May 2018

Inspiring extraordinary cocktail experiences, Segura Viudas Cava has invited a couple of the industries most outrageous bartenders to create cocktails using its Brut and Rosé wines, perfect for spingtime mixing.

Julia Momose was the first bartender chosen by Segura Viudas Cava. Julia says her creation of the Goldfinch cocktail was inspiried by one of her favorite pairings: Cava and olives.

“The peach and apple notes of the Segura Viudas Brut Cava complements honey and a bright citrus flavor, partnered with earthy Suze and pleasantly lactic, Nigori sake. This is a light, fruity, tangy, effervescent, and refreshing cocktail with a Japanese twist.”
– Julia Momose, Chilled 100 Ambassador, Chicago

Goldfinch Cocktail

Goldfinch

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Kurosawa Nigori Sake
• 1/2 oz. Sukkah Hill Spirits Etrog
• 1 oz. Suze Gentiane
• 1/4 oz. Honey Syrup
• Segura Viudas Brut Cava (to Top)
• Umeboshi (for Garnish)

Preparation: Combine honey syrup (2:1), Sukkah Hill Spirits Etrog liqueur, Suze Gentiane, and Nigori sake in a mixing glass. Stir gently just to chill. Strain into a Highball glass. Top with Segura Viudas Cava Brut. Garnish with an expression of lemon oils. Discard the peel, and garnish the cocktail with an umeboshi (pickled Japanese plum).

Julia Momose

About Julia Momose, Chilled 100 Ambassador, Chicago

Julia is responsible for the unique beverage program of cocktails and spiritfree pairings at two Michelin-starred Oriole in Chicago. In 2015, Julia was named one Zagat’s 30 Under 30 “rockstars redefining the industry.” In 2016, she was named one of Eater’s “Young Guns,” a prestigious collection of ambitious and talented rising stars. That same year, Food & Wine named Julia a “Best New Mixologist,” drawing national recognition to her name. Looking ahead to 2018, Julia is partnering with Noah and Cara Sandoval of Oriole to open her own bar, Kumiko.

The second bartender chosen was Nikos Mantzaridis from Miami, with two of his unique cocktails both inspired by the complexity found in different flavor combination and, of course, by beautiful beaches, ocean, and sun.

“Cabanas are wonderful in Miami, and always give you the sense of something glamourous, which inspired my refreshing ‘Cabana Boy’ cocktail.”
– Nikos Mantzaridis

Cavasutra Cocktail

Cavasutra

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz. Aperol
• 1/2 oz Pamplemouse Giffard
• 1/2 oz. Lemon Juice
• 1/2 oz. Hibiscus Syrup
• Segura Viudas Rosé Cava (to Top)
• Orange Peel (to Garnish)

Preparation: Combine ingredients in a mixing tin; shake and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

Cabana Boy

Cabana boy

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Italicus Liqueur
• 1 oz. Fos Greek Mastiha Liqueur
• 3/4 oz. Lemon Juice
• 1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
• 2 Basil Leaves
• pinch Black Pepper
• top with 1.5 oz of Segura Viudas Brut Cava

Preparation: Shake and strain ingredients over crushed ice in a Collins glass. Garnish with basil leaves.

Nikos Mantzaridis

About Nikos Mantzaridis, Chilled 100 Ambassador, Miami

Nikos moved to Greece at the young age of 17 where his bartending career started in a bowling alley, quickly leading him to tend bar at a night clubs, beach bars, eventually bartending in hotels and popular cocktails bars all around Greece and the surrounding islands.

The first cocktail competition he entered was the Nationals of Greece in 2012 where he came in fourth place. Nikos moved back to the states in 2014, finding himself in Delray Beach, where he consulted for his first bar and speakeasy. There he would meet David Ortiz, the cofounder of the United States Bartenders’ Guild Miami, who suggested a prestigous cocktail competition in the area, which led Nikos to working behind one of Miami’s best cocktail bars and restaurants: Beaker & Grey. He then found a new mentor; Ben Potts. “After meeting Ben, I became more and more involved with the industry here in the states,” says Nikos.

“Which brought me to competing in more competitions, of which I won more than ten in the last two years and also making it to the Regional Finals of Bombay Sapphire’s The Most Imaginative Bartender Competition. One year later, I was lucky enough to open my own bar in Coral Gables, named Plomo; a craft cocktail tequila bar. I also manage the bar at Taquiza, North Beach, and I am currently a mixologist for Red Bull, in Miami.”

