The Food and Drug Administration today notified nearly 30 manufacturers of caffeinated alcoholic beverages that it intends to look into the safety and legality of their products.

"The increasing popularity of consumption of caffeinated alcoholic beverages by college students and reports of potential health and safety issues necessitates that we look seriously at the scientific evidence as soon as possible," said Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, principal deputy commissioner of food and drugs.

Of the combined use of caffeine and alcohol among U.S. college students in the few studies on this topic, the prevalence was as high as 26 percent.

Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, a substance added intentionally to food (such as caffeine in alcoholic beverages) is deemed "unsafe" and is unlawful unless its particular use has been approved by FDA regulation, the substance is subject to a prior sanction, or the substance is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). FDA has not approved the use of caffeine in alcoholic beverages and thus such beverages can be lawfully marketed only if their use is subject to a prior sanction or is GRAS. For a substance to be GRAS, there must be evidence of its safety at the levels used and a basis to conclude that this evidence is generally known and accepted by qualified experts.

Though it's made from the whole coffee fruit, the newest functional beverage from SoZo Global, LLC isn't coffee. It's a unique drink jammed with antioxidants and nutrients that offer a way to live a healthier life--and it tastes good.

A 3-oz. serving of the beverage contains over 10,000 ORAC units, the antioxidant equivalent of approximately 20 servings of fruits and vegetables.

"SoZo contains a cornucopia of nutrition that has raised the bar in functional beverages," said Larry Cantrell, chairman and CEO. "In terms of antioxidant power, CoffeeBerry is what fresh blueberries would like to be. There's just nothing else like it in the marketplace."

CoffeeBerry - the whole coffee fruit - is the proprietary ingredient in SoZo that sets it apart from all other nutritional drinks. Long considered a throw-away by-product in the coffee industry, the nutrient-laden, protective coffee fruit surrounds the coffee bean, similar to the meaty cherry around the cherry pit. For centuries, coffee fruit was discarded while the bean was kept and roasted. The coffee fruit broke down and became rancid within a day of harvesting.

Sarpes Beverages today announced the New York City launch of Dream Water and the Dream Water shot through a retail partnership with the iconic drug store chain Duane Reade. Dream Water products are now available at Duane Reade locations throughout New York City and the five boroughs, including Herald Square and Water Street.

Dream Water's sleep and relaxation beverages taste great, have zero calories, no preservatives and feature a proprietary formula of time-tested, all-natural active ingredients to help consumers relax and fall asleep, including GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) to help one relax, Melatonin to help induce sleep, and 5-htp (Tryptophan) to help improve the quality of sleep. It is recommended one drink Dream Water about 20 to 40 minutes prior to desired sleep time or a long airplane flight.

"Duane Reade prides itself on supporting the launch of innovative products that clearly fulfill the needs of our customers," said Joe Magnacca, SVP and chief merchandising officer of Duane Reade. "Dream Water is just such a product and we welcome them to our stores, just in time for the busy and hectic holiday season when New Yorkers arguably need a good night's sleep more than any other time of year."

Duane Reade now carries the Dream Water shot size (2.5 oz.), a zero-calorie drink featuring the crisp, light flavors of "Lullaby Lemon w/ hints of tea" and "Snoozeberry," a combination of blueberry and pomegranate. They retail for $2.99 per shot. In January the stores will also carry the 8 oz. Dream Water bottle, featuring the flavors "Lullaby Lemon w/ hints of tea" and "I dream of Kiwi...and Plum." The 8 oz. size is also currently available at www.DrinkDreamWater.com and retails for $2.49 per bottle.

To celebrate the launch, Duane Reade will offer one free Dream Water shot (2.5 oz.) with the purchase of any of Duane Reade's private-label DeLish food products. The promotion, titled "This Holiday season, Have a Good Night's Sleep on Us," runs from Dec. 5 through Dec. 11.

According to a 2006 report by the Institute of Medicine, more than 70 million Americans suffer from sleep issues including, but not limited to, insomnia, sleep apnea and more simple matters like recovering from jet lag. As these numbers continue to rise in correlation with the depressed economy, longer working hours and added stress, Americans are looking for new methods to help them sleep soundly helping make this the perfect time to introduce Dream Water.

After two years of developing a great-tasting, proprietary formula with time-tested, all-natural active ingredients, Dream Water is poised to help these 70 million Americans get a good night's rest, beginning with the notoriously stressed out New Yorker!

"In a time where stress is a contributing factor to increased sleep-related issues, most Americans don't or can't get a full night's rest. Dream Water launches at an important moment to vastly help improve the quality and productivity of our daily lives by facilitating a more meaningful night's sleep," said Adam Platzner, chief marketing officer for Sarpes Beverages. "Duane Reade is a natural retail partner for this product line, as New Yorkers have long relied on the iconic chain for everyday life's products and services for half a century. As a New Yorker myself, it personally means a lot to me to be launching Dream Water in this City and with the support of Duane Reade."

Dream Water products are also available nationwide online at www.DrinkDreamWater.com.

