Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/188061
INDUSTRY CONFERENCE Earning its Karats IMPERIAL COLLECTION GOLD VODKA From its 24-karat gold flaked label to its fine grain and spiced liquid, Imperial Collection Gold Russian Vodka ($35) came from a recipe created especially for Peter the Great's coronation in 1721. A special filtration process through copper plates and Russian winter wheat combines for a complex, earthy and distinguished vodka profile. The Gilded Witch 1¾ oz. Imperial Collection Gold Vodka ¾ oz. Strega Italian Liqueur ½ oz. club soda Smoked paprika and sugar mix for the rim Speed Notes from the Panel: "The vodka makes a dramatic entry, with notes of clay and jasmine, salt and musk. A remarkably nuanced spirit." ─Meridith May "Musky and spiced with notes of cucumber and mushroom. Incredibly crisp." ─Brandon Coyle Both vodkas imported by One Spirit USA Richly Russian 40 DEGREES VODKA Frankie Thaheld of Snake Oil Cocktail Company and the Consulting Mixologist for One Spirit relaxing with The Gilded Witch. The largest lake in Europe is Lake Ladoga, situated just outside of St. Petersburg, Russia. As the fourteenth-largest freshwater lake in the world by area, its pristine water is used for 40 Degrees Vodka ($19.99). Made for the Millennial drinker, the idea of "40 degrees of cool" speaks to a younger generation, but the sophisticated six-times-distilled liquid, with its multi-grain base, offers up a dense texture of white peppered cream. Blue Tangent 1½ oz. 40 Degrees Vodka 1 oz. simple syrup ¾ oz. fresh lemon juice 6 muddled blueberries & 6 fresh mint leaves Speed Notes from the Panel: "It is a volume seller at our store. The vodka is almost sweet; it is a refined, elegant spirit." ─Tony Konja "The vodka is sweet, round and fruity, with pear and vanilla character. The cocktail pays homage to its texture." ─Jacqueline Stoll 132 / the tasting panel / october 2013 TP1013_104-152.indd 132 9/23/13 10:36 PM