The Tasting Panel magazine

September 2017

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84  /  the tasting panel  /  september 2017 BRAND SPOTLIGHT residency in Italy, visiting bartenders will return to the U.S. and share their new experiences, stories and recipes with colleagues and consumers." Multiple Uses Montenegro's complexity of flavor presents an array of possibilities within classic cocktail recipes by adding a unique twist on well-traveled concoc- tions. The Montenegroni sits atop the list, pairing gin and sweet vermouth with Montenegro in place of other bitter liquors. When enjoyed neat or on the rocks, Montenegro emanates notes of orange peel and fresh coriander, with a bittersweet and citrus-driven finish. As a pairing to food, Montenegro's strength is in its terroir. "Montenegro has been made in Bologna for over 130 years. Consider the old adage, 'What grows together, goes together,'" says Sother Teague, Beverage Director at Amor y Amargo and President of the United States Bartenders' Guild New York City chapter. "As a former chef, I've been borderline obsessed about the food in Bologna. I'm looking forward to a Montenegro Highball during aperitif hour, paired with some locally-made mortadella and various cured meats." The amaro's pairing potential is not limited to merely starters and appetizers. Teague is most intrigued by Montenegro's pasta pairing: "This region [Emilia-Romagna] is renowned for its fresh pasta, most notably Bolognese. I'm curious how the depth of flavor of Montenegro will pair with the slow-simmered sauce." Heritage, adventure and personal relationships resonate at the heart of Montenegro's message. Montefiori points to its founder Stanislao Cobianchi, who abandoned his family's wish to join the clergy so he could travel the world—including a visit to Montenegro, in the Balkans—as the brand's inspiration. Upon returning to Italy, Cobianchi developed the recipe, distillation process and the bottle design—all of which haven't changed since 1885. "Bartenders who work with Montenegro speak highly of the product's versatility, encourag- ing consumers to explore new and inventive drinking possibilities, just as Montenegro's founder did before them," Montefiori says. With its tradition and track record for intrigue, Montenegro is well on its way to another 130 years of success. Adds Montefiori, "When working with mixolo- gists and educating our consumers, our priority is to elevate Montenegro's rich legacy and unique flavor profile." Montenegro is imported by Total Beverage Solution. MONTENEGRONI ◗ 2 oz. Montenegro ◗ 1 oz. vermouth ◗ 1 oz. gin ◗ Orange twist Combine all ingredients in a rocks glass and stir over ice. Garnish with an orange twist. ZIO MONTENEGRO Created by Sother Teague, Beverage Director at Amor y Amargo, New York City ◗ 1¼ oz. Montenegro ◗ 1¼ oz. blended Scotch whisky ◗ 2 dash orange bitters ◗ Orange twist Pour first three ingredients into a double Old Fashioned glass and add a large lump of ice. Gently stir to combine. Express the oil from an orange twist over the drink and drop the twist in. The Montenegro distillery during the 1960s in Italy. MONTENEGRO COCKTAILS

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