tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53494281601420789312024-03-18T14:37:38.314-04:00Musings Over a Barrel<i><b>Since 2007</b></i><br><br>
Ramblings on cigars, whiskey, craft beer, shooting sports, and life.
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.comBlogger3415125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-60231209545237581952024-03-18T07:52:00.000-04:002024-03-18T07:52:55.613-04:00La Mission de L’Atelier 1959 and CoffeeCigars and coffee. While my preferred pairing with a smoke is whiskey, often the situation calls for a non-alcoholic beverage. Many carbonated drinks work well, especially cream sodas in my opinion. I just prefer to limit my soda intake to very rare occasions. <div><br /></div><div>My preferred coffee flavor is "black." However I do find that often a flavored-style of a caffeine beverage does seem to work better with cigars. Cappuccino is an excellent choice. I also frequently turn to flavorings such as vanilla, caramel, or mocha. Mocha was the random pairing selection to go with the La Mission L'atelier 1959.</div><div><br /></div><div>L'atelier Imports is a project of Pete Johnson of Tatuaje cigars. The Tatuaje influence is strong in this cigar. I've enjoyed other L'atelier cigars, and they are often referred to as "Tatuaje L'atelier." The La Mission line pays tribute to the Château La Mission Haut-Brion winery in Bordeaux, France. The 1959 represents one of the years the winery received a 100 point rating from wine critic Robert Parker.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhef_DzxVD4ir8vcM5epzlKcljkbhUq440378saLpIlGZQk5oHsjZp7y_qVsRBqPXRIiYJXzEh0pVuL491GoKs8RI2c3mnbRUltzLSFh-kb_n51bII7mGy3AT_zwhz501ShIkGl2glqZzmcb4VWvwVJq9W0LZJtWhlu9o0_p9ZPRB8YikUB9bBxjkNNekw/s4032/IMG_7942.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhef_DzxVD4ir8vcM5epzlKcljkbhUq440378saLpIlGZQk5oHsjZp7y_qVsRBqPXRIiYJXzEh0pVuL491GoKs8RI2c3mnbRUltzLSFh-kb_n51bII7mGy3AT_zwhz501ShIkGl2glqZzmcb4VWvwVJq9W0LZJtWhlu9o0_p9ZPRB8YikUB9bBxjkNNekw/w480-h640/IMG_7942.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>La Mission de L’Atelier 1959 is a 4 3/4 x 52 Robusto. The tobaccos used are a Mexican San Andrés wrapper with Nicaraguan binder and fillers. The cap has a prominent pigtail twist. Interestingly, all L'Atelier cigars include a leaf of Sancti Spiritus tobacco. That tobacco is a hybrid of Criollo and Pelo de Oro seed that is grown by the Garcia family of My Father Cigars.</div><div><br /></div><div>Smelling the cigar before lighting, I was struck by a musty barnyard and hay aroma. Once lit, the cigar kicks off with semi-sweet chocolate joined by prominent pepper. As the cigar progress, the profile gains an earth and leather aspect, but the chocolate and pepper remain. Towards the end, spicy pepper and cedar creep into the forefront. This is definitely a full-bodied cigar. </div><div><br /></div><div>The cigar was a little rough looking, with a slightly off center cap that included an extra tab of tobacco. The draw was open and the burn remained even. The cigar did go out once, a result of my own inattention. </div><div><br /></div><div>I enjoyed the La Mission de L’Atelier 1959 quite a bit. I did regret that I was not enjoying it with a spicy rye whiskey. Next time for sure.</div><div><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-38331528835173294062024-03-17T07:00:00.003-04:002024-03-17T08:53:00.186-04:00Celebrating the Feast of Saint Patrick<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhaoibh!</span></b><br />
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It's that time of the year when a Saint revered by many, especially in the Irish-Catholic community, is adopted by people of all descent. As a Catholic of Irish decent, I can find little fault with people bettering themselves. :-)<div><br /></div><div>In 2024, the feast day falls on a Sunday. Therefore, throughout much of the Church the Saint's day loses out to the liturgy for the 5th Sunday in Lent. Since St. Patrick is our parish's patron saint, it's traditionally a "day off" from Lenten obligations, but this year Sunday already grants that option. <br />
<br />As we typically do, we'll avoid the local pubs on the 17th. I don't drink green beer, and remain confident that neither did St. Patrick. But do as you wish. For my celebration I will stick with a dark Stout or an Irish Red Ale. And surely a wee pour or three of Irish Whiskey will be enjoyed. In our house there is always homemade Irish Soda Bread and Irish Stew served as well. <div><br /></div><div>While in the midst of your celebrations, try to give thought to the man behind the Feast Day. Whether you accept the traditions associated with St. Patrick's life or not, there can be no denying the good he did. (As much as some of these stories cannot be proven, they cannot be disproven either.) Kidnapped as a young boy and sold into slavery in Ireland, he grew to love the Irish people. Late in his life, he was around 60 at the time, <a href="http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/11554a.htm">Saint Patrick</a> returned to the Ireland to teach and convert the people he had adopted as his own. Certainly that is worthy of our respect.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEvZNzryG46uX-l9nHzh4L1qYeYMD-1P3kiRi5GpfaxtINPNGIU_M7s5-N0WtMy02DujpzdnPHspmbPGUhFUHd5SCUkcoFGkf4PpxL0b56v7swlXXwNr9Xw4zo-HkK7n3XWm8avxRjFU/s1600/St._Patrick.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEvZNzryG46uX-l9nHzh4L1qYeYMD-1P3kiRi5GpfaxtINPNGIU_M7s5-N0WtMy02DujpzdnPHspmbPGUhFUHd5SCUkcoFGkf4PpxL0b56v7swlXXwNr9Xw4zo-HkK7n3XWm8avxRjFU/w249-h320/St._Patrick.jpg" width="249" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div>Our family has long had a devotion to St. Patrick. That admiration was made all the more tangible when we were blessed to make two pilgrimages to the Emerald Isle, in 2012 and again in 2019. During those visits I was reminded just how much the Irish love Patrick. He's more than just a marketing ploy there.</div><div><br /></div><div>
Odd as it may seem, we actually have to remind people, and pubs, that St. Patrick was a man, <b>not</b> a woman. <a href="http://paddynotpatty.com/" target="_blank">His name is Patrick</a>, which comes from the Irish, Pádraig. Shorten his name to Paddy if you must. However, we do not celebrate "St. Patty's Day." Patty is a shortened version of Patricia, a girl's name. Feast-related debauchery is one thing, but transgendering our Saint is unacceptable. As much as it pains me, I refuse each year to take advantage of any "holiday discount" from businesses who attempt to lure me with discount codes of "STPATTY" and the like. It's a feeling of satisfaction when I see a local establishment has corrected their marketing after being reminded of this error.</div><div><br />
Let's all celebrate the memory of St. Patrick. Enjoy a drink or two and some good food, hopefully with friends. There's nothing wrong with bringing a little revelry into the world, we certainly need it. I like a good party as much as the next guy. And I certainly appreciate a good Irish drinking joke. Drink your green beer if you must. Dress up in silly clothes. (But, remember St. Patrick was a man, not a leprechaun.) Then remember the reason for this feast. Take a moment to honor the man and all the good he did. In our house we'll raise a drink of <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uisce_beatha" target="_blank"><b>uisce beatha</b></a>,</i> "the water of life," and a prayer, to St. Patrick in honor of his deeds and his country.<br />
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<i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;">All the children of Ireland cry out to thee:</span></b></i></div>
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<i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;">Come, O Holy Patrick, and save us!</span></b></i></div></div></div><i><div><i><br /></i></div>Sláinte!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-51198672280597274862024-03-14T08:08:00.001-04:002024-03-14T08:08:20.400-04:00A Tease of Spring
