Spirits, Sips & Good Cheer: TYC Tasting Raises a Toast to New London Food Pantry

Gin, Scotch, rum, tequila and sparkling wine—oh my! TYC members gathered for an evening of good spirits, good food and good company, all while raising $175 for the New London food pantry.

The special spirits tasting, the first event of its kind at TYC, brought members together for an evening filled with plenty of tasting and even more conversation. Guests enjoyed an impressive spread of appetizers, including tuna, shrimp, a beautiful charcuterie board, and an assortment of tempting desserts.

“We had a great time, with great food, and great company,” said TYC member Leigh Reinhart.

The tasting was hosted by Emma and Jen from Brand Assets, who offered something for just about every taste.

Guests sampled French sparkling wines from Belaire, including Rosé, Gold, Luxe and Blue; two varieties of Bumbu dark rum from Barbados; McQueen and the Violet Fog, a Brazilian gin; La Pugra, a handcrafted small-batch tequila made with 100 percent agave grown in Mexico; and The Deacon, a Scotch whisky blend.

For Joe and Teri Clement, the evening was a great opportunity to meet fellow members.

“We enjoyed ourselves,” they said. “We had some nice conversations and got to know other members.”

TYC Vice Commodore Nina Jeannotte thanked everyone for helping make the evening a success—and for supporting a good cause.

“Because of everyone’s support, we are able to make this nice donation to the New London food pantry, and we know they can certainly use it, especially as the holidays approach,” Jeannotte told the crowd.

“We had a great time,” said Nancy Rosato.

The idea for the tasting came from TYC member Nancy Andrews who has a friend who works with Brand Assets and suggested bringing the experience to the club.

“I told Nina about this great opportunity, and she did what she always does—turned it into a great event for our members,” Andrews said.

If you missed the tasting, not to worry, there are still more events planned before the club closes for the winter.

Coming up on the club calendar:

• Friday, Oct. 30: Bonfire and music on the beach
• Wednesday, Nov. 5: Jeff Taylor’s presentation on celestial navigation
• Sunday, Nov. 15: General Membership Meeting and food drive
• Saturday, Dec. 5: TYC Holiday Party and Toys for Tots collection