Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1050740
120 / the tasting panel / november 2018 This cleverly named Armagnac producer, Cyrano, makes an unaged spirit as well as aged brandies. Restaurateur- turned-spirits entrepreneur Gianni Vietina of Madeo Ristorante in Beverly Hills, CA, heads up the importing and marketing of this exquisite brand. We love the vanilla notes, the aromatics, and the silky texture of the Blanche, which is made from Colombard grapes. Seedlip Market Manager Walker Townsend represents Artisanal's first non-alcoholic product. Each Seedlip expression goes through its own custom distillation process and is truly "bud to bloom." This Italian aperitivo, Italicus, is made with bergamot and loaded with floral aromatics. Voted "Best New Brand" at this year's Tales of the Cocktail, it just might resurrect this category. We particularly enjoyed it in a White Negroni. Dave Vitale flew all the way from Australia to show off Starward, an 82-proof Aussie whisky matured and distilled in red wine barrels. Marketed by Redwood Brands, it features gorgeous cherry and chocolate notes.