Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/992999
Sun Sun 84 { THE SOMM JOURNAL } JUNE/JULY 2018 { spirits showcase } The panelists gather at Boiler Nine restaurant in Austin, TX, for the spirits tasting. Pictured from left to right are Thomas Ward, Assistant General Manager, Las Perlas; Dustin Bolf, Bar Lead, Boiler Nine; Stephanie Teslar, General Manager at Backbeat and Vice President of United States Bartenders' Guild Austin; Brett Esler, Bartender, Whisler's; Jessica Sanders, Owner, Backbeat; Steve White, General Manager, Seven Grand; and Arik Skot Williams, Beverage Director, The Rotten Bunch. AUSTIN-AREA BAR PROFESSIONALS USHER IN THE SUMMER SEASON WITH TEN STELLAR SPIRITS BRANDS by Lori Moffatt June ushers in prime porch -sipping season, just as the sun's golden rays and the musical clatter of ice in a frosty Boston shaker put an added spring in our step. In a nod to our favorite time of year, The SOMM Journal recently invited representatives from ten spirits brands to the basement lounge of Austin's Boiler Nine restaurant, where they showcased their products in summertime cocktails before a panel of area bar professionals and restaurant owners. It was a tough job, but somebody had to do it: Panelists including Dustin Bolf of Boiler Nine, Jessica Sanders and Stephanie Teslar of Backbeat, Arik Skot Williams of The Rotten Bunch, Brett Esler of Whisler's, and Kristine Kittrell of Weather Up gathered at marble bistro tables to sample a lineup of seasonal libations while learning about the various brands in attendance. In a tasting that lacked a formal theme, deliciousness served as the common thread. Citrus, mint, ginger, banana, and edible flowers added tropical notes to some recipes, while other cocktails made use of Sherry and soda to create poolside libations brimming with character. Fresh, light, and imaginative, here are ten brands—and ten refreshing cocktails—to consider as the days grow long and the nights get hot. A Place in the photos by Dennis Burnett