Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/12827
UV Sweet Green Tea Vodka: South by Far East When the sweet tea vodka category exploded in 2009, brand after brand churned out Southern-inspired quaffs that recalled lazy afternoons spent under the shade of some regal verandah. Now, UV Vodka is expanding the category with its just-released Green Tea variety, channeling the spirit and sentiment of the Far East. A vivid jade color, UV Sweet Green Tea stands out from the crowd before you can even taste it, but once it gets past your lips, you can bet this is a brand you won’t forget anytime soon. Honeyed lemon abounds on the nose, and on the palate it’s earthy with just the right amount of jasmine green tea sweet- ness. “It is an easy connect for the consumer,” explains Cale Minear, California Brand Ambassador for UV. “It triggers a homey, healthy vibe that is perfect for summer, hanging out on the porch—with a twist.” PHILLIPS DISTILLING CO. X Factor: A twist on the sweet tea trend, UV Sweet Green Tea is a welcome newcomer to the category. Conjure Cognac: Hip Hip-Hopper In the world of hip hop music, rapper Ludacris is widely known thanks to the seven megasuccessful albums he’s released in the past decade. “Luda,” as he is commonly known, is well on his way to translating that success to the spirits world, thanks to his pairing with Conjure Cognac, in which he is a part owner. Traveling to France to hand-select the blend of VP, VSOP and XO made in the tradition-steeped Birkedal Hartmann cognac house, Ludacris has been an active partner in the brand. Aged in 50-year-old oak barrels from Limousin, Conjure’s unique blend provides smoothness, definition and rich, full-bodied flavor without any heat. Apricot, vanilla, toffee and hints of spice warm the palate of this deep amber gem, complete with a long, lingering taste that is not only perfect when sipped, but is also extremely mixable. GREAT WESTERN BROKERAGE X Factor: Take a closer look at this unique blend’s unique bottle: The damask pattern is actually made up of silhouettes of the female form, befitting a cognac that seamlessly marries tradition and modernity. july 2010 / the tasting panel / 61