The Spectacle: Issue #36
Winter 2024
Introduction
by Andrew Browne
If you’ve been a member of our community for some time, you’ve likely heard me or our team talk about our guiding belief that epic moments are to be celebrated, and how this motto evolved into our collection of Do Epic Shit products. The element of Do Epic Shit that is not as frequently discussed is celebrating the extraordinary in the ordinary.
For me, an important part of that lies in my focus on health and wellness. I have always enjoyed food, but in the last decade, I’ve lived by the words steamed, baked, and grilled while dining out and cooking for my growing family. But in terms of mental well-being, 2024 has brought a shifted perspective. I’ve learned that your mood is your magnet: our feelings and moods shape perceptions and reactions, which can lead to attracting more of what alignswith those emotions. For example, a positive mood may draw positive experiences, while a negative mood might attract challenges or negativity.
For the past four months, our team at Browne Family has kicked off each and every meeting with all attendees answering, “What is good in your life?” Not only did this manifestation of positivity lead us to the biggest month EVER across our tasting rooms, but it allowed us to better understand the intricacies and happenings of each other’s lives. Even outside of the professional setting, this conversation starter has allowed my loved ones and me to share our little and big wins with each other.
As we kick start the journey that is 2025, you’re not alone if you are reflecting on your physical and mental health choices and setting resolutions aimed at improving your well-being. I challenge you to write down your resolutions as a reminder of what you get to do each day – maybe on a bottle of our Do Epic Shit wines and spirits. Please know that my family and I are rooting for you!
Read » “Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity” by Peter Attia, MD
by Andrew Browne
“If you want to find someone’s true age, listen to them. If they talk about the past and all that they’ve done, they’ve gotten old. If they speak about their dreams, their aspirations, and what they’re still looking forward to—they’re young.”
As we jumpstart the new year, many of us are eager to hit the gym and tackle fitness goals head-on. While this is a great start, I encourage you to take a step back and align your approach with the wisdom found in Dr. Peter Attia’s transformative book, Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity.
This isn’t just a guide to fitness—it’s a comprehensive manual for optimizing your health and life. Attia emphasizes the importance of the “Four Pillars” of longevity: exercise, nutrition, sleep, and emotional well-being. These interconnected elements form the foundation of a proactive, holistic approach to health. By focusing on these pillars, you can not only extend your lifespan but also improve your “healthspan,” the years you live with vitality and purpose. This book is more than just a read, it’s an investmentin yourself!
Visit » Phuket, Thailand
by Courtney Browne
More than 10 years ago, before our three children came along, Andrew and I embarked on a "Trip Around the World" shortly after getting married. One of our most unforgettable destinations was Phuket, Thailand. We took a less direct route from Seattle, flying from Sydney to Bangkok to Phuket and staying at the Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort.
It was hard to eventually leave this resort, but with eight on-site restaurants, a stunning private beach with water sports, plus three pools, a spa, a fitness center, golf, tennis, pickleball, and even a kids club, why would anyone want to? We relished getting massages on the beach and were later able to interact with a young elephant that made daily visits to that same spot.
Le Méridien Phuket also offers excursions (think yacht tours and the like) or you can take a tuk tuk into town and visit one of the local markets. We opted for the latter, as these markets offered a glimpse into the Thai culture, where we enjoyed the rich tapestry of food and drink, music, and shopping.
We hope you have the opportunity to visit and unwind in Phuket. If we’re lucky enough to return one day, we hope to take the time to also visit local nearby islands - Phi Phi is on our list!
Taste » Roasted Cauliflower Salad and Herb-Roasted Chicken
by Courtney Browne
For me, a simple meal often revolves around a handful of key ingredients and time in the oven. This roasted cauliflower salad is just that, with easy-to-prep ingredients that can all share one pan. This not only minimizes dishwashing but also maximizes quality time with family. We also like to switch up the herbs and seasonings depending on the season – fresh sage for the fall or a citrus-forward rosemary for the summer.
Roasted Cauliflower Salad withCreamy Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
from Half-Baked Harvest
Directions
Preheat oven to 425° F.
On a large, rimmed baking sheet, combine the cauliflower, chickpeas, olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Toss well to evenly coat. Transfer to the oven and roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and lightly charred.
Meanwhile, in a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumbers, herbs, and chives.
To make the vinaigrette. Combine all ingredients in a glass jar or measuring cup and shake (or whisk) until completely smooth. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper.
Toss the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas in with the salad. Add a little of the vinaigrette and toss to combine. I usually serve it with a side of protein (like Herb-Roasted Chicken) and top it with toasted pumpkin seeds and microgreens.
