Blackened)
According to Blackened, the M81 is “dark, bold, rich, and powerful with alluring notes of espresso, leather, and dark chocolate.” Naturally, Dietrich feels this flavor profile complements that of Blackened whiskey perfectly.
“The bold, ultra-dark tobacco of the triple Maduro embodied in the Blackened Cigars M81 pairs perfectly with the quality and depth of Blackened American Whiskey’s sweet bourbon and earthy rye blend, with the brandy cask finish tying both the tobacco and whiskey together in an unrivaled experience of flavor,” Dietrich added.
(Blackened)
Presented in copper-accented black 20-count boxes, Blackened Cigars “M81” by Drew Estate debuts in four sizes: Robusto (5 x 50), Toro (6 x 52), Corona Doble (7 x 50), and Corona (5 x 43). They’re first rolling out exclusively to Drew Diplomat Program participants beginning September 29, followed by a wide release at all Drew Estate retailers in December. Prices range from $183-$207 per box.
Cue the Creedence Clearwater Revival—this custom Land Rover Defender channels the Chinook, one of history’s most iconic military choppers.
(Bonhams)
British customizing firm Tecniq built the specially commissioned “Q40” 2013 Defender 110 in honor of one of the Royal Air Force’s longest-serving aircraft, though anyone who’s ever a seen a Vietnam war movie will recognize the Boeing-made Chinook CH-47’s distinct twin-rotor design—a graphic representation of which is depicted through the swirling grid painted over the Defender’s rear.
(Bonhams)
The overall palette featuring complementary shades of gloss and matte dark green are matched to the RAF’s Chinook camouflage, while hand-stitched marine leather wraps anodized aluminum door handles. Tecniq also added a carbon fiber grille, hood and wheel arch extensions further elevate beyond the 2013’s factory spec.
(Bonhams)
Inside, there’s a “twin zoned” 2+2 seating configuration with carbon fiber racing seats upholstered in hand-stitched Bridge of Weird leather and sheepskin inserts in a nod to the Chinook’s seating configuration.
The entire interior mirrors the chopper’s, with a selection of darky upholstery, quilted roof lining, as well as various “tactile, precision-engineered materials” and elements that aim to deliver a militaristic feel, such as webbing taken from the Chinook’s load bay in the trunk and submarine lighting.
(Bonhams)
Tecniq also equipped a handful of mechanical upgrades, with a new ride-improving chassis that borrows from the company’s Classic Racing department, programmable dampers, upgraded pushbars, six-piston brakes, and a 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder from a Ford Mustang that sends 307 horsepower through a bolstered six-speed transmission.
(Bonhams)
The buyer, who paid around just over the British Pound equivalent of $154,000 to acquire the one-off Q40 Defender by Tecniq from Bonhams, got more than just a militaristic ride.
(Bonhams)
The lot included a genuine Chinook crew members’ flying suit, a signed commemorative image of the British SUV and helicopter, a Squadron pin, and an invite for four to London’s prestigious RAF club in central London for a meet-and-greet with veterans who’ve flown Chinook missions.
Maine has a reputation for being cultured, foodie, outdoorsy and steeped in history. It’s also known for being, particularly if you check into historic seaside hotels and dine out on lobster dinners. But a vacation in Maine doesn’t have to cost a fortune – you can hike, swim, cross-country ski and enjoy the arts scene, all for free.
From York to Fort Fairfield and everywhere in between, you’ll find loads of free (or inexpensive) activities to keep you busy in Maine year-round, meaning you can save your money for special experiences such as special seafood dinners and the odd overnight stay on the shore.
Whether you fancy a hike on the rocky coastline in search of local wildlife, or front-row seats at a mashed-potato wrestling match, you’ll find plenty of fun for free Maine – just keep your camera ready! Here’s a guide to the top free things to do in Maine.
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1. Tour Maine’s lighthouses
Most of Maine’s lighthouses are free to explore, including the famous Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, commissioned by George Washington and probably the most photographed lighthouse in the country. Pack a picnic and enjoy the adjacent 90-acre Fort Williams Park with its stunning ocean views and old forts. Not far down the road, you can swing by the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and Big Light in South Portland.
As you head up the coast, you’ll find more lighthouses in the Midcoast region, such as Owl’s Head Lighthouse and Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse in Rockland and the famous Marshall Point Lighthouse in Port Clyde (you might recognize its profile from the movie, Forrest Gump). West Quoddy State Park in Lubec is the easternmost point in the continental United States and home to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, a distinct candy-striped tower commissioned by Thomas Jefferson.
