Category: Featured Articles

For every drink, there’s a perfect pairing—not just a juicy steak or seafood dish, but a glass that helps you enjoy every drop to the fullest.

Have you ever wondered why your wine comes in one glass, your martini in another? As it turns out, the reason stems a bit beyond “that’s the way it’s always been done”… because while these drink-glass pairings are certainly traditional, they also make some great sense from a practical standpoint, too.

Whether you’re gearing up to host your own cocktail party, or curiosity strikes on your next trip to Stonewood, we’ve got you covered. Today, we’re highlighting a few of the most common glasses, what we drink in them and why. Take a look.

Wine glass

You know a wine glass by its classically curved shape. Elegant and sleek, one might guess this glass looks the way it does because, well, wine calls for something sophisticated! But in fact, there’s a good reason we serve wine this way. Because wine drinking is such an aromatic experience, the large opening gives you the chance to really soak up the full flavor. (That’s also why you’re often told to give your red wine a bit of a swirl, to really aerate the wine and help its taste come to life.)

When there is a distinction between red and white glasses, it’s simply that the red wine glass has a bit of a bigger opening—to match, of course, the bolder flavor and aroma of red wine.

Flute

You’re used to seeing champagne and other sparkling wines served up in flute glasses, and for good reason! Because these drinks are famously fizzy, and that bubbly effervescence is so much a part of the experience, you want to maintain the bubbles as much as possible. The smaller glass opening lets you do that—of course, like the wine glass, the flute’s unique shape does also have the effect of making the drink (and you) look that much more elegant.

Rocks

The rocks, or old-fashioned glass, is a familiar one for many cocktails. It can go well with a wide variety of drinks served on ice, since the short but sturdy glass’ shape is perfect for holding it all in—unlike some other glasses on our list, like the famous “Martini glass” …

Martini

Commonly named after the drink most enjoyed in it (but defined simply as a “cocktail glass”), this glass also has a familiar shape: a long stem and triangle-shaped body. It is not great at holding ice, which is why many of the drinks you’ll have in a cocktail glass are chilled and strained before serving. It is great, though, at keeping the drink cold. Without ice, the physical separation of the glass’ body from its stem also prevents the drinker’s hands from warming the beverage up too much.

Tall glass

Several types of tall glasses—like the highball and the Collins, named for the Tom Collins it’s often served with—are used for those drinks that are made with mixers and ice. In other words, they’re meant to be refreshing, and the long, narrow glass preserves carbonation while still leaving plenty of room for the drink itself.

A note on barware…

These glasses, of course, are simply some of the most basic tools of the trade. They are great staples to stock up on for your at-home bar cart or kitchen, but as long as you know the basics behind them (and why certain drinks pair well with certain glasses), you are good to go! And once you have these simple picks down, you can expand on your collection with drink-specific barware, like the famous, coppery Moscow Mule mug.

Ready for your role as bartender? For future parties and impromptu drinks with friends, these tips are sure to come in handy! Be sure to practice your craft and enjoy your favorite refreshing drink here at Stonewood soon.

Backpacks ready? Lunches packed? Pick-ups, drop-offs, and extracurriculars confirmed?

Check, check and check. But as you scurry to start the school year this August, don’t forget to add another item to your checklist: family fun!

Those long, lazy, under-the-sun days of summer may be winding down, but the simple enjoyment of spending time with the family is a year-round treat—and it’s more accessible than you might think.

Read on as we share a few of our favorite back-to-school ideas to enjoy as a family… including some particularly delicious cures for weekday pick-me-ups. Take a look. 

Spend time outdoors

Even when school’s back in session, there are still plenty of opportunities to get some sun and relish time outdoors. Whether you live by the beach or springs, or have a backyard pool, swimming is an easy way to fit in exercise on busy days—though when the family’s having fun splashing around in the pool, it probably won’t feel like exercise!