In its ever-continuing quest to provide consumers with the most delicious and nutritious beverages on the planet, Drenchers has improved its all natural 100 percent super juice, Immunity, and Fit 'N Lean Immunity by adding pomegranate juice to make them even tastier than before.

"By adding pomegranate juice to our Immunity beverages, we made two great tasting products even more flavorful while keeping the same important vitamins and nutrients intact," said Chris New, founder, chairman and CEO of NBI Juiceworks, producers and distributors of Drenchers and Sun Shower brand products. "The new and improved pomegranate berry taste is sure to appeal to a wide-range of consumers who are looking for delicious and nutritious beverages that are also immune system enhancers."

Each 12 and 64-ounce bottle of pomegranate berry flavored Immunity super juice is all-natural and contains Bodyguard, a fortification package of 25-plus essential vitamins, nutrients, amino acids, electrolytes and herbs. Each eight ounce serving of Immunity has only 120 calories and contains two servings of fruit and vegetables.

Skinny Nutritional Corp. the maker of Skinny Water and a leader in the zero-calorie enhanced water category, announced today that Bay Area Distributing Company, Energy Source Distribution, GBL Distributing Company, Morris Beverage Distributors, and Saccani Distributing Company will now distribute Skinny Water throughout California.

“We are excited to announce a new partnership with Skinny Water. The brand provides us with great opportunity to reach out to many areas and provide customers with a great product. We look forward to working with Skinny Water and getting their product into the trade.”
Covering counties as far north as Sacramento and San Francisco (including surrounding areas) and as far south as Santa Barbara, the addition of these distributors creates a significant opportunity to promote brand awareness and availability in the most populous state in the U.S.* -including being the home to one of the media and fashion capitals of the world, and an increasing health-conscious population.

With many years of combined experience, this newest group of distributors will continue to focus their efforts on introducing Skinny Water to their current accounts as well as establishing new relationships with outlets including supermarkets, convenience stores, health facilities, and spas.

Ron Morris, President of Morris Distributing, based in San Francisco, CA states “We are excited to announce a new partnership with Skinny Water. The brand provides us with great opportunity to reach out to many areas and provide customers with a great product. We look forward to working with Skinny Water and getting their product into the trade.”

The Skinny Water® lineup features six great-tasting flavors, including Acai Grape Blueberry (Hi-Energy), Raspberry Pomegranate (Crave Control), Goji Fruit Punch (Shape), Lemonade Passionfruit (Total-V), Peach Mango Mandarin (XXX-Detox), and Orange Cranberry Tangerine (Wake Up). Every bottle of Skinny Water® has calcium, potassium, and EGCG and has zero calories, sugar, sodium, no preservatives, with all natural colors and flavors.

AquaHydrate, the first high performance sports water , today announced a webcast with Jamie Eason, one of the top models and spokeswomen in the fitness industry and former "World's Fittest Model." The topic for the webcast, which will be held Thursday, February 25, 2010, at 11:00 am Pacific will be "Recommitting to your New Year's fitness resolutions." To view the webcast and record your video comments, go to http://www.ustream.tv/channel/aquahydrate.

Twitter users who would like to submit questions for consideration can send them in advance to @aquahydrate with the hashtag #askjamie. Questions may also be submitted through AquaHydrate's Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/aquahydrate

You can also win a free tote bag and bottle of water from AquaHydrate water by going to: http://www.aquagenus.com/campaign/jamie/

Eason, who has joined the AquaHydrate team as a hydration evangelist, is a former NFL cheerleader, fitness competitor and female face of industry-leading website, Bodybuilding.com. Now working exclusively with Oxygen Magazine, Eason is a passionate promoter of the value of a healthy lifestyle, exercise and nutrition.

"By the beginning of February, many people are already struggling to keep their New Year's fitness resolutions," says Eason. "The purpose of my webcast is to give them a boost by sharing some of my top tips with them, and to give them a little extra motivation."

"One of the most essential elements of fitness and nutrition is proper hydration," Eason said. "That's why I'm happy to be doing this webcast with AquaHydrate. As a fitness model and educator, I have to think about every aspect of my nutrition, and what I choose to hydrate my body with is AquaHydrate. With such a demanding training and travel schedule, I rely on AquaHydrate to stay hydrated and functioning at my peak."

"We're thrilled to have Jamie on our team," says Richard Berry, CEO of AquaHydrate. "She perfectly exemplifies the healthy values that we promote with our water – which is designed from the ground up for optimal hydration, sports performance, focus, and recovery.

Sarpes Beverages today announced the availability of its innovative, first-of-its-kind sleep and relaxation water at New York City locations of GNC. GNC, a leading global specialty retailer of nutritional products, will carry the 2.5 oz.-size bottle of Dream Water in its two flavors, "Snoozeberry" and "Lullaby Lemon w/ Hints of Tea."

Dream Water is a zero-calorie, great-tasting drink with time-tested, all-natural active ingredients to help consumers relax and fall asleep, including GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) to help one relax, Melatonin to help induce sleep, and 5-htp (Tryptophan) to help improve the quality of sleep. The 2.5 oz. bottle, which is perfect for long plane rides as well as every-night sleep, will retail for $2.99 at GNC's New York City locations.

