The chic Blend Bar + Lounge at the Jamaica Pegasus was the after-hours cocktail spot of choice where wine and spirits purveyor Select Brands partnered with the Knutsford Boulevard-situated hotel to host a Scotiabank-endorsed wine tasting last Friday evening.

Cocktail mixes paired with Executive Chef Mark Cole-created gourmet fare set the evening’s tone, with the Select Brands portfolio of Grand Marnier Orange Liqueur Cognac, Stolichnaya Premium Vodka, Rum-Bar Barrel Aged Rum, and Santa Margherita Valdobbiadene Prosecco putting in featured performances.

Debuting on trays expertly balanced by super-efficient wait staff were such libations as Gran Cran martinis (made with Grand Marnier) and pineapple ginger bellinis (infused with Santa Margherita Prosecco) teamed with finger foods such as beetroot and dill salad with coconut emulsion topped with scallop and spring roll crackers. Join Thursday Life as we check into the Jamaica Observer Salut! party.

(PHOTOS: GARFIELD ROBINSON)