Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/44136
SPEED TASTING REPORT Ole Smoky Moonshine: Kitschy Chic If spirits can be related to fashion trends, then Ole Smoky is the trucker hat of the mixology realm: Both are tongue-in-cheek plays on classic Americana and place the almighty kitsch on high. With its Mason jar packaging and charm- ingly old-timey label, Ole Smoky is a throwback to a different era, when bootleggers were the noble defenders of every secret mountain-top still. Today, Ole Smoky inspires mixologists to have a bit of fun with their cocktails, and it really can't get more all- American than the brand's Apple Pie Moonshine, 40 proof, perfectly spiced and practically patriotic. Tony Breeden of Ole Smoky Moonshine. The Couture Cocktail: Big Moon Apple Martini The Rave Review: "Surprisingly smooth—no burn, which I would expect from a moonshine. Nice, warm-baked apple flavor with spiced notes." —Kristen Schaefer ■ ■ ■ ■ One part Ole Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine One part ginger ale Splash of lime Garnish with Ole Smoky Moonshine Cherries (Maraschino cherries marinated in the 100-proof spirit). 118 / the tasting panel / october 201 1 Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur: Sicilian Sophistication Close your eyes and imagine you're watching the most perfect Sicilian sunset on a yacht in the Mediterranean. Naturally, you're wearing an elegant bon vivant–style ensemble, and as the sea is alit with fiery tones of the setting sun, you sigh and think, "This is the life." Channeling that sophisticated Sicilian perspective to the world of liqueurs, Solerno Jackie Patterson of William Grant & Sons. Blood Orange Liqueur is an 80-proof elegant warming quaff that's stylish neat or in a cocktail. Bright complex flavors of blood orange woo the palate like sheer sunset in a glass. The Couture Cocktail: The Bella Politan The Rave Review: "Beautiful color and great garnish—lively and refreshing. A perfect drink for our Vegas 'fall.' Solerno has the flavor to take center stage." —Eddie Allen ■ ■ ■ ■ 1½ oz. Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur ½ oz. Lillet Blanc ¾ oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice ½ oz. Funkin Pomegranate