"The Wilmington" Cocktail Makes its Debut!
Wilmington, Delaware has risen in the collective consciousness of the Nation. So it is no surprise that Wilmington's food and drink scene would rise as well. What better way to celebrate the future of this hard-working and vibrant city than a toast with a signature cocktail?
Wilmington's "It's Time" campaign partnered with Aviation American Gin to host a cocktail competition highlighting the potable charms of the city of Wilmington. Open to bartenders, mixologists, and everyday cocktail connoisseurs, the competition garnered more than 25 entries, which were judged by a team at Aviation.
"The Wilmington" cocktail was unveiled during a virtual event on Thursday, January 14, hosted from the elegant Le Cavalier in the Hotel Dupont, a fitting location in the center of the city. State Senator Sarah McBride made the official dedication to the excited applause of those on hand and those joining online.
The winning cocktail is a classic but surprising combination of flavors that work well with Aviation American Gin. Local cocktail enthusiast couple Kate Gantner and Fazal Vandal created “The Wilmington” using a peach-infused simple syrup, as a nod towards Delaware's historic peach farming heritage. They added lemon juice, too, but the combination longed for another favor, and they finally found a compliment that sits spicily on the palate: a garnish of freshly ground cinnamon. The Wilmington is that perfect complement of peaches, cinnamon, lemon, and gin—a unique and lively combination just right for its namesake city.
"The Wilmington" is sure to be noticed by locals and may even grow to become the rage of cocktail lovers around the nation. With one sip, the history and energy of a city are on the tongue. Wilmington may be known for its history, but now it is becoming known for its style.
The winning cocktail is a classic but surprising combination of flavors that work well with Aviation American Gin. Local cocktail enthusiast couple Kate Gantner and Fazal Vandal created “The Wilmington” using a peach-infused simple syrup, as a nod towards Delaware's historic peach farming heritage. They added lemon juice, too, but the combination longed for another favor, and they finally found a compliment that sits spicily on the palate: a garnish of freshly ground cinnamon. The Wilmington is that perfect complement of peaches, cinnamon, lemon, and gin—a unique and lively combination just right for its namesake city.
"The Wilmington" is sure to be noticed by locals and may even grow to become the rage of cocktail lovers around the nation. With one sip, the history and energy of a city are on the tongue. Wilmington may be known for its history, but now it is becoming known for its style.