Planning tip: While many lighthouses are free to visit, staying in a lighthouse costs a little more. One of the more affordable options is the Little River Light on an offshore island near Cutler, built in 1876 and still used to keep this stretch of coast safe for shipping.
Horror fans won’t want to miss Stephen King’s spooky mansion on West Broadway Street in Bangor. This stately red mansion and its creepy wrought-iron fence evoke the author’s most famous works, and the supernatural-looking wooden tree carving in the front yard is worth the stop alone. Unfortunately, you probably won’t catch a glimpse of the famous author (as he resides mostly in Florida), but you never know! There are plans to eventually open the house to the public as a museum.
Looking for more free stuff to do in Bangor? Snap a selfie with the Paul Bunyan statue, look for wildlife in the 80-acre Bangor City Forest, or walk or bike along the Penobscot River Walkway. Fort Knox (the other Fort Knox) and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge are a 25-minute drive from Bangor, offering incredible views of the Penobscot River and tons of history.
Planning tip: If you’re on a literary kick, other famous homes you can visit or see from the street include Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s residence in Portland, EB White’s home in Brookline, and Harriet Beecher Stowe’s house in Brunswick.
Southern Maine is largely taken up by York and Cumberland Counties and it provides a home for most of the state’s 1.3 million people. It’s easy to understand why – York County is home to some of Maine’s best sandy beaches. Long Sand Beach in York and Ogunquit Beach a little further north are two of the most beautiful beaches in New England, perfect for vacations during Maine’s short, warm summers.
Old Orchard Beach toward Scarborough is one of Maine’s busiest beaches during the summer, thanks to its nostalgic pier and amusement park. As you head north, sandy beaches begin to disappear, replaced by Maine’s signature rocky coastline, but you’ll still find a few sandy spots for a dip in the Atlantic as you drift up the coast.
Planning tip: Maine’s southern beaches get extremely busy in the summer; consider visiting out of season, when the long, lovely strips of sand take on a different character, inviting long, contemplative walks.
4. Stroll the First Friday Art Walk in Portland
Maine’s largest city is the state’s cultural hub, home to world-class restaurants, hip breweries, cool coffee shops and more. It’s easy to spend hundreds of dollars here just on food and beer, but there are lots of free things to do to help you balance your budget.
Portland’s First Friday Art Walk happens on the first Friday of every month, and many of the city’s art galleries and studios open to the public for free, often providing free snacks and wine. For more art, the Portland Museum of Art (PMA) in the heart of downtown has a permanent collection of over 18,000 artworks by art greats from Andy Warhol to Claude Monet, and entry is free late on Friday afternoon.
Planning tip: As well as European greats, the PMA is home to one of the largest collections of works by Winslow Homer – considered to be one of the greatest American painters of the 19th century – who spent much of his life in Maine. PMA owns Homer’s studio in Prouts Neck and tours are available for an additional fee.
Maine is home to thousands of miles of hiking, biking and nature trails. As well as various sections of the Appalachian Trail, take time to explore the free-to-visit Alewive Woods Preserve in Kennebunk, a 625-acre nature preserve with 2.5 miles of easy hiking trails.
Just an hour north of Portland, Pleasant Mountain in Bridgton makes for a perfect day hike, with rewarding views of western Maine. With kids in tow, the Shoreline Trail in Moosehead region’s Lily Bay State Park is an easy two-mile trail for the whole family, and you may even see a moose if you’re lucky.
For slightly harder hiking trails, the Bethel area is home to Grafton Notch State Park and the Mahoosuc Public Lands. The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, and there are other nearby easier trails if you prefer a shorter day hike.
Planning tip: To avoid crowds on the trails, consider hiking in the spring or in late fall once the summer crowds have departed and the leaf-peepers have returned to the cities. Just bring appropriate outdoor wear for the changeable weather.
Every summer, famous outdoor outfitter LL Bean hosts Summer in the Park at its flagship store in Freeport. Shop for flannel shirts and duck boots before enjoying a free concert by big names such as Walker Hayes and Brandi Carlile. In addition to regular concerts, LL Bean also hosts free yoga classes, fitness classes, movie nights and more – shaking up its traditional image! All events are family-friendly so even the little members of your family can have heaps of fun.
With thousands of miles of cross-country skiing trails throughout the state, snow doesn’t have to stop your fun. Many walking trails across the state can be accessed in winter with snowshoes or cross-country skis, including many routes in Acadia National Park, which are free to use during the winter months. Acadia Winter Trails Association volunteers groom miles of the carriage trails for skiing.
There are 15 miles of free cross-country ski trails to play on in Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. If you’re new to cross-country skiing, you can explore the beautifully groomed trails at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester for less than $20.
