Liquor-articles 2020

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Some things are worth trying once or twice, and then never doing again: skydiving, ketchup on spaghetti, and hot yoga come to mind. In the whiskey world, certain cask finishes that fall into this category of things that should probably not be repeated after the first or second go, and the new Twice Barreled Heritage Barrel Rye from Jack Daniel’s is proof of this concept.

As I’ve written about many times before, kudos to Jack Daniel’s for expanding well beyond its flagship Old No. 7 by experimenting and releasing a wide range of often great and always interesting whiskeys like the 10 and 12-year-old age statements, single malt, Distillery Series (most of which are cask finished), and single barrels.

The latest release in that last category is a rye whiskey aged for five years and then placed into Jack’s proprietary heavily toasted Heritage barrels for an additional two years and bottled at 100 proof. Unfortunately, this lengthy finish is overbearing.

The distillery added a rye whiskey to its core lineup in 2017, and it’s a good whiskey that retains those classic Jack banana and fruit notes while adding a nice dose of pepper and spice. But I found this version of the rye, made from the same 70 percent rye mashbill, to be virtually unrecognizable because of the influence of the toasted oak finish, sort of like a muted version of the effect that amburana wood has on whiskey.

A toasted oak finish this lengthy—at two years, really more of a secondary maturation—has turned this whiskey into a cinnamon and nutmeg spice bomb with toasty tannins on the palate taking centerstage and dominating anything else going on here.

There are certainly people out there who will enjoy this whiskey, but I recommend trying anything else in the range of other excellent options currently in the lineup instead.

Of course, Jack Daniel’s didn’t invent the toasted oak finish—Michter’s actually takes credit for that by launching its Toasted Barrel whiskey nearly a decade ago in 2014. Those bottles often sell for triple their asking price on the secondary market, but I generally think they fall into the same trap as this rye with an aggressively woody palate.

I’d argue that the same holds true for versions from Elijah Craig, Daviess County, Penelope Bourbon, and Wheel Horse. One exception was the 2021 release of Wild Turkey Master’s Keep One, a whiskey finished in toasted oak that actually worked with its well balanced palate.

There are absolutely some great cask-finished whiskeys out there, even some that are finished in a ridiculous number of barrels. But maybe, just maybe, there are certain barrels that don’t need to be used for this, and some whiskeys are fine just the way they are without a secondary maturation.

Queen Elizabeth had witnessed many things during her long reign, but in 2003, she came face-to-face with a puzzling sight at her grandson Prince William’s 21st birthday party. The event, held at Windsor Castle, had an “out of Africa” theme, complete with extravagant decorations and entertainment. However, it was a specific element that left the Queen confused – a vodka luge in the shape of an elephant’s head.

Party planner Johnny Roxburgh recalled the moment on Channel 5’s The Royal Borough: Kensington and Chelsea, stating that when the Queen saw someone pouring vodka into the elephant’s head, she turned to him and asked, “What is that?” Roxburgh, taken aback by the situation, replied, “Ma’am, it’s a vodka luge.” Reflecting on the interaction, Roxburgh humorously added, “I could have said it was a tin of Brasso, because she just looked at me confused and said, ‘Hmmm…'”

Roxburgh previously shared details about the birthday celebration with Tatler magazine in 2018, describing William as “wonderful to work with” and “charming beyond belief.” The party included various impressive elements, such as full-size elephants made from palm husks and theatrical table centerpieces. However, it was the vodka luge in the shape of an elephant’s head that seemed to capture the Queen’s attention most.

The guest list for the event was equally star-studded, with notable attendees like Camilla Parker-Bowles, who would go on to marry Prince Charles two years later. Renowned actor Rowan Atkinson and late socialite Tara Palmer-Tomkinson were also present, along with 300 other guests. While it remains unclear if Kate Middleton, William’s future wife, attended the party, it is believed that the two were dating at the time, as they had met while studying at the University of St. Andrews.

Looking back, one can only imagine the stark contrast between Queen Elizabeth’s 21st birthday celebration in 1947 and her grandson’s extravagant affair in 2003. It is safe to say that a vodka luge was likely not part of the festivities when she herself reached that milestone. Nevertheless, despite her bemusement, the Queen’s interaction with the vodka luge only added to the whimsical nature of Prince William’s birthday bash, showcasing the lighthearted side of the royal family.

