The Tasting Panel magazine

October 2011

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In a market saturated with vodka brands, it's become increasingly difficult to distinguish one clear spirit from another. But stepping out from the transpar- ent crowd is Pisco Porton, a modern, chic take on the classic Peruvian grape-based spirit that's been win- ning over American palates with its Latin flare and distinctively smooth and complex profile. "The first question out of people's mouth is, 'What is pisco?'" admits Rachel Bennett, L.A. Market Manager for the brand. "That's why it is so important for us to try to get the consumer and the trade, because the buying decisions made by the trade influence the consumer as well." Here, she enjoys a 1684 cocktail, made with St. Germain, lime juice, simple syrup, red grapes and agave nectar. Club Culinaire Beverage Coordinator Bruno Laclotte was doing double duty at both shows, between managing the bev- erage exhibitors and announcing the rebranding of the California branch of his distri- bution house, known as Regency Wines and Spirits in Nevada and now Hillside Wines and Spirits in California. With a portfolio that represents 250 wineries from around the world, Laclotte and his wife Caroline are proud to offer a representative look at the diversity in wine and spirits. "We try to find products that have great value and represent specific terroirs, and we have a diverse portfolio so everyone can find something they need." Sofitel Executive Chef Marius Blin and Sous Chef Alexandre Derienne stopped by the trade portion, but Alexandre was one of the stars of the consumer show, as the winner of the Sous Chef category in the Epicurian Cup, which pitted some of Los Angeles' up-and-comers against each other in a TV-worthy format. The competition was judged by heavy-hitters in the gourmet industry like Michael Richard, Chef/Owner at Citronelle and Central in Washington D.C., Josiah Citrin, Owner of Santa Monica's Citrin, Franck Savoy, Director of Restaurants at Caesars Palace Las Vegas, Michel Cornu, Culinary Director of Napa's Raymond Vineyards, Mark Mendoza, Head Sommelier at the David Meyers Group and Sophie Gayot of Gayot.com. 106 / the tasting panel / october 201 1 Jason Hayes, Southern California District Sales Manager for W.J. Deutsch, was on hand to taste the trade on the 2010 Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Crus. Easily one of the most popular stands at the event, Somms, Wine Buyers and other hospitality industry profes- sionals were eager to get a sip of the vintage the winemaker himself calls "a winning streak."While the 2009 vintage was considered outstanding, Duboeuf says, "We have again been blessed by nature with a harvest that has delivered us wines of true character!"

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