On May 19, 2007 the Embassy of Latvia, together with the Latvian joint stock company “Latvijas Balzams,” participated in the annual Rotary Club of Washington wine-tasting event at the Embassy of France in Washington, DC. Since Latvia is not a wine-producing country, the Embassy of Latvia participated by serving Riga “Black balsam,” a Latvian liqueur of 24 ingredients, which was first made in Riga in the middle of the 18th century. “Black balsam”, as well as cocktails prepared with the liqueur, was enjoyed by the guests. Latvia also participated in the silent auction organized by the Rotary Club of Washington. Proceeds went to the International Rotary Club’s assistance projects.