Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1013885
august 2018 / the tasting panel / 1 15 THE GRAPES OF FRANCE: BAUCHANT ORANGE LIQUEUR While perhaps no country has made a greater mark on the wine industry than France, its native grapes also create world- renowned spirits that show off the versatility of its terroir. One of these remarkable expressions, Bauchant Orange Liqueur ($23), has roots dating back to 1838 and is infused with both sweet and bitter orange peels, which macerate before undergoing three distillations. VS and VSOP Cognac is then blended into the spirit before it rests for several years. The resulting blend of flavors, both intense and delicate, ensures this liqueur can work beautifully in cocktails or add an effortless twist to favorites like a Margarita. It's also found a place in the kitchen as a chef- favorite ingredient for desserts like flambéed crêpes, orange- flavored cakes, and chocolate mousses. There are truly count- less ways to love this spirit and the French vineyards it hails from. PALM BAY INTERNATIONAL FRANCE: ORANGE world- expressions, and peels, undergoing distillations. rests resulting ON THE PATH TO DISCOVERY: DISTILLERIA BOTTEGA At a 19th-century-farmhouse-turned- distillery in Treviso, Italy, Distilleria Bottega has blended tradition with state- of-the-art technology since its founding nearly 40 years ago. While the recently renovated building preserves the original character of the structure, it was updated to conserve energy by utilizing renew- able sources. The Bottega family has also started farming the 75 acres of vineyards on the property organically. In an effort to innovate while also remaining true to Italian flavors and customs, the distillery produces a wide range of grappa, liqueurs, wine, olive oil, and glassware. It distills the essentials oils from star anise to produce its aromatic and floral Bottega Sambuca ($30); its Bottega Limoncino ($25), meanwhile, begins with Sicilian lemons infused with alcohol. After the essential oils are extracted, they're added to grappa made at the distillery. In addition to showcasing the best of the region, Distilleria Bottega's portfolio also offers a preview of its promising future. PALM BAY INTERNATIONAL