Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/566135
september 2015 / the tasting panel / 95 Spicy in San Francisco With an all-whiskey list at San Francisco's Capo's—a spot with a Prohibition era throwback feel—whiskey wiz Elmer Mejicanos has many a brown-hued beauty from which to choose for his craft cocktail list, yet he reaches for Templeton for not just one, but two signature drinks. "When Al Capone was in Alcatraz here, he had a bottle of rye from Templeton snuck in," laughs the affable barman. "If you look on the bottom left of every bottle of Templeton Rye, you'll see Al Capone's cell number." But it's not the lore that lures him in. "I love Templeton, and I tend to like rye for cocktails because bourbon can be too sweet. The flavor profile on Templeton Rye is spicy on the end—it lingers. It's a delicious rye." Elmer Mejicanos, Head Bartender, Capo's, San Francisco, CA. PHOTO: HARDY WILSON PHOTO: HARDY WILSON The Good Citizen ◗ 1½ oz. Templeton Rye ◗ ½ oz. Luxardo Maraschino liqueur ◗ 3 fresh basil leaves, gently muddled ◗ 1 oz. fresh blueberry puree ◗ ½ oz. fresh lemon juice Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and double- strain into a double rocks glass with ice. Garnish with a basil leaf and a fresh blueberry. Tasting Notes This unique whiskey presents aromas of Christmas spice and flavors of caramel, but- terscotch and toffee. Incredibly rich, it has a deep amber color, wonderful balance and a clean and silky smooth finish.