The final morning for me started with a quick trip to Fortaleza Tequila at the Ritz-Carlton where I tried their smooth, not overpowering brand of spirit. This would be the last time I was at The Ritz as there was so much happening around the city to see.
Jewel of the South transformed into Lucky's At The Jewel for Suntory Spirits, where a variety of cocktails were created using Maker's Mark, Jim Beam, Knob Creek, Roku Gin, and more. I loved the claw machine that you played to win merch. The real fun began when we ventured up the stairs to do an intimate secret tasting of Suntory's finest spirits. Hibiki 21 Years Old, Hardin's Creek Kentucky Series, and my new favorite Little Book Chapter 8 "Path Not Taken" were presented along with a Curried Banana Milk Punch cocktail and three bites of sweet potato mochi with caviar, foie gras eclairs, and courgette with miso. It was a fascinating experience that I will always remember.
We all piled in Ubers to get across town to Seaworthy where Aspen Vodka was making innovative drinks to mix well with raw oysters. Some of the drinks, like Stranger Things, were featured at the Pernod Air party earlier in the week, so I tried out the Clarified Cosmo that I hadn't yet tried. The sunny day and lots of seating inspired people to truly sit and enjoy this event rather than mill around and make plans for the next thing.
Eventually, those wanting some pool time ventured to Mijenta Tequila's poolside bash at the lovely Four Seasons Hotel. The large pool was festooned with pink and white pool toys that partygoers floated upon like angels while enjoying a Mariposita with Mijenta Blanco, butterfly pea, elderflower, and lime or Vida Buenas with Mijenta Reposado, green tea, honey, ginger, and lemon. Conversations ran deep into spiritualism and overcoming hardships as friendships formed between strangers. That's the magic of Tales of the Cocktail!
My last official event of Tales was Diageo Goes West at the CAC. Early on, a line formed around the entire block as everyone wanted to attend this grand event (especially as Western garb is so hot right now). Bulleit Bourbon brought the mechanical bull ride and rib-garnished cocktails. Capt. Morgan shirts became hot commodities, and Lucky Dogs ran out because it was so packed with those celebrating their week so far.
