Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/21004
2010 Most Likely To Succeed Vizcaya VXOP Cask 21 Premium Rum, Dominican Republic ($50) While the rum category is frequently awash with nautical and or pirate- themed mascots and fi gureheads, Vizcaya VXOP rum takes a different approach, rely- ing instead on a simple tradition of excellence and channeling the fl avors of old Havana. Rolled out by a family that began producing rum in Cuba in 1820, Vizcaya is currently made in the Dominican Republic from sugarcane harvested at the peak of its freshness, then small-batch distilled and aged in oak barrels that were once home to resting bourbons. With its smooth, delicate taste, Vizacaya shines as a sipping rum, and pairs nicely with a classic Cuban cigar. Burnished copper–hued Vizcaya rum is dazzling. Several layers of aromas waft up from the glass, from salty sherry, oak and cocoa to maple syrup drenched walnuts. On the palate, sumptuous notes of vanilla extract and nougat take this Thoroughbred to the fi nish line with satin smooth chocolate and maple bliss generously coating the palate. IMEX SPIRIT 40 / the tasting panel / december 2010 Most Likely To Succeed CALIGIORE 2007 Bonarda Reserva, Mendoza, Argentina ($15) As our society enters a new era of social and environmental consciousness, we’re seeing more and more companies treading an eco-friendly line. But emphatic dedication to green practices is rarely seen to the extent that’s enacted by Argentinean winery Caligiore, where eco and social responsi- bility take the front seat. But don’t make the mistake of thinking that this is a winery that puts its green-ness before producing fi ne wines; Caligiore’s fi ve-varietal lineup packs incredible depth of fl avor, thanks to stellar vineyards 900 meters above sea level nestled at the foot of the Andes, and state-of-the art winemaking techinques. Now that’s what we call doing good while doing well. Hints at fi g and chocolate, but is outspoken when it comes to cherry and boysenberry. This powerhouse is somewhat sweet and smoky, with a dab of white pepper, and requires some big-fl avored meats for accompaniment. MARQUEE SELECTIONS Most Likely To Succeed Coquerel Wines 2009 Sauvignon Blanc, Le Petit Coquerel, Napa Valley ($22.50) Love must be in the air for this Napa Valley winery, where high school sweethearts Clay and Brenda Cockerell began producing wine for friends and family in 2004. Six years later, with love and passion, the Cockerells have found that success came naturally—with the support and help of a talented team, including Bordeaux-bred winemaker Christine Barbe—and have begin producing some wonderfully lively Sauvignon Blancs in the tradition of Bordeaux. Current production is limited, but we see good things in the future for this relatively new kid on the Napa block. The aromas keep opening up and you can sniff this light straw-colored Sauv to its fruity pungency, fl oral prettiness and citrus tartness but you’ll want to taste its pineapple, stony and spearmint lifesaver wow-ness.