The Desmond + DoubleTree = More for Our Customers

Posted on by Kim Mullen

When Julia Davis Chandler published the first recipe for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in 1901, she ended up changing the food landscape forever. The idea was simple: Combine already great ingredients to create something even better. While bread, peanut butter and jam were all commonplace, their combination became a brand-new sensation. Synergy like this is the cornerstone for innovation and newfound excellence.

In the same spirit that Julia Davis Chandler embodied back in 1901, we are pushing forward to offer even more to our customers. How? By taking The Desmond you know and love and joining forces with The DoubleTree by Hilton (and all of the great amenities it adds)!

The spirit and staff of the Desmond will still be hard at work, and we’ll remain family-owned. You will, however, find a lot that’s new (and we think you’ll love all of it!).

So what’s new?

The Space

We’ve always focused on providing a wonderful space for our guests, whether they be travelers, wedding parties or corporate clients. Now we’ve just made it better. We’ve updated our restaurants and guest rooms. From the hallways you’ll walk down to the bathroom and bedding in your room, you’ll notice modern upgrades and a clean, contemporary style.

Our Conference Center remains true to its roots and has also received a brand-new makeover. The dedicated staff — from planners to coordinators — are here to help at our IACC Certified space, and the updated furniture and surroundings establish our mutual evolution with the business world and our clients.

The Menu

Chef Chris Calhoun’s focus on the best ingredients drives the menus for our restaurants year round. We’ve spent years finding the best dairies, farms, fisheries and ranches to bring our guests unparalleled food. Our menus change with the seasons and draw on inspiration from everywhere. Come dine with us and see what’s cooking!

The Perks

When we joined with The DoubleTree by Hilton, we knew we wanted to offer the Hilton Honors membership (offering redeemable points on your stay, special member pricing and digital check-in from any device). Just like putting new tires on a race car brings it to another level, incorporating these perks into our already established hotel adds something small that is actually quite big. After all, points add up, and that means more for you when you stay with us.

We’re growing, because that’s what great businesses do. Sometimes it means growing bigger or changing with the times, and sometimes it means joining forces to create something completely different. Innovation comes in many forms, whether it’s a timeless recipe or two companies coming together. Oh, and don’t forget that in addition to the warm welcome you’ve come to expect at The Desmond, you’ll also get the DoubleTree’s legendary warm cookies.

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: The Desmond

Our Partners: Finest Farms and Freshest Fisheries

Posted on by Kim Mullen

Not everyone has seen a black opal gemstone, but once you do, it’s easy to see why it’s so treasured. It’s a treat for the senses — not to mention extremely hard to find.

In the world of food, we love finding those special gems that bring about a culinary joy you didn’t know could be experienced — and the way that we do it is through relationships. “Try 20 to find 2,” said Executive Chef Chris Calhoun on how to find the best foods from top producers. “More and more options keep popping up every year, so you have to try them all. In addition, many are very seasonal, so time is of the essence.”

By keeping our kitchen’s thumb on the pulse of great farms and fisheries, we’re able to craft a unique menu that excels in quality and seasonality. Check out some of Chef Chris’ top picks on the menu right now:

  • Akaushi Beef: This rare beef comes from HeartBrand Ranch in Flatonia, Texas, and raises cattle with true red Wagyu genetics straight from Japan. The natural marbling found in Wagyu means incredible U.S. prime beef with a buttery flavor. While most Wagyu in the states is crossed with Angus, HeartBrand’s bloodline is undiluted.
  • Nicasio Cheese: “It’s awesome 100 percent organic farmstead cheese,” Chef Chris gushed. Nicasio Valley Cheese is situated just north of San Francisco and has won award after award (including top five in class at the 2014 World Cheese Championship). The same family has been farming the pasture-based Lafranchi Ranch that supplies all the organic milk for Nicasio cheese since 1919. We use a number of varieties in our dishes and continue to be amazed by these adept cheesemakers.
  • Fish from the Portland (Maine) Fish Exchange via Browne Trading Co.: “We’ve been using this supplier for decades. Everyone knows they’re the best,” said Chef Chris. Browne Trading Co., also located in Portland, keeps us stocked with incredibly high-quality round fish, flatfish and shellfish.

We’re always searching for something new, and it shows up in our food. “I purposely try to mix a lot of different basic cooking methods (deep poach, shallow poach, poele, braise) into every menu,” Chef Chris explained. “It’s for variety’s sake and to keep the cooks practicing these techniques.”