Fishing is another great activity to enjoy—from the pier, or even along the St. Johns. While angling might at first seem like an activity for the weekend, even shorter trips after school can be great at clearing the mind and enjoying some quality time together—plus, the fish tend to frenzy closer to sundown, as they search for food, so you might just find some serious luck on the water.

Even before team sports kick off at school, kick (or catch) a ball around with family. Running on the sand offers some great strength and resistance training, but even something as simple as romping around the backyard will do you well!

Take up a new craft…

As we approach the back-to-school season, it’s also a great time to learn something new. In addition to all the new things the kiddos will be learning in school, extracurriculars offer a chance for them to hone new crafts and discover fresh passions for art, music, dance, karate—you name it.

Stetson University, located in Volusia County, is just one example of a great community resource in this area. Children and adults alike can sign up for private lessons in everything from violin to trombone to percussion, taught by students and degreed musicians—so you always have the opportunity to learn something new!

Younger kids will also enjoy the simple pastime of arts and crafts—putting the art skills they picked up at school to the test, creating clay sculptures, coloring pictures or designing beautiful collages.

… or get “crafty” at the dinner table

Another way to get “crafty” is at the dinner table!

Some say Tuesdays are like a “second Monday,” but we see them differently—as opportunities to get together, stay on the same page as the week progresses, and indulge in family fun and delicious food. That’s exactly what our Crafted Tuesdays have to offer! Here, the whole family can enjoy hand-crafted burgers—innovative designs cooked up through chef inspiration—adding an artful, exciting flair to everyday dinner. (You can enjoy $2 off craft cocktails, too!)

Celebrate the little things

When it comes to celebrating the little things—and the big ones—with family and friends, Stonewood offers a great environment to do just that. Capping off big weeks (and exciting news like honor roll or science fair wins…) with a dinner out is a great way to relish the moment and get the family together. For bigger celebrations, take the team, club or band ensemble out for a group dining experience they’re sure to love—a worthy celebration for a job well done, and inspiration for many more to come.

We hope that these ideas help make your back-to-school season that much brighter. And remember: for all those academic achievements, team wins and just-because occasions along the way, Stonewood is your go-to!

Summer’s not over yet. What better way to capture the seasonal feeling—of beautiful sunsets or bright, endless days spent at the beach—than with a gorgeous glass of sangria?

The drink’s been called “summer in a glass,” and for good reason!

It’s a year-round favorite, but one that’s especially apropos during the “dog days” of summer, where hot, sunny days call for a truly refreshing solution.

Whether you opt for white or red, this fruity, festive take on traditional wine is sure to cool you down, serving as an elegant yet playful pairing to just about any of your favorite Stonewood dishes—and today, we’re highlighting five key combinations you’re sure to enjoy. Just take a look!

White Sangria and Brie

Here’s one of the most fitting pairings on our list: White Sangria with Brie—it’s hard to find a better duo! We prepare our White Sangria with chardonnay, whose bright, acid touch plays nicely against Brie, a famously soft, creamy cheese. The two complement each other well on any day, but when you add sangria to the mix, magic really starts to happen. To our chardonnay, we add Flor De Caña Rum, peach syrup, pineapple juice, orange juice, sprite, lemon, lime, and orange—a medley of flavors both sweet and tangy that pick up the inherent sweetness of the Brie and help emphasize its creamy flavor and feel.

For a starter, you can pair our White Sangria with a delicious Spinach, Crab & Brie Dip—a delightfully light way to begin your meal. Entrée wise, you can’t go wrong with the subtle Brie flavors in our Grilled Chicken, Asparagus & Brie Salad, a fresh, lively dish that’s sure to entice your palate. 

White Sangria and rich, creamy pasta

Another go-to for Chardonnay is buttery, creamy dishes—meals that are mild enough to let the wine’s unique, sharp edge shine through. As effervescent as it is sweet to enjoy, our White Sangria will match well with Blackened Chicken Pasta. The creamy sauce (mixed among bowties, fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes and asparagus) is actually made with Chardonnay, too, making it an especially apropos pairing to enjoy.

