Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/807384
april 2017 / the tasting panel / 91 A Blend of Both Worlds with Vodquila Red Eye Louie's Vodquila (SRP $19.99), founded by Chander Arora, is precisely what you think it is: a blend of two worlds. What you don't know is that it's a blend of six-times-distilled American vodka and blue agave tequila. With the proper proportions and thermal blending techniques, the result is a smooth and refreshing drink that is unparal- leled in the industry. "Strange things happen when kids get involved," Chander laughs when discussing how Vodquila came to be. One evening, Chander and his daughter Nina started brainstorming different combinations of spirits in their living room. What they didn't intend to do was cre- ate something so unique and smooth. With a little experimenting in the next coming months, a perfect blend was born with the perfect name, Vodquila. This creation wasn't born from someone well-versed in the spirits industry or someone with influence. A simple immigrant created it. Chander is a native of northern India, moving in 1984 to the United States, where he immediately went into starting a business for himself. "The U.S. has been very good to us," Chander expresses. "I own three truck stops—that's my main business." Vodquila started as an evening conversation between father and daughter, but it has grown into the start of what many in the industry think will become a massive category in and of itself. After a Gold Medal win at the 2014 WSWA Expo Competition and numerous medals after that, Red Eye Louie's is only looking ahead. Running on the heels of success from Vodquila, Red Eye Louie's is now creating their own brand image for themselves: A brand of blends. Red Eye Louie's is now releasing a new blend, Rumquila. This unique blend invites the senses to experience an exotic journey from aged Puerto Rican rum to the unexpected sweet, floral pleasures of super-premium tequila from Mexico. The rich, caramel like notes give Rumquila a mahogany color, creating an aesthetically pleasing spirit that matches its unequivocal sweet taste. —Matt Jackson Tasting Notes Vodquila A waft of raspberry jam and soft mocha tones is a pleasant perfume from this hybrid spirit. On the palate, a suede texture caresses the palate with dots of pepper and anise. It finishes gracefully with a generous fluidity. 92 —Meridith May Rumquila A lovely amber hue fills the glass, while aromas of brown sugar, French toast and earthy agave generate intrigue. Surprisingly lean on the palate, hints of minerality spar with mocha-laden orange peel and peaches. 93 —M. M. RED EYE LOUIE'S