Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/101724
EVENT RECAP Leading the Vodka Scoreboard: Purity Vodka As Master Distiller Thomas Kuuttanen blind-tasted guests on Purity Vodka against their normal vodka of choice, the scorecard lipped over . . . and over . . . and over in favor of Purity, the brand whose unique lavor proile has made it a favorite among the mixology set. "We did a blind tasting in San Francisco with 88 of the best bartenders in the Bay Area," says Kuuttanen. "Eighty-ive selected Purity as their favorite. We don't claim that Purity is the perfect vodka for every cocktail, but in cocktails that call for clean, clear lavors, Purity is perfect." John Pomeroy, Purity Brand Ambassador, agrees. "There's a golden mean for cocktails, and Purity is able to strike that balance of spirit-forward and consumer-friendly lavor," explains Pomeroy, who uses the simply perfect Purity Martini as a prime example of this Swedish spirit's capabilities. "When adding a bit of water to the spirit, you really bring out the lavor of Purity, and this is so simple that many vodkas can't stand up to it." Purity Martini ◗ 3 oz. Purity Vodka ◗ 1 oz. spring water Purity Vodka Master Distiller Thomas Kuuttanen. A Craft Portfolio Shines: Anchor Distilling Company "With so many great spirits to choose from, I can play forever," explained Russell Davis, Portfolio Mixologist for Anchor Distilling Company. Anchor, which recently added a slew of new spirits to its already extensive portfolio, was looking forward to showcasing its wares. As Davis offered tastes of newly-added H by Hine VSOP Cognac and chatted with guests about the merits of No. 3 London Dry Gin, the Anchor portfolio, stocked with can-do artisan brands, was on full display. ◗ 2 oz. No. 3 Gin "The industry is moving in this direction, toward craft spirits in craft ◗ ½ oz. Maurin Quina cocktails," said Davis, whose Here's to You, Mr. Scott cocktail featured Davis's ◗ ¼ oz. The King's Ginger Liqueur favorite spirit in the portfolio, Maurin Quina. "I'm big on bringing Maurin ◗ 2 dashes orange bitters Quina to the forefront," says Davis. "People may recognize the bottle, but it's time they recognize the taste and what it can bring to a cocktail." Here's to You, Mr. Scott 124 / the tasting panel / january 2013