Finger Lakes’ Stonehurst Brands Releases 1961 Vodka

26 Feb 2014 --- Made with soft white wheat grown in the Finger Lakes, the ultra-premium vodka is being touted as a vodka with “a classic taste.” The idea was sparked at a party at which five Finger Lakes friends were discussing artificial flavorings that now are popular in vodkas, said one of the partners, Lisa Ginther.

The name honors what partner Chris Parsons calls a “classic era.”

“1961 was a single year, but in a way, it was an era all its own. It was a simpler time, with classic tastes,” Parsons said in a news release. “Many historic milestones were met in 1961: the homerun race between Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris, the first American in space, Kennedy being elected president. The legendary entertainers of the time were Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley. Having our brand represent this classic era is the perfect fit.”

A one-liter bottle sells for $26.99 to $29.99, and is at retail outlets throughout the the Finger Lakes. It is also being served at restaurants, including Restaurant 2Vine, Chakara Bistro & Bar in Perinton, Rick’s Prime Rib House in Gates and Belhurst Castle in Geneva.