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may 2018 / the tasting panel / 65 J ust north of Ventura, California, not far from the 101 Freeway, one can find the consummate place to decompress from the stresses of life nestled within a rare coastal valley on 220 oak-studded acres. The hidden resort that is the Ojai Valley Inn has an enchanting appeal for its clientele, who count on their visit to provide enviable service and amenities while creating a sense of serenity that defies the ordinary. Established in 1923, the sophisticated getaway offers an abundance of both active and peaceful pursuits, with a legendary golf course, 31,000-square-foot spa, artist cottage and apothecary, multiple pools, and seven dining outlets with settings that range from fast-casual to poolside to fine dining. Selected by the Travel + Leisure readers as one of the best hotels in the world, the Ojai Valley Inn affirms its reputation as a treasured destination that authentically combines the region's unspoiled spirit with 21st-century luxury. Among those indulgences is the presence of Casa Dragones Tequila in the Inn's mixology program: The spirit's refined character and soft clean finish express themselves in every handcrafted bottle of the small-batch brand. Founded in 2008, Casa Dragones is the product of a collaboration between MTV creator/iHeartMedia CEO Robert W. Pittman and tequila industry expert Bertha González Nieves, the first woman to be certified as a "Maestra Tequilera" by the Academia Mexicana de Catadores de Tequila. Casa Dragones' name, which refers to the Los Dragones of San Miguel de Allende, offers its own historical relevance. During the 17th century, the Queen of Spain's most elite cavalry, the Dragones, were stra- tegically stationed in San Miguel to protect the queen's interests. Some say it was the passion and fortitude of these Dragones that forever changed the face of Mexico, as they led a movement that later helped incite the country's fight for independence. With its exceptional balance and extraordinary taste, the 100-percent blue agave tequila blanco proves itself ideal both for use in cocktails or for sipping with a meal. The Wallace Neff Lounge at the heart of the Inn could be the most famous room in all of Ojai. Well-appointed in a historically-compelling setting, the lounge is named after the original architect commissioned to build the clubhouse at Ojai. It's also home to the Inn's signature tequila cocktail created by mixologist Sam Gay: The Father Junipero, which serves to highlight the complexity and depth of Casa Dragones Blanco. With herbaceous flavors, bright citrus notes, and hints of spice, the drink is balanced with a touch of sweetness from rosemary syrup and elegantly finished with a lime wheel and rosemary sprig. Casa Dragones is also featured in the Inn's signature Tequila Mule, served in a copper mug at the Indigo Pool bar. With the spectacular surrounding landscape, impec- cable service, and attentive staff, the Ojai Valley Inn offers unparalleled charm that's apparent in all aspects of guests' visits. Combined with the opulence and smoothness of Casa Dragones Tequila, it becomes a match for the ages. Father Junipero ◗ 1 oz. Casa Dragones Blanco ◗ 1 oz. mezcal ◗ ½ oz. rosemary simple syrup ◗ ½ oz. lime juice ◗ 4 pieces green bell pepper ◗ 3 fresh basil leaves Muddle all ingredients, shake with ice, and double strain into coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wheel and rosemary sprig. Sam Gay is the Head Bartender at the Ojai Valley Inn and the creator of the resort's signature tequila cocktail, the Father Junipero.