That variety lets us show off the amazing foods we procure in novel and interesting ways. A prime example? “The poached beef tenderloin is pretty stellar,” chef Chris noted. We couldn’t agree more! While most people think of grilling or pan-frying, we bring out the best in this cut through unique preparation in our kitchen.

Hungry? Come visit us at one of our restaurants and see what we’re cooking up today. Whether it’s uniquely sweet Kauai shrimp from Hawaii or the coveted seasonal arrival of Subarashii Kudamono pears from right here in Pennsylvania, we always have something delightful to share with you!

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: The Desmond

Great Valley High School Takeover: The Kids are Alright

Posted on , updated on by Kim Mullen

Hands-on experience, on-the-job training, immersion programs — these well-known catchphrases represent the most experiential side of learning. Why are they so easily recognized? Because they work — plain and simple.

What could be better than offering an experience like that to the next up-and-coming generation? Our sentiments exactly! That’s why, for the 24th year in a row, we’re hosting The Desmond Project in collaboration with a select group of Great Valley High School students.

This project is unique and works with high school students from all grades. Each student gets the opportunity to shadow professionals at The Desmond to learn on-the-job skills and interdependent problem-solving techniques. You’ll find them working with marketing, sales, banquet services and even in the kitchen.

This is an accredited course, but students get much more than course credit. They make connections, gain authentic experience and collaborate with others in a real-life work setting. It even empowers students to manage their own dinner banquet from start to finish with guidance from our staff.

All year, these students have also been working to raise funds for charity through volunteer work at events like our Bottoms Up for Prostate Cancer gala. Charities that the funds are donated to include the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the American Red Cross.

The Desmond Project banquet will take place this year on Sunday, April 22. The evening itself will honor high-achieving students and recognize their contributions; it represents the pinnacle of the Desmond Project. Student banquets to date have raised around $350,000 in funds, which contribute to student scholarships. The students lead and orchestrate the banquet as well as the Senior Citizen Holiday Luncheon to raise the money through obtaining sponsorships and advertising from local businesses.

Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders, and we’re proud to support them through this integral learning experience. Not only does The Desmond Project raise money for important causes and organizations, it contributes richly to the community, the students and The Desmond.

 

 

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you — no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: Lauren Liblick and Raphael Worotikan

Renovations Make The Desmond Even Better for You (and Your Business!)

Posted on by Kim Mullen

What’s new? It might sound like small talk, but what’s new can mean big things, too! Here at The Desmond, we have big news about what’s new. We’ll be debuting a brand-new look and name, as The Desmond you know becomes The Desmond Malvern, a DoubleTree by Hilton.

While our spirit and staff will remain the same, our accommodations and amenities will see a plethora of upgrades to better serve all of our guests, starting with DoubleTree’s signature chocolate chip cookie upon check-in. Our name will change just slightly, and our commitment to being the best full-service hotel in Chester County will be stronger than ever.

The Why

Why the switch? In short, we’re always seeking to offer more to our customers. Our extensive renovations will total approximately $5 million when complete. You’ll enjoy the upgrades, including the brand-new:

  • Marble bathroom vanities.
  • Beautiful new carpeting.
  • Furniture, art and decor.
  • Bath products.
  • Tiled showers in suites.
  • Restaurant furniture, lighting, decor and menu.
  • Pub furnishings, menu and lighting.
  • A new made-market for on-the-go items.
  • Brand-new fitness equipment and flooring.
  • Pool tiles and paint and new lounges.

Our front desk registration will have a new look and feel, and even our lobby will be completely redone with new furniture, carpets, paint and a grand chandelier. That means as soon as you walk in the door, you’ll be struck by all the changes we’ve made — and change is good.

Our burgeoning affiliation with DoubleTree by Hilton will help us offer even more, because we’ll have the full support of one of the nation’s leading hotel chains. You know the saying “Go big or go home?” Well, we’re going big so that for however long you stay with us, you’ll always feel like you’re at home.

More for You and Your Business

Some might tell you to keep business and pleasure separate, but what if they just happen at the same time naturally? When you stay with us, you can’t help but be pleased, and all of our changes are making us even more business-friendly than ever. Our renovations will update our:

  • Business center.
  • IACC-approved conference center.
  • Meeting rooms display new carpets, furniture and ergonomic chairs.

So whether you’re staying for business, pleasure or both, you will rest easy knowing we have everything you need to make your stay with us great.