"We are thrilled GNC, the preeminent name in nutritional products, recognized the value Dream Water can provide to the more than 70 million Americans suffering from sleep-related issues, especially the very busy New York City consumer," said Adam Platzner, chief marketing officer for Sarpes Beverages. "We set out to develop a product which could help the millions lying awake at night across the country who are looking for an alternative to traditional sleep aides. Our product not only helps solve this problem, it is delivered in a zero-calorie, great tasting water that can seamlessly meld into many people's nighttime habits."

GNC stores in New York City will carry the Dream Water shots, with plans to roll out the line to additional regions in the near future.

"Our customers have long used natural remedies to fall asleep, but never have they been able to find them in such an easily digestible and fast-working water formula. We believe Dream Water will effectively fill a critical need in their lives, helping to put an end to sleepless nights," said Tom Dowd, executive vice president at GNC. "Dream Water is an innovative product and is a reflection of the type of products we strive to deliver to our customers every day and night."

The line also includes 8 oz. bottles, featuring "Lullaby Lemon w/ hints of tea" and "I dream of Kiwi...and Plum" flavors. They retail for $2.49 per bottle or $30 for a 12-pack nationwide at DrinkDreamWater.com. The products are also available at New York City-based Duane Reade locations

Just in time for spring, Lufthansa guests travelling through Munich are in for a Bavarian first: status customers and Business Class guests can, for the first time, relax in a Lufthansa lounge featuring its own beer garden. In cooperation with Munich's Franziskaner brewery, Lufthansa passengers will enjoy draught beer tapped from the barrel and Bavarian pretzels while relaxing at traditional beer tables overlooking the scenic, Bavarian Alps. The beer garden is integrated in the refurbished Business Lounge in the Schengen departures area (Gate Area G, opposite G 28) of Terminal 2. Covering a total floor space of 11,840 square feet (1,100 square meters), the lounge is equipped with more than 300 seats and has new opportunities for passengers to work, or simply unwind and relax.

I was a long time Diet Coke addict despite warnings from friends in the health and fitness industry that it was destroying my bones. Despite hearing that if I would just quit the syrupy heaven in a bottle, I could potentially lose 10 pounds. Despite the fact that drinking soda rendered me no benefits at all. It was only 3 years ago when I really began monitoring my health, that I decided to give it up for good. So how is soda trying to win back the hearts and minds of their lost long time loyalists like me?

Simply put: position itself as good for you.

In the continued action of fighting childhood obesity, lawmakers seem to be following suit to impose a soda tax for those sugary beverages we love to consume. While the tax is aimed at the beverage companies, there is no doubt that the higher price will be passed onto the consumer. Will this sway consumers to purchase diet sodas and beverages that will escape the tax? Or will consumers continue purchasing their favorite soft drinks despite it?

Here are some PR tips for the soft drink companies to keep their consumers drinking:

Do you secretly dream of having a body like your favorite celebrity? If you want to have a figure that screams "I belong in Hollywood!" then your best bet is to try the Hollywood Diet. The Hollywood Diet is a detox system that defies all odds. Dubbed the "miracle diet," this system can help you lose as many as five pounds in as little as twenty-four hours. Although proven to not be a permanent fix, it is the best solution for shredding those stubborn pounds just in time for your big event.

The Hollywood Diet is not your typical meal system. Instead, you have two options: cookies or detox body cleanse. In order to restrict you from taking in unnecessary calories, eating four cookies replaces your usual breakfast and lunch. The cookies provide enough vitamins, minerals and fiber to leave you feeling satisfied for a longer period of time. The detox drinks, however, are what The Hollywood Diet is most known for. The detox substances are concentrated and after adding it to a bottle of water, simply sip the beverage over a period of four hours. Combined with the cookies, you expect to achieve optimum results, which could be up to ten pounds during a 48-hour period.

Although most consider the product to be quite pricey, The Hollywood Diet has proven to live up to expectations. Would you be willing to try it? Learn more at www.HollywoodDiet.com.

One of the most traditional weight loss and dieting tools used has been none other than meal replacements such as food and weight loss shakes from Slim Fast. Started in 1977, Slim Fast is now sold across the world, including countries in Latin America and Europe. The Slim Fast plan initially began with one option, the shake, but it has eventually expanded to fit the goals and lifestyle of anyone looking to lose weight.

Remaining loyal to its humble beginnings, Slim Fast has not ventured far beyond their classic shakes. Today, you can buy the shakes in several different flavors, some of which are Strawberries N' Cream, French Vanilla and Cappuccino Delight. Not only can you buy them already made, but you can whip up a fresh shake at any time with the shake mixes. In an effort to satisfy their customers with more healthy alternatives, Slim Fast has also extended snack bars and meal bars to their line.

It seems as if all of us have too much that needs to be done. As a result, pick-me-ups, such as coffee or caffeinated sodas have become a staple to get us through our never-ending days or long nights. Over the past decade, energy drinks have quickly become the go-to drink for anyone in need of fighting off drowsiness. FRS is a fairly new energy drink that provides the boost you need to go the extra mile; figuratively AND literally.