White Sangria and lobster

Finally, seafood has long been a favored complement to chardonnay—so why not try our White Sangria with a Lobster Roll? The tender, chilled lobster meat is mild in flavor (perfect to balance off against the bright “zing” of the wine-and-fruit medley), and is sweeter than counterparts like crab. That sweetness makes it perfect for the lush flavors of your White Sangria! 

Red Sangria and steak

It’s been said before—that red wine goes with red meat, white wine with white. Though there are certainly many exceptions to this rule, you really can’t go wrong by following the classic pairing of red wine (or in this case, Red Sangria) with a tender steak of your choice. Its bolder flavor makes it a worthy anchor to the juicy, oak-grilled taste of our Sirloin Steak or New York Strip, for example. To play with the Spanish roots of sangria (ours contains Christian Brothers Brandy, blackberry syrup, peach syrup, cranberry juice, lemon, lime and orange), you can even pair your steak with our Mediterranean Topping for a classic complement.

Red Sangria and tapas-style starters

Want to pay homage to sangria’s Spanish roots—the tradition of tapas, small, shareable dishes enjoyed from open-air cafes? Red Sangria was made for these kinds of meals, and it pairs deliciously with red meat, so you’ll find a great pairing in our Stone Bits, a scrumptious starter their pairs flash-seared, garlic-marinated filet mignon with housemade horseradish sauce and toast points. It’s a trip to the Mediterranean in two easy steps…

These are just a few of the delicious ways to pair your sangria—but really, it’s hard to go wrong with just about any combination. Try a new drink-and-dish pairing here at Stonewood and discover all there is to love about this endlessly alluring drink.

 

This National Golf Month, you don’t need to travel far to see some of the world’s most beautiful courses—they’re right in your backyard!

Golf has long been a favorite sport of Floridians, who take advantage of the state’s made-for-golf landscape— with flat terrain, gentle slopes, and gorgeous palm-lined vistas—year-round.

In honor of National Golf Month, we’re embarking on a Stonewood staycation: a trek around some of the Sunshine State’s most beloved courses, so that you might find a spot close to you! (Hint—you will.) Save the plane tickets for another adventure. This one calls only for a golf cart and your best clubs…

Daytona Beach Golf Club, Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach and the surrounding Volusia County area offer stunning examples of golf courses that fit your life—not the other way around! Accessible and beloved for their location (including some that are in gorgeous course-view neighborhoods), they add a sense of fun and leisure to the region.

One of our favorites? The Daytona Beach Golf Club! Featuring a South Course crafted by beloved golf course designer Donald Ross, the club offers splendid views of Florida oaks and pines. Denser tree cover and added spots of water characterize the North Corse, where a rewarding challenge awaits. The entire experience is barely removed from the shores of the Halifax and the wafting sea breeze. Here, it’s no overstatement to say you’re golfing in paradise.

St. Johns Golf & Country Club, St. Augustine

The scenic, historic streets of St. Augustine provide a worthy family vacation at any time of year—and here, too, the ocean is never far away!

What might you have missed on your first vacation or field trip here? The wealth of golf opportunities that abound—in this quiet ocean city somewhere between Daytona Beach and the downtown scene of Jacksonville…

St. Johns Golf & Country Club is one must-do destination. The scenic, natural expanse was crafted from a pine forest—with beautiful, towering trees still standing tall and lending an out-of-the-way air to your game. As the day dips toward sunset, you’ll see beautiful colors swirl over the trees and pronounced waterways that run through the course—and the nearby St. Johns River–making late-in-the-day tee times worth the wait.

Bonus: World Golf Hall of Fame, St. Augustine

While it isn’t actually a golf course, this is another St. Augustine stop worth seeing while you’re in town! It’s a treat for golf buffs who want to learn more about their favorite sport and its homegrown history. See beautiful exhibits dedicated to some of the game’s real greats—including the late Arnold Palmer—and explore the history of golf as it can be traced centuries back to the rolling hills of Scotland. Other immersive experiences include an IMAX film and on-site putting course, perfect for testing your skills in a one-of-a-kind environment, activities the whole family can enjoy.