Some Things Stay the Same

Some things are so good that you never want them to change. We’ll still be family-owned, and the same exceptional staff will be here to help you from the first minute of your stay to the last. Quality amenities, amazing service, incredible food and a warmth that you can only find here will continue to be the constant. While we’re changing with the times, we will still remain true to what keeps our guests coming back.

Echoing Our Beginning

Before going independent in 1994, The Desmond actually began as a Hilton. We’ve enjoyed incredible success for 25 years, and are joining forces with Hilton yet again to continue our pursuit of being your go-to hotel in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Look for the official switchover to happen in late spring of this year.

Come see for yourself what’s new and how much more we have to offer! You can make a reservation for your next stay here or call us at 800-575-1776.

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: Greg Ceo Photography Studio

2018 Bottoms Up for Prostate Cancer at The Desmond

Posted on , updated on by Kim Mullen

Bottoms up! Get ready for a rollicking good time in support of a great cause! For the fourth year in a row, we’ll be teaming up with the PA Prostate Cancer Coalition and hosting our Bottoms Up for Prostate Cancer event on Saturday, April 7, from 6 to 10 p.m. This year, we’re keeping it casual — it’s a blue jean gala! Join us for amazing drinks, food and music! Have fun and do good at the same time.

Over the past three years, we’ve raised $30,000 for prostate cancer. Help us make it to our goal of $50,000 this year! Get your tickets here.

Here’s what you can expect:

Make a great night even better: $229 gets you two tickets to the event, a room at The Desmond for the night and Sunday brunch the next day.

What’s the best thing about this event? “It brings awareness and money to prostate cancer awareness, treatment and prevention,” said Dr. Mike of Fox 29, who will be helping host Bottoms Up. “There are two kinds of people on the planet … I like to hang around with the people who contribute, and at the end of their lives can say they made the world a better place by being here. I’m excited that Steve Morrison is going to be the head MC. He is my dearest friend and was my patient.”

So come on out, meet Dr. Mike and Steve and help make the world a better place. Who says you can’t have fun and do something good at the same time?

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: CPS Photography and Design

7 Ways to Wow With a Wonderful Wedding

Posted on by Kim Mullen

Two simple words: I do. When you say I do, it’s something you’ll remember forever.

That “I do” moment is pure magic, and we want every moment of your wedding to be just as magical! While there are a ton of places where you can have your dream wedding, The Desmond is a true one-stop location for everything you deserve on your special day.

Planning a wedding can be a challenge, and nothing beats asking an expert. That’s why we caught up with Alyssa Vanderslice, one of our wedding planners here at The Desmond. She gave us the top seven tips to help you plan your dream wedding:

1. Make it Easy

Choosing a full-service venue like The Desmond and enlisting the help of a wedding planner means less stress and less work. That leaves more room for fun and creativity, so you can truly enjoy the experience.

2. Prioritize

A good rule of thumb? Choose the top three must-haves (food, music, location) and work down from there. Having a clear direction of where you’re going makes decision-making easy.

3. Choose Hospitality

“With my own wedding, it was the people who went the extra step that really made a lasting impression,” Alyssa confides. “When sharing one of the most important days of your life, you want to feel comfortable, connected and know that they will go above and beyond to make your day perfect.”

4. Enjoy the Process

“You only get engaged once,” says Alyssa, so you might as well enjoy it! Tasting cakes, selecting the drink menu and picking out the perfect dress and the perfect room to spend the night can all be a wonderful treat for the senses. Avoid getting wrapped up in the process so you can stay in the moment.

5. Keep it Fun

Small details can make a lasting impression. Create memories with your guests by hosting a welcome reception with drinks, adding an interactive food station at cocktail hour or having an afterparty reception at the Fox and Hounds Pub!

6. Know Your Audience

While it is your day, your guests will be there alongside you to have fun and celebrate. Noting dietary restrictions, as well as being conscious of guests’ needs and expectations, makes for a more magical time for everyone.

7. Remember the Why

When you get married, it’s all about joining hands with your special someone to walk forward in life together. Even if you have to change something at the last moment (things do happen), it helps to keep in mind the love you’re sharing and celebrating.

The only thing better than asking an expert? Working with one! Come see why we’ve been awarded the 2018 Couple’s Choice award from WeddingWire and 2018 Best of Weddings from The Knot! Say yes to The Desmond! Let us make your big day something truly special.

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: Morby Photography

Tempt That Special Someone With Chef Chris’ Valentine’s Day Week

Posted on , updated on by Kim Mullen

Valentine’s Day is the ideal time to indulge the senses. Along with pinks and reds, an array of hearts and a smattering of X’s and O’s, one of the hallmarks of this day for lovers is sumptuous dining. Of course, we’re partial to the latter and can’t wait to share our Valentine’s Day menu specials with you — for an entire week!

