Virginia distilleries take their spirits to Paris

State of play: Richmond's own Reservoir Distillery joined Virginia Distillery Co., Catoctin Creek, Ironclad Distillery Co. and Laird & Company to represent the commonwealth — and its role as "the birthplace of American spirits."

• Plus, as part of the event, the Virginia Spirits Board hosted "Virginia Cocktail Games: Paris Edition," a très chic version of its signature competition.
• In the French version, Virginia distillers were paired with a Parisian bartender tasked with crafting a winning cocktail using Virginia-made booze.

Ironclad Distillery, and Parisian bartender Valentin Olivon of Mama Shelter, took home the prize for the "Crimson Sour," a cocktail with hibiscus-infused bourbon, burnt lemon syrup, raspberry and hibiscus shrub.

• Olivon also won a trip to Virginia to explore the state's rich distilling history and community.

What they're saying: "To see our local producers shine in a global center of gastronomy like Paris feels fitting for the world-class spirits we are producing in Virginia," said Jack Gorman with Virginia Spirits Board in a statement.