WHAT BIG NEWS DO YOU HAVE TO SHARE WITH US SINCE OUR LAST COLLABORATION?
Since my last box, I've taken on a new role at a brand new concept called Vault! It's an intimate little 27-seat joint with crazy rare bourbons and progressive cocktails.
WHAT FIRST INTRIGUED YOU ABOUT THE BAR/SPIRITS INDUSTRY?
Truthfully, I was first intrigued by the flexibility and the compensation. After my first few years behind the stick, I began to understand how deep the rabbit hole went, and decided to follow it. Now over 15 years in, I'm absolutely in love with what I do for a living. It's a pretty nice feeling.
WHY ARE YOU EXCITED TO DO ANOTHER BOX FOR AMERICAN COCKTAIL CLUB?
I genuinely enjoy the juices from American Juice Co! Not to mention, every bit of contact I've ever had with the company is beyond amazing. Their customer service is outstanding. It's also nice to be able to share a little bit of my passion and approach to cocktails with all of the subscribers!
TELL US ABOUT YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND THE COCKTAIL YOU CREATED THIS MONTH:
As a lover of all things food, I've been largely inspired by Mexican flavors recently. It's really common to see mango and other fruits with some sort of chili spice, so that's where I drew initial inspiration. The Tajin spice rim has just enough heat and acid to balance the funky sweetness of the cocktail itself.
WHAT ARE YOUR ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR THE HOME BAR? DO YOU RECOMMEND MOST PEOPLE STOCK THESE AT THEIR HOME BAR?
I like to keep things really simple at home. A boston shaker, pint glass, hawthorne strainer, citrus press, barspoon, jigger, muddler, and basket (double) strainer is about all I need! Throw in some quality booze, nice glassware, and a little bit of adventurous spirit and you're set up for success.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?
I've created a cocktail for Chilled Magazine that should be coming out in the month of March! Everyone should check it out!