It seems as if all of us have too much that needs to be done. As a result, pick-me-ups, such as coffee or caffeinated sodas have become a staple to get us through our never-ending days or long nights. Over the past decade, energy drinks have quickly become the go-to drink for anyone in need of fighting off drowsiness. FRS is a fairly new energy drink that provides the boost you need to go the extra mile; figuratively AND literally.

It seems as if all of us have too much that needs to be done. As a result, pick-me-ups, such as coffee or caffeinated sodas have become a staple to get us through our never-ending days or long nights. Over the past decade, energy drinks have quickly become the go-to drink for anyone in need of fighting off drowsiness. FRS is a fairly new energy drink that provides the boost you need to go the extra mile; figuratively AND literally.

It seems as if all of us have too much that needs to be done. As a result, pick-me-ups, such as coffee or caffeinated sodas have become a staple to get us through our never-ending days or long nights. Over the past decade, energy drinks have quickly become the go-to drink for anyone in need of fighting off drowsiness. FRS is a fairly new energy drink that provides the boost you need to go the extra mile; figuratively AND literally.

It seems as if all of us have too much that needs to be done. As a result, pick-me-ups, such as coffee or caffeinated sodas have become a staple to get us through our never-ending days or long nights. Over the past decade, energy drinks have quickly become the go-to drink for anyone in need of fighting off drowsiness. FRS is a fairly new energy drink that provides the boost you need to go the extra mile; figuratively AND literally.

It seems as if all of us have too much that needs to be done. As a result, pick-me-ups, such as coffee or caffeinated sodas have become a staple to get us through our never-ending days or long nights. Over the past decade, energy drinks have quickly become the go-to drink for anyone in need of fighting off drowsiness. FRS is a fairly new energy drink that provides the boost you need to go the extra mile; figuratively AND literally.

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

There's a brand new recovery drink in the fitness and beverage market that is designed to revive your body unlike other drinks in the same category. Code Blue, taken from the hospital term which means "resuscitate immediately," is an all natural drink targeted for consumption before, during and after stressful activities (i.e. exercise, a night out and frequent traveling.) Code Blue is only 40 calories, 9 grams of sugar and 10 grams of carbs and is free of preservatives and artificial colors. It not only has more electrolytes than most sports drinks, but provides you with the right amount of vitamins and minerals to help you recover quickly, as well as keep you hydrated and balanced.

Here's what's in it:

If you want to give your body a truly healthful and prolonged boost, than FRS is your answer. FRS stands for Free Radical Scavenger and is fueled by quercetin, a powerful antioxidant typically found in fruits. It naturally triggers your body to produce more natural energy and supports your overall health. You would need to eat 40 apples in one sitting to get the same healthful amount of quercetin from one bottle of FRS.

Harvest is complete, the wines are barrel-aging in caves and cellars, and the Napa Valley settles into its favorite winter coat – but visions of the frozen, snow-piled vistas that many traditionally equate with the vernal months don't belong here.  Instead, rows of gnarled dormant vines juxtapose with the brilliant colors of yellow mustard blooms, purple lupine, crimson clover, and emerald-green native grasses carpeting misty hills – indicating that it's officially Cabernet Season in the Napa Valley.

From late Fall through March, guests and locals enjoy a different side of the Napa Valley.  It's a time to slow the pace and revel in all of her natural beauty, from the rolling hills of the southern Carneros region, to the northernmost craggy-mountain palisades beyond Calistoga.  Intermittent seasonal rains that swell creeks and deliver much-needed moisture to replenish the vineyards yield to spectacularly clear and warm sunny days that stir the soul – proof that it's paradise.

"The Napa Valley is so colorful this time of year that it's a misnomer to call it 'winter,'" explained Clay Gregory, CEO of the Napa Valley Destination Council.  "The cooler weather inspires our local chefs to cook heartier foods, making it the best time to drink the great red wines from our region.  And since Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of red wines in the Napa Valley, it's really more appropriate to call this 'Cabernet Season.'  There's no better time to savor incredible food and wine pairings prepared by one of the many culinary talents at restaurants spread throughout the Valley," Gregory added.

Special offers from the Valley's gracious lodging establishments and spas – where the fireplace rivals the pool as the must-have amenity – entice guests to stay longer and experience more of the boundless activities available to lovers of all things related to wine, food, arts and wellness.  

Snapple packed its bags for a nonstop journey to India to launch its newest limited-edition tea, Snapple Papaya Mango Tea, coinciding with "The Amazing Race" pitstop in India during last night's broadcast.  The newest Snapple tea is a blend of healthy green tea, tasty black tea and the exotic flavors of papaya and mango.  Inspired by a region in India that is steeped in rich tea tradition which traces back over 2,000 years, Snapple Papaya Mango Tea is now available in regular and diet versions at participating retailers nationwide.

The new Snapple Papaya Mango Tea was unveiled during last night's episode of "The Amazing Race" where contestants participated in a traditional tea tasting of amazing proportions.  Teams began their journey in Kunming, China and traveled along the ancient tea trading route to Kolkata, India where they collected ingredients that would combine for the perfect tea blend. Snapple was highlighted within the episode and the new tea was unveiled on the mat when host Phil Keoghan presented the prize package to the first place team. 

