I knew when I pulled into an open metered parking space across the street from Ampersand's (inside Kinmont) front door that this was going to be a magical evening.
Once parked, I looked up and saw the powder-blue signature 1942 Don Julio truck complete with an Agave plant and crates filled with precious cargo. Cases and cases of Don Julio Tequila.
I stepped inside and the wonderment continued! A private dining room just outside the kitchen was transformed into a Don Julio Farm-to-Shaker intimate, elegant dinner.
Guests were met with chalkboard walls featuring the evening's signature cocktails, appetizers, and specialty entree offerings.
Next, invitees were divided into two groups. Group One gathered at the Don Julio-themed bar where guests were delighted with freshly made hand-crafted Bloody Maria's paired with Escabeche.
Group Two, (my group) was escorted into the kitchen where we met Chef Edward Sura, of Perennial Virant. Perennial Virant is famous for their creative use of preserving and using locally-sourced,sustainable produce.
We participated in a hands-on demonstration of pickling cranberries (that would become part of a beautiful parting swag bag gift).
Once that was completed, a beautiful display of various Don Julio Tequilas awaited us. We were instructed by our host, Jackson Miranda, how to sip and savor Don Julio's Blanco, Anejo, Reposado, and Anejo Claro.
Just when i thought the evening couldn't get any better, we were shown a video vignette of Don Julio. Yes, there was an actual man named Don Julio Gonzalez who created these well crafted tequilas.
This was a wonderful re-enactment of the tequila making process in Jalisco, Mexico featuring the voice of the late Senor Gonzalez (who passed away of natural causes in 2012). Don Julio created the world's first short tequila bottle so that guests could connect with each other from across the table.
This was a wonderful re-enactment of the tequila making process in Jalisco, Mexico featuring the voice of the late Senor Gonzalez (who passed away of natural causes in 2012). Don Julio created the world's first short tequila bottle so that guests could connect with each other from across the table.
Dinner was soon served and it didn't disappoint. Dessert was paired with the Don Julio 1941 Tequila which is produced in small batches, and aged for a minimum of 2 1/2 years. It has brilliant amber hue, with notes of warm oak, vanilla, and roasted agave. It finishes with lingering oak and rich vanilla.
All good things must come to an end, but Don Julio seems to make the magic last forever.
To experience Don Julio Tequila for yourself and create your own magical evening, visit them here.
Photo credits: All photos courtesy of Desiree Sanders for C-Style Magazine
Photo credits: All photos courtesy of Desiree Sanders for C-Style Magazine
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