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Madison Beach Hotel—A Beachside Haven

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By Doug Singer

A recipient of Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence for both 2013 and 2014, Madison Beach Hotel, whose reincarnation is still in its infancy, has certainly made a good impression. On a recent weekend I headed out of New York City for what would be less than a two-hour drive and was thrilled as I came upon this charming and elegant ‘cape-style’ hotel on the beach.

With three stories and 33 rooms all facing the Long Island Sound, and a luxurious lobby that opens onto a dining porch with marble-topped tables, the first impression is one of serene awe. The complimentary valet parking brings an immediate sense of ease and articulates the luxury component right from the get go. 

The room was outfitted with a luxurious king-size bed and and a wide  array of creature comforts and amenities, but the standout was the large, comfortable porch, where one could while away a lifetime gazing at the beautiful views of the Long Island Sound. The staff is extremely well trained and sincere about delivering a heightened level of hospitality—from the concierge, to the bellhop, it was one good experience after another. 
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After a relaxing day of antiquing, strolling the charming New Englandesque downtown area and searching for the ultimate Lobster Roll (which we found at the Lobster Landing), enjoy a cocktail on the hotel porch as the sun gently goes down. 

It would not be a stay at Madison Beach Hotel without a meal at the Wharf Restaurant. Serving farm-to-table cuisine highlighting the flavors of the Atlantic Northeast and using locally sourced ingredients and classical preparation techniques, they have created a menu that is sure to satisfy. From the Charcuterie and Cheese Platter, to the Ahi Tuna appetizer, to the stunningly fresh Crispy Skin Organic Salmon, the cuisine shined. Add to that a reasonable and well fortified wine and cocktail selection and both your satisfaction and relaxation are guaranteed. 

If you are a bit haggard, or simply looking to put a bit of a polish on your soul, Madison Beach Hotel’s Sounds of the Sea Spa and fitness center stretches over three floors and offers spectacular work out and relaxation opportunities only steps from your room. Revitalize with a massage, or any of an array of treatment options and finish up by taking a few moments (or hours) in their relaxation room offering a soothing selection of imported teas, flavored waters and healthy snacks.

During the summer months, Madison Beach Hotel’s “Grassy Strip” features both films and live music on select nights to enjoy your evening on the water. Summer ’14 musical acts include Magic of Motown and 10,000 Maniacs and the films are a selection that will be greatly enjoyed by those with children. 

A great summer destination, Madison, Connecticut is a beach town with a soul and Madison Beach Hotel, its crown jewel. 

www.madisonbeachhotel.com

By Michael Hepworth

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What exactly is GRAND BRULOT I thought to myself as I opened the bottle for the first time just around the time this lockdown took effect. Well, Grand Brulot is listed as a VSOP Cognac Café and it can be used in Bloody Mary’s, Manhattans, Negronis, Martinis, spritzes and sidecars , just for starters. It is a blend of Ugni Blanc & Colombard that is crafted into 80 proof VSOP. Then 100% Robusta Ecuadorian coffee bean essence is extracted and blended with brandy to meld for a few months and finally, it is blended with the VSOP Cognac. There is also a whiff of peppermint, nutmeg and hot cocoa in the drink. The retail price is $42.99.

The idea for the drink was instigated in 2015 by John Bernbach who asked for the help of industry veteran Francisco Tonarely to investigate the potential of a cognac/brandy drink blended with coffee. Three year later in August 2018 Grand Brulot was launched. This cognac comes from the Tardy Cognac Group and the grapes come from its single estate. Grand Brulot also plays homage to a New Orleans specialty of the same name that is still served around town.  The name Grand Brulot was inspired by the famous French pirate Jean Lafite who helped New Orleans repel the British invaders in 1812. He would order coffee, pour cognac in the saucer, set it alight and mix it with the coffee.
Recipes:

THE RISE AND SHINE
2 oz Grand Brulot
Orange Twist

Just pour Grand Brulot over ice and the orange will highlight the flavors
of the spirit.

BRULOT BLACK MANHATTAN
1 oz Grand Brulot
1 oz Bourbon
1 oz Sweet Vermouth
3 dashes Orange Bitters

Bartender Todd Smith created this one. Stir all the ingredients together in
a mixing glass. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass with ice and garnish

with orange wheel.

FRENCH NEGRONI
1 oz Grand Brulot
1 oz  Sweet Vermouth
1 oz Campari

Build in a rocks glass over ice and garnish w/orange wheel.

GRAND BRULOT CAFÉ HOLIDAY
1 oz Grand Brulot
0.5 oz Crème de Cacao
3 oz Porter Beer or Stout
3 dashes of bitters

Throw cocktail ingredients between two cups a couple of times to mix
And ignite the foam from the beer. Pour into a highball glass over ice
And garnish with nutmeg.



www.grandbrulot.com
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