The post Must Mix Segura Viudas Cava Cocktails with the Chilled 100 Ambassadors appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

You may have seen the smoldering actor Chris Santos in the Steven Soderbergh film The Girlfriend Experience, where he played the male lead opposite Sasha Grey.

Santos is now starring in his second Soderbergh film, Perfect.  He stars opposite Abbie Cornish, Martin Sensmeier and Maurice Compte in the thriller. Santos, who had already been cast in the film, brought it to the attention of Soderbergh, who fell in love with the project and jumped on board to produce.

Written and directed by award-winning Eddie Alcazar and composed by Los Angeles based experimental multi-genre producer and rapper Flying Lotus, Perfect tells the story of a young man with a violent past who enters a mysterious clinic where the patients wildly transform their bodies and minds using genetic engineering. The psychological thriller fully captivates its audience as it steers them along a thought-provoking journey while providing a luxurious treat for fans of science fiction.

Santos currently resides in Los Angeles. When he is not acting or writing, the fitness enthusiast enjoys Thai boxing and Brazilian jujitsu.

You can tell Santos hails from Long Island with some of his food ordering choices. Bacon, egg and cheese on a bagel, anyone?

Chillin’ with Chris Santos

Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on.

Sure. The film Perfect premiered at SXSW last month. That film is about a young man (played by Garret Wareing) with a violent past who enters a mysterious clinic where the patients wildly transform their bodies and minds using genetic engineering. My character’s name is STRIPS (Stanford Research Institute Problem Solver) which is a type of problem solving A.I. (Artificial Intelligence). Which was very challenging and cool to do. The second film I have coming out is called Someday. The film follows two strangers, myself (Adam) and my wonderful co-star Katherine Castro (Melody) who meet on a 14- hour flight from Sydney to Los Angeles. I play a world-famous composer who sits next to Melody (Katherine), who doesn’t recognize her flight companion. Along the way they pour their hearts out, forging a connection that is more beautiful, precisely because of its simple, fleeting nature. Another really fun role to play.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?

I love to read, write, cook and workout.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

I am a foodie and I love variation. Some of my favorite restaurants are Cleo, Katsuya, Sugarfish, Craig’s, Madeo, Mozza, Cafe Gratitude and Real Food Daily.

Chillin’ with Chris Santos

What types of dishes do you usually order?

Well, in the last year or so I have been working on moving towards a more plant-based diet (it’s been a slow process). With that said, I eat what I want when I want, I love avocado toast, a quinoa bowl or a great bacon, egg and cheese on a bagel. I am a pizza addict for life whether it is vegan or not, I love pizza any way I can get it. When I eat fish, I am obsessed with albacore belly and Hirami sushi. I will always be sucker for a great steak wagyu, if they have it of course.

Do you cook?

I do fashion myself a good cook. My top specialties include, “surprise” avocado toast. Lime juice, cilantro and heirloom tomatoes are my secret. Salmon or tuna ceviche (white truffle oil and ponzu sauce). Of course, steak which I believe should start with a good piece of meat followed by salt, pepper, garlic oil and nothing else.

What types of drinks do you order when out?

I am a total wine-o. What color I drink depends on what I am doing. Sunny afternoons require a crisp rosé, my favorite being Whispering Angel. For a light fun time event or social setting, I like a buttery chardonnay such as Ferrari-Carano. For cozy nights in or dark restaurants, it’s red all the way, with Amarone being my favorite by far. It’s so big and bold.

Chillin’ with Chris Santos

Do you prepare drinks at home?

I have a winery in my apartment. All colors, all types, someone even bought me two make-it-yourself six-gallon wine kits. Which was a nightmare and I do not recommend it. However, the 26 bottles I made came out really good. I bring them to parties and no one believes I made them myself.

Do you own a home bar?

Haha yes, I do. I found an amazing wood worker at a local flea market here in L.A. He can make anything, and I was so excited to have him make me a bar to my specifications for a very reasonable price. Wine refrigerator included, of course.

Chris Santos’ Home Bar

What is your home bar stocked with?

Besides wine, I love Tequila, Casa Dragones and Casamigos. Also, Singani 63, Steven Soderbergh’s alcohol, which if you haven’t tried, you must.

What is your favorite drink/cocktail?

If I am drinking a cocktail I love a great spicy margarita. That just never gets old.

Have you ever been a bartender?