Make plans to visit our newly opened Fork & Bottle restaurant now through Feb. 17 and learn why the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. We couldn’t agree more — that’s why we’ve lined up an inspired list of fare (and a signature drink) that will have you and yours swooning. So what’s on the menu?

First off: the Very Berry Valentini. This heart-winning cocktail starts off with Hangar 1 Buddha’s Hand Citron Vodka. Then we add Chambord, a squeeze of fresh lemon, cranberry juice, Grenadine and a strawberry garnish for an irresistible sip.

The end result? A lovely red martini that’s balanced, fruity and extremely pairable. Try its flavors in concert with delectable offerings from chef Chris Calhoun’s kitchen like Italian chestnut soup or warm beef carpaccio (with 25-year-old balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano and shaved cremini mushroom). We’ll also be serving up a variety of dishes featuring prime ingredients from the land and sea.

From the land:

  • Texas akaushi wagyu beef strip loin with port-shallot reduction.
  • Piedmontese flat iron steak with black truffle polenta and grilled artichoke hearts.

From the sea:

  • Chargrilled Spanish octopus tentacle with pistachio pesto, fine herbs, blood orange and olive oil.
  • Sea scallops harvested from Hokkaido, seared with yuzu mousseline and cranberry.
  • Seared Carolina waters wild albacore tuna.
  • Massachusetts shore razor clam chowder with celery root, purple potato and guanciale.

Last but not least, don’t forget dessert! The letter “s” is in dessert twice because you can’t have just one bite (and you might want seconds!). Make reservations between Feb. 13 and Feb. 17 to savor our Valrhona dark chocolate soufflé with pecan praline crème anglaise. It’s made in house, and sure to please.

Reservations are highly recommended to dine with us and celebrate a week of love! Call (610) 269-9800 or make reservations online. It’s always a good time to fall in love with our food.

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed non-smoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free WiFi. Our luxury property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you — no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: The Desmond

Get Happy with Us: Stop by For Happy Hour Sunday Through Thursday

Posted on , updated on by Kim Mullen

Do you need an excuse to be happier? We don’t think so! With all of the responsibilities of modern life, who couldn’t use another way to have fun and enjoy? That’s why we’ve crafted one of Chester County’s most unique happy hours: to give you one more way to improve your week (and one more reason to love us).

Reluctant to start the workweek? Got a case of the Mondays? Whatever the reason, stop by and see what makes our happy hour so … happy!

When and Where

Start early! Our happy hour delights from Sunday to Thursday, 4 to 6 p.m., at the Fox & Hounds Pub.

Food

It’s no secret that our award-winning food is a huge draw. Did you know you get 20 percent off pub starters during happy hour? That’s right! Dig into a selection of inspiring savory plates prepared with ingredients from the finest farms and fisheries. Check out our current menu for this season’s offerings.

Drinks

Libations are central to a great happy hour, and our drinks deliver. Raise a glass to $5 craft beers on draft, $7 house wines and $5 house cocktails. You can also grab $3 domestic bottled beers and $2 Yuengling drafts.

Daily Specials

Happy hour might only be from 4 to 6 p.m., but our daily specials are served from 3 p.m. to close, with select drinks just $5. Now that’s a reason to be happy! Our specials focus on a different drink every day:

  • Sundays: Bloody marys and mimosas
  • Mondays: House martinis
  • Tuesdays: Tropical rum cocktails
  • Wednesdays: Select red or white wine
  • Thursdays: Lime or raspberry margaritas

Come get happy with us! With deals like these, every week is a good week.

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Featured photo/first photo: Edwin Williams Photography LLC; other photos, top to bottom: The Desmond; Edwin Williams Photography LLC

Introducing Our New Restaurant: Fork & Bottle

Posted on by Kim Mullen

What happens when you build something from only the best? You create something that’s truly exceptional. When we set out to update The Hunt Room, we knew it wasn’t just about the decor. Our goal from the start was to create a brand-new experience based on amazing produce, meats and seafood sourced from trusted farmers and fisheries, as well as new dishes.