There's a meme on social media that says, "It's like Winter leaves the room and then comes back to say, 'And one more thing. . ." Well, Winter left the room for a few days this week and we got a glimpse of the Spring to come. (Yes, Winter is coming back in a few days.)<div><br /></div><div>I took advantage of the 70° temperatures to enjoy some deck therapy with a pour of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, paired with the El Güegüense Toro Huaco from Foundation Cigars.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipu9DUqC1Ke4z4X_yb8hc6SJBpqGzqd0K1zmLAI4AEpXDzS_2yknjB1b65mD93-oWFjZXkUru7NJLz42jGTXflH48x7EjEpOCgxJN71lKhaQXlAN0AwKBOXt1VeNnj7xkAat8Yi0kI2r8yKubSDmajdFmDmU9qdGWtnEl6uFErvFDjO6p8L02jK6jXJWs/s4032/IMG_7936.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipu9DUqC1Ke4z4X_yb8hc6SJBpqGzqd0K1zmLAI4AEpXDzS_2yknjB1b65mD93-oWFjZXkUru7NJLz42jGTXflH48x7EjEpOCgxJN71lKhaQXlAN0AwKBOXt1VeNnj7xkAat8Yi0kI2r8yKubSDmajdFmDmU9qdGWtnEl6uFErvFDjO6p8L02jK6jXJWs/w480-h640/IMG_7936.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The El Güegüense has been resting in my humidor for about a year. This Toro Huaco vitola is a hefty 6 x 56 stick. It felt especially large since I've been enjoying a lot of Robusto and Lancero cigars of late. 56 ring gauge is about the largest size cigar I enjoy. I've smoked many 6 x 60, or even 8 1/2 x 60 sticks. But for smoking time, balance in the hand, and comfort smoking, 56 is a good ring gauge. </div><div><br /></div><div>This Nicaraguan puro has a Corojo 99 wrapper and binder, and the binder is a blend of Corojo 99 and Criollo 98 tobaccos. The chocolate brown wrapper is somewhat bumpy with the rough inner leaves seemingly trying to escape. Despite a rough appearance, the oily wrapper held everything together and the cigar performed without issue. A blend of cocoa, espresso, sweet chocolate, nuts, accented by a mild pepper spice combined for a complex and flavorful smoke. </div><div><br /></div><div>The medium bodied cigar paired quite nicely with the Buffalo Trace Bourbon. I've been nursing my few bottles of Buffalo Trace as it's "allocated" in Virginia. This not truly rare bourbon can only be purchased when the VA ABC announces a random "drop event." And then you don't know where the bottles will show up until you arrive at the store. Adding to the State-generated hype, if one decides to purchase a bottle of Buffalo Trace, no other allocated bottles can be purchased that trip. It's an idiotic system devised by, well, you know. Fortunately, it often available in neighboring states, and online, at or near MSRP. </div><div><br /></div><div>Buffalo Trace in the quintessential bourbon. It checks in at 90 proof, and has all the classic notes of caramel, vanilla, and toffee. It's has a sweet but balanced profile that offers an easy-to-sip drink. Buffalo Trace is often dismissed by the bourbon "snobs" but is generally well-received by folks who simply like a good bourbon. The $30 price tag is a bonus as well. (I refuse to pay secondary market prices for any whiskey.)</div><div><br /></div><div>Now that we are in Daylight Saving Time, I was able to enjoy the after dinner smoke and drink before the sun had even set. That felt good to say the least.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-25111259039882594722024-03-11T08:21:00.003-04:002024-03-12T11:11:53.763-04:00Knuckle Sandwich Maduro With OGD 114
I've been looking forward to trying this one for a while. Back in December I picked up the Espinosa Knuckle Sandwich Habano and Espinosa Knuckle Sandwich Maduro, both in the Robusto vitola. The Knuckle Sandwhich line is the result a collaboration between chef Guy Fieri and Erik Espinosa. I'm an admitted fan of the boisterous celebrity chef, and hoped the cigars would be representative his personality. Not just another celebrity putting his brand on a product, Fieri is a longtime cigar enthusiast. <div><br /></div><div>For this outing I selected the Knuckle Sandwich Maduro version. The chocolate hued Ecuadorian Sumatra Maduro wrapper holds Nicaraguan binder and filler. The 5 x 52 cigar is box-pressed.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2zADlGjX0_j63Dfd76Bx9iNIbK-DIwzcr7kKKzCHLNuxUPtkqZljwXWf1PZPKakATrrBysNdO39rHIdueZuus0NmufpqUfpWditAgqEOqe1MxN6HpjMM_O1zOmHXKiIO9jxRxaCPPkdw6Dok9SM00x0v-_B_ZjlNBBeuw8V5-UjXmyD8SD3w2Q9IDyM/s4032/IMG_7822.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2zADlGjX0_j63Dfd76Bx9iNIbK-DIwzcr7kKKzCHLNuxUPtkqZljwXWf1PZPKakATrrBysNdO39rHIdueZuus0NmufpqUfpWditAgqEOqe1MxN6HpjMM_O1zOmHXKiIO9jxRxaCPPkdw6Dok9SM00x0v-_B_ZjlNBBeuw8V5-UjXmyD8SD3w2Q9IDyM/w480-h640/IMG_7822.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The cigar blasts out of the gate with a flavorful blend of dark coffee, cocoa, and a bit of white pepper. A dark fruit aspect comes in the finish. The draw was on the looser side, with lots of smoke production. The first third of the cigar seemed to burn really fast. I was seriously enjoying the flavors, and started lamenting the predicted short smoking time. To my delight the burn seemed to slow, especially past the midpoint, and I ended up enjoying a surprising 90 minute smoke from the small cigar.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The ash on the cigar did seem to drop easily in short blocks. On several occasions I ended up with the ash section in my lab. There was also as fair amount of loose ash flakes dropping on a consistent basis. As I became aware of the mess I was much more attentive to keeping the stick over the ashtray on the side table. Other than than, I had no burn issues. Even down to the tiny nub, the smoke remained cool, even when I could no longer hold the cigar between my fingers.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBCZPPqfhEcf_HZuVxaGmeaPf_CqnIe4VgPj2kIton-eabsnUAwapX3SAqPVvniMrX8CKIZS16kNhRPtCEkryrE74dwX2s-SRPmrPHnHqMfnC04UCZ6nDU23XPFRJGW3KibjsStjwEDLZ1bQRRuI0XFqTMjnn1TJ01WKKP-YKUby5lP2IBCJhZ7qWKus/s4032/IMG_7823.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBCZPPqfhEcf_HZuVxaGmeaPf_CqnIe4VgPj2kIton-eabsnUAwapX3SAqPVvniMrX8CKIZS16kNhRPtCEkryrE74dwX2s-SRPmrPHnHqMfnC04UCZ6nDU23XPFRJGW3KibjsStjwEDLZ1bQRRuI0XFqTMjnn1TJ01WKKP-YKUby5lP2IBCJhZ7qWKus/w480-h640/IMG_7823.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>I paired the Knuckle Sandwich with Old Grand-Dad 114. This bourbon seemed to be hard to find in Virginia for a while. When we visited Florida last fall I picked up a bottle. Of course, soon after that I started seeing it again on shelves locally.</div><div><br /></div><div>Upon pouring, the 114 proof point, along with the high rye mash bill, is immediately evident in the aroma wafting from the glass. The spicy heat is apparent, in the nose, backed by a brown sugar sweetness. The flavor profile follows the pattern with brown sugar and caramel sweetness. A rye and cinnamon spice coats the palate, as well as the warming proof. The finish is long, with the flavorful heat lingering.</div><div><br /></div><div>Despite the many mentions of spice and heat in the paragraph above, Old Grand-Dad 114 is extremely drinkable. There's no harshness, just a full palate sensation. At an approximately $30 price point, it's a value that should not be passed by,</div><div><br /></div><div>The Knuckle Sandwich Maduro and Old Grand-Dad pairing made for a delightful combination. Two full bodied flavor sensations together were even better than the parts. Both the bourbon and the cigars are ones I'd gladly keep on hand. I am looking forward to trying out the Knuckle Sandwich Habano counterpart very soon.</div><div><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-12811476466878009202024-03-07T07:46:00.000-05:002024-03-07T07:46:40.037-05:00Grenadine Old Fashioned Paired With BLTC La Madonna NegraMore warm weather, means more cocktails and cigars on the deck. As I was perusing the virtual stack of drink recipes I've gathered over time, I came across one for a Grenadine Old Fashioned that sounded interesting.<div><br /></div><div>The recipe calls for 2 ounce of wheated bourbon, 1/4 ounce of grenadine, and bitters. I selected a Wyoming Whiskey Bourbon for the drinks. Stirred over ice and served on a single rock, I garnished with a Luxardo cherry. The 88 proof bourbon was somewhat muted by the sharpness of the grenadine, but still it was a flavorful drink. The Grenadine Old Fashioned isn't as sweet as my normal recipe, but I found it to be a very refreshing drink. Worthy of a second round at least. A platter of sharp Irish cheeses also added to the enjoyment. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjor9JzU4TpBg8Uzc4-7i5DIr0CgMCB1G-YgDJjZoJkLrtX8QMafCcTIaPQ5gxcl-WuQMwQbcdeh2Yf30Ms9vpbo3YOlWMIFyXxUCkzkXGkZVJLqcmh_-O1ObaCw4AipLCWQgaMeMy1gwsPyVUUKHl5rckICyxrnbaU36eoIL69vBaXVEELzUlV3soTzh8/s4032/IMG_7839.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjor9JzU4TpBg8Uzc4-7i5DIr0CgMCB1G-YgDJjZoJkLrtX8QMafCcTIaPQ5gxcl-WuQMwQbcdeh2Yf30Ms9vpbo3YOlWMIFyXxUCkzkXGkZVJLqcmh_-O1ObaCw4AipLCWQgaMeMy1gwsPyVUUKHl5rckICyxrnbaU36eoIL69vBaXVEELzUlV3soTzh8/w480-h640/IMG_7839.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>Sometimes I sip a drinking immediately know what cigars I want to smoke. This time I quickly settled on the Black Label Trading Company La Madonna Negra, in the 5 1/4 x 50 Robusto vitola. A dark chocolate colored Connecticut broadleaf wrapper covers an Ecuadorian habano binder and fillers from Nicaragua and Pennsylvania. I recall the smoke having a robust, flavorfully sharp profile that I felt would go well with the sweetly bitter drink.</div><div><br /></div><div>The cigar has been resting in my humidor for about eight months. Some of the initially smoked sticks had tight draws that required some work to maintain a full smoke output. Not so with this one. The cigar smoked wonderfully and made a delightful pairing for the cocktail.