I think every guy fashions himself a pretty good bartender, myself included, although I have never done it professionally.

Follow Chris on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

The post Chillin’ with Chris Santos appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Storytelling is at the heart of cocktailing and with CHILLED’s next installment of Mixing with NOLET’S Silver Gin, we again tap into the CHILLED 100 influencer network to connect the past and the present but with an eye to the future. Mixologists have embraced gin cocktails as the Wave of the Future and NOLET’S Silver Gin embodies a spirit that’s capable of producing legendary drinks.

Mixing with Nolet’s Gin

In the third of a 5-part series, one of San Diego’s most accomplished mixologists and a seasoned member of the CHILLED 100, brings a mariner’s tale to life inside a glass. Simple to mix yet brimming with complex flavors, this refreshing cocktail will be savored by one and all while watching the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean.

Sea Witch Cocktail

Sea Witch

By Chad Berkey

“This simple, fun to make cocktail was inspired by the beautiful Southern California coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The siren call of the Sea Witch will lure you in and pique your senses. Vibrant colors of mint and raspberry red immediately attract the eye and the nose will tingle from the sparkling bubbles and tantalizing aromas of raspberry, peach, mint and Turkish rose. With just one sip this cocktail will have you under its spell. Fresh, clean and delicious … it’s time to answer the call of the NOLET’s Sea Witch!”

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz. NOLET’s Silver Gin
• 1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
• 1/2 oz. St. Germain
• Mint
• Raspberries

Preparation: In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass muddle 3 mint leaves and 2 raspberries. Add ice and all ingredients then shake and pour into a Collins glass. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with mint and raspberries.

Meet Chad Berkey

Chilled 100 Member, San Diego

Chad Berkey’s experience is vast and varied. He’s worked in all facets of the bar and restaurant industry over a career spanning 28 years and is recognized as one of San Diego’s top mixologists. He currently manages and bartends at one of the city’s most established bars, The Aero Club, which boasts a selection of over 1100 whiskeys! It has received numerous accolades, most recently being named Maxim’s Bar of the Month, and was also featured in the New York Times segment 36 Hours.

Chad has a pending Guinness World Record for pouring the most cocktails at one time. He has been featured on The Food Network, Tonight in San Diego, San Diego Living, The CW Channel 6, Bucket List Bars and America’s Dining and Travel Show. He is the author of The North American Whiskey Guide from Behind the Bar and is a national mixologist for Libbey Glassware.

Chad is the proud co-inventor/creator of the Tin Play Innovative Bar Ware System. The revolutionary multi-tools system raises the bar when it comes to crafting cocktails with efficacy and consistency, making it simple for even beginners to perform once complicated trick/flair pours with ease.

Chad Berkey – Chilled 100 Ambassador, San Diego

The post Mixing with Nolet’s Silver Gin – The Wave of the Future Part 3 appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

The limited-edition bottle launches in time for Military Appreciation Month.

Multi-platinum duo Florida Georgia Line are proud to launch their Old Camp Whiskey Patriot Pack, a new package for their staple Peach Pecan Whiskey. The Patriot Pack celebrates FGL’s longstanding commitment to supporting the nation’s service members and their families and honors the patriotism of country music fans.

The new star-spangled bottle, which is inspired by the American flag and is emblazoned with lyrics from FGL’s chart-topper, “May We All” featuring Tim McGraw, comes to market ahead of summer and just in time to raise a glass for Armed Forces Day and Military Appreciation Month. The release also marks a partnership with the United Service Organizations (USO), a nonprofit organization that supports America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country throughout their service to the nation.

“Several members of my family have served in the military. My grandfather was awarded the Purple Heart in World War II and he passed away before I was born. His life story has always inspired me and I have so much respect for the bravery, resilience and commitment that our armed forces have. To be able to support our troops in this way is a true honor.”
– FGL’s Brian Kelley

“We have long been committed to giving back to our armed forces for their great service and sacrifices and are thrilled to continue to do so with our Old Camp Whiskey Patriot Pack.”
– FGL’s Tyler Hubbard

“We are excited to be working with Old Camp Whiskey and Florida Georgia Line and are glad to officially be a part of their camp. We appreciate their support of our service members and their families and thank them for their assistance in increasing awareness of the USO and our important mission.”
– Lisa Anastasi, SVP and Chief Development Officer of the USO

The whiskey is a nod to the award-winning-duo’s Florida and Georgia roots and infused with Southern peach and pecan flavors. The Patriot Pack is available for purchase beginning May 1st at select retailers nationwide. Old Camp Peach Pecan Whiskey is 70 proof (35% alcohol by volume) with a suggested retail price of $19.99 for a 750ml bottle.