How often do you eat your recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake? If your diet is anything like mine, not very often at all. According to the notorious food pyramid, we should be eating at least 3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruits a day. As great as carrots and apples can be, not all of us are munching on them as frequently as we should be.

Well that can all end now because of Kristine Miles' upcoming book, The Green Smoothie Bible. In her book she has over 300 different recipes of green smoothies that are loaded with vegetables and fruits that exceed the daily recommended amounts. The green smoothie diet has been all the rage the last few years because of it's ability to pack in great amount of leafy veggies and fruits that are imperative to our diets. Why in the form of a smoothie? It's quick, tasty and all around more fulfilling than sitting around eating celery sticks all day.

Now you don’t have to guess and speculate about the vitamins your body needs. Nature’s Code, promoted by Dr. Edward Taub and Dr. James Rouse, is a wellness brand that produces vitamins and supplements to suit different health needs. Dr. James Rouse has had many years of experience in the health field including being a naturopathic doctor, QVC wellness doctor, a certified yoga instructor, wellness magazine founder, author, radio talk show host, and television personality. He believes that if people adopt a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, diet supplements, positive thoughts, and exercise they can achieve optimum wellness.

Nature’s Code has supplements for various needs including bone support, cognitive support, digestive support, energy support, general health, to name a few. Nature’s Code really tried to meet every need and even produces vitamins in pill and liquid form to suit different preferences. This brand also produces healthy and delicious juice drinks and nutrition bars.

In 2010, ĔDJ was launched in Vancouver, BC, where it gained a solid foothold with urban professionals, the health-conscious and proactive seniors. Based on that success, ĔDJ is now expanding distribution throughout the US and Canada.

“On par with antioxidants and probiotics, foods and beverages that can naturally boost the birth of new brain cells are becoming one of the next major nutraceutical trends, since there is a strong body of science supporting the claims. We are very proud that ĔDJ was the first ‘neurogenesis nutrition’ product on the market, and as we enter into this new phase of expansion, ĔDJ will continue to be the vanguard of this rapidly emerging trend” explains Randall Volberg, Founder and CEO of Aquaceutica.

Initially targeting on-premise consumption and grocery channels, ĔDJ is bottled in a single-serving 375ml (12.7 ounce) ocean/landfill biodegradable bottle which retails for approximately $1.99. Using natural extracts, five flavors are offered: pink grapefruit, lemon, key lime, coconut, and cucumber-mint. Lightly sparkling with no sweeteners, ĔDJ is a zero-calorie, all natural beverage.

Since opening the first café in 2003, Argo Tea has grown to an emerging store portfolio that includes 20 successful locations in Chicago, New York and St. Louis. The newest café located in Chelsea at 275 7th Ave. marks the company’s fifth entry into the New York market in slightly over one year. The Chelsea café joins the 4 other successful Manhattan Argo Tea locations in the Flatiron Building, NYU’s Langone Medical Center, Columbus Circle and Union Square.

Recognized in a 2007 New York Times feature article as a "distinctive brand that has captured the palate of young professionals," Argo Tea’s offerings include all natural tea-based signature drinks, over 30 varieties of loose leaf teas, fair-trade organic coffee, fresh-baked pastries, specialty foods, and a selection of teaware and accessories. The signature drink menu features healthy and unique options such Maté Laté with earthy maté, almond and milk, Green Tea Ginger Twist with Japanese green tea and ginger root, MojiTea with cool mint tea and lime juice as well as many others. The food menu features a wide assortment of freshly baked gourmet pastries, French quiches, and a SpecialTea Foods made with tea-infused ingredients such Teanie Panini, Tea Bites and wholesome Teapot Grains. Argo Tea’s ready-to-drink bottled beverages can also be found outside the cafés, in the finest grocery retailers across the across the country.

Constellation Wines U.S. (CWUS) introduces Simply Naked, the nation's first complete lineup of unoaked wines. Simply Naked's portfolio is unique due to 100 percent stainless steel aging, which allows the true varietal character to be fully expressed without the influence of oak barrels. The Simply Naked inaugural collection includes the 2010 vintages of Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, all at a suggested retail price of $9.99 and available nationwide starting June 2011.

Tea Forte, the global luxury tea company, announced today the introduction of their new line of Skin-Smart Teas. The product launch becomes part of the 'beauty from within' ingestible trend which is the hottest growth segment in the estimated $45 billion dollar beauty business.

"Our skin's appearance is affected by numerous factors, including UV exposure from the sun, natural aging, diet, daily stress, hormones and heredity," said the company's Chief Brand Officer, Stuart Avery Gold. "With the knowledge that the most efficacious medicines for solving skin care issues are derived from plant-based  polyphenols and catechins, these delicious, progressive teas are all-natural beneficial blends, which help work to provide skin-smart, anti-inflammatory properties intended to promote a more youthful looking and feeling appearance."