</div><div><br /></div><div>As noted, the slightly aged cigar burned well and produced a medium to full flavored smoke. The flavor presents a blend of dark chocolate, espresso, and dark cherries. There is some pepper and cedar sitting in the background to add even more interest. </div><div><br /></div><div>I quite enjoyed the combination of the drink and cigar flavors. I'm looking forward to trying the cocktail with some different cigars, and of course, the remaining La Madonna Negra cigars I still have on hand.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-42658678035091259732024-03-04T08:00:00.000-05:002024-03-04T08:00:45.797-05:00Cool Evening With Hamlet Tabaquero and Knob Creek RyeMarch 1 marked the first day of "meteorological spring." The actual start of spring is still three weeks off, but the days are getting longer and warmer. The bulbs are sprouting in the garden, and the birds in the trees are active. And it's pleasant enough for a smoke on the deck. <div><br /></div><div>For this evening repast I grabbed one on my favorites, the Rocky Patel Hamlet Tabaquero, accompanied by a bottle of Knob Creek Single Barrel Rye.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-6TVjGONRP6Pqn2cFciHvcrwJkQNSGfu05Z7qdplOCZBfU5k7kz9TwFsanz2jlrbRmZt47F5CtW5OU9tppezgeoPZbGODYMTi0uyLdlAXVz-oCjPMo8jrfK37ooLf_jnvt4LHssctsTwu0KRPqOuM06K7TOCp0vFjkVrdfEPGm4nebp0TtnRDIXSuwU/s4032/IMG_7804.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-6TVjGONRP6Pqn2cFciHvcrwJkQNSGfu05Z7qdplOCZBfU5k7kz9TwFsanz2jlrbRmZt47F5CtW5OU9tppezgeoPZbGODYMTi0uyLdlAXVz-oCjPMo8jrfK37ooLf_jnvt4LHssctsTwu0KRPqOuM06K7TOCp0vFjkVrdfEPGm4nebp0TtnRDIXSuwU/w480-h640/IMG_7804.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Hamlet Tabaquero is from my slowly shrinking stock I purchased in September 2020 upon hearing the line was being discontinued. The 6 x 52 Toro has a San Andrés wrapper, a Nicaraguan filler, along with San Andrés and Brazilian Mata Fina double binders. The previous ones from this box have had some minor burn issues, but after 16 months of resting, the performance has improved. The balanced flavors of creamy sweetness, milk chocolate, cedar, and oak still present themselves well. With half the box gone, it's getting more difficult to light up one, but I know the flavor will change over time, and they are great right now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCsNzJX_KjGhmUFAZpiI10alMrMvifjI_lmVMoTGOtwYij-fop1oway4mbEiov1B19EoSTQPV3qHbijFWML-IFSiuJEUUAoNm443UXbcuw7ZMLjRfdbm4b_e221d-TtrPdcOqEqofMFLy4jtTx9opBaecW4bncYJqwt9pzkncXfLX1dTlKrjcGZV-Z6A/s4032/IMG_7807.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCsNzJX_KjGhmUFAZpiI10alMrMvifjI_lmVMoTGOtwYij-fop1oway4mbEiov1B19EoSTQPV3qHbijFWML-IFSiuJEUUAoNm443UXbcuw7ZMLjRfdbm4b_e221d-TtrPdcOqEqofMFLy4jtTx9opBaecW4bncYJqwt9pzkncXfLX1dTlKrjcGZV-Z6A/w480-h640/IMG_7807.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Knob Creek Single Barrel Select Rye is a VA ABS pick, with a barrel date of June 13, 2016 and a selected date of January 31, 2023. I purchased the bottle in July 2023. The 6 year old rye is bottled at a respectable 115 proof. The nose is deceptively mild with cocoa, vanilla, and citrus. The proof and robust flavor profile truly shines in the sipping. I get a moderate amount of rye spice. Butterscotch, cocoa, along with some cinnamon and nuttiness join in as I roll the rye across my tongue. A spicy heat lingers for a long while in the finish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Tabaquero and the high proof Knob Creek Rye made for a flavorsome combination. I was pleased how neither the smoke nor the rye dominated, but instead complimented each other quite well.</div><div><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-42123665256461898432024-02-29T06:22:00.000-05:002024-02-29T06:22:31.617-05:00Southern Draw Kudzu Axil Lancero
All the social media things reminded me that Tuesday, February 27 was "<a href="https://cigarpublic.com/2023/02/27/national-cigar-day-2023/" target="_blank">National Cigar Day</a>." On February 27th, 1883 Oscar Hammerstein I recieved a patent for an automated cigar rolling machine. While our preference is for hand-rolled cigars, Hammerstien changed the cigar industry with some 80 cigar related patents. As an aside Oscar Hammerstein I was the grandfather of Oscar Greeley Clendenning Hammerstein II, of the famous Rogers & Hammerstein duo. <div><br /></div><div>Not that I needed an excuse, I decided to mark the occasion with a cigar after dinner. Circumstances had precluded enjoying a smoke for the last couple of weeks, so it was a double celebration. I selected a Southern Draw Kudzu Axil Lancero to enjoy on the warm evening.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWxcBfhzkDy79yWGo-vHoPyinX90hfuG6_KLYZngEdKUgqLqqIFnW1kicAs8RMK1QPdLcuYUbTR7g6HO_N49ftlwjvzanzNCdinDDfXnrQ5yhTREKcndrS1HdadpwcxmZEB9YDh-uNL2bRhRb8C4Kus35OK-jkLWdP9sOym_XK70CdXpBQuiQI9jiOw0/s4032/IMG_7781.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWxcBfhzkDy79yWGo-vHoPyinX90hfuG6_KLYZngEdKUgqLqqIFnW1kicAs8RMK1QPdLcuYUbTR7g6HO_N49ftlwjvzanzNCdinDDfXnrQ5yhTREKcndrS1HdadpwcxmZEB9YDh-uNL2bRhRb8C4Kus35OK-jkLWdP9sOym_XK70CdXpBQuiQI9jiOw0/w480-h640/IMG_7781.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The Southern Draw Kudzu Axil Lancero is a 6 1/2 x 40 Lancero with a small pigtail cap and closed foot. The dark brown wrapper is Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro. A Nicaraguan Ometepe binder and Nicaraguan fillers complete the picture. This cigar has been resting in my humidor for five months. </div><div><br /></div><div>Upon lighting, a rush of cinnamon and black pepper flashes across my palate. That was not unexpected as I've smoked other Southern Draw Kudzu vitolas in the past, though it was a bit of a shock. As when taking the first sip of a strong whiskey, my taste buds soon acclimated and I settled in for the robust and flavorful smoke. </div><div><br /></div><div>As the stick progressed, the spiciness was joined by leather and wood. As the burn moved into the second half of the cigar, a dry oak began to predominate. The spices were also balanced by the addition of a hint of creaminess. The cigar's strength was medium to strong and I concentrated on moderating my smoking speed.</div><div><br /></div><div>The burn was slow and even, with copious smoke production. After about 75 minutes, I needed to move on to another activity. Disappointingly, I estimated there was probably another 30-40 minutes left on the cigar. I was not expecting to get that long of a smoke. Relunctantly I set the cigar down, telling myself next time I would allow for more smoking time. I do have more of these delicious cigars in my humidor so that's a consolation.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-65790985432326861792024-02-27T07:30:00.005-05:002024-02-27T08:05:53.434-05:00The Feast of Saint Gabriel PossentiToday, February 27, is the Feast Day of St. Gabriel Possenti.<br />
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Legend holds that Gabriel Possenti was a Catholic seminarian in Isola del Gran Sasso, Italy. In 1860 he is said to have used his skills with the pistol to drive off a band of marauding soldiers who were terrorizing the town. Possenti faced the troublemakers after grabbing revolvers from two soldiers. As they laughed at the young student, he took aim and accurately shot a lizard that was running across the road. Impressed, the soldiers left the town, escorted by the seminarian, who had become the hero of the town.<br />
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Like many Saints, there's an unclear line between the facts of the Saint's life and the tradition associated with him. However, this story about Gabriel Possenti has led to him being promoted as the Patron Saint of Handgunners. The St. Gabriel Possenti Society was created for the purpose of promoting the Saint's cause. The society promoted the study of the historical, philosophical and theological bases for the doctrine of self-defense. Sadly, <a href="https://www.musingsoverabarrel.com/2017/10/gabriel-possenti-society-founder-dies.html">the founder of the group died in 2017</a> and it appears the organization is no longer active.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M4vnDxMS0ai9cNsaODETpJL-Vdgvs7OOydAUBCIVO68-XxNcjc6a24xDLZ2YYzdYbAjy2hf7nFGHAiLW5_yxuU9Ujp-_4G6Gy0QhLginZPzpuWqBlcrikhsvVCj5ANxdjTcvaFKWtQY/s1600/IMG_1038.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M4vnDxMS0ai9cNsaODETpJL-Vdgvs7OOydAUBCIVO68-XxNcjc6a24xDLZ2YYzdYbAjy2hf7nFGHAiLW5_yxuU9Ujp-_4G6Gy0QhLginZPzpuWqBlcrikhsvVCj5ANxdjTcvaFKWtQY/w299-h400/IMG_1038.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
