Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/61075
THE MESSAGE Whether THE TASTING PANEL goes to the brand execs or the brands call us, there is an abundance of news to report, from the latest releases to behind-the-scenes experiences with some of the world's most infl uential importers, winemakers, distillers . . . well, you name it. Brief Encounters We may not have enough pages in each issue to devote as much attention as we would like to each person whose path we cross, but please note that if it's in the publication, we deem it noteworthy —Meridith May, Publisher & Executive Editor Wente Support Group A t the Fourth Annual Wente Legacy Awards dinner in Livermore, CA (held at the Murrieta's Well Tasting Room last month) distributors and importer partners were recognized for outstanding sales achievement for California's oldest family winery. See the whole story on page 73. Soju in Studio City W hen bar/restaurant concept The Six opened its second location in a high-end strip mall in L.A.'s Studio City neighborhood, the mall's prohibi- tive liquor licensing couldn't keep this vibrant eatery down. "We've got a great beer and wine program, and our cocktails are excellent—made with TY KU Soju," explains GM Alex Trumble. To prove that you don't need vodka to make an excellent refresher, Trumble wowed us with his signature soju-based Bruce Lee Kicking Kiwi, an easy tropical sipper that deliciously on-trend with the skinny cocktail craze. "This is L.A.," admits Trumble; "everyone wants a skinny cocktail, and soju is perfect for that." —Rachel Burkons Pictured here, Amy Hoopes, Exec VP of Sales, CMO, Wente Family Estates (WFE); Chris Giudice, VP National Sales East, WFE; Fifth- Generation Winemaker Karl Wente; William Cregan, SWS of Maryland (who won the award for Outstanding New Distributor); Carolyn Wente; and Bridget Epp, VP National Sales East, WFE. Alex Trumble of The Six. 16 / the tasting panel / april 2012 PHOTO: RACHEL BURKONS PHOTO: JOHN CURLEY