Mixology Consultant Archives - Page 23 of 406 - Side Bar

Born in Texas and raised in Sacramento, Ryan grew up practicing martial arts—earning a black belt in Tae Kwon Do at just 10 years old—before competing as an MMA fighter.

His athleticism and charisma led to a successful modeling career, eventually opening the door to Hollywood and launching him into the acting world.

Ryan Guzman stars as Eddie Diaz on ABC’s hit drama 9-1-1, created by Ryan Murphy. Since its move from FOX to ABC, 9-1-1 has become the #1 primetime drama among adults 18-49 and recently returned for its eighth season. Ryan also stars in the film The Present alongside Isla Fisher and Greg Kinnear, now available for streaming.

You may also recognize Ryan from his roles in Notorious, Heroes Reborn, and Pretty Little Liars, as well as films like Step Up Revolution, Step Up: All In, and The Boy Next Door, where he starred opposite Jennifer Lopez. His other notable credits include Jem and the Holograms, Everybody Wants Some (the spiritual sequel to Dazed and Confused), Windows on the World, The Cleansing Hour, and Backtrace with Sylvester Stallone.

Chilled caught up with Ryan to chat about his latest projects, his love of storytelling, his go-to drinks, and how fatherhood has changed his nights out.

Check out our interview below!

Tell us about the projects you are working on.

I’m currently working on the 8th season of 911 where I reprise the role of Eddie Diaz for the 7th season and an untitled short that I wrote and starred in. Late last year, I did a movie starring Rosario Dawson and Mila Jovovich which should be coming out this year.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?

I like to stay active and creative. I am a big advocate of having many outlets for down time. I train in many forms of martial arts and apply them in sparring as well as play on a Sunday soccer league. I dove back into painting a couple of years ago after taking a break and found myself reinventing my perspective through the use of many mediums. I really enjoy writing. I take writing as a sort of decompression tactic for my mind. My mind can be full of ideas and questions which I work out in short stories, poems, scripts, and sometimes just notes on my phone. In these more recent years of my fatherhood, I’ve taken real joy in working on my house and being the type of father I wish my kids to have.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

I love all types of food, so there are rarely wrong answers for when it comes down to picking a place to eat. I tend to favor a steakhouse of some sort and thanks to my brother who works in fine dining, my palate has been opened to the art of gastronomy offered in Michelin star restaurants. However mind blowing a Michelin star restaurant can be, I am still a simple man who would gladly take a burger 5 days out of the week if my stomach and characters I play would allow it.

What types of dishes do you typically order?

I usually stick to a New York cut with some kind of sauteed veggies on the side and a pasta to accompany. Any form of potato is welcome, too.

Any favorite bars?

Since becoming a father, my days at bars have gone from every week to once maybe every year. I host events at my house and have a bar full of all types of drinks. It’s not only convenient and time efficient for me but I get to share drinks with people I really know and enjoy spending time with.

What drinks do you order when out? Favorite drink?

I used to be a big whiskey guy and kept it simple with Jack Daniels on the rocks or an old fashioned. The type of alcohol changed over the years but the drink remained. The game changed for me when I found out you could make an Old fashioned with Tequila.

Do you prepare drinks at home?

I am not a mixologist. However, my brother and a couple of my other friends are. I’m a professional at drinking the drinks, not making them. Though, I have mastered the tequila Old Fashioned.

Tell us about your home bar. What is it stocked with?

My bar is in my patio and has a typical bar set up with stools, TV on the wall, and a variety of drinks to either side. I have a selection of different whiskeys like Alba, an Italian whiskey or some Garrison Brothers for Bourbon, and some Oban which is a single malt Scotch. I have plenty of Gin and vodka options as well but my tequila section is more than likely the biggest out of all the options.

Have you ever been a bartender?

I have never been a bartender but my dad was for years. I used to watch him enough to want to become a barback and eventually learn the trade, but life took me down another lane.