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A few years ago, our parish was presented with a relic of St. Gabriel Possenti, under the title St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows. It was an exciting moment when I saw the blurb announcing the displayed relic in our weekly bulletin. Since then, I've enjoyed sharing the story of Gabriel Possenti with many parishioners. I dare say most of our Catholic friends who also enjoy the shooting sports are now familiar with the Saint and his story.<br />
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In another interesting "coincidence," my Virginia Concealed Handgun permit was originally issued on February 27, the Feast Day of the Patron Saint of Handgunners!<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp1EgUnJPdWVUiZUXaVRTZJ8d65G1eq9SirB5BrwRXZocsi7khiY029NznIsJccC7xh-a8TrrEubEorqNDml_nEblIk1Opar0-75qf3_ATF4b4dpTNphZQbI7X5uiupzw4XPg6QajQR0/s1600/possentiwebimage.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp1EgUnJPdWVUiZUXaVRTZJ8d65G1eq9SirB5BrwRXZocsi7khiY029NznIsJccC7xh-a8TrrEubEorqNDml_nEblIk1Opar0-75qf3_ATF4b4dpTNphZQbI7X5uiupzw4XPg6QajQR0/w253-h400/possentiwebimage.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">St. Gabriel Possenti ora pro nobis!</td></tr>
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Today would be a great day to hit the range. If that's not possible, perhaps I'll buy some extra ammo instead, if I can find any for sale at a reasonable price.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Cheers!</i></div>
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[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-7285227925991098272024-02-16T17:00:00.003-05:002024-02-16T17:00:00.127-05:00Five O'Clock Friday: A Lenten Sacrifice
<div>An Irishman moves into a tiny hamlet in County Kerry, walks into the pub and promptly orders three beers.</div><div><br /></div><div>The bartender raises his eyebrows, but serves the man three beers, which he drinks quietly at a table, alone.</div><div><br /></div><div>An hour later, the man has finished the three beers and orders three more.</div><div><br /></div><div>This happens yet again.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next evening the man again orders and drinks three beers at a time, several times. Soon the entire town is whispering about the Man Who Orders Three Beers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, a week later, the bartender broaches the subject on behalf of the town. "I don't mean to pry, but folks around here are wondering why you always order three beers?"</div><div><br /></div><div>'Tis odd, isn't it?" the man replies, "You see, I have two brothers, and one went to America, and the other to Australia. We promised each other that we would always order an extra two beers whenever we drank as a way of keeping up the family bond."</div><div><br /></div><div>The bartender and the whole town was pleased with this answer, and soon the Man Who Orders Three Beers became a local celebrity and source of pride to the hamlet, even to the extent that out-of-towners would come to watch him drink.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then, one day, the man comes in and orders only two beers. The bartender pours them with a heavy heart. This continues for the rest of the evening - he orders only two beers. The word flies around town. Prayers are offered for the soul of one of the brothers.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next day, the bartender says to the man, "Folks around here, me first of all, want to offer condolences to you for the death of your brother. You know-the two beers and all..."</div><div><br /></div><div>The man ponders this for a moment, then replies, "You'll be happy to hear that my two brothers are alive and well... It's just that I, myself, have decided to give up drinking for Lent."</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCtO_YkiOjx38-QNJaIMdNz7KfDCVhoIJf6wlT63VBUxtjrXTEcwmrFvMdDoGg2LcE8ulatAyc71kbJ4TONNBochF7PQ4gHAAXNNsO4gn7OuHXWwZMtKoQuxxM3LAklTGywIjv1ituRy3YcExLLfuJ6E5Kx8_iroHd8cv26V51P_ViDTToGFxoqX4skI/s4032/IMG_7603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCtO_YkiOjx38-QNJaIMdNz7KfDCVhoIJf6wlT63VBUxtjrXTEcwmrFvMdDoGg2LcE8ulatAyc71kbJ4TONNBochF7PQ4gHAAXNNsO4gn7OuHXWwZMtKoQuxxM3LAklTGywIjv1ituRy3YcExLLfuJ6E5Kx8_iroHd8cv26V51P_ViDTToGFxoqX4skI/w300-h400/IMG_7603.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><i>Cheers!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-67942581114249748742024-02-15T17:00:00.001-05:002024-02-15T17:00:00.259-05:00Amendola Family Cigars West Side Story The BladeIt's a constant theme around here of late -- will there remain a bit of sunshine to enjoy at the end of the work day? On a recent cool evening while the sun set, a new cigar, the Amendola West Side Story, provided a pleasant opportunity to enjoy the sunset with a smoke.<div><br /></div><div>Amendola West Side Story is a new line, announced in 2023, consisting of two varieties. This vitola, named The Blade, is a 6 x 53 torpedo that uses a Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper over an Indonesian binder. The filler tobaccos hail from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. This cigar was included in the January Luxury Cigar Club mailing, so has been resting just over four weeks. <br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdO15vS6Hk1wuujhfNgm2LLmwGxD53LGbCnv3yXKoempyrep24Xbxy_bgIJp-Tz5x-TIThyx90AYf9WGKir7etjldOvhabjd5BvyK-6Hyq5pdDrMkaqbuX1czsmLd3jW8CCiDJH-v8SI0Us9Mz2QB89zKuOTDOZVpl8jp0MmZrGItwiXzpTzqjyfnjvI/s4032/IMG_7743.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdO15vS6Hk1wuujhfNgm2LLmwGxD53LGbCnv3yXKoempyrep24Xbxy_bgIJp-Tz5x-TIThyx90AYf9WGKir7etjldOvhabjd5BvyK-6Hyq5pdDrMkaqbuX1czsmLd3jW8CCiDJH-v8SI0Us9Mz2QB89zKuOTDOZVpl8jp0MmZrGItwiXzpTzqjyfnjvI/w480-h640/IMG_7743.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>It's a well-rolled cigar with sharp cap. Upon lighting the Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper influence stands out. I've only smoked a few cigars using that wrapper, but it's distinctive. The flavor is a spicy, rich toast, cocoa, and coffee combination with an underlying sweetness. The cigar is full flavored and left hint of pepper in the back of my palate. </div><div><br /></div><div>The draw was on the looser side and I did a couple minor touch ups, but otherwise the performance was fine. Perhaps a bit more time in the humidor would have made it even smoother. The mocha coffee was a balanced and flavorful match up.</div><div><br /></div><div>As is often the case with the Luxury Cigar Club shipments, the Amendola cigar was previously unknown to me. And it did not disappoint. That's one of the main benefits to me of the monthly three cigar shipment.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-60989132504372738562024-02-12T08:21:00.000-05:002024-02-12T08:21:20.362-05:00Rocky Patel Disciple and Old Forester 1910The days are getting longer. Ever so slowly, but it's beginning to be noticeable. It's nice to start the evening smoke with a bit of sunlight still available. I kicked off the weekend with a Rocky Patel Disciple paired with some Old Forester 1910 Old Fine Whisky. (Old Forester uses the Old World spelling without the 'e'.)<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6j0ABeFvgzDjc_e3Zd46jGBp95e0ikP1v4bUnkUlQzmV3HOkEJ3_aFBYtAWGhvGOON_KQ9ML8Q81FWbyHSaFLKZGlZlL9Z9sQ33GAbnTz1sZPx7EQloa2Agj5sDoPkJRCoQFCBouTd2k73R5QlrU3Htx5cyAjKWEYq3KZwrtpSiP80UNp7knizRgb6I/s4032/IMG_7727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6j0ABeFvgzDjc_e3Zd46jGBp95e0ikP1v4bUnkUlQzmV3HOkEJ3_aFBYtAWGhvGOON_KQ9ML8Q81FWbyHSaFLKZGlZlL9Z9sQ33GAbnTz1sZPx7EQloa2Agj5sDoPkJRCoQFCBouTd2k73R5QlrU3Htx5cyAjKWEYq3KZwrtpSiP80UNp7knizRgb6I/w480-h640/IMG_7727.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>Old Forester is "double oaked" bourbon. The whiskey undergoes a second barreling in a heavily charred barrel. The technique is said to have originated after a warehouse fire in 1910 when bourbon was moved into charred barrels from the fire. The 93 proof bourbon has rich, caramel and vanilla aroma. There's a hint of smoke but it's surprisingly faint. The aroma is easily noticeable from the side table even as I light my cigar.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sipping the bourbon it's apparent why the fairly new bottle is nearly empty. This was indeed a bottle kill evening. My palate is treated to more rich flavors of caramel and vanilla. A touch of tobacco and cocoa make it into the mix. The finish is mildly spicy and sweet. Oh, I do wish there was more to be poured.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTk9iSO94A9hXGS1Nd_XMRHTZlEY8nlrr9h_O6UaIYQHNu_gljke9f3mbsjCmw9oV17R6cV_-hIdcXzQRkzdJL5qsAVWnPN-63X2-xhFzUC3N0Tl_w4N_nTsLjsinF3z4Gnl8VUGv_Oxlt-DTBYPYC1lZ-HJ4c-YGxBNpVzlriiRNZ0QRqgyxIsGZZC0/s4032/IMG_7728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTk9iSO94A9hXGS1Nd_XMRHTZlEY8nlrr9h_O6UaIYQHNu_gljke9f3mbsjCmw9oV17R6cV_-hIdcXzQRkzdJL5qsAVWnPN-63X2-xhFzUC3N0Tl_w4N_nTsLjsinF3z4Gnl8VUGv_Oxlt-DTBYPYC1lZ-HJ4c-YGxBNpVzlriiRNZ0QRqgyxIsGZZC0/w480-h640/IMG_7728.