Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/869846
90 / the tasting panel / september 2017 What's the inspiration for the Ole Smoky cocktail you created, and how did you come up with the name? My inspiration was picking fresh blackberries and herbs in my backyard as a child, with a more contemporary twist on moonshine and a Moscow Mule. Which cocktail ingredient do you want to see used more often? Basil. It's extremely underrated in the cocktail industry. What's your behind-the-bar theme song? "Tennessee Whiskey" by Chris Stapleton. What was your favorite part about Tales of the Cocktail and working in the Ole Smoky tasting room? Meeting new people from the industry and getting to network with them and learning more about cocktails. Makenzie Oliver, Bar Manager at Parthenon Grille in Murfreesboro, TN Mountain Mule ◗ 1 oz. Ole Smoky White Lightnin' ◗ 1 oz. Ole Smoky Blackberry Moonshine ◗ 4 blackberries ◗ 3 basil leaves ◗ 1 lemon wedge ◗ Splash of simple syrup Topped with ginger beer What do you enjoy about using White Lightnin'? I love its authenticity! There's so much history and flavor in one bottle. What's the inspiration for the Ole Smoky cocktail you created? My inspiration was my grandmother's desserts growing up. This cocktail is my own interpretation of a popular classic dessert. What's your behind-the-bar song? "She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy" by Kenny Chesney. What was your favorite part about Tales of the Cocktail and working in the Ole Smoky tasting room? The sense of community and mutual respect shared by all competing and those attending. Blackberry Cobbler & Cream ◗ ¾ oz. Ole Smoky White Lightnin' ◗ ¾ oz. Ole Smoky Blackberry Moonshine ◗ 3 blackberries ◗ ¼ oz. fresh squeezed lemon juice ◗ 1 oz. vanilla simple syrup ◗ 1 oz. heavy cream Pinch of cinnamon Vance McCarty, Bar Manager at Maple Hall in Knoxville, TN N–––––––� winner