Planning tip: Sledding fans (both adults and kids) will find loads of great sledding hills to enjoy. Bring your best sled to Payson Park in Portland, Essex Street Hill in Bangor or Mighty Hill in Gorham.
For a unique Maine experience, head north into Aroostook County for the Maine Potato Blossom Festival, held annually in Fort Fairfield in July. The festival takes place when the potato fields blossom, and features more than 85 events spread over nine days. There’s a town-wide yard sale, nightly entertainment, a huge parade, fireworks and legendary mashed potato wrestling bouts. Most events are free or low cost and the festival is great family fun.
Every April, the US National Park Services celebrates National Park Week, and you can visit any of the country’s national parks for free, including Acadia National Park. Located on Mount Desert Island about 3½ hours north of Portland, this was the first national park established east of the Mississippi River and it’s a true highlight of Maine.
Featuring 27 miles of scenic motorways, 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads mostly built by the Rockefeller family, Acadia National Park is an incredible place to explore. Watch the sunrise over the country from atop Cadillac Mountain, take a chilly sip in the Atlantic at Sand Beach, or hike to the summit of any of the granite peaks in the park.
Planning tip: While Acadia National Park encompasses a large section of Mount Desert Island, there’s more to this scenic piece of coastline than the national park. Head outside the park boundaries to find free hiking trails and peaceful places to swim.
Maine is a great place to explore on two wheels, with light traffic on the backroads, and plenty of backroads to explore. If you’re in the southern Maine region, hop on your bike and cycle the22-mile Eastern Trail from Big Light in South Portland to Kennebunk.
For more hardcore cyclists, the multi-day Down East Sunrise Trail from Ellsworth to Ayers Junction covers just over 100 miles on paved or gravel roads. Bond Brooks Trails in Augusta has 6 miles of free-to-use single-track mountain biking trails and Quarry Road Trails in nearby Waterville has more mountain bike trails that are free to all.
Sicily is a really cool place to make wine. For one, it’s an island crowned by an active volcano, so a good percentage of the wines made on the island have this power and grit from the volcanic soil. Secondly, while much of Europe’s grape vines fell to phylloxera in the last century, Sicily remained largely unscathed by the plague. So much of the island’s vines are old, and are capable of producing wildly complex wines.
Azienda Agricola COS is one of the benchmark producers. The project was founded by three friends — Giambattista Cilia, Giusto Occhipinti and Cirino Strano — who practice largely natural farming practices in the Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG.
I guess you would be right to call this an orange wine — the color is deep and amber — but to me, it’s more of a richly textured white. The grapes (insolia and grecanico) spend seven to ten days macerating on the skin, giving the wine a tannic, tangy texture to it.
Think savory notes of dried apricot and sage, with a bright, refreshing minerality. It’s the perfect wine to drink as the leaves start to turn orange. (And, this wine would be amazing with a Thanksgiving turkey, so keep that in your back pocket.)$43
Kate Dingwall is a WSET-trained sommelier and seasoned spirits writer. Her work has appeared in Wine Enthusiast, Eater, Forbes.com, and Food & Wine, and she pours wine at one of Canada’s top restaurants.
If any brand has the expertise and history to create a watch designed to quite literally take you to another part of the galaxy, it’s Omega. The Speedmaster was worn during America’s first space walk, and the model has also graced the wrist of 007 himself, but the new Omega Speedmaster Marstimer takes things to another level, literally.
To wit: The Omega Speedmaster X-33 Marstimer was designed and built to allow the wearer to tell the time on both Earth — and Mars, of course.
Omega
It’s an insanely cool, jaw-dropping innovation that’s plenty of fun, if not entirely practical for your average watch enthusiast.
The overbuilt 45mm diameter timepiece is as rugged yet refined, and as eye-catching, as any Omega Speedmaster model — with a few extra bells and whistles, to boot.
Omega
The contrasting black dial includes a digital display accessed via a left-side pusher, which will then engage the Mars time display — and for good measure, the legendary watchmaker included solar compass functionality on the impressive timepiece.
The handsome watch differs from other Omega watches thanks to the deep red aluminum bezel, fittingly colored in a nod to the Red Planet itself.
Omega
As if the watch wasn’t unique enough, you’re also given the option to switch out the durable bracelet for a distinctive striped NATO strap, as one secret agent might do himself.
Omega
The watch nods to the company’s legacy of space travel and timepiece innovation, said Omega President and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann.
“To be here on Earth and able to track its movements, gives the term timepiece a whole new meaning,” he said in a statement.
Suffice to say, it’s an out-of-this-galaxy watch meant to be admired and cherished, and it’s available for an investment-level $6,400 at Omega right now.