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The Rocky Patel Disciple is a cigar I've enjoyed on many occasions since its 2021 release, in both Robusto and Toro vitolas. This 6 x 50 Toro has been resting for about four months in the humidor. In what seems like a break from the usual Rocky Patel release, the cigar is not box-pressed, a switch I appreciate.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>The cigar initially sports a large superfluous band that covers much of the length, in addition to the usual cigar band nearer to the cap. Fortunately the large covering slides right off, and makes a handy prop for the cigar.</div><div><br /></div><div>The cigar is wrapped in a dark San Andrés wrapper leaf. The wrapper encases binder and fillers tobaccos from Nicaragua. The Disciple is a medium to full bodied, richly flavored smoke. Notes of espresso and cocoa come first. Black pepper and raisons follow. The burn line was sharp and smoke production was plentiful for the entire 90 minute smoke. Unfortunately the second band suffered from excessive glue and was removed in pieces. A small bit of wrapper leaf tore away but it did not affect performance. Oddly, I've experienced this issue with each of the Disciples I've smoked.</div><div><br /></div><div>By the time the cigar, and the bourbon, was finished the temperature had only dropped to 58°. The evening was extremely pleasant, especially with the added pleasure of not having to run the propane heater. </div><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-34875406371167187752024-02-11T08:15:00.002-05:002024-02-11T08:51:26.540-05:00Sunday Morning Thoughts: Just Live<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sometimes we need a simple reminder.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbtYdjjzDkwWyxIxaGxSJhXQbtykNk-IW-xPwoA8J5BaT0WzButwfda6RshtLahdGuJfzsWfkiQTGkLp60hGwLwQpvWqE-VTrk_dzx5VyMqmA_ERK-ZMxOpSZCn7fRR_94NKlrfPNhiYyN2amAgnBu3KOXdziGmtVKCMkfjxBLMU79ezky43mzA_friA/s1102/IMG_7688.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbtYdjjzDkwWyxIxaGxSJhXQbtykNk-IW-xPwoA8J5BaT0WzButwfda6RshtLahdGuJfzsWfkiQTGkLp60hGwLwQpvWqE-VTrk_dzx5VyMqmA_ERK-ZMxOpSZCn7fRR_94NKlrfPNhiYyN2amAgnBu3KOXdziGmtVKCMkfjxBLMU79ezky43mzA_friA/w426-h640/IMG_7688.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Collected online, from where or when I remember not.</i></div><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-90560185063181453162024-02-10T08:00:00.001-05:002024-02-10T08:00:00.152-05:00Saint José Sánchez del RíoToday, February 10, is the anniversary of the martyrdom of Saint José Sánchez del Río. On this date in 1928, this 14 year old boy was killed by Mexican troops for refusing to renounce his Catholic faith during the Cristero War. The story of this period of Catholic persecution led by Mexican President Calles was told in the movie "<b><a href="http://www.musingsoverapint.com/2012/06/viva-cristo-rey.html" target="_blank">For Greater Glory</a>.</b>" The young martyr was <a href="http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/14_yearold_mexican_martyr_to_be_beatified_sunday/" target="_blank">beatified by Pope Benedict XVI on November 20, 2005</a>, and later <a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/pope-francis-canonizes-argentina-s-gaucho-priest-brochero-6-others-n667176" target="_blank">canonized by Pope Francis on October 16, 2016</a>.<br />
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The Saint's story is one with which few American Catholics are familiar. That is a tragedy in its own right. Though they might not know the Saint's story, many Americans are no doubt familiar with his face. The picture, shown below, of the young boy with Cristeros fighters is one we often see hanging in Mexican restaurants throughout the United States, among other old photos. Probably not too many diners know that a Saint and fighter for religious freedom is looking down at them while they eat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQLNtlNStKh7f-1K-OR28KNl0iAwr4W5kKrci3vd2WKseqcMitZkVshmDMYqx7J91OR_iJckJ5RMGbrQfYMfLD6vhq8AAMNW0c224gFfaxTJy4Fwb0tLO_yNX_ADb10NghOREg7Ink04/s1600/relic-of-blessed-jose-sanchez-del-rio-available-for-veneration-year-round-at-church-in-texas.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQLNtlNStKh7f-1K-OR28KNl0iAwr4W5kKrci3vd2WKseqcMitZkVshmDMYqx7J91OR_iJckJ5RMGbrQfYMfLD6vhq8AAMNW0c224gFfaxTJy4Fwb0tLO_yNX_ADb10NghOREg7Ink04/s1600/relic-of-blessed-jose-sanchez-del-rio-available-for-veneration-year-round-at-church-in-texas.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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After José was captured by government forces fighting the Cristero, he was forced to witness the torture and execution of fellow Catholic countrymen, yet he never wavered in his faithful resolve. He was himself was tortured and urged to shout "Death to Christ the King" with the promise his suffering would be over. On the day of his torturous execution, the soldiers cut the soles of his feet and he was made to walk barefooted to the grave they had dug for him. He was repeatedly stabbed with bayonets as he made his way to the place of his martyrdom.<br />
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Even after he had been shot he continued to cry out "¡Viva Cristo Rey!" ("Long live Christ the King!") The commander of the soldiers was so furious that he was able to resist the government barbarism, he finally shot the boy in the head. As he died he is said to have drawn a cross on the ground with his own blood as a final act of defiance.<br />
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During the Cristeros War many Catholics were killed by the Mexican government for their faith. This tragic part of recent history is pointedly ignored by the history books in both the United States and Mexico. It is a story that needs to be told and learned by all free people.<br />
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Saint José Sánchez del Río is truly a Saint for our times. His faithfulness in the face of torture and death should be a model for all of us. I pray we can be as strong when our own persecution comes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOq_dmGTkixDL9Z33IR9xS72Mvibmdr1HlXOXc0HsR-VXMs8YPQKbF3qyNa_BxaI3fbZDBnhJ4UKOZMxe-qtwJTY6p2AeWFYtGi5BuU465DczJEdLQahzc1rUgZWtw15zc6gZjj1cVUQ/s1600/JoseLuisSanchezdelRio.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOq_dmGTkixDL9Z33IR9xS72Mvibmdr1HlXOXc0HsR-VXMs8YPQKbF3qyNa_BxaI3fbZDBnhJ4UKOZMxe-qtwJTY6p2AeWFYtGi5BuU465DczJEdLQahzc1rUgZWtw15zc6gZjj1cVUQ/w281-h400/JoseLuisSanchezdelRio.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
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<b>Blessed José Sánchez del Río, Pray For Us!</b></div>
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[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-87516224438093383452024-02-07T08:01:00.000-05:002024-02-07T08:01:39.899-05:00Casa 1910 Revolutionary Edition Cuchillo Parado and a Cocktail
A sunny afternoon and moderately warm temperature allowed for an unexpected return to our tradition of Sunday afternoon cocktails on the deck. I decided to mix up a slight variation on the <a href="https://www.musingsoverabarrel.com/2024/01/cranberry-citrus-cocktail.html">Cranberry Citrus Cocktail</a> we enjoyed over the holidays. We didn't have any cranberry simple syrup made up, or fresh cranberries, but we did have some cranberry juice on hand. I had also recently restocked the Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon that we enjoy so much for cocktails. The rosemary and cranberry garnish was skipped, but the drinks actually were still quite tasty and refreshing.<div><br /></div><div>Colleen put together a cheese, fruit, and cracker platter to go along with the cocktails while I searched for a cigar.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKMyI3TsXg0SGbe7WFpiss7Yii8WpmPtqjIjV8Ue0Y1qVuJnr_DMjMSdRKK183QupGIZAg_QHZY8MPpUhLZEc8QHBH4cSm4_UjkCD35vux3iFThZKSKwtDAH5RikkQaVtEOCXqcxnE6IuRmYEyObu2jYKyX_gzJ9hfrNPNYfS8ngF7-e3xmRJZ2zZM1_g/s4032/IMG_7698.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKMyI3TsXg0SGbe7WFpiss7Yii8WpmPtqjIjV8Ue0Y1qVuJnr_DMjMSdRKK183QupGIZAg_QHZY8MPpUhLZEc8QHBH4cSm4_UjkCD35vux3iFThZKSKwtDAH5RikkQaVtEOCXqcxnE6IuRmYEyObu2jYKyX_gzJ9hfrNPNYfS8ngF7-e3xmRJZ2zZM1_g/w480-h640/IMG_7698.