Behind the Craft Spirit Bar

MIX IT UP BEHIND THE BAR BEHIND THE BAR Craft Spirits

CAMAZOTZ OAXACAN RUM

Maestro Leoncio Gaspar in Mexico’s Sierra Mixe is proving that Mexico can make more than just agave spirits. The family grows their own pesticide-free sugarcane, which is pressed by hand before the raw juice is fermented in open barrels. Once the liquid collects its wild yeast, it’s moved to a traditional alembic copper pot still where it is distilled in 300-liter batches to proof. The spirit is bottled unaged and transported by mules 5km up a mountain to be picked up for collection. The rum itself is mildly sweet with notes of fresh sugarcane, grassy and woody notes and a long saline finish; sip it neat or mix it in your favorite cocktail.

ORGANIC SELECTION COGNAC

As one of the pioneers of organic cognac, the team at Distillerie du Peyrat has a family history of cognac distillation dating back to 1705. They produce about 160,000 bottles a year, including its Organic Selection—a blend of lively young cognacs. Smooth and well balanced, this bottling is wonderful sipped neat or mixed into a cocktail. Flavor notes include white tea, stone fruit, and fresh flowers.

CHIRIQUÍ MOSCATEL CASK

This stunning bottle from Mezan draws its packaging inspiration from Chiriquí, Panama. The art draws inspiration from three sources—the Fortuna Forest Reserve located within the province, colorful Panamanian embroidery, and bold graphic tattoo patterns. The province is home to a wide range of flora and fauna depicted on the bottle using many traditional embroidery colors.