Walk in the lobby of the Hotel Monteleone Saturday, July 11, morning and you'll be greeted by the rich, roasty scent of coffee as I was today.
At Tales of the Cocktail 2009, the way to start your day is a visit to the Duque Coffee Bar - even if you've already had your morning caffeine.
Stroll up the short flight of stairs to the left of the hotel lobby entrance for pastries from Bittersweet New Orleans, freshly made coffee from Coffee Roasters of New Orleans.
I started my day with a sip of Crema de Alba, a wonderfully creamy, sweetish liqueur. The table was lined with Gran Duque de Alba as well as other Duque spirits (rum, brandy, port and liqueurs).
At one station, Meade Kincke is mixing up weird and wonderful coffee-based cocktails. I tried the powerful Swindler's Whistle, with herbsaint - bracing.
Melanie Young of MM. Young Communications, says when she told the folks at Gran Duque de Alba about her plan to pair the spirits with morning coffee, they were delighted, telling her that in Spain they enjoy a Carajillo, a blend of coffee and brandy.
Saturday is the final day for the Duque Coffee Bar. It's open from 8:30-10:30 a.m. It's free.