Pernod Ricard is the result of a merging between two anise based spirit companies in 1975. Dave and I were invited to attend a media tasting function last year, where we got to sample some of their premium brands. When we arrived we were given a card with a number. This determined the group we were in. Each tasting station was hosted by the brand ambassador for the specific range. We put on headsets and a short tasting took place.

G.H.Mumm
We were welcomed with a glass of G.H. Mumm which has been making champagne since 1827. This is the leading champagne brand in France and the third best-selling champagne in the world. I am not a fan of demi-sec so after a few sips I put my glass down. I was also pacing myself for the tasting to come.
The Glenlivet
Knowing that we would be tasting The Glenlivet at this function, Dave and I did not go to the distillery when we were in Speyside. This single malt is number 2 in consumption in the world. My favourite of this is the The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, and I took my glass with me to the next tasting station.
Beefeater 24
I never say no to a good gin, and this one is more than good. This herbal and tea infused gin has been created by Desmond Payne, one of the most experienced Gin Master Distillers.
Monkey 47
This is a sloe gin, infused with blackthorn and Sicilian lemons and is made in the Black Forest, Germany. This is a very botanical gin and easily one I could add to my collection.
Martell
This is the oldest of the great Cognac Houses in France and we get to try the Cordon Bleu. The “eaux-de-vie” is aged between 10 and 25 years and there is a hint of sweet spices on the palate.
Chivas Regal
In my twenties, Chivas Regal was my tipple of choice. This blended whisky originates from Aberdeen, Scotland and is a blend of single malt and grain whisky. The Regal epithet was added to Chivas when they started supplying the Royal Family in 1843. The most exciting part of this brand is the Chivas Venture which invests $1million per year in start-ups that create positive change and a better future.
Redbreast
I am absolutely blown away by this single pot still Irish Whiskey. It is matured in Oloroso sherry casks and has a palate full of Christmas cake. I am going to add these to our seriously good collection of Scottish whisky’s to add some variety in our home pub.
Jameson
Jameson is our whisky of choice when we go away racing. Dave and I are big fans of the Caskmates. The distillery is in Dublin and I am also quite taken with the Gold Reserve which is a blend of two different pot still and one grain whiskey which like all of their whiskey’s is triple distilled.
Pernod Ricard
Building moments of conviviality is a key phrase and we got to speak to so many great brand ambassadors. Some like Matthew Cordiner from Chivas will stay a life long friend for sure. The key to their success in my opinion is that Pernod Ricard keep owners in place when they purchase a brand. They are interested in boutique brands and I am pleased to note that Red Heart Rum is one of them, as this is the rum I grew up with.
Disclosure: Dave and I were invited by Sanele Mashinini of Burson-Marsteller to attend this media mixer event. This post is in line with my blogging policy.

Inspiration published on Lavender and Lime February 21:
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- 2016 – The Mistake I Made
- 2013 – Creamy Lemon Orange Gelato
- 2011 – Friday’s Food Quiz Number 47
A very interesting post Tandy and the event sounds like it must have been loads of fun.
It was indeed!
Pernod is one of my favorites.. love making old fashioned Sazeracs with it! – http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com
I shall have to try that.
What a fun event! I didn’t know the history of Pernod Ricard 🙂
Neither did I so that aspect was most interesting