TAP Into This
Written by: Tyler Holland
Photographed by: Danny Liao
When looking for a new “go-to” drink, the options are nearly endless. Of course, each has its claim to fame: some use fancy labels or flashy ads to lure you in, but at the end of the day, it’s the quality. So, what out there has the quality so many desperately seek? Finding the right fit can take time and money that is often spent on products that don’t always live up to the hype. Fortunately, those behind Locale know their spirits and have done the legwork for you, so you can skip the unpleasant aftertastes and head straight to the good stuff.
Infuse Vodka, a California native brand, places its focus on creating new flavors using only the freshest ingredients like all natural fruits and spices. This focus on quality creates a smooth finish artificial flavors can’t create. The process may be more labor intensive, but the results are worth it. It’s no surprise that Infuse has gone on to win several prestigious awards. Infuse earned Double Gold for “Best in Show” in the 2014 San Francisco World Spirit Competition and Double Gold for “Best Flavored Vodka” in 2014 New York World Spirit Competition.
Infuse spirits can currently be found in California, Texas and Nevada with the beautiful Santa Monica serving as the company’s own backyard. Multi award-winning TAPS Fish House & Brewery, with locations in Brea, Corona and Irvine, is a close partner with Infuse, giving you and your Happy Hour crew the opportunity to try several of the company’s spirits. TAPS became the perfect home for Infuse spirits not only because of its commitment to fine spirits, but because of its unpretentious vibe and extensive cocktail program not usually found in establishments of its size. This program allows you to come in and constantly discover something new. As wine and spirits manager Andrew Aoun says, “It’s always a fun surprise for people to come in and see what we’re doing.”
So, now to answer the question that is on everyone’s mind. Just what goes into the creation of these smooth spirits? Along with searching for the freshest ingredients, a lot of time and effort goes into creating the perfect pairings. Each element—such as hints of cinnamon, lemon, and even orange clove—is considered and worked with in order to create the most pleasing aroma and flavor possible. For example, for the tastiest variation of an apple martini, be sure to try the Cinnamon Apple Infuse Vodka cocktail—TAPS’ reinvention of the classic apple martini with the taste of fresh apple and touches of cinnamon.
All of Infuse’s products are created with the your taste buds in mind. That is why each vodka is hand crafted and utilizes tried and tested centuries old techniques to create a smooth, high quality spirit. Infuse centers itself around the concept of real infusion, meaning you can taste flavors the way they are meant to be tasted, unsweetened and straight from nature. And since each is made with real fruit, you don’t have to worry about added sugars, dyes or artificial ingredients.
Love Infuse so much that you just gotta have it at home? (We definitely do!) Trader Joe’s throughout California distributes the Peach Infuse, perfect for those nights where you don’t quite feel like going out, but still want a sexy cocktail like an Infuse Bellini or Wild Berry Burst.
TAPS Fish House & Brewery Irvine
13390 Jamboree Rd
Irvine, CA 92602
714.619.0404
www.tapsfishhouse.com
www.infusevodkas.com
