Man Cave Happy Hour

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Pouring the Perfect Pint: Inside Gus O'Connor's and Gus's Snug.

Raise a proper pint as we celebrate our 200th episode at Gus's Snug in downtown Clawson, Michigan! This milestone deserves something special, and our guest Dimitry Goyfman delivers with his fascinating journey from Moscow to becoming one of Michigan's premier Irish pub proprietors.
Born in Russia and fluent in the language, Dimitry shares how he accidentally stumbled into the hospitality industry after an unemployment office visit led him to Ruby Tuesday's. His natural talent for making people happy eventually brought him to Gus O'Connor's in Rochester, where he worked his way up to become part-owner before opening the second location, Gus's Snug, in Clawson.
What makes an Irish pub truly authentic? For Dimitry, it required firsthand research in Ireland, where he discovered that beyond the decor, real Irish pubs embody community, camaraderie, and genuine hospitality. We explore the fascinating history behind "the snug" – those semi-private spaces originally created so women and clergy could drink discreetly, away from the main bar area where men gathered.
The conversation flows like a perfect Guinness pour as we discuss the meticulous art of serving a proper 20-ounce pint, complete with shamrock foam art. Dimitry reveals why cleaning lines every three weeks makes all the difference and explains why Irish cider tastes better over ice. The menu at both establishments honors traditional Irish dishes like boxties, shepherd's pie, and scotch eggs while supporting local Michigan suppliers.
As St. Patrick's Day approaches, Dimitry shares what makes their celebrations special, from the 7am openings with free Irish breakfasts to the beloved "blessing of the pint" ceremony. Our blind Irish whiskey tasting reveals surprising preferences, and we're treated to the story behind Dimitry's unique Tullamore Dew blend, custom-created during a distillery tour in Ireland.
Pour yourself something smooth and join us for this landmark episode celebrating 200 conversations about spirits, community, and the stories that bring us together. Sláinte!

https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

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Raise a glass and journey with us through the captivating wine regions of northwestern Spain as we explore the distinctive character of Spanish wines while previewing an upcoming adventure to this remarkable destination.
Our conversation uncorks with a lively tasting of traditional Spanish Cava, that crisp, refreshing alternative to Champagne that sets the stage perfectly for our vinous exploration. We delve into the heart of Rias Baixas, where the Albariño grape reigns supreme, producing wines of remarkable brightness and minerality that capture the essence of this Atlantic-influenced region.
The tasting progresses through varying expressions from Gran Bazán winery, showcasing how the same grape can yield dramatically different results when handled with different techniques. From the lighter Verde bottling to the slightly creamier Ámbar expression, these wines reveal the versatility that makes Spanish whites so compelling. As we transition to reds, we discover the surprising elegance and approachability of northwestern Spanish red blends that challenge preconceptions about Spanish wine styles.
Between sips, Mrs. Vino shares details about her upcoming wine tour through this captivating region - a November journey featuring six distinctive wineries, including historic estates dating back to the 12th century. Picture cruising along the Sil River with vineyards cascading dramatically down hillsides, exploring the pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela, and enjoying the region's renowned cuisine that pairs so perfectly with local wines.
Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or simply wine-curious, this episode offers a taste of authentic Spanish wine culture that extends far beyond the bottle. The interplay of history, geography, and tradition creates wines of remarkable character at surprisingly accessible price points. Discover why this often-overlooked region deserves your attention, and perhaps consider joining Mrs. Vino for an unforgettable Spanish wine adventure this November. Find all the details at MrsVino.com/Spain.

https://mrsvino.com/

https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

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Have you ever wondered if smoking cocktails is more than just a bar trick? Join us for a spirited chat in the Man Cave Happy Hour, where Jamie Flanagan, sharing laughs and lively discussions alongside my co-hosts August Gitschlag and Matt Fox. We take on the smoky cocktail debate head-on, questioning whether this trend is a genuine flavor enhancer or simply a gimmick, akin to those party store signs claiming bourbon is cheaper than divorce. With humor and camaraderie, we regale you with stories from our dabbling in home smoker kits and the art of pairing whiskey and cigars.
We dive deep into the smoky world, unraveling the intricate process of creating smoked cocktails with wood chips and butane torches—it's not as easy as it seems! As we muddle through finger-stirring techniques and the occasional butane mishap, our banter never wavers. From smoky old-fashioneds to the quirky nuances of various wood chips like cherry and pecan, our quest for cocktail perfection is filled with fun tales and unexpected revelations. You might even discover why electing a new Pope came into play as we explored the theatrics of smoke.
Finally, prepare for some lighthearted musings as we chat about everything from glamping to the curious magic of smoke lingering in glassware. Our conversations take whimsical turns, from playful debates about the olfactory senses to the joys of smoky cocktails in winter and beyond. With local flavors and personal anecdotes, we keep the laughs coming and the stories rolling, promising a cozy listen that captures the essence of smoky cocktails and the joy of sharing them with friends.

https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

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Can we really trust award shows to reflect true talent, or have they become just a spectacle of celebrity antics and bizarre fashion choices? Join us at the Man Cave Happy Hour as Jamie Flanagan, August Gitschlag, and Matt Fox with Mrs. Vino Kristen Carlson challenge the relevance of pop culture phenomena like the Grammys, with a special focus on notorious figures like Kanye West and fashion daredevils like Jaden Smith. We couldn't resist a nostalgic trip down memory lane to recall Will Smith's glory days before that unforgettable Oscar blunder with Chris Rock. As we gear up for Valentine's Day, we share some chuckle-worthy tales from our own love lives, celebrating the strength of partnerships with a light-hearted flair that keeps the mood cheery and engaging.
When it comes to wining and dining, spontaneity is key! That's why we're all about those hidden gem family restaurants and budget-friendly outings to ballgames or symphonies. Our latest obsession? A delightful rosé from the sustainable South African estate Babylonstoren, paired perfectly with chocolates. We explore the rich flavors and affordable luxury of South African wines, even with those pesky tariffs, and dive into the distinctive taste of Costa Rican cacao, complete with its unique mucilage twist. It's all about savoring quality without breaking the bank, celebrating tradition, and supporting sustainable practices. So grab a glass, some chocolate, and let’s toast to good taste and good times!

https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

Send us a text

https://linktr.ee/ManCaveHappyHour
www.ManCaveHappyHour.com
Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox
Merch www.WearingFunny.com