A Glimpse into Queen Elizabeth II’s 21st Birthday Party: The Mystery of the Vodka Luge

In the realm of British royal parties, some are extravagant affairs that evoke awe and wonder, while others hold untold secrets that can leave even the monarch herself perplexed. One such event is Prince William’s 21st birthday celebration, which took place back in 2003. Today, we delve into the intriguing details of this jungle-themed extravaganza, including the Queen’s charmingly confused encounter with a peculiar contraption known as the vodka luge.

Known for his expertise in event planning, Johnny Roxburgh, the royal family’s trusted party organizer, recently lifted the veil on the enigmatic affair during an interview on Channel 5’s The Royal Borough: Kensington and Chelsea. Roxburgh revealed that the late Queen Elizabeth II was left puzzled when she came face-to-face with a vodka luge shaped like an elephant’s head. The event, held at Windsor Castle, embraced an “out of Africa” theme, which explains the presence of this unique and perplexing centerpiece.

As Roxburgh recounts, the Queen approached him curiously, seeking clarification on the peculiar creation. “What is that?” she inquired, to which Roxburgh responded, “Ma’am, it’s a vodka luge.” In jest, he added that he could have claimed it was a tin of Brasso, as the Queen’s bemusement persisted. Nevertheless, she let out a contemplative “Hmmm” before continuing with the festivities.

Aside from the elephant-shaped vodka luge, the jungle-themed celebration also boasted the presence of musicians hailing from Botswana, as well as an illustrious guest list comprising 300 celebrities. Roxburgh aimed to captivate and entertain each attendee, and his efforts certainly paid off. Speaking to Tatler in 2018, he reminisced about the remarkable experience, emphasizing Prince William’s congenial nature and his enthusiasm for the event’s elaborate design.

According to Roxburgh, the choice of an African theme stemmed from Prince William’s personal connection to the continent and his charitable endeavors there. The young royal wanted to pay homage to his time in Africa while also raising awareness for the causes close to his heart. The Daily Mail reports that the party planner was tasked with creating an African jungle within the grandiose walls of Windsor Castle. Palm husk elephants, reminiscent of the majestic animals found on the continent, adorned the space, alongside table centerpieces that rivaled the headgear of the Lion King. And, of course, the Queen’s beloved elephant-shaped vodka luge took center stage, capturing everyone’s attention.

In addition to illuminating the mysteries surrounding Prince William’s birthday soiree, Roxburgh provided insights into his vast experience planning royal events. From lavish parties with multimillion-pound price tags to dining with the likes of Putin, he truly has done it all. Even the Queen herself has been privy to his creations, constantly requesting updates on his progress. Roxburgh fondly recalled an event at Balmoral, where a dinner for 600 guests was meticulously organized, with the Queen keeping a watchful eye on its development through photographs.

As we approach the one-year anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, a somber occasion set to occur on September 8, 2023, the Prince and Princess of Wales will take the lead in paying tribute to their late mother. Meanwhile, King Charles III is expected to spend this solemn day quietly and privately at Balmoral, the place where his mother bid farewell to the world.

The story of Prince William’s 21st birthday party offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of royal festivities. It highlights the extravagant creations and the moments of bemusement that can arise even for one as esteemed as Queen Elizabeth II. And as we look back on her reign, we are left with fond memories and intriguing anecdotes that continue to add to the mystique and enchantment surrounding the British royalty.

A New Level of Luxury: Candela MAREA Rum on The Ritz-Carlton Evrima Yacht

When it comes to luxury travel, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has always been at the forefront. They continuously strive to provide their guests with unparalleled experiences and amenities that are truly one-of-a-kind. And now, they have taken luxury to a whole new level with the addition of a limited-edition rum aboard their newest yacht, The Evrima.

Created in collaboration with the renowned Dominican Republic rum brand Candela Mamajuana, MAREA is a rum that is crafted exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. This marks Candela’s first-ever limited edition, making it a truly special and unique offering for guests onboard the Evrima.

The partnership between Candela and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was forged on a shared commitment to quality, exclusivity, and craftsmanship. According to Alejandro Russo, co-founder of Candela Mamajuana, the aim was to create a product that not only embodies these values but also serves as a vessel for the wonderful memories experienced during the guests’ ocean voyage.