For more information, visit OldCampWhiskey.com.

The post Old Camp Whiskey Launches New Patriot Pack appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

 As the saying goes, “Everything’s bigger in Texas” was certainly true at this year’s Big Texas Beer Fest, which took place on March 30th-31st, 2018 at the Fair Park Automobile Building.

Set up in the heart of Dallas, the 7th Annual Big Texas Beer Fest had 100 different brewers pouring over 500 different styles and flavors of craft beer to attendees. Big names such as Samuel Adams, Firestone Walker, Ballast Point, and many others attended, bringing with them an out-of-state influence. Meanwhile, plenty of state and local breweries geared up for the event, including Shannon Brewing Company, Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Community Beer Company, and Deep Ellum Brewing Company, among several others.

Big Texas Beer Fest

This two-day craft beer extravaganza brought in several thousands of people, with some estimating well over 7,000 in attendance. While most of the crowd showed up for general admission, VIPs got special treatment, with entrance to the event an hour early so they could be the first to start sampling the abundance of crafted goods. After some time, there were long lines at several breweries, with some waiting up to 20 minutes just to sample the coveted brews.

Big Texas Beer Fest

Several special releases were scattered abroad, ranging from red wine barrel-aged sours and bourbon barrel-aged stouts to a milkshake IPA. Many brewers tried their best to conjure up different unique recipes to win over the crowd and provide a flavorful experience.

Gourmet food trucks lined up outside the venue to provide hunger-stricken craft beer lovers with much-appreciated grub. This year’s Big Texas Beer Fest was an absolute success, as well as a proving ground for the major growth and expanse that the craft beer industry has seen as a whole. Until next year, continue to drink up and spread the craft beer cheer.

To view more photos from the event, CLICK HERE. For more information, visit BigTexasBeerFest.com.

The post Event Recap: Big Texas Beer Fest appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

The WSWA Convention Wraps Day One. See who we are chillin’ with.

The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America 75th Annual Convention & Exposition opened at Caesars Palace Las Vegas on May 2nd, 2018, uniting suppliers and distributors under one roof, bringing together more than 2,700 suppliers, distributors, influencers and a record number of industry media attendees for three days of networking and deal making.

The day began with the Opening General Session that featured a retrospective video telling the stories of the many families who have shaped the wholesale tier as well as WSWA as an association over the last seventy-five years.

Incoming 2018-2019 WSWA Chairman Barkley Stuart of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits delivered remarks noting his platform as chairman, which will be to support the rise of women leaders and diversity throughout the industry.

Mast-Jagermeister, U.S., CEO Jeff Popkin introduced and presented to Constellation Brands CEO Rob Sands the Sidney Frank Innovation Award, given annually to a person who has made exceptional industry and philanthropic contributions. The award is named for Sidney Frank, an industry innovator and philanthropist.

The morning was capped by an enthusiastically received keynote address delivered by Madeleine K. Albright, former Secretary of State (1997-2001). Attendees spent the remainder of the day networking in the two lively Exhibit Halls, Lower Level Suites, and Traditional Hospitality Suites. The evening was capped with the Opening Night Reception, sponsored by The Presidents Forum, with several Wholesaler mixologists as well as Chilled magazine-sponsored bartenders pouring at the event.

The WSWA 75th Annual Convention & Exposition runs through Thursday, May 3rd.

For more information, visit WSWAConvention.org.

The post Look Who We’re Chillin’ With at WSWA appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Star Wars Day is May 4th! Celebrate May the Fourth and the upcoming release of Solo: A Star Wars Story on May 25th, 2018, with this easy to mix cocktail.

The Death Star Cocktail is inspired by the release of Solo: A Star Wars Story. This cocktail is crafted by mixologist Alex Attart, bar manager (and longtime Star Wars fan) at Taverna Opa in Orlando.

“I asked myself ‘What would Darth Vader drink?’ It’s a popular cocktail on May the Fourth, around new film releases, and during Orlando’s many Star Wars conventions.”
– Alex Attart, Bar Manager, Taverna Opa Orlando

Sip Carefully! The force is strong with this one … the cocktail packs a punch and may just convert you to the dark side.