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>I came across a Casa 1910 Revolutionary Edition Cuchillo Parado that had been resting since last June. It actually took me a few minutes to remember what the cigar was, the band not being very informative. Finally placing the cigar, I recall it <a href="https://www.musingsoverabarrel.com/2023/08/casa-1910-revolutionary-edition.html">had not been a stellar smoke prior,</a> but I felt I'd give it another chance, at least for a few minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div>To review, the Casa 1910 Revolutionary Edition has a San Andrés Sumatra wrapper, with San Andrés grown tobaccos also making up the binder and filler. It's an all Mexican tobacco blend. The wrapper was aged for five years and the rolled cigar then aged for five to six months. The previous example I smoked developed a somewhat bitter and yeasty taste that was not overly compelling. As I lit this stick, I got a blend of straw, and bread, along with a hint of pepper. The burn line remained even but the ash was flaky. I didn't notice the funky sourness I got before, but the cigar still tasted somewhat dull and straw-like.</div><div><br /></div><div>The "winter" cocktail was enjoyable. I can see revisiting it in warmer weather as well, perhaps with a bit of ginger ale to add some refreshing bubbles. The cigar is not one I am a fan of although it does get some favorable reviews online. It was not unpleasant per se, but just isn't a cigar that fits my preferences. Nonetheless, I still opted to smoke most of the cigar, while enjoying a couple of the tasty cocktails. The pleasant weather and relaxing conversion with my wife added to the joy of the afternoon.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-54699281037979701092024-02-05T07:51:00.000-05:002024-02-05T07:51:50.969-05:00Tumblin' Dice 8 Year Rye and Rocky Patel 10th AnniversaryI ordered this bottle of Tumblin' Dice 8 Year Single Barrel Rye truly on a whim. The email promoting the Seelbach's pick intrigued me, exactly why I don't recall now. I decided to do a "fresh crack Friday" and open it to kick off the weekend. I turns out that my spur of the moment purchase was a worthy one.<div><br /></div><div>The barrel proof rye from Proof and Wood brands comes in at a respectable 116.2 proof. With an eight year age statement, the sourced whiskey has a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% barley. The label notes it was barreled on December 12, 2014 and bottled June 9, 2023. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjamlEBVfy-g7F0loCfs-TDQeKc9LQ_nMj6Bs59q1eSC9HvJh-zzhhfZelCYy8Qj9_KzKC-0NI3G5EBb-7WlSl9KGGbbj1Dau9Qf4OheHa0t2Wr_pAZ3b05gPeM7rSK-rj4poIazV6EzxLUGvfHI9Ilraj6FaY5YH5m9na_-WqD36iPUQrXglLYqZ4tyO0/s4032/IMG_7677.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjamlEBVfy-g7F0loCfs-TDQeKc9LQ_nMj6Bs59q1eSC9HvJh-zzhhfZelCYy8Qj9_KzKC-0NI3G5EBb-7WlSl9KGGbbj1Dau9Qf4OheHa0t2Wr_pAZ3b05gPeM7rSK-rj4poIazV6EzxLUGvfHI9Ilraj6FaY5YH5m9na_-WqD36iPUQrXglLYqZ4tyO0/w480-h640/IMG_7677.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The rye pours a bright reddish brown with thick legs that coat the sides of the glencairn. The aroma gives off citrus and vanilla tones, with some sweet caramel. The first notes upon sipping include citrus peel and vanilla. Those divert into creamy sweetness and oak. The finish leaves some pepper and spice, along with the oak. It's a rather pleasant pour.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a bit of tasting, I retired to the screen porch to enjoy the rye with a cigar. For this evening I selected a Rocky Patel The Edge 20th Anniversary Edition. The cigar has been resting in my humidor for seven months.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Rocky Patel 20th Anniversary was introduced in 2022 to mark the 20th anniversary of The Edge line from Rocky Patel. The line has grown to a number of blends and sizes and is marketed as a budget line. The celebratory 20th Anniversary features a 10 year aged Ecuador Sumatra wrapper, a Honduran Broadleaf binder, and filler tobaccos from Honduras and Panama. This one is a 5 1/2" X 50 Robusto. The medium bodied smoke has rich notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and nuts. I do enjoy the 20th Anniversary more so than the various "standard" Edge versions I've had.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinnkMkPbhoHsv8FAR4rREvwV3vxNZS2pPY02kROyIP51L5IrFunp4Zm2vcG3ZyNe8CzENQHC7mIpIerclRIGZX71gJELzSy4v7fYNkgz3QT4jGJDCxioDsTLHXlPWyApDMf29e_6XK-ShYi6A9C5f5hR7Ra899cFwtKNWFNqWDgKN2tNUvjoM3Pw9k34A/s4032/IMG_7683.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinnkMkPbhoHsv8FAR4rREvwV3vxNZS2pPY02kROyIP51L5IrFunp4Zm2vcG3ZyNe8CzENQHC7mIpIerclRIGZX71gJELzSy4v7fYNkgz3QT4jGJDCxioDsTLHXlPWyApDMf29e_6XK-ShYi6A9C5f5hR7Ra899cFwtKNWFNqWDgKN2tNUvjoM3Pw9k34A/w480-h640/IMG_7683.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The espresso and slight sweetness of the cigar paired well with the spicy rye. I found myself frequently tasting both right after the other, rather than letting the flavor of one rest on my palate before bringing in the next. As such, my cigar smoked a little faster than usual, and the glass needed refilling a couple times. The pairing was so enjoyable the cigar was smoke down to a very tiny, but not hot, nub that I held onto with the tips of my fingers. Good to the last drop as they say.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-82822152653776426972024-02-03T09:13:00.000-05:002024-02-03T09:13:50.434-05:00Quesada and CoffeeColleen asked me on a recent evening if she should make dinner a little early so I could enjoy a cigar on the deck with the last bit of sunshine. Not long after that I was outside with a Quesada Oktoberfest 10th Anniversary and a steaming mug of black coffee. The sun would soon set, and I enjoyed those last light remnants with the cigar, coffee, and a book.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5XfhbVRQCHXbiVdvQKR6ENXcsSN5syDfyNbZwVlUxpQiyq3JXTBvKZg7luLtADvBKnyZx6l_6QJTztC3z9mJKjh_S53sNoIRLtWD8U1cYCXZXLvPs0ezslTa2xGgPWdLe_qidchQXJL0H420HVwECuTkz_V5cmLpl82gLq9LmLEmxh6RXABMOZj9Tfo/s4032/IMG_7669.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5XfhbVRQCHXbiVdvQKR6ENXcsSN5syDfyNbZwVlUxpQiyq3JXTBvKZg7luLtADvBKnyZx6l_6QJTztC3z9mJKjh_S53sNoIRLtWD8U1cYCXZXLvPs0ezslTa2xGgPWdLe_qidchQXJL0H420HVwECuTkz_V5cmLpl82gLq9LmLEmxh6RXABMOZj9Tfo/w480-h640/IMG_7669.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The Quesada Oktoberfest is an annual release from the company. This one was a special 10th anniversary edition from 2021. It had been resting in the humidor for over two years.</div><div><br /></div><div>Quesada Oktoberfest 10th Anniversary 'Das Boot' vitola is a 6 x 52 torpedo featuring an oily Mexican San Andrés wrapper, and a Dominican binder as well as Dominican fillers. While Quesada's annual Oktoberfest release is said to be designed to be paired with a Märzen-style beer, a style of beer I truly enjoy, I have previously also paired it with stout, whiskey, and coffee.</div><div><br /></div><div>The cigar had sweet undertones, along with woody and earthly notes. There is a pleasing espresso bitterness that comes into play as the smoke processes. This stick was the last of my stock. Well-aged after two plus years in the humidor, it smoked extremely well and the flavors were melded into a balanced smoke.</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, a quite pleasant evening repast.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-54207992533385724962024-02-02T17:00:00.006-05:002024-02-02T17:00:00.141-05:00Five O'Clock Friday: The Company of a Good CigarWelcome to the weekend.<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTcFhM60dX5t6HHzrVS9NasKOkcwdoxW9Xn2zzuuCHrwXPaaRgQ9f5ujBRJ8_RsTdx27K1cLA0qcwv32GipTQqH9PCcq_9c_gW5Gh6cAqRb2FnaE8MnwstDhdJf1_3YrR3cqG2wwiC1VUfmrDMLobt2AzNXsIgfXSV7hiY1l_PjX5JmLXj9Grjg92Dyfs/s2048/415009159_878272170975155_7611631162047033978_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTcFhM60dX5t6HHzrVS9NasKOkcwdoxW9Xn2zzuuCHrwXPaaRgQ9f5ujBRJ8_RsTdx27K1cLA0qcwv32GipTQqH9PCcq_9c_gW5Gh6cAqRb2FnaE8MnwstDhdJf1_3YrR3cqG2wwiC1VUfmrDMLobt2AzNXsIgfXSV7hiY1l_PjX5JmLXj9Grjg92Dyfs/w400-h400/415009159_878272170975155_7611631162047033978_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>After a week of coworker interactions, I'm ready for some solitude.</div><div><br /></div><div>Image purloined from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oldvirginiatobacco" target="_blank">Old Virginia Tobacco Facebook page.</a></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Cheers!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-71005111503663098482024-02-01T08:08:00.008-05:002024-02-01T16:09:35.252-05:00St. Brigid of IrelandFebruary 1 is the Feast Day of St. Brigid of Ireland, one of our family's favorite Saints. The quote below has long been attributed to St. Brigid.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><i>"I'd Like A Great Lake Of Beer For The King Of Kings. I Would Like To Be Watching Heaven's Family Drinking It Through All Eternity."</i></span></blockquote>
Our family has long had an affection for this great Saint. She is a revered Saint in Ireland, second in popularity only to St. Patrick. Her legendary association with miracles involving beer often overshadows her <a href="http://ucatholic.com/saints/brigid-of-ireland/" target="_blank">deeds of charity and compassion</a>. Brigid is believed to have been born in 451, and she died in 524 or 525. The Abbey she founded in County Kildare in the 5th century was destroyed in the 12th century.<br />