Drawing inspiration from the bespoke Caribbean itineraries that the Evrima will sail, Candela MAREA is a blend of extra-aged Gran Reserva Dominican rum. It is crafted from fresh-pressed sugarcane juice, honey, and spices. What sets this rum apart is not just its impeccable taste but also its commitment to sustainability. The distillation process is entirely powered by renewable energy generated from upcycled sugarcane bagasse.

Russo highlights that we are currently living in a golden age of luxury travel, where luxury travelers are constantly searching for something rare and unique. By offering a rare spirit like Candela MAREA exclusively onboard the Evrima, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection adds tremendous value to the overall luxury experience for their guests. Every drop of this liquid gold tells a story, from the way the rum is sourced and produced to the legendary tales surrounding the signature mamajuana spice blend that flavors MAREA.

Guests onboard the Evrima can indulge in Candela MAREA neat, on the rocks, or in specialty cocktails crafted by the skilled mixologists on the yacht. One such cocktail is the Crow’s Nest, which combines Candela MAREA with Campari, pineapple, and lime juice. These drinks are served throughout Evrima’s selection of all-inclusive restaurants and bars, ensuring that guests can enjoy the exquisite taste of MAREA wherever they go on the yacht.

Ivan Ortega, director of food and beverage of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, expressed his excitement about collaborating with visionary partners like Candela. He believes that these partnerships allow them to curate indulgent experiences with coveted delights like MAREA, taking the guest journey to unparalleled heights.

Russo also sees this collaboration as an opportunity to showcase the quality and exclusivity of Dominican Republic rum and bolster its future. He believes that luxury travelers are starting to appreciate the wonders produced by this gorgeous country, which includes not only premium rum but also quality cigars, organic bean-to-bar chocolate, and single-origin coffee. With Candela MAREA, Russo and his team aim to epitomize the beauty of the Dominican Republic and its people.

The addition of Candela MAREA to The Ritz-Carlton Evrima’s already impressive collection of amenities truly takes luxury to a whole new level. It not only provides guests with an exceptional rum but also offers them a taste of the rich culture and heritage of the Caribbean. So, the next time you embark on a journey with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, be sure to raise a glass of Candela MAREA and savor the exquisite flavors that await you.

The Hidden World of Whiskey in Colorado

When you think of whiskey, Colorado might not be the first state that comes to mind. However, this perception is quickly changing thanks to the efforts of craft distilleries and bars in the area. One of the establishments leading the charge is the W Aspen, which already boasts one of the largest single barrel whiskey collections in Colorado. Now, the hotel is taking things a step further with the launch of The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club.

Named after two iconic streets in Aspen, this exclusive club is set to make its debut during National Bourbon Heritage Month, which falls in September. Members of The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club will have access to a range of benefits, including the opportunity to own exclusive single barrel bottles personally selected by the W Aspen team. Some of these bottles are so rare that they can’t be found anywhere else.

To make the club even more appealing, several whiskey brands have partnered with The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club to offer early access to their newest releases. One such brand is Last Drop Distillers, which will be hosting an intimate tasting experience at the hotel on September 9. Attendees will have the chance to sample the highly sought-after Drew Mayville Blend Bourbon, accompanied by delightful snacks. Representatives from Last Drop Distillers will guide guests through the tasting, providing insights into the brand’s craftsmanship.

The club is available in two membership tiers. The Premium Membership, priced at $150 per year, allows members to choose one single barrel bottle from W Aspen’s collection annually. This collection includes esteemed expressions such as Weller Full Proof, Stagg Jr, Heaven’s Door 7 Year Single Barrel, and Barrell Bourbon 8 Year Old. In addition to this, Premium Members enjoy exclusive perks such as advance ticket sales, discounted pricing on members-only events and experiences, 20% off pours of all single barrels, special bottle pricing, and access to a preferred room rate.

For those looking for a more accessible option, the Base Membership is complimentary and provides access to members-only events and experiences, 10% off pours of all single barrels, and special bottle pricing.

Chris Jaycock, the general manager of the W Aspen, explains that their goal with The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club is to educate and expand people’s understanding of the variety of bourbons available. Many consumers tend to stick with familiar brands or those associated with luxury, without realizing that there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The club aims to introduce members to lesser-known brands that boast exceptional quality.

