I can't get enough of the National Days of the Year Calendar. I am always amazed at what topic or category deserves our attention and awareness. There are some that are for a good cause (HIV awareness, POW/MIA Recognition) and some that are simply out there (National Crush a Can Day?). Did you know that tomorrow is National Ampersand (&) Day?

Yes! This little symbol that supposedly used to be the last letter of the alphabet has its own day. The symbol that is supposed to be "e" and "t" mashed together, where the Latin word "et" in fact means "and," is to be celebrated on September 8th every year! My goodness.

Let's have some fun today. Go ahead and give recognition to the ex-27th letter of the alphabet. Let's do this by grabbing a bottle of your favorite alcoholic beverage with a "&" on the label. Need some ideas? I have some outstanding producers for you to seek out.

Here's to you & whoever else is celebrating National Ampersand Day!

Moët & Chandon: The legendary wine you see from this Champagne house is the Dom Perignon range, but you don't have to reach for the top shelf if you don't want to. Brut Imperial will do you just fine.

Bouchard Pere & Fils: This Burgundy negociant offers a wide range of expressions from many villages throughout the region. Here in Connecticut, we have access to many of their Chardonnay wines from the Côte de Beaune region, but a white or red wine simply labeled "Bourgogne" will help you stay under $20.

Nickel & Nickel: This Napa Valley winery specialized in many single vineyard expressions. These are excellent New World wines that are going to be pricey, but they will deliver.

Cooper & Thief: These folks are capitalizing on the newest winemaking craze, aging red wine in Bourbon barrels. Of all the producers making this style of wine, I find Cooper & Thief does it best.

Wells & Young's: I didn't find many beer producers with the "&" in its name, but one thing I remember about Wells & Young's is their delicious Double Chocolate Stout.

Wray & Nephew: Their signature product is the Overproof White Rum, clocking in at an astounding 62.75% abv (125.5 Proof). It is pungent, fiery, and great in any rum-based cocktail like a traditional Daiquiri or a Mojito.

Gordon & Macphail: For 123 years, Gordon & Macphail has sought out casks from Scotch distilleries to bottle as single malts under their own labels. The portfolio is comprehensive, with non-traditional age statements and individual "vintages" dated on the labels.