Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/7240
THE MESSAGE Brief Encounters 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. 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 Bleecker Street, West Coast V eteran restaurateur Steve Hamile brought Green- wich Village's casual hip to Tarzana, CA, a suburb of Los Angeles. Gorgeously ap- pointed, this new restaurant and wine bar (backed by a 50-wine-by-the glass Napa Technology wine station) hosted our recent "Taste Buds" radio broadcast fea- turing Veev Açai Spirit. Courtney Reum, co-owner of Veev, was on hand to help create some of the creatively health-conscious drink recipes: refreshing cucumber and blueberry and savory basil and mint. V eteran restaurateur Steve 1 / the tasting panel / march 2010 Courtney Reum, co-founder of Veev Açai Spirit. PHOTOS: CATHY TWIGG-BLUMEL H ave you ever seen Gordon Ramsay look sweeter? During a visit to the Wesley School in L.A. last December, Ramsay fi lmed a segment for his Cooking Live show. He instructed his audience—a group of kindergarten and fi rst graders—on how to make a large tiramsú. Together they grated choc- olate and mixed whipped cream. The children, dressed in aprons and chef hats, enjoyed getting their hands dirty. The Hell's Kitchen chef, taking advantage of a devilish mo- ment, also instigated a sword fi ght with loaves of French bread. Now this is a chef with class. Now this is a chef with class. Elementary Cooking with Gordon Ramsay PHOTO: CATHY TWIGG-BLUMEL Steve Hamile, owner of Bleecker Street in Tarzana, CA. Greg Woodbury, GM of Bleecker Street, showcases a stellar wine program.