Old Memorial Golf Club, Tampa

Tampa was named one of the country’s greatest golf cities by Golf Digest—and courses like that of the Old Memorial Golf Club prove why! One of the best courses in the Sunshine State (another Golf Digest honor), the club offers pristine facilities and a back-to-nature feel you’re sure to love while traveling Florida’s West Coast.

Sandy bunkers and ample water provide a welcome challenge and a serene, natural environment reminiscent of Tampa shores just a quick trip westward. Catch the sunset and a delicious dinner after a long day on the green—it’s all within reach at this Gulf Coast gem.

Seminole Golf Club, Juno Beach

Rated the number-one golf course in Florida, this Juno Beach gem—located in South Florida’s Palm Beach County—is a true treat. Another Donald Ross design, Seminole Golf Club offers a chance to play in unspoiled Florida paradise. Palm trees tower over the cleverly designed course, where bunkers are as attractive to the eye as they are a challenge to play. Some brilliant design by work by Ross promises an exciting experience—a counterclockwise hole layout, for example, ensures that you have to work with (or against) the wind in exciting, ever-changing ways.

As such an esteemed course, Seminole Golf Club is naturally tough to get into—famously so, in fact. But as they say, when you shoot for the moon you land among the stars… and the same holds true here in Palm Beach! The county is home to some of the state’s most beautiful courses, so your trek here will not go to waste—in fact, it might be one of the best trips you take this year.

Of course, after a long day of golf, you can’t go wrong with a bit of sustenance—perhaps in the form of a celebratory dinner at Stonewood? All of today’s courses are little more than a swing and “FORE!” away from a local Stonewood destination, so pairing the two is as easy as could be.

It’s the ultimate date night conundrum: where do we go?

Your options run the gamut, especially living in a place as vibrant, beautiful and culturally rich as the Sunshine State!

Of course, “more options” doesn’t always equate to an easy choice. In fact, sometimes, there are so many choices that you wonder if you’d be better off sticking to something more familiar, more routine…

That’s where we can help. In pursuit of fun, new and exciting ways to enjoy your night out, we’ve put together a list of concerts, shows and events to enjoy in the weeks ahead, wherever you may be in Florida.

The best part? Each of these outings pairs beautifully with a dinner out at Stonewood—so your evening itinerary just got that much clearer!

Just keep reading to find your perfect night out.

Enjoy tunes by the shore

There’s no beating a night out at the Bandshell. This Daytona Beach landmark is steps from the sand, lending an airy, al fresco vibe to your concert experience. There’s always something good playing, and the gentle rolling waves and alluring saltwater scent amplify the appeal in a big way.

So—what’s coming up at the Bandshell? You might have thought its beloved summer concert series was wrapping up for the season, but look again—the tunes will continue all throughout September, including vibrant fireworks displays on select nights!

And with great Stonewood locations nearby—including one right at the heart of Daytona Beach—does it get any better?

A few of our favorite upcoming acts include…

– U.S. Stones, a Rolling Stones tribute band, August 25^th at 7 pm.

– Rocket Man, an Elton John tribute band, September 1^st at 7 pm.

– The Wildflowers, a Tom Petty tribute band, September 21^st at 7 pm.

We forgot to mention the best part: every concert is free admission! There’s no need to splurge to have a great time by the beach.

Sway under a painted sky…

… a Coral Sky, to be exact! We’re talking about the Coral Sky Amphitheatre, and this top outdoor destination is perfect for our friends in the Palm Beach area. Concerts at sunset are the top way to enjoy this unique environment, as you’ll see the sky fade into gorgeous pink, purple and coral as you sway to your favorite band’s music. Country fans especially will enjoy upcoming acts Dierks Bentley and Lady Antebellum, both in September.

Our favorite feature here has to be the casual, laidback environment. There’s no fancy dress code to follow—just lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy the music! Dine before the show at our Wellington Stonewood (just a few minutes from the venue), then relax as the tunes play on. 

