The Tasting Panel magazine

Event Wrap-Up september 2009 / the tasting panel / 83 Combier has just arrived. In the U.S. for the first time (for less than a year), this triple-distilled, small-batch orange liqueur—which speaks of just-peeled oranges—is the original formula for triple sec, dating back 175 years. We loved the way it glided across our tongues, and its pure flavor profile and crystal clear liquid, is a seamless blend in any cocktail. Scott Goldman, Presi- dent of Cadre Noir, LLC, exclusive importer for Combier, was on hand to present the newcomer. —MM Cadre Noir LLC Creating one of the world's most mysterious cocktails, mixologist Marcos Tello from L.A.'s The Edison prepared "The Last Word," a melding of Damrak Amsterdam Gin, green Chartreuse, lime and Maraschino liqueur. This Prohi- bition-era drink, originally served at the Detroit Athletic Club in 1937, evoked a litany of responses from attendees. That is to say, most of us had The Last Word. The almost sweet citrus, honeysuckle and bold licorice notes from the five- times distilled (in five separate pot stills) Damrak adds oomph to this celery-hued tipple. —MM Lucas Bols USA We cruised over to the Cruzan table to sample Cruzan Coconut Rum (SRP $13). One of the very first flavors introduced by Cruzan, the celebrated and historic producer on the Carib- bean island of St. Croix, it's also one of the most popular of all flavored rums, thanks to its alluring tropical nose and imminent mixability. Guests loved the Dream Sicle: Cruzan Coco- nut and DeKuyper triple sec with OJ, cranberry and a splash of pineapple juice. —DG Beam Global Spirits & Wine

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