Tales of the Cocktail® New Orleans 2016

Think you know your Meyers from your Almafi’s? Join us to test your Citrus knowledge with five citrus experts from around the globe. Citrus has remained a pivotal ingredient in cocktails since its initial inception. From the squeeze of a lime, to the zest of an orange, this fruit is integral behind the bar. But how many of us truly understand citrus? In this seminar attendees will be presented with an in-depth look into the history and anatomy of citrus that includes the species history going back to the “Original Four” Citrus fruits, from which all citrus today can trace their origins. This understanding can embolden you to experiment far beyond basic citrus varietals with confidence. Attend this seminar for the opportunity to experience rare, experimental, and hybrid citrus varietals from one of the largest citrus collections in the world, the Citrus Variety Collection [CVC] at University of California, Riverside. The CVC has roots that date back to 1910 as the citrus industry began to take root within CA and was originally a way for the migrant Midwest farmers to research and learn how to grow citrus in the area. Today, the collection is home to nearly 1,100 different citrus varietals, some of which can only be found in the CVC Grove. It is the most diverse collection of citrus fruits in the world, and due to restrictions on the transportation of citrus fruits and rootstocks, it will never be able to be recreated anywhere else in the world. The collection is a true historical treasure and home to vast citrus research and knowledge. We will provide a citrus field guide full of information on the unique varietals featured during the seminar from the UCR CVC Grove. Guests of this seminar will also go home with a fragrance inspired by a unique varietal from the CVC Grove custom designed by Givaudan’s Fine Fragrance team. We will dive into the challenges unique to citrus involving oil extraction, acidity levels, oxidation, changes in pH, enzymatic bittering and changes in volatile aromas. A large majority of the characterizing flavor in our favorite citrus varietals live in the plant’s outer peel, or zest. With this in mind, we will turn next to focus on the process of natural citrus flavor extraction methods, from which citrus oils are derived, relevant to both commercial spirit production and behind-the-bar scale. During the seminar, you will have the opportunity to taste two daiquiris to compare and contrast the different approaches to the citrus consistency issue. First, we will serve a freshly squeezed lime daiquiri. Next, will be a daiquiri featuring natural flavor and acid. In closing, we will serve two signature daiquiris that utilize both approaches in perfect harmony to kick off the Q&A segment. Ultimately, you will leave this seminar with four key takeaways. The first is a unique opportunity to explore the history of all citrus and experience the profiles of rare and exotic citrus. The second is a firmer understanding of the inherent citrus challenges. Third, you will gain awareness into various citrus flavor extraction tools along with guidance on how to choose the best method based on the desired output. Lastly, you will have the ability to achieve more consistent results as you continue to work with citrus.