IMG_2482      Sangria hit the stage at this year’s Pavan Sangria event. Each bartender, mixologist, and spirit enthusiast entered the contest of their dreams, by creating sangria inspired by the country they want to visit most. The NY semi finals took place in The King & Grove Hotel in Williamsburg, BK, where sangria lovers, writers, and media gathered alike to try some of these tasty beverages. Served with the sangria was an array of cheeses that complimented the Pavan very well.

 

 

IMG_2485   For those of you who don’t know Pavan, lets get a little lesson. Pavan is made from Moscato Grapes and is a Liqueur that hits you with orange peel, lemon zest, and instantly creates happiness inside your soul. Think I overdid the description? Well try it, and you will understand exactly what I mean. Pavan is fantastic over sparkling water and some orange, apple, and lemon slices. This is how we started our evening to, “cleanse our palates”, which in event terms meant, “we couldn’t wait any longer for the judging of the sangria, so we made our own pre-party”!

After the cheese courses came some amazing batter fried shrimp, shrimp cocktail, breads, more cheeses, and oysters! This Mediterranean infused fare was delightful with two of my favorite sangria’s of the evening. The Sakura Sangria by Erick Smith was striking with Japanese Whiskey and Cherry Juice, while the Fleur de France by Lucinda Stepling was out of this world with the Oysters and Fried Shrimp!

Be sure to keep an eye out for the Finals, taking place in NYC in February! The winner will be revealed and will win a trip to their dream destination!