Tea Forte company founder and CEO Peter Hewitt added, "We are excited about Skin-Smart Teas and the holistic approach to beauty they provide. The estimated global market for natural beauty from within products is expected to grow to $2.5 billion by 2012, with polyphenols among the superstars in the skin care channel, we at Tea Forte are proud to be at the forefront of this movement."

The teas come to market on the heels of an April 2011 Journal of Nutrition that reported consumption of green tea compounds help support improvements in women's skin structure.

Tea Forte, the global luxury tea company, announced today the introduction of their new line of Skin-Smart Teas. The product launch becomes part of the 'beauty from within' ingestible trend which is the hottest growth segment in the estimated $45 billion dollar beauty business.

"Our skin's appearance is affected by numerous factors, including UV exposure from the sun, natural aging, diet, daily stress, hormones and heredity," said the company's Chief Brand Officer, Stuart Avery Gold. "With the knowledge that the most efficacious medicines for solving skin care issues are derived from plant-based  polyphenols and catechins, these delicious, progressive teas are all-natural beneficial blends, which help work to provide skin-smart, anti-inflammatory properties intended to promote a more youthful looking and feeling appearance."

Tea Forte company founder and CEO Peter Hewitt added, "We are excited about Skin-Smart Teas and the holistic approach to beauty they provide. The estimated global market for natural beauty from within products is expected to grow to $2.5 billion by 2012, with polyphenols among the superstars in the skin care channel, we at Tea Forte are proud to be at the forefront of this movement."

The teas come to market on the heels of an April 2011 Journal of Nutrition that reported consumption of green tea compounds help support improvements in women's skin structure.

Tea Forte, the global luxury tea company, announced today the introduction of their new line of Skin-Smart Teas. The product launch becomes part of the 'beauty from within' ingestible trend which is the hottest growth segment in the estimated $45 billion dollar beauty business.

"Our skin's appearance is affected by numerous factors, including UV exposure from the sun, natural aging, diet, daily stress, hormones and heredity," said the company's Chief Brand Officer, Stuart Avery Gold. "With the knowledge that the most efficacious medicines for solving skin care issues are derived from plant-based  polyphenols and catechins, these delicious, progressive teas are all-natural beneficial blends, which help work to provide skin-smart, anti-inflammatory properties intended to promote a more youthful looking and feeling appearance."

Tea Forte company founder and CEO Peter Hewitt added, "We are excited about Skin-Smart Teas and the holistic approach to beauty they provide. The estimated global market for natural beauty from within products is expected to grow to $2.5 billion by 2012, with polyphenols among the superstars in the skin care channel, we at Tea Forte are proud to be at the forefront of this movement."

The teas come to market on the heels of an April 2011 Journal of Nutrition that reported consumption of green tea compounds help support improvements in women's skin structure.

As the US economy slowly recovers, the wine industry is regaining its momentum to mark the 17th consecutive year of case gains.  This positive direction is directly attributed to the improving economy and the resulting increase in consumer confidence.  Consumers are beginning to spend again and competition in the marketplace is fierce.  According to the Beverage Information Group's recently released 2011 Wine Handbook, overall wine consumption rose 2.1% to 303.1 million 9-liter cases in 2010.  

The dollar's weaker value has resulted in a good market for exports.  Imports continue to be outpaced by their domestic counterparts.  This trend has been seen over the past several years partially due to currency issues shrinking importers' margins.  Domestics rose 3.0% to 229.4 million cases, and imported wines lost 0.9% to end the year at 73.6 million cases.  In addition, Australian wines were down by 12.5%, and wine imports from Italy have taken the lead.

According to the 2011 Wine Handbook, consumers are slowly returning to dining out.  Total wine dollars grew to $26.9 billion last year with on-premise accounting for 44.1%.  This is a gain of 2.5% from 2009 and a change from the previous two years when the recession directly effected on-premise sales.

"The future of the wine industry looks bright," says Eric Schmidt, Manager of Information Services for the Beverage Information Group based in Norwalk, Conn.  "Overall wine consumption is expected to increase over the next five years to 321.9 million cases."

As the US economy slowly recovers, the wine industry is regaining its momentum to mark the 17th consecutive year of case gains.  This positive direction is directly attributed to the improving economy and the resulting increase in consumer confidence.  Consumers are beginning to spend again and competition in the marketplace is fierce.  According to the Beverage Information Group's recently released 2011 Wine Handbook, overall wine consumption rose 2.1% to 303.1 million 9-liter cases in 2010.  

The dollar's weaker value has resulted in a good market for exports.  Imports continue to be outpaced by their domestic counterparts.  This trend has been seen over the past several years partially due to currency issues shrinking importers' margins.  Domestics rose 3.0% to 229.4 million cases, and imported wines lost 0.9% to end the year at 73.6 million cases.  In addition, Australian wines were down by 12.5%, and wine imports from Italy have taken the lead.

According to the 2011 Wine Handbook, consumers are slowly returning to dining out.  Total wine dollars grew to $26.9 billion last year with on-premise accounting for 44.1%.  This is a gain of 2.5% from 2009 and a change from the previous two years when the recession directly effected on-premise sales.