This exciting new development comes on the heels of a series of popular bar pop-ups hosted by the W Aspen. From Brooklyn-based Ponyboy to Mexico’s Aldama and New York City’s Employee’s Only, these pop-ups have been a hit with both hotel guests and the local community. Jaycock believes that the success of these events is partly due to the familiarity they bring to individuals from cities like Chicago and New York, who make up a significant portion of the hotel’s clientele.

With The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club and the ongoing efforts to showcase renowned bars from across the country, the W Aspen is positioning itself as a go-to destination for whiskey enthusiasts and those seeking unique and memorable experiences in the heart of Colorado’s stunning landscape. So, if you find yourself in Aspen, be sure to stop by the W Aspen and discover the hidden world of whiskey waiting to be explored. Cheers!

Back in the 1980s, the renowned artist Jean-Michel Basquiat created many of his iconic artworks in his studio on Great Jones Street in New York City. These masterpieces were typically found on display in museums all around the world. However, now you can find them in a different kind of setting – on bottles of limited-edition whiskey at Great Jones Distilling Co., Manhattan’s first and only whiskey distillery to open since Prohibition.

Great Jones Distilling is known and respected for its Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which is expertly crafted using locally sourced ingredients from New York. But they wanted to take things up a notch and bring Basquiat’s artwork to life on a smaller scale. That’s why they partnered with Artestar, a global licensing agency and creative consultancy, to create a collection of three exclusive bottles featuring Basquiat’s most iconic works of art. One of the bottles is a new distillery exclusive expression that has been aged for six years in rare wine casks and bottled at 91 proof.

Celina Perez, head distiller at Great Jones, explains, “With the brand-new Distillery Exclusive, we wanted to select the most exquisite liquid to complement Basquiat’s iconic crown, and went into our rickhouse to select an incredibly unique seven-year bourbon finished in a rare Pineau de Charentes cask. We wanted to make sure that the liquid inside the bottle would honor the legacy of Jean-Michel Basquiat and his tremendous talent.”

These limited-edition bottles, featuring Basquiat’s artwork, are now available for sale. The collection includes a Dinosaur Edition and a Skull Edition, both featuring Great Jones’ Straight Bourbon. There is also a special edition called the Great Jones x Jean-Michel Basquiat Pineau de Charentes Wine Cask-Finished Bourbon Distillery Exclusive, which showcases Basquiat’s iconic crown motif on a bottle wrapped in the “Bird on Money” painting. This exclusive edition is only available at the Great Jones Distillery in Manhattan.

Perez shares that her favorite part of the process was going through Basquiat’s estate’s artwork, known for its bold color and composition, and deciding which whiskey to put in these show-stopping bottles.

In addition to the bottle releases, the collaboration also includes a curated collection of merchandise designed and produced by New York City brand Rome Pays Off. This includes a hoodie, baseball cap, and T-shirt that celebrate Basquiat’s work.

If you happen to be in New York City, you can visit the distillery and pick up a bottle of this special collaboration whiskey, as well as the merchandise. While you’re there, make sure to check out “Basquiat Bar,” an underground pop-up speakeasy experience. The bar offers small bites and signature cocktails inspired by Basquiat’s work, such as The J.M.B, which features Great Jones Straight Bourbon, red bitter aperitivo, molasses, fresh pineapple juice, and lime.

Perez explains, “The Basquiat Bar is an homage to Basquiat’s New York and one of his favorite watering holes, The Mudd Club.” The space is adorned with photos of Basquiat and his friends, and even features two borrowed original Basquiat prints from Pace Editions. “We wanted the menu to pay homage to NYC in the 80s and that iconic era, and created all of our Great Jones cocktails based on the most popular drinks from that time.”

The collaboration’s final element is Basquiat’s New York, a tasting room inspired by downtown New York, located within the distillery’s multi-sensory Barrel Room. Visitors can sign up for a special distillery tour that ends with a whiskey tasting and complimentary cocktail, or they can participate in an exclusive Great Jones x Basquiat cocktail class, held every Wednesday and Saturday.

Perez concludes, “This partnership celebrates New York: its history, its agriculture, its culture, and now its whiskey. That was the ethos behind this project and our collaborative work with Artestar and the Basquiat Estate.”

