Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/359372
august 2014 / the tasting panel / 27 the CRT [Consejo Regulador del Tequila] as the world's first single barrel tequila. Casa Noble has been one of the first tequilas to gain recognition for its efforts to respect the environment as well. In December of 2012, we became one of a handful of certified 'green' distilleries after a five-year evaluation process through the Mexican government." Casa Noble's other sage moves include forming a strategic partnership with rock royalty/philanthropist Carlos Santana in 2011. At Gracias Madre, locally-grown ingredients are key, and Eisner, armed exclusively with tequilas, mezcals and other agave-based spirits, crafts some one-of-a-kind drinks. For instance, his Raspodo (snow cone), which he dubs "La Quinceañera," is a colorful, chilled cocktail, referencing the big event that young Hispanic women traditionally take part in as a celebratory transition from child- hood to adulthood. "It's an homage to the feminine energy in the universe, just as the name of our restaurant," notes Eisner. La Quinceañera ◗ 2 oz. Casa Noble Crystal organic tequila ◗ ¾ oz. organic agave nectar ◗ ½ oz. organic fresh squeezed lime juice ◗ 5 large mint leafs (de-stemmed) ◗ 5 chunks of organic kiwi (about 1 kiwi) peeled ◗ Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker and muddle. Dry shake and fine-strain into a double rocks glass. Add crushed ice and fill to the top. Shape crushed ice into a half sphere. Place on top of the cocktail and top with chili de árbol infused homemade gentian bitters. Garnish with mint sprig. Gracias Madre Beverage Director Jason Eisner with Pepe Hermosillo. "I enjoy working with spirit makers who care about their impact on the environment, terroir and culture," says Eisner. "Casa Noble goes the extra mile to ensure that not only are these needs met, but they also make a delicious tequila. Jose is amazing. You'll be hard pressed to find a more genuine and kind person than Pepe. He's an open book." This second cooled-down cocktail by Jason Eisner is a slurpee-style drink that is a variation on the Boulevardier, a cousin of the Negroni. The drink usually subs bourbon for gin, but this time it's Casa Noble Reposado, giving it a mellow, creamier base from the aged tequila. Eisner uses a home- made cola reduction that he combines with sweet vermouth.