"The future of the wine industry looks bright," says Eric Schmidt, Manager of Information Services for the Beverage Information Group based in Norwalk, Conn.  "Overall wine consumption is expected to increase over the next five years to 321.9 million cases."

As the US economy slowly recovers, the wine industry is regaining its momentum to mark the 17th consecutive year of case gains.  This positive direction is directly attributed to the improving economy and the resulting increase in consumer confidence.  Consumers are beginning to spend again and competition in the marketplace is fierce.  According to the Beverage Information Group's recently released 2011 Wine Handbook, overall wine consumption rose 2.1% to 303.1 million 9-liter cases in 2010.  

The dollar's weaker value has resulted in a good market for exports.  Imports continue to be outpaced by their domestic counterparts.  This trend has been seen over the past several years partially due to currency issues shrinking importers' margins.  Domestics rose 3.0% to 229.4 million cases, and imported wines lost 0.9% to end the year at 73.6 million cases.  In addition, Australian wines were down by 12.5%, and wine imports from Italy have taken the lead.

According to the 2011 Wine Handbook, consumers are slowly returning to dining out.  Total wine dollars grew to $26.9 billion last year with on-premise accounting for 44.1%.  This is a gain of 2.5% from 2009 and a change from the previous two years when the recession directly effected on-premise sales.

"The future of the wine industry looks bright," says Eric Schmidt, Manager of Information Services for the Beverage Information Group based in Norwalk, Conn.  "Overall wine consumption is expected to increase over the next five years to 321.9 million cases."

As the US economy slowly recovers, the wine industry is regaining its momentum to mark the 17th consecutive year of case gains.  This positive direction is directly attributed to the improving economy and the resulting increase in consumer confidence.  Consumers are beginning to spend again and competition in the marketplace is fierce.  According to the Beverage Information Group's recently released 2011 Wine Handbook, overall wine consumption rose 2.1% to 303.1 million 9-liter cases in 2010.  

The dollar's weaker value has resulted in a good market for exports.  Imports continue to be outpaced by their domestic counterparts.  This trend has been seen over the past several years partially due to currency issues shrinking importers' margins.  Domestics rose 3.0% to 229.4 million cases, and imported wines lost 0.9% to end the year at 73.6 million cases.  In addition, Australian wines were down by 12.5%, and wine imports from Italy have taken the lead.

According to the 2011 Wine Handbook, consumers are slowly returning to dining out.  Total wine dollars grew to $26.9 billion last year with on-premise accounting for 44.1%.  This is a gain of 2.5% from 2009 and a change from the previous two years when the recession directly effected on-premise sales.

"The future of the wine industry looks bright," says Eric Schmidt, Manager of Information Services for the Beverage Information Group based in Norwalk, Conn.  "Overall wine consumption is expected to increase over the next five years to 321.9 million cases."

FRS Healthy Energy is set to kick off the football season and continue its mission to provide healthy alternatives to America's young adults during the seventh annual Kirk Herbstreit National Kickoff Classic, a series of nationally televised high school football games Labor Day weekend.  FRS will sponsor the events with Healthy Energy and Healthy Protein™ drinks on the field in Columbus at Ohio Stadium, home of the Buckeyes, aka "The Shoe," airing on ESPN Networks September 4th and 5th and on September 5th at Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, airing on FSN.

"Each year, the Kirk Herbstreit Kickoff Classic shines a light on the top high school football talent around the nation," noted Carl Sweat, President and CEO, The FRS Company. "FRS is committed to helping these athletes and their families pursue a healthy active lifestyle and we are excited by the positive response to our natural and sustained energy products. Whether we are supporting events like the Kickoff Classic, LIVESTRONG Challenge series, Junior Olympic Volleyball tournaments or mountain bike competitions, FRS offers a natural energy alternative without the crash, jitters or potential health concerns associated with most energy drinks or shots that rely on high levels of sugar or caffeine."  

LifeAID Beverage Company (LifeAID) has announced the launch of GolferAID, an innovative new entry in the functional beverage category. GolferAID contains 2691 Mg of active ingredients in the form of vitamins and supplements targeted at enhancing the array of functions required while playing a round of golf - power, focus, balance, endurance and flexibility.

Today's golfers are more educated, demanding and health conscious than ever before, and the GolferAID team believes their golf drink is at the forefront of the golf fitness movement. Developed by doctors, GolferAID is 100% natural and contains no artificial sweeteners, HFCS, artificial colors, or caffeine. Each 12 oz can contains a mere 45 calories and only nine grams of sugar from its sweetener – organic blue agave.

LifeAID Beverage Company (LifeAID) has announced the launch of GolferAID, an innovative new entry in the functional beverage category. GolferAID contains 2691 Mg of active ingredients in the form of vitamins and supplements targeted at enhancing the array of functions required while playing a round of golf - power, focus, balance, endurance and flexibility.

Today's golfers are more educated, demanding and health conscious than ever before, and the GolferAID team believes their golf drink is at the forefront of the golf fitness movement. Developed by doctors, GolferAID is 100% natural and contains no artificial sweeteners, HFCS, artificial colors, or caffeine. Each 12 oz can contains a mere 45 calories and only nine grams of sugar from its sweetener – organic blue agave.