Discovering the Magical Poncha of Madeira

Off the coast of northwestern Africa, nestled between Lisbon and Casablanca, lies a picturesque cluster of Portuguese islands called Madeira. These islands are not only known for their breathtaking beauty, but also for a local drink that is mythologized as a cure-all. This drink is called poncha, a frothy and refreshing rum cocktail infused with tart citrus and sweetened with sugar or honey. It is considered a staple of Madeiran culture and a rite of passage for visitors.

According to Graça Lopes, a Madeiran tour guide of 35 years, locals believe that poncha has the power to cure anything from a common cold to a broken heart. It is highly regarded as an “only-in-Madeira” specialty and is celebrated by the islanders. Whether you’re in need of a pick-me-up or simply want to experience the local tradition, poncha can be found everywhere on the islands.

The origins of poncha date back to the time of the Portuguese discoveries when sailors preserved lemon and sugar in rum to prevent scurvy and keep warm during their voyages. Similar combinations of rum and citrus were also used across the Caribbean to ward off diseases like malaria. Today, the most common version of poncha is the traditional fisherman’s poncha, made with unaged agricole rum, lemon juice, and sugar. The magic lies in the method of muddling lemon peel and sugar, combining it with freshly squeezed juice, straining it into a pitcher, and frothing it up for serving with a caralhinho.

There are other variations of poncha as well, such as the regional poncha, which substitutes sugar with honey and adds fresh orange juice alongside lemon juice. Additional flavors like passionfruit, tangerine, mint, and tamarillo have also emerged over time. However, according to Pedro Albuquerque, a guide with Bravelanders, there are only two real ponchas: the regional and the fisherman’s. The new flavors may be delicious, but they are not considered the authentic ones.

It’s important to note that poncha is deceptively strong due to its 50:50 ratio of rum and juice. The juice masks the potency, making it easy to consume without realizing its effects. To experience the full essence of poncha, there are various options available. You can join guided tours offered by companies like Maderia Food on Foot and Offroad Experience, or you can venture out on your own and explore the many bars and stands that cater to poncha enthusiasts.

Some recommended spots in Funchal include Poncha do Pescador and Venda Velha, while Serra de Água offers a mini bar crawl experience with Tasquinha da Poncha, Taberna da Poncha, and the Terrace Poncha Bar. Whether you choose to embark on a guided poncha expedition or create your own adventure, a taste of this magical drink is an essential part of the Madeiran experience.

So, the next time you find yourself on the idyllic islands of Madeira, don’t miss the opportunity to try the locally revered poncha. Indulge in the rich history, culture, and flavors of this special concoction that holds the power to transport you to the heart of Madeiran tradition. Cheers to poncha, the cure-all elixir of the islands!

A Unique Experience in Porto da Cruz: Poncha da Madeira and Levada Walks###

If you find yourself in Porto da Cruz, a charming town in Madeira, Portugal, there is an experience you simply cannot miss. Visit Norte, the North Mills Distillery, and discover the delightful Poncha da Madeira under the renowned J. Faria & Filhos brand. However, this blog post aims to present the story and logic in a different manner to keep things interesting.

At Norte, amidst the picturesque surroundings of Porto da Cruz, you will find a distillery that is famous for its wide range of well-aged agricole rums. But what sets them apart is their unique batched poncha, which is made using their unaged Branca rums as a base. This particular concoction is like party fuel, offering an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds longing for more.

Once you have obtained a bottled Poncha da Madeira, the next step is to embark on a memorable levada walk. For the uninitiated, levadas are designated trails that run alongside the island’s meandering aqueducts or irrigation channels. These trails wind through the hills, presenting breathtaking views of Madeira’s stunning landscapes.

Imagine setting out on a journey, with the crisp air gently brushing against your face as you delve deeper into nature’s embrace. You have the powerful Poncha da Madeira in your backpack, ready to be enjoyed at the perfect moment. This unique combination of levada walking and indulging in this beloved local beverage is an experience exclusive to Madeira.

As you walk along the levadas, you will be captivated by the lush greenery, serene waterways, and the tranquility that surrounds you. The sound of birds chirping and the gentle flow of water will create a soothing symphony for your soul. It is the perfect ambiance to enjoy a sip of Poncha da Madeira, letting its flavors dance on your palate while you appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

There is something inherently special about this experience. It is a fusion of the region’s cherished traditions—the mastery of rum production and the exploration of nature’s wonders. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Madeira, to drink in the flavors of the land as you drink in the beauty of its landscapes.

