Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/348953
70 { THE SOMM JOURNAL } AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 { cover story } in single-use American bourbon barrels. "The market has certainly evolved," Rodriguez said, explaining the reason behind introducing Roca now. "Maybe even five years ago, most tequila drink - ers weren't all that interested in this much complexity in tequila. Now we feel they're ready." Roca Star At the W, Roca's June debut included a cocktail showcase, emceed by Alan. When the houselights came down, eight mixologists from Austin's craft-cocktail bars, hotels and entertainment venues took turns preparing original drinks with Roca tequilas on a raised stage. Overhead cameras and large video monitors were employed to accommodate the overflow - ing crowds. Michael Phillips of Midnight Cowboy, for example, re-imagined the Manhattan with dry sherry, añejo honey and Roca Reposado; while Justin Lavenue of Half Step chose Roca Silver for his elegant La Floración, a derivation of a stirred tequila cocktail called the Rosita. As the show progressed, each mixologist told the crowd, in one form or another, that it was about time tequila's true classic flavors and textures were presented to Roca Patrón Silver ($70) 90 proof A lot of up-front fruit distinguishes this from other silver tequilas. The agave is very pronounced and supported with subtle vegetal notes. Even at 90 proof, this remains balanced with an enticing cooked agave finish. Roca Patrón Reposado ($80) 84 proof Aged five months in single-use American bourbon barrels to soften and round the agave flavors, there's some vanilla and oak character that adds depth—but not needless weight— to cocktails. Roca Patrón Añejo ($90) 88 proof Aged 14 months in bourbon barrels, this has more vanilla sweetness and earthy smooth - ness to its profile. Still, the agave always comes through and lingers on the end. Javier Flores, mixologist for Nova in Austin, created some unique cocktails with Roca.