Brian Van Flandern (second left), Don Julio's tequila global ambassador, is flanked by Red Stripe executives - Teika Samuda (left), Caroline Kelly (second right) and Kim Lee, at the launch of Red Stripe's Reserve Brand in association with Don Julio's line of fine liquors, at Blue Beat, in Montego Bay, on Wednesday, May 20. - Photos by Noel Thompson

WESTERN BUREAU:

A select number of Montego Bay residents, mainly drawn from the restaurant and hotel sectors, had their taste of a new line of fine liquors blended by Mexican-born Don Julio.

The tiny space at the Blue Beat, along Gloucester Avenue, was packed, as it appeared most invitees would not have missed joining in the occasion. Don Julio's wine ambassador, Brian Van Flandern, in conjunction with Red Stripe, introduced them to four of what are considered the best tasting alcoholic mixes.

The signature drinks of the night included the Tanqueray No. 10 blue moon and Frazer Johnnie Walker gold with dark chocolate. It was a pleasure to watch as guests downed one drink after the other.

Red Stripe was officially launching its reserve brand portfolio of liquors out of an awareness that consumers want a bit of luxury in their lives, according to Kim Lee, brand public relations manager with Red Stripe.

"Red Stripe seeks to complete the portfolio, whether it is with a cold Red Stripe on a hot day or a Johnnie Walker for celebration, there is something for everyone. We have done something that is signature to Jamaica with the Tequila Don Julio, which is to create the 'Plumaica', made from June plum juice with ciroc vodka," Lee said.

The new line will only be available at four locations in Jamaica - Blue Beat and The Ritz-Carlton in Montego Bay, and Fiction Night Club and Pure Lounge in Kingston, at least for now.

Don Julio's Tequila global ambassador, Van Flandern, is one of the world's top two mixologists. His job is to educate restaurateurs and hoteliers about their 100 per cent agave tequilas.

"The quality standards of these tequilas have increased dramatically over the last 15 years, so that they now rival the quality of the best scotches and cognacs in the world. They have the flavour of the great whiskies," he said.

Members of the Montego Bay Spanish community listen to a presentation at the launch.

Brian Van Flandern (centre) shares a drink with business acquaintances Cesar Garza (left) and Omar Guzman, representatives of The Ritz-Carlton Resort, at the launch of Red Stripe's Reserve Brand.

Lloyd Duhaney (left), David Sterling (centre) and Errol Watts talk about the new line of liquors