Bringing Broadway south

Dinner and a show sounds like the quintessential New York date—and naturally, because in the Big Apple, it’s hard to run out of shows to see or places to eat!

But you don’t actually have to travel to New York, to enjoy the sights, sounds and theatrical flair of a good show. Over at Tampa’s David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (or, as it’s commonly called, The Straz), there’s a mix of intimate musical performances and popular plays pulled right from Broadway, such as the hit musical Chicago which comes to town September 18^th.

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Tampa Palms before the show—and don’t forget to stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, too, where you’ll be able to enjoy gorgeous views and breathtaking art.

Whatever your plans may be, Stonewood is your go-to spot for drinks, dinner and dessert to cap off (or kick start!) your perfect evening. Here’s to you!

If you’ve recently enjoyed lunch at one of our select Stonewood locations, you might have tried one of our favorite dishes: a delicious bowl.

Whether your style is Salmon, BBQ, Southwest Chicken or Poke, you know that these bowls are just the solution for midday fuel-ups… and they’ve got some savory flavors to boot!

The bowl is the perfect container for dishes that can’t help but spill over—that naturally includes soups, but today it’s becoming more and more common to see everything from hearty meat, veggie and grain combos or even smoothies served in this classic piece of kitchenware.

So… what’s the secret to achieving a bowl dish that looks as good as it tastes? Read on for a few key tips!

Start with the right bowl: a combination of style and function

When cooking up a lunch bowl at home, all the magic starts with one thing: the right bowl! There are a few key considerations to keep in mind as you shop, or scour the cupboards for the right piece…

– Size: Consider what you’re cooking up—saucy pasta dishes can benefit from deeper bowls with high sides, keeping all the good stuff inside. Salads and other veggie-based bowls can get away with lower “walls,” but could really use some serious surface area (so choose a larger bowl, or one with a higher diameter). You’re not necessarily eating more food, but uncooked veggies, especially greens, tend to take up some volume, so you’ll want room to dig around.

– Style and durability: Depending on your kitchenware, you’ll probably use a different set of bowls for your dinner party than you do for the kiddos’ meals! Shatter-proof, rough-and-tumble bowls are perfect for casual everyday use. Some even come with a cover, so you can take your meal on the go!

Layer up

Now comes the fun stuff—the actual food!

Crafting the perfect lunch bowl is a process that happens in layers. This is key, since it lets you scoop up all the tasty layers of your meal with every forkful.

First up, your grain base—that will probably be rice, pasta, quinoa, perhaps a five-grain medley like the one you’ll find in our vibrant Salmon Bowl. Since the grains are smaller (and you have more of them), they provide the perfect foundation for lighter ingredients on top.

Next up, your greens—lettuce, spinach, etc.—or any larger pieces that you can create a sort of bed or middle layer with.

Your proteins can rest on top—they’re the star of the show after all! In our Poke Bowl, for example, the vibrant hue of the tuna catches the eye and sparks the appetite.

To cap it all off, you can sprinkle in those smaller ingredients—veggie bits, beans, onions, you get the idea! They add a colorful character to your meal and will fall through the nooks and crannies, filling your bowl with those delightful bursts of texture you crave. Top it off with your cheese, dressing or salsa and enjoy!

Earn some extra points…

You can earn some extra “style points” by adding pizzazz to your bowl. If you have lots of colorful mix-ins, for example, arranging them in a vibrant rainbow pattern is a fun way to brighten things up—and when it comes to silverware, don’t be afraid to swap your fork for a pair of chopsticks for an authentic feel.

We hope that these tips help you craft the perfect bowl! For some inspiration—or just to ease a hearty appetite—be sure to stop by for lunch in Sarasota, Tampa, Brandon or Daytona real soon.

Rich yet delicate, simple yet effortlessly refined. On National Crème Brûlée Day, we’re celebrating all that makes this classic dessert so delightful.

Read up on the history and unique features of this beloved treat before enjoying it on July 27^th (and all the year round!). Take a look.

