Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/430172
98 / the tasting panel / december 2014 SPEED TASTING REPORT The Cat's Meow Anchor Old Tom Gin Pot-distilled Anchor Old Tom Gin is a newcomer on the gin scene. Three main botanicals make up its profile: licorice root, star anise and juniper berries. But the secret ingredient that gives it its silky, smooth texture and slightly sweet texture? Stevia root—in fact, it's the first gin on the market to use this natural plant; its grainy, cactus-like flavors bring out woodsy, Asian pear and clay complexities. Bottled unfiltered, Anchor Old Tom Gin features a Cheshire-like cat on the label, depicting vending machines in the guise of a feline statue (as in an old Tom cat) that were placed near pubs and public walkways in 18th-century London. To avoid paying prohibitive taxes and licensing on selling spirits, pub owners would collect coins through the cat's mouth from customers and send back up a shot of gin. It was a win-win. Our Panelists' Critique: "Sweet and rich with bright anise hints on the finish. A gentle, but botanical gin. The cocktail was light and beautiful—not overpowering on the anise, but without shying away from the vanilla, antique candy flavors." — D. Max Maxey "Although anise plays within the drink, a vanilla coating shows through—like Good & Plenty candy, the outside is vanilla sweet and, inside, the licorice melts into a blissful ethereal treat." —Meridith May Celebrating a 70th Anniversary El Tesoro Platinum Tequila Like anyone skilled in his or her art, Carlos Camarena, is the Master Distiller behind El Tesoro tequila. His philosophy is not about producing quantity, but rather making his spirit the right way. It starts with the region in which the 100% blue agave is grown: At an elevation almost a mile up, in the Highlands of Arandas, is the La Alteña Distillery, where the flavor from the environment speaks more to pepper and floral notes than it does of the earthier character found in some tequilas. The slow, traditional process of crushing the agave under a one-ton stone tahona wheel, led around by a tractor, slowly squeezes the juice out. The spirit is double-distilled in copper pot stills to exactly 80 proof—there is no water added. Our Panelists' Critique: "Vanilla on the nose with dry spice notes, a dash of white pepper and a very earthy finish. In the cocktail, the pomegranate syrup really shone. The drink was bright and tart with a lingering spice. Refreshing and great for a warm afternoon." —D. Max Maxey "Rich, roasted agave that is bright and delicious! This is a true classic tequila from Carlos Camarena. And the marriage between the pomegranate and jalapeño in the cocktail is just perfect."—Raul Yrastorza The Pipe & Paw ◗ 2 oz. Anchor Old Tom Gin ◗ ¾ oz. lemon juice ◗ ½ oz. simple syrup ◗ ½ oz. Meletti Anisette ◗ Barspoon Luxardo Maraschino liqueur ◗ Topped with soda ◗ Luxardo Cherry and lemon for garnish Dahlia Named after the national flower of Mexico and for the floral tones from El Tesoro Platinum ◗ 2 oz. El Tesoro Platinum tequila ◗ 1 jalapeño slice ◗ ¾ oz. lime juice ◗ ½ oz. pomegranate syrup ◗ ¼ oz. simple syrup ◗ Dash Fee Brothers Bitters Dave Guest, Brand Development Manager for Anchor Distilling Company, and Brian Butler, co-founder of Elysium Craft Cocktails. Left to right: Bryan Hansen, On Premise Channel Manager at Beam Suntory, and Matt Sharp, Bar Manager at Bosscat Kitchen and Libations.