Ingredients: Salad
1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp. chipotle chili powder
2 tsp. smoked paprika
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper
6 cups mixed greens
2 Persian cucumbers, sliced
Ingredients: Vinaigrette
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 Tbsp. honey
2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
2 Tbsp. tahini
2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
Kosher salt
Herb-Roasted Chicken
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425° F, placing a rack in the lower third of the oven.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings underthe body.
Roast the chicken for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Ingredients
1 whole chicken
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, halved
1 head of garlic, halved
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 bunch fresh rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
Drink » Do Epic Shit Wines & Spirits
The Do Epic Shit collection has solidified its place as a cornerstone of Browne Family Vineyards, embodying the mantra of living boldly and celebrating every milestone, big or small. This tier may have started as tasting room exclusive wines and merchandise, but now has grown into a reflection of Browne's adventurous spirit, with staples like the Paso Robles Red Blend and Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon gaining recognition for their exceptional quality.
Now, the collection is expanding with exciting new wines, including the Do Epic Sh*t Brut, crafted in the American Méthode Champenoise style, and a Sauvignon Blanc debuting later this spring. In addition, spirits like Vanilla Bean Whiskey and Bourbon continue to enhance the portfolio, reinforcing the line as a dynamic and integral part of our offerings at Browne. With this evolution, Do Epic Shit remains a testament to the extraordinary in everyday moments.
Available in Store & Online
These wines and spirits can be found in grocery stores, restaurants, and online but are not available at our tasting rooms.
Do Epic Sh*t Brut, American Méthode Champenoise — New to broad market in 2025! Tart grapefruit and key lime aromas introduce notes of fresh pineapple on the palate. This Sauvignon Blanc finishes bright and clean, with crisp acidity and lingering notes of honey, passionfruit, and guava. Pair with fresh seafood like halibut or oysters, grilled chicken, or pesto pasta salad.
Do Epic Sh*t Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley — New! Tart grapefruit and key lime aromas introduce notes of fresh pineapple on the palate. This Sauvignon Blanc finishes bright and clean, with crisp acidity and lingering notes of honey, passionfruit, and guava. Pair with fresh seafood like halibut or oysters, grilled chicken, or pesto pasta salad.
Do Epic Sh*t Red Blend, Paso Robles Opens with bright aromas of tart raspberry and cherry. On the palate, notes of raspberry, and black berry are complemented by the hints of dark chocolate. This full-bodied wine finishes with dusty tannins that endure for a lingering finish. Pair with bold foods such as a blue cheeseburger, rich vegetable stews, or roast beef. Do Epic Sh*t Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley Aromatics of black fruit and dusty oak lead to flavors of anise, Bing cherry and allspice. This Cabernet Sauvignon is incredibly smooth with round tannins and leaves a fruity finish of red apple, plum and milk chocolate. This easy to approach wine with round tannins pairs well with pork chops, chicken, red meat fish and of course a traditional beef steak.
Do Epic Sh*t Bourbon — New! Sharp and crisp citrus notes of lime zest are complemented by aromas of baking spices, light clove, allspice, and cinnamon, which add layers to the body. The sweetness from vanilla and younger oak blends seamlessly, filling in the gaps.
Do Epic Sh*t Vanilla Bean Whiskey — New!Warm vanilla and burnt sugar aromas with a touch of oak are complimented by rich warmth and smooth vanilla sweetness on the palate. On the finish, a short whiskey bite is followed by lingering, balanced vanilla notes.
Do Epic Sh*t Vodka — New! A clean, smooth profile with delicate hints of sweet grain and a touch of citrus. Crafted from 100% corn.
Tasting Room Exclusives
Do Epic Shit Red Blend, Columbia Valley Aromatics of leather and coffee mingle with flavors of ripe black cherry and black currant. On the palate, this full-bodied wine shows notes of tart cherry, leather, and dusty tannins with a round finish.
Do Epic Shit Reserve Red Blend, Columbia Valley This wine opens with black fruit and sawdust aromatics that lead to ripe black cherry and blueberry notes on the palate. With balanced acid and round tannins, this full-bodied wine finishes clean with lingering flavors of red apple and raspberry.
Do Epic Shit Bourbon Sharp citrus notes of lime zest blend with baking spices like clove, allspice, and cinnamon, layered with a hint of vanilla and young oak. Gentle oak tannins and nutty vanilla flavors coat the palate, leading to a sweet, earthy finish that lingers pleasantly.