The results of the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2012 are out, and I must say they are a bit puzzling to me. I am, of course focusing on the mezcal results, but click the full results if you care to review them. http://www.ultimate-beverage.com/the-results/2012-spirits-results/#category_6
To me, the surprising result is that the top rated mezcal is Del Maguey Vida. Now this is no doubt a fine mezcal but I am guessing that even Ron Cooper at Del Maguey would not see this as Del Maguey’s top rated mezcal. Though I can happily sip it, there are many more that I think are better sipping mezcals, and I view this as great product with which to make mezcal cocktails. Even though I don’t get it, congrats to Vida.
Wahaka, with their g
immicky name and bottle that is begging for an umbrella, scored 5 different variations in the list of 14 (though all were below number 7). I have resisted trying it simply because the name and packaging seemed like such a gimmick, but it looks like I have to get involved now! I can’t find it in NYC but I can order it online.
And then I see Ilegal Reposado, while still strongly recommended, getting nowhere near the credit it deserves. It is a personal favorite (the anejo is mind numbing) so I am glad it made the list, but it should be near the top.
Ahhh but you say tomato and I say mezcal, so who knows. Another day and the results would certainly be different. All I know is I wish I had been there!
You will indeed see this recipe, and I have a good one for just the cocktail of which you speak! There is probably no limit to awesome mezcal cocktails, and I will be posting some more winners in the future. In the meantime, drink mezcal! Thanks for the comment.
I think your website and twitter pages are really cool and I especially liked the Nike jogging shoe. Although I must disagree with you on the two best mezcal cocktails, since I think the Mezcal Margarita with brandy and bitters ranks as one of the best. So, I expect to see this recipe in the near future