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Beyond her prayer for a "great lake of beer" this revered Saint had other interesting connections with the beverage. According to tradition, Brigid was working in a leper colony when they ran out of beer. Since beer was an important source of safe liquid refreshment and nourishment, this was indeed a serious issue. Brigid is said to have changed her bath water into beer to nourish the lepers and visiting clerics. In another miracle attributed to St. Brigid, she provided beer to 18 churches for an entire Easter season, all from a single barrel of beer in her convent.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvc05hoNIxFvfizqdYYKv38kPAGDkRwPqA0qUm5IiGifjuwCpxzu29KPuZeWirg2QU90HZpaS4fBnoKdgoKJDIJ3MKHt-bxIp5bLnO9ovjnXVN0816tKgNtaFCWC4G07pcRvAOSVrj8Q/s320/IMG_1739pic.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvc05hoNIxFvfizqdYYKv38kPAGDkRwPqA0qUm5IiGifjuwCpxzu29KPuZeWirg2QU90HZpaS4fBnoKdgoKJDIJ3MKHt-bxIp5bLnO9ovjnXVN0816tKgNtaFCWC4G07pcRvAOSVrj8Q/w299-h400/IMG_1739pic.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Brigid Statue, Knock Shrine, County Mayo, Ireland</td></tr>
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<div>St. Brigid, ora pro nobis!</div></div><br /><i>Cheers!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-35977108186172365772024-01-25T07:00:00.002-05:002024-01-25T08:28:19.737-05:00Room 101 Snake Shake Cigar and Old Elk Bourbon
It had been more than a week since a relaxing cigar found its way onto the schedule. But finally, a free evening at home, and somewhat moderate weather prevailed. Looking through the humidor I noticed I still had cigars from the monthly Luxury Cigar Club packages waiting to be explored. I grabbed an unfamiliar cigar one called the Room 101 Snake Shake. The gold embossed band inspired me to grab a somewhat color-coordinated bottle of Old Elk Cognac Cask Finish Bourbon.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL-Wn-gdxhXbDD5kEQUzol_NYmlbUgYxxrsliWJmwFml7iX0Xc5hyphenhyphencLoTbwqAwbi_l1xYTc9pzEt3Ax5aS0eUCPqp_a28REZJlaAJX2uKbyHw7ysLQYD7ukfR24utldz1QBIAoRth6qQ-mi2dn87dfs0djeWt6Sr435Y1jp9Oh1GaZSYpOsZwGy4wn_c/s4032/IMG_7632.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL-Wn-gdxhXbDD5kEQUzol_NYmlbUgYxxrsliWJmwFml7iX0Xc5hyphenhyphencLoTbwqAwbi_l1xYTc9pzEt3Ax5aS0eUCPqp_a28REZJlaAJX2uKbyHw7ysLQYD7ukfR24utldz1QBIAoRth6qQ-mi2dn87dfs0djeWt6Sr435Y1jp9Oh1GaZSYpOsZwGy4wn_c/w480-h640/IMG_7632.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div><div><br /></div><div>The 6 x 50 Toro had been resting in the humidor since November. The blend is a shiny Nicaraguan puro sporting a dark chocolate color wrapper. The wrapper is oily with a sort of "smooth roughness" to it. It was an attractive roll and gave a hint of a bold, enjoyable smoke to come.</div><div><br /></div><div>The first puffs on the cigar provided an eye-opening blast of pepper spice. After a few minutes the spiciness was balanced by other flavor notes. Rich coffee and the bitterness of dark chocolate come into play. Earth and leather provided background notes. The cigar is full bodied and flavorful, yet manageable. The Snake Shake is a Luxury Cigar Club exclusive and I expect I'll soon be ordering a few more. This will be a great late night smoke with bourbon come the warmer months especially.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwXYi3mk4G4ZwbWi1iIHIimF5FdHZlaX2j4peoH2QF6UEXlTemZiGIUBuqoB8gX8s97WQDcEcMiwfEvq6NbUwVr6msuVSUkqVolm9iNYmmPhr9pWF8WF8zLInPE5lBdXIcLBLgQRp0exizst-qjt1uC68ozMVG1ikdU6cD7I78kQljsdJs99TABTp2i0/s4032/IMG_7635.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwXYi3mk4G4ZwbWi1iIHIimF5FdHZlaX2j4peoH2QF6UEXlTemZiGIUBuqoB8gX8s97WQDcEcMiwfEvq6NbUwVr6msuVSUkqVolm9iNYmmPhr9pWF8WF8zLInPE5lBdXIcLBLgQRp0exizst-qjt1uC68ozMVG1ikdU6cD7I78kQljsdJs99TABTp2i0/w480-h640/IMG_7635.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The Old Eld Cognac Cask Finish turned out to be a good match for the cigar. The bourbon is aged for at least five years in Limousin oak casks, after which it is finished in cognac casks for 10 months. The aroma is sweet with the 109.7 proof whispering its presence. Upon sipping, sweet raison and apple notes predominate, along with caramel and oak. The proof shows in the finish with a mild spicy heat, which provides a small extra "oomph" without being overpowering.</div><div><br /></div><div>The cigar burned perfectly, giving an 80 minute smoke. The sweet and mildly warm bourbon provided a nice foil for the pepper of the smoke. Nothing disappointing to be said about the pairing at all.</div><div><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-23217811966200789812024-01-20T07:30:00.001-05:002024-01-20T07:30:00.140-05:00Bourbon is Good For You<div>Some good news for your weekend.</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAgQdN6AoCQ2Syd6I5DblhBszWSmD2vyioP2J1SM-NI1uAtbO25RcZR7HIZGTMHax8dLZfAzx_UaRn4lq6jUSyJkyC7hTcF68fAm2qWAHd-GC0H7j-cftmMvWxmR-5PxHpbOYhmoBz6LaveG_2aVK_m53EmAWsjE8CCfQMYRZHCZB3Iih0CtRYi7KxKs/s768/10-benefits-bourbon-768x496-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="768" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAgQdN6AoCQ2Syd6I5DblhBszWSmD2vyioP2J1SM-NI1uAtbO25RcZR7HIZGTMHax8dLZfAzx_UaRn4lq6jUSyJkyC7hTcF68fAm2qWAHd-GC0H7j-cftmMvWxmR-5PxHpbOYhmoBz6LaveG_2aVK_m53EmAWsjE8CCfQMYRZHCZB3Iih0CtRYi7KxKs/w400-h259/10-benefits-bourbon-768x496-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Courtesy <a href="https://www.bourbonclassic.com/2023/01/10-benefits-of-drinking-bourbon/" target="_blank">Bourbon Classic</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://www.bourbonclassic.com" target="_blank">Bourbon Classic</a> has an interesting article on the health benefits of drinking bourbon. The <a href="https://www.bourbonclassic.com/2023/01/10-benefits-of-drinking-bourbon/" target="_blank">report states</a>:</div><div><blockquote>Bourbon lovers everywhere rejoice! We’ve compiled 10 benefits of drinking bourbon and how it can actually be good for your health. Keep in mind, the best results are seen for those that drink a moderate amount of bourbon. Be sure to always drink responsibly.</blockquote></div><div>The listed benefits include reducing stress as well an other measurable heath conditions. Given some thought, all of their points could also apply to many heathy activities and foods. But bourbon tastes better than kale.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Reduces Stress Levels</li><li>Improves Your Immune System</li><li>Prevents Blood Clots</li><li>Reduces Your Risk of Cancer</li><li>Helps Control Type 2 Diabetes</li><li>Improves Cognitive Function</li><li>Increases the Amount of Good Cholesterol</li><li>Relieves Cold Symptoms</li><li>Reduces the Risk of Obesity</li><li>Prolongs Your Life</li></ul></div><div>Obviously, one should never take health advice from the internet, but still it's an interesting and thought provoking list. Be sure to read the whole thing for the reasoning behind the listed benefits.</div><div><br /></div><div>Remember, all things in moderation. See "<a href="https://www.bourbonclassic.com/2023/01/10-benefits-of-drinking-bourbon/" target="_blank">10 Benefits of Drinking Bourbon</a>" for the complete article.</div><div><br /></div><i>Cheers!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-32726719268596592932024-01-16T07:49:00.000-05:002024-01-16T07:49:09.149-05:00Smoking a Powstanie Broadleaf and Enjoying the Snowfall