A European indulgence

Most might assume that crème brûlée is a product of French cuisine—and fairly so, since the name itself means “burnt cream” in the language! But as it turns out, France is only one of several European countries vying for the chance to say they came up with the coveted crème brûlée.

First up, let’s talk about France. With such a respected culinary scene, it makes sense that something as delicious as crème brûlée would come from here—and perhaps it did. The country’s proponents, in the question of crème brûlée, say that it was first introduced in the 1691 cookbook, “Cuisinier royal et bourgeois,” by one François Massialot, a respected chef.

So if crème brûlée was first introduced, formally, by the French more than 300 years ago, why are there still questions as to its identity? The problem lies in the historical penchant for custard, like the one you’ll find under the sugary crust of your crème brûlée. Even if historical custards, enjoyed in medieval times, were not quite the same as the modern crème brûlée, it’s easy to see how several countries could—independently of one another—create quite a similar dish and call it their own.

Take, for example, Crema Catalana, the Spanish take on a quite similar dish. Legend has it that nuns were preparing flan, a traditional Spanish dessert, for a bishop… only to undercook the flan, leading to a custardy consistency, and trying to mend their creation with a touch of sugar on top, which interacted with the heat and created an unusual crust effect. Sound familiar?

Then there is the claim of England’s Trinity College. There, in the late 1800s, the college-branded its school arms onto custard desserts for the students, leading to what is now dubbed Trinity cream, or Trinity burnt cream.

Perhaps the dessert lacks an official identity because, until recent years, no one was rushing to claim it! It was not viewed as a mainstream dessert (at least, not a particularly famous one) until it got the modern treatment and became a favorite in the United States in the 1980s.

Making crème brûlée mainstream

One figure who helped to bring crème brûlée to the mainstream—even before it was a mega-hit among restaurants the world over—was “The French Chef” herself, Julia Child. The avid culinary and cultural figure showed American audiences the art of making a crème brûlée on her TV show, an early predecessor to today’s popular cooking programs. From her program on the subject, we gained a bit more understanding of what a crème brûlée was—and one choice quote, too, “everyone should have a blowtorch in the kitchen,” referencing the tool that’s used to give the crème brûlée its warm, crispy crust.

For her part, Child’s own blowtorch (and her entire kitchen setup) can be seen, on display, at the Smithsonian Museum of American History.

The crème consensus?

When it comes to deciding exactly where the crème brûlée came from, of course, the answer is not nearly as important as the delicious dish itself. Characterized by its custard interior—rich in texture, but warm and familiar in its vanilla flavor—as well as that classic, sugary crust, the “brûlée” to the “crème,” this is a classic treat for a reason.

Craving crème brûlée? Come on in and enjoy it here at Stonewood soon! Ours is a celebration of tradition, paired with a strawberry garnish for an extra touch of sweetness you’re sure to enjoy.

You know Napa Valley, Bordeaux, Champagne and Sonoma—but when it comes to great wine, it’s not just the Northern Hemisphere that has all the fun.

Head Down Under and you’ll find a New Zealand gem that’s truly worth the trip.

Nestled on the island nation is the scenic expanse of Marlborough, a wine country dubbed “the best place in the world to grow Sauvignon Blanc grapes,” according to wine critic George M. Taber. You might know the region via Whitehaven, an area winery that produces one of Stonewood’s most beloved crisp whites.

Of course, it’s the Sauvignon Blanc grown at vineries such as Whitehaven that helps Marlborough stand out—but those grapes are just the beginning of what this gorgeous getaway spot has to offer.

Read on as we explore Whitehaven and the surrounding Marlborough area, as well as one of its most beloved exports. Take a look.

What’s in a grape?

“Sauvignon Blanc” comes from French for “wild white,” referring to the environment in which these famous grapes were first grown. In New Zealand, that rustic tradition continues: Marlborough’s wine is grown in sandy soil, whose unique, localized flavor is helped along by good drainage and proximity to the coast. The region experiences cool weather year-round which provides for long ripening periods—and a fully-developed taste.

