Initial Tidbits from Tales

Posted on July 18, 2008
Filed Under Sonja Kassebaum | 2 Comments

Sonja Kassebaum is an Illinois-based distiller and fan of good drinks. She documents her interests at Thinking of Drinking.

For my first post about my first time at Tales, I thought I’d just throw in a few tidbits about what I’ve seen, heard and done so far.  Here goes nuthin’!

Great Participants and Parties
I have already met many great people and the sessions so far have been great.  It’s fantastic to be around so many folks with the same interest in and outlook on cocktails.  It’s quite energizing, which made it easier to deal with a total lack of sleep yesterday.  Luckily I got some zzzs last night, so I can hang with the best of ‘em tonight, after our pairing dinner at the legendary Antoine’s.

I went to a number of parties last night, including the blogger reception (so great to put some names with faces), the Warhol Factory Party, the Green Hour Revival and the Opening Night Reception at the Palace Cafe.  All were packed to the gills, but with people who were excited to be there.  I also got to try some absinthes that were new to me (including the Marteau, which I really liked).

Most Interesting Item in the Swag Bag
First, let me say that I’ve never had media credentials before, and I was a bit overwhelmed by the heft of the swag bag.  Its full of intrigue, with mini bottles of a variety of spirits, t-shirts, marketing materials and more.  The thing I’m most excited about, at least initially is the Wild Hibiscus Flowers in Syrup from Australia (made by the Wild Hibiscus Flower Company).  Not having a fridge, I am planning to save these until I get home, but they’ll probably be the first thing I open.  I hope they live up to my expectations!

Best Tip from Tales, Day 1
I’ve already learned a bunch, but my favorite lesson today came from the session led by Audrey Saunders in the session called  The Scented Trail. Why not enhance the aroma of your cocktails by spritzing the top of the drink or the garnish with a lovely tincture or hydrosol reflecting your desired scent?  I am totally going to try this once I get home, and I loved trying all the things in dropper bottles that she sent around.