Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/288975
april 2014 / the tasting panel / 107 Naming each variety of their mezcal after the single village where it is handcrafted, Del Maguey has brought artisanal mezcal to the forefront of the industry. Del Maguey VIDA Mezcal ($44.99) is a highly mixable mezcal made from 100% organic, mature espadin agave. No chemicals are ever used in this agave spirit, which is fermented in oak tanks and twice-distilled in small wood-fired copper stills. "It's a creamier-textured mezcal the works well with fruit and spice components," says Kailee Gielgens, On-Staff Mixologist and Bar Manager at Virtù Honest Craft in Scottsdale. "Del Maguey is one of the profound leaders of mezcal and VIDA is a fantastic, delicious expression that is really great for someone new to mezcal," explains Camacho. Our Panel's Notes: "Ron Cooper brought this category to life by push- ing the mezcal envelope. The smoke, spice and citrus are perfectly balanced for this spirit and the cocktail's pineapple, orange and cinnamon notes add color to the palate." —Richie Moe "Wow—a Quentin Taratino movie in a glass! Brilliant, bold mix of heat, smoke, exotic fruit and sensuality." —Peter Kasperski THE SINGLE VILLAGE LIFE: DEL MAGUEY VIDA MEZCAL Named after the 19th-century race horse legend, who went on to sire many generations of winners, Lexington Bourbon ($37.99) is aged to taste for a minimum of seven years in charred white oak barrels. This 86 proof Kentucky-style bourbon is made of the traditional mash: corn, rye and malted barley. Says Camacho, "The association with Lexington draws a mystique and a really strong connection to Kentucky. This is an absolutely delicious, balanced and lighter-style bourbon." Bartender Michael Bates of 47 Scott and Scott & Co, in Tucson, AZ explains why he loves Lexington: "With the notes of vanilla, butterscotch and a hint of peach, the flavor complements are endless." Our Panel's Notes: "The bourbon offers itself up in a bright, sweet- honeyed saddle leather middle. The lavender carries it through to the finish line." —Meridith May "The bourbon's natural vanilla and leather tones play nicely with the bitters, proving it a very mixable spirit. Love the bright stone fruit that shines through." —Andrew Record THE SIRE: LEXINGTON BOURBON The Mixologist: Michael Bates, Bartender at 47 Scott and Scott & Co in Tucson. The Mixologist: Kailee Gielgens, On-Staff Mixologist and Bar Manager at Virtù Honest Craft in Scottsdale. Down the Stretch ◗ 1½ oz. Lexington Bourbon ◗ ¾ oz. lemon juice ◗ ½ oz. R& W Orchard Apricot ◗ ½ oz. orgeat ◗ 1 dash lavender bitters When One Piña Met the Other ◗ 1 oz. Del Maguey Vida Mezcal ◗ ¾ oz. Ramazzotti ◗ 1 oz. cayenne pepper pineapple syrup ◗ 1 oz. lime juice TP0414_102-132.indd 107 3/21/14 2:52 PM