Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/16170
ON THE TOWN Maker’s 46 At The Mixing Room in Downtown Los Angeles’s chic new JW Marriott at L.A. Live, Jim Piser, Senior On-Premise Manager, Beam Global, Dave McDaniels, the hotel’s Manager, and Maker’s Mark Brand Ambassador April Gallegos gathered to celebrate the Maker’s 46 launch. A Ginger Julep was the perfect refreshing cocktail of the night, dreamed up by Christine Krenos, the property’s Beverage Director, who thought that the ginger was the ideal complement to the spicy Maker’s 46 notes. Makes a Mark on L.A. story and photos by Rachel Burkons In the weeks leading up to the Southern California release of the highly-anticipated Maker’s 46, THE TASTING PANEL took an exclusive tour of Tinseltown with Maker’s Mark Brand Ambassador April Gallegos. We visited three of the hottest accounts in the city, and put some of the industry’s best professionals to the test. The results? Pure Maker’s magic. At The Roger Room, mixologist Jason Bran selects his favorite Maker’s 46 summer cocktail: a Peach Cobbler, served ice-cold. Two of our favorite bartenders hold court at The Roger Room, a hidden Beverly Hills gem that’s known for serving up some of the best cocktails in the city. Damian Windsor (left) and Jason Bran were inspired by the spiced, smoky flavors of the spirit. “It’s got such a rich flavor,” Bran mused, “that just makes it super mixable and versatile.” Windsor chimed in, “And it’s remarkably smooth at 94 proof.” Downtown Los Angeles may be hot these days, but Latin American–influenced restaurant Rivera is positively scorching. At Rivera, Beverage Director Julian Cox emphasizes fresh ingredients and per- sonalized, made-to- order cocktails, and thinks that Maker’s 46 is a perfect pairing with citrus flavors. “I was inspired by Tiki, actually,” he said, “and that soft caramel flavor is perfect in those kinds of drinks.” september 2010 / the tasting panel / 57