The Cincinnati Bailliage met on a balmy June evening at the Transept Event Center in downtown Cincinnati for a much-anticipated spirits and wine dinner. Vice Echanson Mary Horn organized the event and brought in Master Distiller Jordan Via of Savage & Cooke Distillers to lead an educational and extremely enjoyable spirit tasting followed by an exceptional wine dinner.
The owner of the distillery is Dave Phinney of Orin Swift fame and his spirits have the distinction of being aged in Orin Swift wine barrels. Members were treated to tastes of a five-year-old Kentucky whiskey, a four-year-old bourbon, and two tequilas – a reposado and an añejo. Many in attendance were surprised to find out how the wine barrels imparted a satisfying boldness to the spirits which made them extremely enjoyable by themselves and in a blackberry cocktail.
Following the spirit portion of the evening, members were the treated to a lavish buffet dinner prepared by Larry Monaco of Michael Forgus’ Funky’s Catering. The dinner took place in a beautifully renovated German church located in a vibrant downtown neighborhood.
Offerings included Asian barbecued ribs, branzino with salsa verde, and a baked chocolate tart with espresso-salted caramel sauce. These were paired with two of Mr. Phinney’s most popular wines – Mannequin Chardonnay and Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon.
At the conclusion of the evening, rave reviews were given to Vice Echanson Mary Horn for her collaboration with Jordan Via and Michael Forgus to bring the Cincinnati members and their guests such an exquisite evening.
Graig Smith, Chargé de Presse