Get to know Whitehaven…

Over at Whitehaven specifically, there’s a commitment to furthering the family winemaking tradition—and bringing Marlborough to the world stage of wine. The winery promises “New World techniques and Old World craftsmanship,” a nod to New Zealand’s relative youth in the vinicultural game. Though it may be a newcomer, the country’s certainly not going anywhere—for proof of that, you need look no further than the buzz the wine’s been getting! In March, for example, Whitehaven was named Royal Easter Show 2018 Champion Sauvignon Blanc of Show, the latest of many high praises.

You can come by for a visit to Whitehaven’s Cellar Door to see what the team is all about. Though it may be winter in New Zealand, the action is still on, and not just at the winery…

… and a natural wonder

Here in Marlborough, cool weather is complemented by lots of sunshine—making this time of year a perfect one for bundling up and enjoying the natural vistas for which the region is best-known.

Whitehaven for one is located on the “Golden Trail,” a bike-friendly route for exploring the best of Marlborough. To locals’ and visitors’ delight, there are also many cozy places to catch some downtime in front of a fire, or warmed up by the company of friends—and for those who do crave some time outside, fear not: the weather is cold but rarely blustery, making it easier to enjoy those crisp days al fresco.

Ultimately, one of the greatest must-dos of the region lies in the Marlborough Sounds. The much-raved-about sea valley offers travelers the chance to sail out from New Zealand’s South Island in style—surrounded by the majesty of nature, green, sloping hills scattered about the water. Relax, unwind and embrace it all from the comfort of a guided tour. It’s a natural experience unlike any other and affords the chance to spot some seriously intriguing animals along the way—like the New Zealand King Shag in action.

Ways to enjoy

Can’t wait to explore this remote island expanse? As you count down the days until your Marlborough adventure, start with a sip of its famous Sauvignon Blanc and see what the excitement’s all about.

This wine is especially easy to savor at Stonewood—it’s sure to warm your spirits, and can even be enjoyed at Happy Hour! Whitehaven’s Sauvignon Blanc specifically pairs well with delicious, summer salads (owing to its green aroma), poultry, white fish and lobster. Perhaps pair it with our Lobster Roll or Lobster Cobb Salad, or one of many other delicious complements… yours to discover on your next trip to Stonewood! We look forward to seeing you soon.

Coconut. Orange. Pineapple. Stonewood’s Pain Killer cocktail’s got a taste of the tropics in a glass—just add Papa’s Pilar Rum for an infusion of Florida heritage.

The Papa’s Pilar brand has carved out quite the flagship distillery in Key West, where a breezy “island time” lifestyle seems the perfect match for the pursuit of good craft rum. But it’s more than just a sweet locale that ties Papa’s Pilar to the Sunshine State—in fact, the brand is rooted in the story and spirit of one of the most beloved authors to ever call the Keys “home,” Ernest Hemingway. Read on to learn more about how the folks at Papa’s keep his tradition alive today… and what you can expect from a trip to the distillery this summer.

Old and new

Once you arrive for your weekend in Key West, and approach the destination today known as Papa’s Pilar, you’re greeted by a unique sight: a weathered brick façade, the remnants of the 19^th-century tobacco warehouse into which today’s distillery was built. Appreciation of the “old” is nothing new for Papa’s Pilar, which you may also know as the Hemingway Rum Company. The business is not only a part of the Hemingway family, but a testament to the author’s love for the island of Key West, its waters, and the famous vessel on which he explored them: the Pilar. After buying the boat there in May 1934—then went on to catch a 420-pound marlin off the coast of Cuba that same summer, a similar feat to the one pulled off by the protagonist in Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea.

Homages to the ocean pervade throughout the Papa’s Pilar brand. Step inside and see nautical elements on your tour—like imagery of fish, boats and the sea proudly hung from the walls—and immerse yourself in what’s sure to be a memorable experience.

