New Products for Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012

Shaking things up

Red isn't just the color of Valentine's Day. It's also the favorite trademark color the mythical and menacing vampire is partial to seek out, preferably if the color is also attached to a pulse. HBO has attracted a new generation of fans intrigued by vampires for their original hit drama "True Blood." Now, an entire line of entertaining essentials is available sporting the "True Blood" theme. A Tru Blood Beverage Mixer is ideal for out-of-the-ordinary cocktails made with the "True Blood" Fangtasia Martini Glass and Shaker Set.

WHERE TO BUY: $35.99 at HBO.com/store

Snap to it

Here's a chance to think out-of-the-box with an emphasis on "the green scene." The new and improved family line from Wean Green products offers tempered glass food storage containers in sizes to fit all your needs, from baby's first foods, to toddler's snacks, to kid's lunches. Best of all, the glass keeps meals free of chemicals from microwaved plastic.

WHERE TO BUY: $11 to $22, depending on desired sizes and quantity, at weangreen.com

Age of success

Ron Abuelo Anejo Rum is produced entirely from estate-grown sugar cane in Panama by the family-owned Varela Hermanos. This company dates back to 1908 and the prized bright amber smooth creation from fine oak casks is ideal perfection. Best described as a "medium-bodied" rum, it features hints of sweet fruit, toasted coconut, vanilla and delicate spices. Mocha and nut flavors fade to a finish that lingers.

WHERE TO BUY: $6.99 to $26.99 at most stores or at ronabuelorum.com.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. He can be reached at philip.potempa@nwi.com or (219) 852-4327.