Midwest-Chicagoland Region, February 2009

"Organic Spirits State of the Industry & Flavor Challenges"

02/18/2009

FONA International Inc., Geneva, IL

On Wednesday, February 18th, 20 dedicated guests braved a Chicagoland snowstorm to attend a fantastic regional event hosted by FONA International in Geneva, Ill.  Bob Gordon, a flavor chemist with FONA’s Canadian division, gave a ‘spirited’ presentation about the state of the organic spirits industry.  With over 40 years of experience in beverage applications, Bob shared his insight on the challenges involved with developing and marketing alcoholic beverages.  He also introduced his audience to the regulatory hurdles involved when creating a product that is governed by two sets of sometimes contradictory rules; the production of alcohol is under the jurisdiction of the TTB (Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau) and organic regulations are determined by the USDA. 

Following his informative talk, attendees were treated to a sampling of recently launched liqueurs from Thatcher’s Organic Artisan Spirits, served neat or mixed in specialty cocktails.  The libations were expertly paired with a delicious variety of savory and sweet nibbles that were enjoyed by all!

Key Contact
Anne Druschitz, CRC