Thursday Update

Ughh, stuck at the day job this morning, really not wanting to be here. I really need to find a way to get out of corporate America. Tonight, its First Thursday, a big art event in the Pearl, so 50 Plates should be really busy tonight. I hope so, as we need a good rush to see how the cocktail list performs and how the bar operates under a good solid rush.

Some other updates for you;

I'm still working on a review of Leblon cachaca , but it probably won't happen until Sunday. I'm turning into a huge Leblon fan, last night I was tired, so I just made some Leblon and 7s which worked perfectly in the 95 degree heat with no a/c. Look also for some more traditional Brazilian cachaca drinks as I get time.

I'm also working on a review of Bacardi 8, yet another sipping rum that I'm really getting into. I'm starting to be convinced that the rum/cachaca category offers far more value for dollar spent than any other spirits category.

I've been debating doing a review of New Amsterdam gin, a new gin on the market from Gallo, but I don't think I have time. Its not a flavor profile that I particularly care for (its sweet, with a very pronounced orange flavor), but just because its not for me doesn't mean that it can't play an important role in the marketplace. This should be an easy gin for bartenders to convert their mandarin and soda drinkers over to. In other words, this might be the gateway gin I've been waiting for. I'll be keeping my eye on New Amsterdam to see how they do, I think there is a real opportunity for them to market this to young vodka drinkers.

I received a bottle of Sobieski vodka yesterday. You all probably know that I'm not a huge vodka fan, but say "Polish" and "rye" when we are talking vodka and you are likely to grab my attention. I've go the bottle stashed at my desk so that I can bring it in tonight so that I can play with it along with Suzanne Allard, a self described "vodka girl". The price point on this stuff is amazing, if its quality product we're going to need to get it into Oregon asap.

I'm also busy with finalizing things for the Oregon Bartenders Guild's upcoming cocktail competition as part of the Great American Distillers Festival. Its really going to be a great competition and there is still room available to compete. For more info, go to www.distillersfestival.com

Lastly, I've got a new drink to foist upon an unsuspecting public. Its really tasty and I've got to get it up soon. But I doubt that it will happen tonight.