Exploring the ol’ stomping grounds

Stepping into Papa’s Pilar, or the Key West streets that surround it—swirled in vivid, dreamy hues every sunset—is like a trip through history. You’ll be able to explore the stomping grounds of Ernest Hemingway, the nooks and crannies of the island including his now-famous Hemingway House where we scribed To Have and to Have Not.

If you’ve been searching for inspiration—either in the form of a painted Key West sunset or a delicious drink in the heart of paradise—Papa’s Pilar serves as the perfect starting-off point for your adventure.

A one-of-a-kind rum

So let’s explore the thing that makes Papa’s Pilar so special—its rum. The rum you’ll find in our Stonewood Pain Killer is the blonde sort, with ingredients sourced from the Caribbean, Central America and even right here in the Sunshine State. It is made via the column distillation method, whereas its bold counterpart—the dark rum—is made through both pot and column distillation. Each is finished off in a classic Spanish sherry cask. You can see the process in action on a tour of the distillery, offered every hour at the idyllic Simonton Street location.

Once you’ve indulged in the refreshing tropical treat of a Papa’s Pilar Pain Killer at Stonewood, there’s just one thing left to do—head down to the Keys and see the story that goes in every sip.

 

 

Can you hear it? Just as sure as rolling waves or seagulls on the beach, Florida’s lively musical heritage imbues a spirit of sound that can be felt across the state.

You just need to know where to listen!

This summer, why not embark on a musical journey that takes you past some of the state’s most famous musical haunts: the old stomping grounds of esteemed artists, or perhaps the birthplace of a fusion sound that’s uniquely Florida? Read on to see some of our favorite must-do stops along the way.

Gainesville

Florida natives and visitors alike may know Gainesville, primarily, as a college town. But its lively streets are home to more than just student-friendly haunts—in fact, venues throughout the town offer a chance to hear up-and-coming local acts in intimate, laidback settings. It’s a vibrant scene—but Gainesville’s ties to musical history go back even further.

The city is the birthplace of one Tom Petty, the place where the beloved late musician first started dreaming of a future in rock and roll. His humble beginnings (which included grounds work at the University of Florida) gave way to the start of his career and a little band by the name of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, from whom we got such hits as “American Girl” and “Mary Jane’s Last Dance.” To get a feel for the scope of Gainesville’s love for their most famous musician is not difficult: Following news of his passing last October, University of Florida students sang out a poignant take of Petty’s beloved I Won’t Back Down during a football game. To walk through the streets of this surprising musical haven is to truly walk the path of a rock-and-roll legend.

Miami

Heading down to the shores of Miami—an effortless medley of big-city fun and natural beach escapes—is another musical journey worth embarking on this summer. The Magic City is home to a booming sound, found in the fast, swinging sound of bongo-led bands at Cuban cafes. Coming during yearly festivals like Calle Ocho is sure to deliver a healthy dose of Latin music, but all you really need to do is visit here to hear it. The city’s inspired artists from Gloria Estefan (of Miami Sound Machine fame) to Pitbull and beyond. A love for music adds to the fabric of this ever-lively city, a worthy destination for travelers of every type and musical preference.

Florida Keys

As we round out our musical journey, we arrive in the Florida Keys—most especially Key West, the breezy town that’s long been a favorite of island-style musicians like Jimmy Buffett who, before developing his classic “trop rock” or tropical rock sound made famous by “Margaritaville,” sailed around the island as a first mate on the Petticoat III. Here, you can see the gorgeous vistas and experience the relaxing mentality that inspired Buffett and similar artists to write their breezy, laidback tunes (with infusions of tropical calypso throughout) that today serve as anthems for the island-time lifestyle. As Buffett famously sang, “it’s five o’clock somewhere,” after all!

We hope that today’s musical journey helps you discover new sights and sounds all across the state. Head home with a fresh playlist for your summertime gatherings, a newfound knack for the bongos, or perhaps a passion for the bright, vibrant Calypso sound. It’s all part of Florida’s lush cultural landscape.