Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/566135
90 / the tasting panel / september 2015 BRAND PROFILE Star of the Summer Selection CÎROC Pineapple joined four other varieties in the brand's flavor line extensions, adding to the range of distinctive ingredients featured in the product lineup: Red Berry, Coconut, Peach and Amaretto. The brand recognized an opportunity to expand upon its existing diverse array of flavors within the CÎROC ultra-premium vodka portfolio, a hunch that paid off handsomely. Quickly leading the pack of the Summer Collection, CÎROC Pineapple proved paradise can be bottled. Consumer demand responded in kind to this fresh, fashionable take on tropical luxury. "There's nothing on the market like it as far as fla- vor," says Zachary Sharaga, Beverage Manager at La Marina in New York City. The upscale, picturesque restaurant set on the Hudson River yields frequent requests for CÎROC Pineapple bottle service—with- out the restaurant even needing to promote it. With the rich flavor of ripe, juicy pineapple complemented by just a hint of vanilla, it's easy to see why consumers flock to the refreshing and versatile spirit, especially during sweltering summer months. However, the spirit offers a wonderful exotic escape anytime, perfect for a year-round summer mindset. From taste and smell to mixability, CÎROC Pineapple elevates the flavor profile of all tropical drinks. Although CÎROC Pineapple shines neat or on the rocks, its versatility makes it a perfect match for tonic, orange juice or soda—all simple, popular mix- ers for cocktail creativity and added freshness and fizz. Citrusy on the nose, luscious and elegant, the vodka offers spirits aficionados a premium tropical taste unlike any other. Summiting above the Competition When it comes to sizing up competitors, no other pineapple-flavored spirit compares. Crafting that memorable experience for consumers originates with sourcing only the best ingredients. CÎROC Pineapple stands out with its freshness, versatility and high-quality standards that consumers demand. "CÎROC is always going to be a crowd favorite," Sharaga comments. "It's a worthy brand to carry." The premium-tasting liquid both enhances popular cocktails and inspires creativity in summer drinks, like in La Marina's popular Pineapple Watermelon Caipirinha (a Caipiroska, technically, because the cocktail is made with vodka instead of cachaça). Mixologists at bars and restaurants across the country reach for CÎROC Pineapple to play with standard recipes like the Mojito or Mimosa, adding a dash of fresh fun to day drinking and brunching occasions. Bartenders expand customer's liquid options and infuse the spirit and energy of summer into their unique cocktail mixes, no matter the season. What's on the horizon for the innovative brand? CÎROC is keeping an eye on the market to stay abreast of opportunities to expand its portfolio to meet consumers' ever-evolving needs. Sounds like a recipe for infinite ascension to us! CÎROC, one of the world's premiere luxury vodka brands, has broken into the next dimension. What does that look like? The ultra-premium vodka is rolling out its CÎROC X (Ten) Vodka this fall to commemo- rate the brand's 10th anniversary. But the name signifies much more than a decade under the belt of the uber-successful company. For this "top, top shelf" spirit, CÎROC Vodka's Master Distiller Jean-Sebastian Robiquet selected a top-notch blend of fine French grape varietals, including the first harvest grapes of the 2013 vintage. First harvest grapes represent the crispest, purest fruits of the harvest and ensure a bright, clean flavor in the resulting liquid. These special grapes undergo a ten-step distillation process that yields the world's finest sipping vodka. Happy Birthday, CÎROC! PHOTO COURTESY OF CÎROC CÎROC X Vodka is a Perfect 10