DIVYA CHAWDA

Bartender Jun's Dubai divya_chawda Creativity

Cocktail preferences differ from one location to the next depending on the clientele. Anything that contains passion fruit is in demand in Dubai, whether it's food or a spirit-based cocktail. Creativity comes from within, and most of the time it happens in the moment. For example, if a client has a specific like or dislike, the bartender must accept the challenge and tailor the drink accordingly. These days, creativity also means using modern techniques and combining newfound flavors in a cocktail. If you had told me a few years ago that peanut butter jelly would be one of our best-selling cocktails and one of my personal favorites on the Midnight Brekkie menu, I would have laughed!

Taste of tequila

In my opinion, the most significant trend is rising demand for tequila. Gin witnessed growth in popularity a few years ago, with people becoming interested in it as a spirit rather than just a cocktail ingredient. There have been numerous new brand launches all over the world. Now it is the tequila era. People no longer associate tequila with simple shots or margaritas. They are beginning to appreciate its complexity.

Base spirits

A home bar should be stocked with tequila, gin, vodka, rum, whisky, a few vermouths and some bitters, if you enjoy making negronis, as well as a bottle of red, white, rose and sparkling wine. These are the basics for any cocktail, and they're simple to experiment with. However, for a commercial bar, the list would be much longer and would comprise spirits that range from standard to premium.

Personality comes first

Although a bartenders needs a variety of accessories, such as shakers, jiggers, bar spoons, mixing glasses, strainers, scoopers, tongs and wiping cloths, to do the job, their personality is what matters above all else.