Death Star Cocktail

Death Star Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. EG Vodka
• 1 oz. Jägermeister
• 1 oz. Triple Sec
• 1 oz. Jameson
• 2 oz. Sweet and Sour Mix
• 2 oz. Cola

Preparation: Fill ‘Death Star’ ice sphere mold with purified water and freeze. Place ‘Death Star’ ice sphere in wide-mouthed rocks glass. Combine all liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake and pour over ‘Death Star’ ice sphere.



The post Must Mix: ‘Death Star’ Cocktail for May the Fourth appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

James Martinez is playing double duty on Netflix, as Congressman Alex Romero on the series House of Cards, and now also starring in the hit comedy remake One Day at a Time.

Martinez plays Victor Alvarez, ex-husband of lead character Penelope Alvarez (Justina Machado), the working mother of Elena and Alex who served in the army with Victor and now works as a nurse.

Chilled caught up with Martinez to find out what he has been up to since the filming of these two shows wrapped. Don’t be surprised if you see Martinez running a Yellow Cab Company in Queens!

Chillin’ with James Martinez

Tell us about the projects you are working on or have coming up.

The 5th season of House of Cards is now streaming on Netflix. I play Alex Romero, a young progressive congressman who becomes a threat to the Underwood administration. Right now, I’m shooting two recurring roles; the 6th season of Major Crimes on TNT as well as the second season of Netflix’s One Day at a Time, which is Norman Lear’s reboot of the popular 70’s sitcom.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your down time?

In my down time, I help run my family business which is managing and maintaining our yellow cab company based out of Queens, NY as well as dine around the borough with his friends and family.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

Taverna Kyclades in Astoria has some of the best seafood I’ve ever had, especially their grilled octopus.

What types of dishes do you usually order?

Peruvian food has some of my favorite dishes. A Peruvian restaurant in Jackson Heights called Urumbamba has amazing ceviche. I also love the Korean BBQ all around Flushing, Queens.

Do you cook?

I dabble. I like to experiment with different meats and seasonings.

What types of drinks do you order when out?

I’m pretty simplistic. Sunday’s for brunch, I like a screwdriver with Tito’s Vodka. I also love my Red Breast, Chivas or Jameson Whiskey and Ginger Ale. Not really a rum guy but when I have it, I like Havana Club on the rocks.

Chillin’ with James Martinez

Do you prepare drinks at home?

Not really, when I’m home I pretty much kick back with a lager or whatever type of beer I’m in the mood for. Being a New Yorker it depends on the season.

Do you own a home bar?

No, I pretty much get things as I need them. Everything I have at home are leftovers from hosting friends and family. I always have aguardiente (Colombian liquor) at home because that’s what my family likes when they come over.

If you did own a home bar, what would it be like?

I would set it up in the basement of my Queens house and try and replicate my local Irish Pub, The Ready Penny. A lot of wood and dim lighting with a great selection of whiskies, vodkas and fresh beer on tap.

What is your favorite drink or cocktail?

A Manhattan or an Old Fashioned. These were very popular during my Juilliard days when we’d bar hop around the Upper West Side with my fellow acting students. Brings back good memories.

Have you ever been a bartender?

No, my side job has always been the taxi business but since my drivers and mechanics are so diverse I get exposed to interesting food and liquor from all over.

Follow James on Instagram and Twitter.

The post Chillin’ with James Martinez appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Elizabeth McCall, Master Taster and Senior Quality Control Specialist, Promoted to Assistant Master Distiller.

Woodford Reserve®, the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby®, is proud to announce that Master Taster Elizabeth McCall has been promoted to Assistant Master Distiller, joining the ranks as one of the youngest female distillers in the U.S.

McCall has been a member of Brown-Forman’s Research & Development Department since 2009. In her new role as Assistant Master Distiller, McCall will continue working under the direction of Master Distiller Chris Morris on the innovation and the development of new products within Woodford Reserve.

“Elizabeth brings not only exceptional sensory and analytic skills to the distillery but also an inspiring passion for Woodford Reserve. I look forward to continue mentoring Elizabeth as she begins her new role of Assistant Master Distiller.”
– Chris Morris, Master Distiller

Woodford Reserve’s Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall and Master Distiller, Chris Morris

McCall, 33, is the second generation of her family to work in the bourbon industry. She followed in her mother’s footsteps after earning her master’s degree from the University of Louisville by starting as a sensory expert and working in Brown-Forman’s R&D Department starting in 2009. As Master Taster, McCall helped develop tasting notes for various Woodford Reserve expressions. Additionally, she worked to define the sensory standard to which every batch of Woodford Reserve must comply.