It's milk dressed up in chocolate: a beverage with the same nine essential nutrients as white milk but with the special flavor children love.  To celebrate a healthier Halloween this season, the California Milk Processor Board (CMPB) – the creator of GOT MILK? – encourages families across the Golden State to make chocolate milk the treat of choice on Oct. 31, instead of doling out high-calorie, fatty treats.  While small pieces of candy may seem harmless at first sight, an average Jack-O-Lantern bucket typically carries about 250 pieces of candy worth 9,000 calories and about three pounds of sugar(1) - hair raising numbers even for adults.  

"Adding chocolate to milk doesn't take away its unique combination of vital nutrients necessary for optimal growth and development," says Ashley Rosales, a registered dietitian with the Dairy Council of California.  "Kids only get nutrients from foods they eat, and giving them chocolate milk is a fun and tasty way to ensure they receive calcium, vitamin D and potassium, which many children lack in their diets."  

GOT MILK?'s healthy Halloween message is just one of its efforts to keep proper nutrition top of mind among families as childhood obesity numbers continue to rise. A study in the April 2008 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association has found that children who drink milk, even flavored milk like chocolate, consume more nutrients and have a healthier diet overall.

It's milk dressed up in chocolate: a beverage with the same nine essential nutrients as white milk but with the special flavor children love.  To celebrate a healthier Halloween this season, the California Milk Processor Board (CMPB) – the creator of GOT MILK? – encourages families across the Golden State to make chocolate milk the treat of choice on Oct. 31, instead of doling out high-calorie, fatty treats.  While small pieces of candy may seem harmless at first sight, an average Jack-O-Lantern bucket typically carries about 250 pieces of candy worth 9,000 calories and about three pounds of sugar(1) - hair raising numbers even for adults.  

"Adding chocolate to milk doesn't take away its unique combination of vital nutrients necessary for optimal growth and development," says Ashley Rosales, a registered dietitian with the Dairy Council of California.  "Kids only get nutrients from foods they eat, and giving them chocolate milk is a fun and tasty way to ensure they receive calcium, vitamin D and potassium, which many children lack in their diets."  

GOT MILK?'s healthy Halloween message is just one of its efforts to keep proper nutrition top of mind among families as childhood obesity numbers continue to rise. A study in the April 2008 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association has found that children who drink milk, even flavored milk like chocolate, consume more nutrients and have a healthier diet overall.

Warm up your winter!  There is nothing akin to bubble baths, candles, and a cup of delicious, yet calming tea at the end of your day to unwind and relax before getting some shut-eye for the night.   I was never too keen on my herbal tea preference until Yogi Tea was brought to my attention.

Although we are no longer infants, we seem to still cling to our child-like ways.  What says relaxation more so than soaking in a hot bath with hot liquid (now tea and no longer milk) running through your inner pipe works?  I cannot contrive a greater scenario. 

Yogi Tea proposes a wide variety of teas with many different, delightful flavors, each while serving a different purpose.  Do you yearn for a tranquil something to sip on?  Or perhaps you want to recharge your batteries in the a.m. and aren’t so partial to coffee.  (Neither am I!) 

Yogi Tea’s innovative, interactive website prompts you to make an initial decision with choosing your tea first by choosing either: mood, flavor or purpose.  By choosing mood, Yogi Tea asks, “how would you like to feel today?”  By choosing flavor, Yogi simply asks, “what flavor would you like to enjoy?”  And lastly, by choosing purpose, “what benefit would you like from your tea?” is asked to further discover your desires. 

Check out Yogi Tea’s colossal, flavorful selection!  Benefit your life or simply your taste buds! Is this your cup of tea?  (No pun intended!)  If you've tried Yogi Tea tweet us @PierceMattiePR.  

Kai Vodka is proud to announce that its Kai Lychee Vodka and Kai Young Coconut Shochu/Soju won Triple Gold medals in the first annual MicroLiquor Spirits Awards. In April 2011, Kai Vodka added four new flavors to its portfolio. In addition to its flagship brands Kai Vodka and Kai Lychee Vodka, consumers can now enjoy the Pan-Asian flavors of Kai Young Coconut Shochu/Soju, Kai Lemongrass Ginger Shochu/Soju, Kai Coconut Pandan Vodka, and Kai Lemongrass Vodka.

The tasting notes from the MicroLiquor judges for Kai Lychee Vodka included, “Flower and syrupy lychee with lemony tang in the background. The mouth feel is creamy and soft showing the aromas as flavor and adding slight vanilla and elegant cocoa. The finish is supple and lingering.”

Not to be outdone, the Kai Young Coconut Shochu/Soju tasting feedback was equally celebratory. “Creamy rice, paraffin and coconut nose. Palate follows exactly but a little sweet. Finish is creamy, soft and clean. Absolutely outstanding. Lovely in every way.”

The MicroLiquor Spirit Awards 2011 attracted a remarkable 207 entries from around the world; a very select 15 percent were recognized with a Triple Gold Medal having earned Gold Medals in both Taste and Packaging & Design. Flowdesign, Modern Distillery Age and Mast Capital Partners sponsored the competition.