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CATEGORY REPORT 86 / the tasting panel / july 2017 Flower Power with ST. ELDER NATURAL ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR Sambucus canadensis, better known as American elder, grows in the eastern half of the U.S., primarily in sunny regions, and has been used by Native Americans for centuries for a wide range of medicinal purposes. To produce its Natural Elderflower Liqueur, St. Elder of Boston, MA, uses a natural extract from the plant's small white petals and adds this to a liqueur base. The process occurs in small batches, producing a balanced and lively spirit. Serve it as an aperitif with sparkling wine or in a cocktail like the St. Elder Rita. At such a great price point (SRP $19.99) and with a beautiful flavor profile, the options are ripe for the picking. —Emily Coleman Tasting Notes Handcrafted from a natural extract of elderflower blossoms, St. Elder has a floral, juicy pear nose that makes you close your eyes reflexively, as you would when sniffing a sweet-scented rose. The sumptuous palate serves up a caramel-doused summer peach. The finish is clean, white petals in a bounty of texture. 94 —Meridith May MS WALKER Shots & Coffee with RUMCHATA The popular RumChata cream liqueur (SRP $19.99)—made with premium Caribbean rum, dairy and a secret blend of spices that evoke the flavors of Mexican horchata—is diversifying with two new on-premise programs. "The RumChata Creamer Pitcher program is the perfect upsell for after-dinner drink menus at all restaurants, from casual to white-tablecloth," says Tom Maas, RumChata founder and master blender. "Based on our research, promoting RumChata as a coffee creamer to patrons can turn a five-dollar cup of coffee into a ten-dollar cup of coffee." The second program, soon to launch, is the Shot-A-Chata glass. "RumChata fans have been trying to make Coke floats with RumChata for years. Recently, people have really liked the taste of RumChata and apple whiskey together," Maas says. "However, both those mixtures would result in separation due to our dairy base. Not anymore. RumChata Coke-float shooters, apple whiskey à la mode—any combo is possible in the new Shot-A- Chata shot glass." —Amy Collins Tasting Notes RumChata starts with a tropical floral nose that combines mango, vanilla, nutmeg, subtle cinnamon, coconut and sweet cream to intrigue the drinker. The spiced palate ups the ante in flavors and irresistible charm while mirroring the aromas. The floral notes of rose petal and jasmine are accented on the creamy finish. 90 —Meridith May AGAVE LOCO LLC St. Elder Rita ◗ 1 oz. St. Elder Natural Elderflower Liqueur ◗ 2 oz. reposado tequila ◗ ½ oz. fresh lime juice Shake all ingredients with ice and pour into a chilled glass. Garnish with lime.