Don Julio Ultra-Premium Tequila Dinner June 22, 2009

Tequila - it's not just for margaritas anymore!
As North America's first distilled drink, and its first commercially produced alcohol, the history of tequila is long and rich. Its roots reach back into pre-Hispanic times when the natives fermented sap from the local agave plants into a drink called pulque (besides using the leaves for a hemp-like fiber to make mats, clothing, rope and paper.) The history of tequila's development from the traditional beverage to the modern spirit parallels the often turbulent, chaotic growth of Mexico herself, and is equally obscure to outsiders.
Don Julio González began his journey in the world of tequila in 1942. He soon realized that to create a tequila that stands apart, one must control every aspect of the process, from the cultivation of the agave to the bottling of the final product. He then established his distillery, La Primavera, and spent nearly forty years perfecting the craft that would produce extraordinary tequila with every bottle.
At first, Don Julio only shared his tequila with friends. But soon word spread, and Tequila Don Julio quickly became the most sought after tequila in Mexico. Today, the world is learning what Mexico already knows: that it is passion above all else that makes a great tequila.
Diane Mercure of Glazers presents. We've tapped into a great selection of ultra-premium tequilas, and paired them with a fantastic menu of Mexican-inspired dishes from Grovewood's award-winning kitchen. A complimentary recipe book of the dishes served (but adapted for the home kitchen) will be presented.

Tequila.................................................................Course
Don Julio Blanco Margarita (Traditional)...Papaya & Avocado Salsa with fresh tortilla chips.
With a fresh agave expression and citrus notes, this tequila is called upon often when concocting innovative cocktails and the ultimate margarita, but is also perfect on its own or on the rocks.
Don Julio Blanco...Coconut Shrimp Ceviche, plantain chips.
Crisp agave aromas blended with hints of fresh citrus notes - lemon, lime and grapefruit. A lightly sweet and incredibly pure agave flavor immediately excites the palate and rounds out for a smooth and lush Blanco tequila of unrivalled excellence. The finish is clean and fresh, complemented by a touch of black pepper and grassy undertones. "Blanco" was given a "Classic" rating in Wine Enthusiast Magazine's review of the top spirits of 2007, their highest recommendation.
Don Julio Reposado...Mole-Braised Pork "Enchilada" with tomatillo crème fraîche.
Straw-like color with an inviting aroma of mellow, lemon citrus notes and spice layers with touches of ripe stone fruit on the nose. On the palate, incredibly soft and elegant hints of dark chocolate, vanilla and light cinnamon balanced with subtle notes of pear, apple and lemon for a lightly honeyed and smooth flavor to be savored. The finish is silky and warm, with an essence of dried fruit and nuts.
Don Julio Anejo...Tequila-Lime Marinated Flank Steak, with sage & tequila mashed Yukons.
This aged tequila is a light amber color. The nose is alluringly fragrant, with a fresh blend of lime, grapefruit and mandarin citrus aromas, with a rich touch of caramel. The palate is wonderfully complex with expressions of cooked agave and wild honey. Notes of cherries and strawberries with vanilla and oaky butterscotch. Distinctively full-bodied with astonishing depth of character. Bright and lightly spiced finish with the essence of wild honey in the background for a rewarding long finale.
Don Julio 1492... Double Mexican Caramel Rustic Apple Tart.
A limited edition tequila that undergoes a second distillation, the color is a brilliant golden hue. Rich, sweet aromas of caramel and toffee layered with a fresh vanilla fragrance and hints of red fruits like cherry mixed with caramel and almonds are on the nose, with chocolate tones along with cinnamon and a light touch of wood. A silky, smooth character coats the palate with roasted agave and vanilla flavors, sun-ripened tropical fruits and spiced undertones to create a wonderfully unique tequila experience. A beautiful, sweet agave-laced finish with lingering hints of oak and rich vanilla essence, this is the ultimate sipping tequila.

Monday, June 22, 2009
6:30 p.m.
$55 per person
(tax and gratuity will be added to final bill)
By Reservation Only
(216) 531-4900

Fellow food tourists, we are making a run for the border. I hope you can join us!

Official Website: http://www.grovewoodtavern.com/spirit%20dinner.htm