KEEPING IT FRESH
HN also reached out to two of the bartender judges participating at to learn more about the latest trends in the Culinary Cocktails category.
is CEO of Bar Solutions, a drink, events and bar consultancy based in Greece.
What is your take on the techniques employed by bartenders for crafting culinary cocktails that are currently trending?
That is a million-dollar question! Actually, I totally adore all these complicated techniques, but while they definitely make a big difference, they can’t top a perfect G&T with aromas of fresh citrus fruits, such as a pink grapefruit! Speaking from the perspective of the Bar Solutions team, we often employ plenty of techniques, such as the vacuum, sous vide and rotary evaporator. Many of these help us create delicious drinks, especially the aromatic varieties. However, the trick is not in using them, rather in knowing how and when to do so.
What are some of the fresh ingredients specific to Greece that you like to use?
When your country has so much variety and rich natural produce, using these ingredients is not only a blessing, but also a way to better promote Greece’s gastronomy and culture. Some of the ingredients we use include red/yellow grapefruits, oranges and lemons from the island of Crete, fresh kumquats from the island of Corfu, caper leaves from the island of Paros, fresh grapes and figs from all over Greece during the summer and autumn seasons, and olives and olive oil from Kalamata, to name just a few.
Why do you think bartenders have been turning their attention away from the bar to the kitchen?
In every country, you see bartenders entering the kitchen in order to cultivate other techniques which they can use in the bar. They are trying to incorporate everything in their process to create something magical and offer their guests a more engaging experience. The kitchen is and will always be helpful in every aspect for a bartender as it contains a lot of untapped potential. Chefs and bartenders are ‘dancers’ and the choreography that is ensuing is continuously evolving. In other words, the time has come for both sides to unite for an unprecedented gastronomic experience!