“It has been the utmost pleasure to work with the Woodford Reserve team as Master Taster—and I look forward to continuing to elevate my skills and broaden my knowledge as we craft the world’s best bourbon.”
– Elizabeth McCall, Assistant Master Distiller

Elizabeth McCall

When Elizabeth is not using her expertise at the distillery, she is passionate about her family, horses and being involved in her community. She sits on the board of Louisville nonprofit Green Hill Therapy where her horse, Cody Ko, serves in the hippotherapy program. Elizabeth also enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Matt, and dog Beasley. Here’s what Elizabeth had to say about the Kentucky Derby and Mint Juleps.

Can you speak a bit about the 2018 Kentucky Derby Commemorative Bottle and your sponsorship of the Derby?

Bourbon and horses are so deeply intertwined in Kentucky … the same nutrient-rich water that gives great flavor and makes great bourbon is what helps horses grow to be strong athletes. It’s a joy for us to bring these two worlds together by becoming the presenting sponsor of the Kentucky Derby.

For this year’s Derby, we’re focusing on “The Best of Kentucky.” All of our ingredients for our $1,000 Mint Julep are going to be sourced in Kentucky. This year’s bottle artist is one of Brown-Forman’s very own employees, Keith Anderson, a born and bred Kentuckian. We are sharing our Kentucky pride with the world this year, and we couldn’t be more excited!

Speaking of the Derby, any tips on making a fine Mint Julep using Woodford Reserve?

A Mint Julep is always a winner on Derby Day or any day!

I suggest that you start out with Woodford Reserve as your base spirit and build the cocktails off the flavors found in Woodford. So to add a fun twist use sorghum or honey simple syrup instead of traditional simple syrup, try different variations of mint and add different fruits such as raspberries or strawberries.

The great thing about working with a bourbon like Woodford Reserve is that it’s loaded with so many wonderful flavors that you can mix, garnish, or pair it with just about anything, and it’s going to be delicious! Another favorite of mine is Woodford Reserve Punch—It’s so simple and is a great spring/summer cocktail.

Woodford Reserve is proud to announce the 2018 $1000 Mint Julep Cup and Recipe for the 144th Kentucky Derby.

This year’s cup, recipe and experience is presented under the theme: Best of Kentucky (on what some would argue is Kentucky’s best day). The Twin Spires appear on the cup as a nod to Woodford Reserve’s inaugural year as the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby. Running lines around the cup symbolize the limestone-filtered water*, a key ingredient that makes the best bourbon and ties bourbon and thoroughbreds together.

*Important fact about Limestone Water: Not only is the water superior for bourbon production, but it is also a key reason that thoroughbred champions are raised in Kentucky. There is no iron and the water is rich in calcium and magnesium, perfect for strengthening horses’ bones.

The cups also feature three sterling silver applications: a thoroughbred horse and jockey, a bottle of Woodford Reserve, and a rose as an ode to the “Run for the Roses.”

The 2018 mint julep was crafted by Woodford Reserve’s newly appointed Assistant Master Distiller, Elizabeth McCall, and Master Distiller, Chris Morris. The recipe uses ingredients that can only be sourced in Kentucky including fresh mint, sorgum (a natural sweetener) and limestone water ice. The Mint Julep is garnished with three spray roses and a single rose petal from the Garland of Roses, which is draped on the winning Derby horse.

Woodford Reserve 2018 Kentucky Derby Mint Julep

Woodford Reserve 2018 Kentucky Derby Mint Julep 

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• 1 tsp. Woodford County, Kentucky, Sorghum Simple Syrup
• 2 Leaves of Kentucky Colonel Mint

Garnish: 3 spray red roses, a sprig of mint and a single rose petal from the Garland of Roses, which is draped on the winning Derby horse.

Preparation: Rub mint around the julep cup, expressing the essential oils. Add remaining ingredients and top with crushed ice made from limestone-filtered water sourced from the Woodford Reserve Distillery. Churn ingredients with a bar spoon distributing the flavor. Top with additional crushed ice and garnish.

All proceeds from the $1,000 Mint Julep Cup are benefiting the Jennifer Lawrence Arts Fund.

The post Meet Elizabeth McCall – One of the Country’s Youngest Female Distillers appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News