Over the years, we’ve built personal relationships with these producers, and that lets us bring you unique and rare offerings at the height of their freshness and quality. Executive chef Chris Calhoun has crafted a menu that highlights these ingredients while imbuing his own culinary style. You’ll find elements of Continental and Asian cuisine seamlessly integrated with global flavors all in the pursuit of one thing: the perfect composition for every dish. Each menu item is a spotlight on the kitchen’s culinary prowess and the stellar offerings from our purveyors. Here’s just a few of the extraordinary eats you can expect at our new restaurant, Fork & Bottle:

Kauai Shrimp

Known for their amazing texture and sweet flavor, these prized shrimp are sustainably raised on the beautiful island of Kauai. We have them shipped overnight to our kitchen so they’re still alive upon arrival. Our Kauai shrimp are a true specialty, and a rare find.

Wild King Salmon

King salmon is known for its rich, buttery texture and superior flavor. Ours is wild caught and overnighted from New Zealand especially for us. When we say “fresh seafood,” we really mean it!

Allen Brothers Beef

Since 1893, Allen Brothers has been a leader in purveying prime beef. We source the company’s 100 percent true Black Angus — and every piece is meltingly tender with an unmatched flavor. We order whole cuts and hand-carve them in-house before cooking them to order for your table.

Local Bread

We choose our selection of artisan loaves from local bakery La Baguette Magique. Its breads are slow-fermented with authentic starters, and have a crust and crumb that are simply a cut above.

Shy Brothers Cheese

Shy Brothers Farm makes award-winning cheeses that are downright delicious. They’ve been lauded by Bon Appétit, Food & Wine and the American Cheese Society. The brothers’ farm in Westport, Mass., produces unique cheeses that truly reflect the terroir of their pastures and salt air.

Housemade Desserts

When it comes to scratch-made desserts, no detail is too small. Our desserts are carefully composed so that your last bite of the meal is as inspiring as your first.

There’s so much on our new menu that’s worth noting, but the best way to find out more is to come see for yourself. We can’t wait to share these dishes with you! Even more so, we want you to come and have the full experience.

Our new dining space has received just as much attention as our new menu. We’ve gone through every detail to bring you something spectacular. You’ll find it’s modern, airy and elegant, with shades of blue and white throughout to create an ambiance that is charmingly serene any time of day, while accents of polished silver and warm earth tones enrich the space. Every aspect, from the lighting to the cozy chairs, eschews a subtle sophistication that is the perfect environment to enjoy our cuisine.

The best thing about all of our changes is what hasn’t changed: our staff. Our team is at the core of every great experience that we offer our guests. They’re also the catalyst behind bringing this brand-new culinary adventure into reality for us to share with you.

At its heart, Fork & Bottle helps us offer you even more. We’ve kept the same superlative service and familiar smiles, and added a world of new flavors set among a fresh new look. Come join us! Make your reservations online or call us at 610-296-9800.

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: The Desmond, Ed Williams

Try This: Our Favorite Winter Warm Up

Posted on , updated on by Kim Mullen

When winter’s chill settles in, there’s nothing like a great drink to warm you up. Although there’s plenty of old standbys like the classic Manhattan, it’s exciting to try something new — especially if it captivates the senses enough to become a new favorite! That’s exactly what we’ve whipped up with our Winter Solstice cocktail.

Our Winter Solstice cocktail starts with Brandywine Branch Distillery’s Solstice Expression Revivalist Gin. This special, locally made gin is flavored with select botanicals blended especially for the wintertime. Orange peel and ginger mingle with a subtle juniper presence and a special bill of herbs, fruits and spices. Solstice gin is then rested in red wine oak barrels, which mellows the spirit and imparts complexity, body and color. The end result? A balanced and harmonious gin with a unique, botanical fragrance and flavor that’s perfect for winter. If you find other gins overpowering, this is the one to try at The Desmond!

We mix this inspiring gin with Cointreau, fresh orange, bitters, lemon and a hint of thyme. It’s all stirred over ice and then strained for a cocktail that is bright, complex and the perfect respite from the cold winter winds.

Try pairing this cocktail with one of our seafood dishes or any of our carefully crafted salads for a refreshing winter pick-me-up!

For 25 years, The Desmond Hotel has earned a reputation for superior hospitality and comfort. We boast 194 well-appointed nonsmoking guest rooms and suites with modern amenities and hotel-wide free Wi-Fi. Our luxurious property offers three onsite dining options, two bars, indoor and outdoor fitness and beautiful grounds. We have the perfect setting for you—no matter the occasion. The Desmond is ideal for corporate meetings and retreats, wedding receptions and any kind of celebration. Events of all sizes welcome!

—Nathan Greenwood

Photos: The Desmond

The Desmond Malvern, a DoubleTree by Hilton
Open-Table