In conclusion, if you want to experience something truly unique in Porto da Cruz, venture to Norte, the North Mills Distillery, and sample the exquisite Poncha da Madeira crafted by J. Faria & Filhos. Then, embark on a levada walk, following the designated trails that wind through the hills and aqueducts. This combination of flavors and nature is an extraordinary gift that only Madeira can offer. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and embrace the magic of this incredible place.

Queen Elizabeth’s Introduction to a Vodka Ice Luge at Prince William’s 21st Birthday Party

When it comes to throwing a party fit for royalty, no one does it better than the Queen of England. However, even she can be caught off guard by the occasional surprise. In 2003, Queen Elizabeth found herself face to face with a vodka ice luge at her grandson Prince William’s 21st birthday celebration.

Johnny Roxburgh, the party planner in charge of the extravagant event, recounts the amusing encounter on Channel 5’s “The Royal Borough: Kensington and Chelsea.” The Daily Mail reported on this enchanting tale, which sheds light on the Queen’s reaction to some unfamiliar decor.

The birthday bash, held at Windsor Castle, boasted an “Out of Africa” theme, paying homage to William’s time spent in the continent during his gap year. Music from Botswana filled the air, guests donned lavish costumes, and the atmosphere was electrifying with celebrity presence.

Amidst the grandeur, the highlight of the evening was an enormous vodka ice luge sculpted into the shape of an elephant’s head. Little did the Queen know that this icy creation held a delectable surprise. As the party was about to commence, Queen Elizabeth caught a glimpse of someone pouring vodka down the luge.

Confused, the Queen turned to Roxburgh and asked, “What is that?” Roxburgh, undeterred by the Royal’s lack of knowledge about vodka ice luges, replied, “Ma’am, it’s a vodka luge.” Unfortunately, his explanation did little to clarify matters for her.

In good humor, Roxburgh later reflected on the incident, jesting that he could have claimed it was a tin of Brasso and the Queen’s confusion would have remained the same. It is evident that her familiarity with such modern party fixtures was limited.

While this encounter marked Queen Elizabeth’s first introduction to an ice luge, it is no secret that she is not a stranger to alcohol. As reported by Insider previously, she often enjoyed a gin and Dubonnet during lunch and a martini in the evenings. The ice luge may have caught her eye, but it was just one element of the incredibly extravagant decorations at the event.

Roxburgh revealed that the party featured other jaw-dropping decor, including full-size elephants made from palm husks and table centers that could rival a Lion King headdress. He expressed his admiration for Prince William, stating that the future king proved himself to be an incredibly cool young man through his choice of celebration themes and decor.

Overall, this enchanting story highlights the human side of royalty, showcasing Queen Elizabeth’s genuine confusion and eventual amusement at the vodka ice luge. It serves as a reminder that, even in the most grandiose settings, unexpected moments can create laughter and delightful memories.

Sources:

– Insider: https://www.insider.com/queen-mistook-vodka-luge-for-elephant-prince-williams-21st-2021-7

– Daily Mail: [Link to the original article on Insider]

The royal family’s event planner has shared an interesting anecdote about the late Queen Elizabeth II’s confusion at Prince William’s 21st birthday party. The party, which took place in 2003 at Windsor Castle, had an “out of Africa” theme and featured a vodka luge in the shape of an elephant. Event planner Johnny Roxburgh revealed in an interview that when the Queen saw someone pouring vodka into the elephant’s ice head, she had no idea what it was. Roxburgh explained, “I remember when it was William’s 21st, [it] was a jungle theme. And we have an enormous vodka luge, which was made in the shape of an elephant’s head. And she looked at me and said, ‘What is that?'”

The party planner also described the efforts made to create an authentic African jungle at Windsor Castle. Full-size elephants made from palm husks and table centers that resembled Lion King headdresses added to the atmosphere. The giant ice vodka luge in the shape of an elephant’s head seemed to be a hit with the Queen despite her initial confusion. Roxburgh praised Prince William for his involvement in the planning process, stating that he was “charming beyond belief” and “wonderful to work with.” The African theme was a tribute to Prince William’s time on the continent and his charity work there.