Two words I don't often in the same sentence, snowfall and enjoy. But the first snow of 2024 provided some enjoyable moments. Though the needle on the thermometer was hovering right around 30°, I fired up the heater and lit a Powstanie Broadleaf Corona Gorda. The little alcohol fire pit provided some extra warmth for my hand holding the cigar. The other one remained in my coat pocket.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw5Xdc90rN8yvZFYa0m1SCfCnXhXQyBWtLscP1Rod1FbLEfYov-zOvoqEBRUA0p5JqbKghuFEa-uOsVwOtGWAlOGE9rrkNz4SddGAmtiO8kPWn2WjQ2RqhIIecC-j2or8_7v2a3tiu078Z3R0OFyeMmnjp77iL5Q63KV3iZbiOfc874viD3ru50MLZ10/s4032/IMG_7558.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw5Xdc90rN8yvZFYa0m1SCfCnXhXQyBWtLscP1Rod1FbLEfYov-zOvoqEBRUA0p5JqbKghuFEa-uOsVwOtGWAlOGE9rrkNz4SddGAmtiO8kPWn2WjQ2RqhIIecC-j2or8_7v2a3tiu078Z3R0OFyeMmnjp77iL5Q63KV3iZbiOfc874viD3ru50MLZ10/w480-h640/IMG_7558.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The Powstanie Broadleaf Corona Gorda has been in the humidor since last May and smoked very well, despite the cold, dry air. The combination of a broadleaf maduro wrapper, Indonesian binder, and fillers of Estelí ligero, Jalapa and Pueblo Nuevo tobaccos made for a flavorful smoke. Flavors of creamy chocolate and wood, along with some pepper and cedar was a nice pairing to a warm coffee.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I sat and enjoyed the smoke, I was struck by the awesome silence that accompanied the winter weather, No cars on the nearby street, no leaf blowers or chainsaws, not even the sounds of wildlife moving in the woods. If the storm continues through the night and into the next day, I suspect there could be chainsaws and even generators providing the background noise in days to come. But for now, all is quiet.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-47484092735868564042024-01-15T09:16:00.001-05:002024-01-15T09:39:00.848-05:00Post Dinner Rose of Sharon and CoffeeNo, I'm not doing "dry January." I happen to enjoy coffee as much as bourbon. Fortunately, drinking it in the early evening doesn't affect my sleep. Though I might not fall asleep in front of the television as quickly!<div><br /></div><div>A Southern Draw Rose of Sharon Desert Rose Lonsdale LE makes a great accompaniment to a steaming cup of coffee as an after-dinner treat. It's an enjoyable pairing I've done in the past.</div><div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9u_172nIJ1ajoL5j9AF_kFpeIUTqv66T0btQB1GlIYhUdhYcrAmYMTdbtvyThSAcwb7w79djhzbOzQBCfGRgCvQJov4wo_EoSAWfLahTTnk3csl9TPlD51nQSQGbnuxuhXQHSIAGM4wdk7uerNHoFtYTcVaBOd1VONdM_h3FcD-1oEdVo3YFa58PS0s/s4032/IMG_7541.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9u_172nIJ1ajoL5j9AF_kFpeIUTqv66T0btQB1GlIYhUdhYcrAmYMTdbtvyThSAcwb7w79djhzbOzQBCfGRgCvQJov4wo_EoSAWfLahTTnk3csl9TPlD51nQSQGbnuxuhXQHSIAGM4wdk7uerNHoFtYTcVaBOd1VONdM_h3FcD-1oEdVo3YFa58PS0s/w480-h640/IMG_7541.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The Southern Draw Rose of Sharon Desert Rose Londsdale is a limited edition of the Southern Draw Desert Rose. The 6 x 44 lonsdale features an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, a Nicaraguan habano leaf binder, and filler consisting of Honduran Corojo 99 and Dominican Piloto Cubano tobaccos. The cigar is bolder than the wrapper would indicate. I am typically not a fan of Connecticut wrappers, but this is a repeat cigar for me. The cigar kicks off with a peppery spice, before the addition of creamy bread, leather, and cedar. The cigar has been resting in my humidor for a little over four months and the burn and draw was excellent. </div><div><br /></div><div>The thermal mug kept the coffee hot for the entire 50 minute smoke. That was just enough time to have the sun fully set and the temperature begin its rapid drop. It was time to head inside and NOT fall asleep in front of the TV.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-32689053463740519812024-01-12T17:00:00.003-05:002024-01-12T17:00:00.142-05:00Five O'Clock Friday: Cheesy Goodness
You know you would.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCb4y14rbzata2zeaqObN3hUHnNP1728dDuRrrNoJ5hyphenhyphenOdQxKOhyphenhyphenCJawX4Yl21ZTydjygRYeYrxx4hryxg5kqHrZzD0BtY844gAAf_N-0cxP0LVR4n9kD54cX8ZijvaCAjahs7p21mA628dWCtXfA0Qot7TkFJwkFAGAzpPgr6Kel-0vfSFmfF8geYCw/s400/271524679_10227262608852786_3418259132595719885_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="400" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCb4y14rbzata2zeaqObN3hUHnNP1728dDuRrrNoJ5hyphenhyphenOdQxKOhyphenhyphenCJawX4Yl21ZTydjygRYeYrxx4hryxg5kqHrZzD0BtY844gAAf_N-0cxP0LVR4n9kD54cX8ZijvaCAjahs7p21mA628dWCtXfA0Qot7TkFJwkFAGAzpPgr6Kel-0vfSFmfF8geYCw/w400-h391/271524679_10227262608852786_3418259132595719885_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-10019553875059928072024-01-12T08:02:00.005-05:002024-01-12T08:17:33.231-05:00A Cigar And A Bourbon At Sunset
The days are, ever so slowly, getting longer. I've noticed that if we eat dinner just a few minutes early, and I've already prepped my selections for smoking and sipping, I can enjoy the last bit of sunlight at the start of the smoke. One evening this week, I was ready with the choice of a Cigar Clowns Torpedo and some Blade and Bow Bourbon. <div><br /></div><div>Blade and Bow is one of the bourbons that I've kept on hand for several years. The price point is right for a regular sipper, although it's going up like everything else. It could be a had for under $40 a couple years and it's now approaching $50. The VA ABC does put it on sale occasionally.</div><div><br /></div><div>The 91 proof bourbon pours a golden orange color and emits a sweet fruit aroma along with a touch of alcohol on the nose. It's quite easy to sip, with notes of caramel and white fruit. The finish has a crisp graininess and a subtle oak char.</div><div><div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlPfvDzh2UADc-gNJ9iyvhtXTC8s9xp_UnOATgMNZralWZ_Ks_udgyJvqPgSE5LafHEARa6RQi57Hyh2zk4n12NEQl-rYb5ijz14u5muuy0YuzYiAU9-nJjomHwRjtWXAgzW_IQs_XCEQr3O-Fuu_SNIvlOSWR9JIg4HYF3GgUotoptliq3QupfOGcQg/s4032/IMG_7538.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlPfvDzh2UADc-gNJ9iyvhtXTC8s9xp_UnOATgMNZralWZ_Ks_udgyJvqPgSE5LafHEARa6RQi57Hyh2zk4n12NEQl-rYb5ijz14u5muuy0YuzYiAU9-nJjomHwRjtWXAgzW_IQs_XCEQr3O-Fuu_SNIvlOSWR9JIg4HYF3GgUotoptliq3QupfOGcQg/w480-h640/IMG_7538.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The Cigar Clown Torpedo was a selection in the August Luxury Cigar Club Core package. Not much information is provided about the 6 x 52 sharply pointed torpedo. The wrapper is listed as Mexican San Andrés Claro and the rest of the components are undisclosed. The flavor profile is best described as creamy. There's a touch of cedar spice to add variety, but overall the smoke is one dimensional. I found there to be a "horse blanket" funk to the finish. It reminded me of some of the yeasty farmhouse ales. Not wholly unpleasant, but not eliciting excitement to my palate. To my surprise given its hefty size, the cigar gave just under an hour of smoking. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapVpi7BDrOaXqCPniN7LCju42Qt6M_DnRyJb2Hip9dp7XwB0lAMx1iQgyBKyxgNwDLQq8tdFB7q_jF7aAz1u7ij0TiLKWxV1R3JnGkneN1E9R75uteNlCUjXySLGb6jt6CGaxLxP1reraJkvV5hY8ESD2kDV34K061oyFIflH_GjgxdU12R7fR7qa4Fw/s4032/IMG_7539.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="407" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapVpi7BDrOaXqCPniN7LCju42Qt6M_DnRyJb2Hip9dp7XwB0lAMx1iQgyBKyxgNwDLQq8tdFB7q_jF7aAz1u7ij0TiLKWxV1R3JnGkneN1E9R75uteNlCUjXySLGb6jt6CGaxLxP1reraJkvV5hY8ESD2kDV34K061oyFIflH_GjgxdU12R7fR7qa4Fw/w543-h407/IMG_7539.JPG" width="543" /></a></div><br /><div>As an added bonus, the sky burned a bright red as the sunset. Of course as the sun set the temperature dropped. However, the quick burning cigar did not require a long sit in the cold.<br /><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5349428160142078931.post-40239164934652078932024-01-10T07:47:00.000-05:002024-01-10T07:47:33.570-05:00Five Years Later - A Better Way to Enjoy the CFPAs I sat down to enjoy the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2024_College_Football_Playoff_National_Championship" target="_blank">College Football Playoff Game</a> Monday night, the evening treats included Elijah Craig 18 Year Bourbon.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvikeBsx0OYruIwuMOYQhnAizJTYqiMwSs7ke9nMA3T_TghsrSGwwA3wNR1V1maWlornOSFjlzac2SNp15E6wfaflA1VExBpO7p-0vCqXtcTS0zKR084Q6a7Pt1F8XFAY1a_MI7OJ-yW3KeyhHsYdWUbiasE3qyeFRHfnHY8dsAG6LXlKQ3MqbwVj7l1k/s4032/IMG_7530.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvikeBsx0OYruIwuMOYQhnAizJTYqiMwSs7ke9nMA3T_TghsrSGwwA3wNR1V1maWlornOSFjlzac2SNp15E6wfaflA1VExBpO7p-0vCqXtcTS0zKR084Q6a7Pt1F8XFAY1a_MI7OJ-yW3KeyhHsYdWUbiasE3qyeFRHfnHY8dsAG6LXlKQ3MqbwVj7l1k/w480-h640/IMG_7530.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The view brought back a similar memory of <a href="https://www.musingsoverabarrel.com/2019/01/game-night-snacks.html">watching the 2019 Championship game</a> five years ago. The setting and the mood could not have been any more different.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwa1esa5kkkMG7oQcFrJ5idV62lD9PXkPTtpOgBMqUelXvUwZsEZ6rrTdHCLGHyZH3IeQoXftAkh9SLirEfESzvAV0ZGRbQ9fuu_cXBAV6JGAA2U0nJKGlbGSIDu5K6CnOdOUETg56-I/s1600/IMG_7785.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwa1esa5kkkMG7oQcFrJ5idV62lD9PXkPTtpOgBMqUelXvUwZsEZ6rrTdHCLGHyZH3IeQoXftAkh9SLirEfESzvAV0ZGRbQ9fuu_cXBAV6JGAA2U0nJKGlbGSIDu5K6CnOdOUETg56-I/w480-h640/IMG_7785.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>The <a href="https://www.musingsoverabarrel.com/2019/01/when-life-changes.html">life events of January 2019</a> have been on my mind lately. The background for the two evenings is eerily similar but at the same time extraordinarily, and thankfully, different!<br /><div><br /><i>Cheers!</i></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><br/><br/>
[ This content originated at <a href="http://www.musingsoverabarrel.com">Musings Over a Barrel</a> ]</div>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006015336607998634noreply@blogger.com0