The subtle pleasures of bartending inspired Chilled 100 Bartender Mark Drummond to pursue it as a career. His attentiveness often shocks the guest, and that response is something that fuels his passion for bartending.
He discovers more and more of these subtleties every day at his current place of work, Dusk Cocktail Bar and Sushi. Chilled spoke with Mark to learn a bit more about his techniques, favorite ingredients, and where he sees his current industry heading.
Who has been most influential in your development as a bartender?
Over the years I have seen a lot of good and bad bartenders. I learn more of what not to do when I see a bad bartender
Do you have any advice for bartenders new to the game?
You’re going to make bad tasting cocktails! Keep trying new things and eventually you will make great cocktails.
What is your favorite ingredient right now and why?
I’m on spice, so I say jalapeño goes great with lemon or lime.
How do you go about creating a cocktail? Is there a specific process or simply a moment of inspiration?
I see something or think something and start to create
Do you have a special technique you use or a tip for making a particular drink?
Be a show person. You’re always on-stage shaking is the way to go.
Where do you see cocktail culture headed?
I see more things coming from the classic cocktail with a modern spin on them. This is the new wave.
The Exploding Armadillo
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Infused tequila (jalapeño)
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz Cointreau
- 1/4 oz passion fruit to sweeten
- Splash mezcal smoky tequila
Preparation: Shake and strain into a coupe. Garnish with dried lime wheel and mint sprig.