Roxburgh also shared his experiences planning other royal events, including parties that cost tens of millions of pounds. He mentioned dinners in various locations, including Shanghai and Russia, as well as a memorable dinner with Putin. The event planner admitted to having done weddings, funerals, and birthday parties as well. When it came to planning for Queen Elizabeth II, he had to ensure that she was constantly aware of the preparations. Roxburgh mentioned an event where they had dinner for 600 in the grounds of Balmoral, and the Queen consistently asked for photographs to keep up with the progress.

As we approach the one-year anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death, tributes are being planned by the Prince and Princess of Wales to honor her memory. King Charles III is expected to spend the anniversary quietly and privately at Balmoral in Scotland, where his mother passed away.

While this glimpse into the planning of Prince William’s birthday party offers a fascinating insight into the royal family’s world, it also highlights the creative efforts and attention to detail that go into these events. The “out of Africa” theme and the vodka luge in the shape of an elephant undoubtedly made for a memorable celebration, even if the Queen initially didn’t understand what she was looking at. It’s clear that Johnny Roxburgh’s expertise in event planning has made him a trusted figure in the royal household, and his experiences highlight the challenges and rewards of organizing such grand occasions.

Let me start by saying that I am not a big rum drinker. However, my recent trip to Puerto Rico completely changed my perspective on this versatile liquor. From the moment I arrived, I found myself immersed in various rum experiences that showcased the true warmth and spirit of the island.

My journey began in Old San Juan, a place that beautifully blends old-world charm with modern sophistication. As I strolled along the cobblestone streets, surrounded by Spanish colonial buildings, I couldn’t help but be transported to another time. The towering San Juan Bautista Cathedral and the imposing fortress of San Felipe del Morro only added to the enchanting atmosphere.

To truly indulge in the rum culture of Old San Juan, I joined a tour with Rum Runners. Our first stop was Mezzanine, a historic building that used to be the headquarters of the Puerto Rican Nationalist Party. Here, I sipped on a “Rum Sunset” cocktail while taking in the rich history that surrounded me. At El Batey, a local favorite, the bartender prepared a unique tamarind-based drink called “La Loma” that left me craving for more. And at La Cubanita, I savored the “Mike Billions” cocktail, which had a beautiful reddish-pink color thanks to hibiscus petals.

But it wasn’t just about the drinks; the historical tidbits shared by our guide were equally fascinating. In Plaza San Jose, I learned about the statue of Juan Ponce de León, a symbol of Puerto Rico’s colonial past. The statue’s tilt, it turns out, is a result of numerous times it has been pulled down during protests. In fact, just last year, it was toppled to protest the visit of the Spanish king.

Venturing across the bay, I found myself at the Bacardi House. While the brand has its roots in Cuba, it has become a beloved part of Puerto Rican culture. There, I had the opportunity to sample different Bacardi rums, both straight and in cocktail form. The richness of the flavors spoke to the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every bottle.

Next, I made my way to Caguas, where I discovered the perfect pairing of cigars and chocolates with rum. The Taino people, Puerto Rico’s first inhabitants, held tobacco in high regard for its spiritual and medicinal properties. La Hoja Del Chan, a family-owned cigar company, continues this tradition with their handcrafted cigars. The founder shared with me the art of pairing cigars and rum, a true testament to their passion for their craft.

In addition to cigars, Caguas is also home to Montadero, an artisan chocolate maker. Their chocolates are delicately crafted to bring out the best flavors when paired with rum. Taking a small bite of chocolate, allowing it to melt on my tongue, and then swallowing it with a sip of rum was a truly sublime experience. The sweetness of the chocolate softened the boldness of the rum, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

My final stop was in Jayuya, a mountainous region that offers breathtaking views and exceptional coffee. But it was at La Destilería Craft Spirits where I had my last rum tasting. Set against the backdrop of the rainforest, this certified craft distillery produces award-winning rums on a smaller, more intimate scale. The Bohique Spiced Rum, in particular, captured my heart with its complex flavors. I savored every sip, not wanting to dilute its perfection with anything else.

As I left Puerto Rico, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey I had embarked upon. My initial disregard for rum had been replaced with a deep appreciation for its versatility and the skill that goes into its creation. Puerto Rico, with its warm and vibrant spirit, had shown me that rum is not just a drink, but a key to uncovering the soul of a place. And if you find yourself on this beautiful island, keep an eye out for Tobi, the furry chief of operations at La Destilería Craft Spirits. He might just add an extra touch of warmth to your rum-filled adventures.