Washington,DC Craft Bartenders Guild/Leblon Cachaca

Last Sunday night, March 29, 2009, was a cocktail event sponsored by the Washington, DC Craft Bartenders Guild and Leblon Cachaca.
It was held at Cafe Atlantico, here on 8th Street, NW, in Washington, DC.
Superb!
There was a cocktail reception before dinner, hosted by world-famous bartender Tony Abou-Ganim, from New York. Tony mixed his famous Caipirinha's for everyone. Don't think I've ever tasted a better cocktail! Tony is a master mixologist. I've never seen anyone better.
His Caipirinha's were out of this world! Even though I have 30-plus years bartending experience, I would love to study under him. (Hey, one can always learn!)
After the cocktail reception, and before dinner, after everyone was seated, there were several talks: speakers were Tony, and three people from Leblon Cachaca: Jaime Keller (director of marketing), Steve Luttman (founder and president), and Gerard Sweitzer.
Jaime presented us with a wonderful opening, and introduced everyone.
Tony gave a fabulous talk on the current state of bartending, and Steve and Gerard gave a wonderful and informative presentation on the various rum products from Leblon.
I've never been a serious rum drinker (unlike Ernest Hemingway!), but after listening to their talks, I think I'll become one.
Steve gave us great background information on everything
Jerry (Gerard,but he went by Jerry), gave us a very unique way of sampling three different rums. I felt like I was in a college lecture auditorium, his presentation was so good.
I should have taken notes: he may quiz me next time I see him!
The dinner at Cafe Atlantico was a fantastic meal.
Started with tuna ceviche and Dominican conch fritters.
Entrees were grouper and Feijao Tropeiro.
Dessert was coconut two ways and sorbet.
Cafe Atlantico is owned by world-famous chef Jose Andres.
The staff was more than gracious.
Definitely have to take my wife Joan there!