Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/12827
Macchu Pisco: Exotic Elixir For centuries, grape-based spirit pisco has ruled the Peruvian landscape. Now, thanks to one dedicated family, this noble tradition has come to the States and is flourishing. Helmed by Melanie da Trindade-Asher, a young woman who spent the past five years with the goal and the guts to work diligently at bringing her per- fect blend, Macchu Pisco, northward, this brand is leading the way in a largely under-recognized category. “Education is huge for us,” explains her sister Lizze, the President of Macchu Pisco. “While other brands focus on the product, and their names, we have to educate the consumer to the entire category.” The brand may have an added challenge, but that hasn’t stopped them yet, thanks to a superior quality product that’s quickly winning the hearts of consumers in the U.S. Clean and pure grape is forward on the palate, with subtle tropical botanicals that give way to a soft mouthfeel and light heat. MACCHU PISCO LLC Macchu Pisco President Lizzie da Trindade-Asher. X Factor: In a melding of old and new technologies, Macchu Pisco’s grapes are selected by hand and pressed by foot, but distilled in modern copper pot stills. Agwa de Bolivia: Coca Connection For many brands, a connection to illicit substances is something to be avoided at all costs, but for Agwa de Bolivia, there’s no way to avoid the connection to one of the world’s most controversial natural products: the coca leaf. This vibrant green elixir is made from the fin- est hand-picked coca leafs from La Paz, Bolivia, which are then flown to Amsterdam (under armed guard) and de-cocainized—a process in which .08% of the coca is removed, leaving only trace amounts of coca that are under the U.S. legal limit. This distinctive, peppery and herbal concoction is then infused with alcohol and 36 natural botanicals, including guarana and ginseng, perfectly blended by Master Blender Wim Koolhaus. The final product, on the market since 2002, is a smooth, neutral spirit with just a touch of burn at the back of the throat—without being harsh. Agwa de Bolivia is surprisingly mixable and makes an excellent swap in even the most traditional cocktails. Mixologist Juan Álvarez was on hand churning out some fantastic cocktails, including a Bolivian Bloody Mary that had us clamoring for more coca. BABCO IMPORTS X Factor: According to Brand Ambassador Chuck Giometti, the coca connection is nothing to shy away from. “The cocaine connection is nothing to be afraid of,” he laughs. “We have to admit that it’s there, and people can have a little fun with it,” he explains, pointing to a sticker that cheekily quips: “Melts in your mouth, not in your nose.” 64 / the tasting panel / july 2010