If you could share a drink with anyone, who would it be?

I would love to share a drink with Bruce Lee and pick his mind on his philosophy and martial arts but since that isn’t possible… I think sharing a drink with Bert Kreischer would be a great time. I imagine my face would hurt from laughing so damn much.

The post Chillin’ With Ryan Guzman appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Even if you know very little about bourbon whiskey, you’re probably aware that its heart lies in Kentucky.

But did you know that even though 95% of all bourbon is made in the Blue Grass State, it can made anywhere in the United States (including Washington, DC and Puerto Rico) and still be considered a bourbon? That’s right, to be considered a bourbon, the whiskey must be made with a mash bill of at least 51% corn (secondary grains can be rye, wheat, barley, and others). There are a handful of other rules, but the one we’re more concerned with is based solely on geography.

As we briefly mentioned, most of the bourbon production takes place in Kentucky, there are countless noteworthy, award-winning bourbons coming out of states not well-known for the whiskey style.

Keep scrolling to see some of our favorites.

Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon (Wyoming)

You might not immediately think of Wyoming when you envision bourbon, but after one sip of Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon, you will. Matured for five years, this popular whiskey is known for its flavor profile featuring notes of caramelized sugar, vanilla beans, gentle spices, and charred oak.

Woodinville Straight Bourbon (Washington State)

If you’ve never tried Woodinville Straight Bourbon, what are you waiting for? This small batch bourbon begins with a mash bill of 72% corn, 22% rye, and 6% malted barley. Matured for five years in heavily charred oak barrels, it’s known for its flavors of dark chocolate, caramel candy, vanilla bean, and gentle spices.

FEW Straight Bourbon (Illinois)

This award-winning whiskey is made with a three-grain recipe that mixes sweet corn, spicy northern rye, and smooth malted barley. It’s matured for four years in charred Minnesota oak barrels, giving it a nuanced flavor palate of sweet corn, cinnamon sugar, oak, vanilla, and light spices.

Cedar Ridge Iowa Straight Bourbon (Iowa)

wn for its flavors of sweet corn, butterscotch, vanilla, ripe fruits, and oaky wood.

Garrison Brothers Small Batch Bourbon (Texas)

If you only try one bourbon whiskey on this list, make it Garrison Brothers Small Batch Bourbon. This 94-proof whiskey was matured for three years in the Texas heat. It’s known for its palate of cinnamon candy, fresh leather, honey, orange peels, caramel, vanilla, and candied nuts.

The post 5 Bourbons to Try from Places Not Well-Known For Bourbon appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

From Zasu in New Orleans comes the Bon Carre, a creative Vieux Carré riff by Bar Manager Tyler Malone.

This cocktail offers a bergamot and woodsy front rounded out by a subtle honey finish.

“The nose will remind you of fir trees and tea time,” says Malone.

The Bon Carre captures the essence of New Orleans’ cocktail culture, blending tradition with a modern, sophisticated edge—perfect for sipping in the cozy ambiance of Zasu or recreating at home for a taste of the Big Easy.

Cognac, Vermouth, Whiskey

Bon Carre

by Tyler Malone | Bar Manager at Zasu

Ingredients

• 1 oz. Earl Grey Bourbon
• ½ oz. Cognac
• ¼ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¼ oz. Green Chartreuse
• 1 bar spoon (or 1/8 oz.) Benedictine
• 4 dashes of Angostura

Preparation

1. Build and stir in a rocks glass with ice.
2. Garnish with smoked rosemary sprig.

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The post Bon Carre appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Welcome to Chilled’s Bartender Book of the Month Club, your monthly guide to essential reads for bartenders. Each month, we spotlight a standout book to add to your collection and keep your creativity flowing.

Photo by M Cooper Creative

This month’s book is Spirited Women
Sammi Katz: Author | Social Media
Olivia McGiff: Author | Social Media

Spirited Women is a vibrant book unveiling the world of spirits and cocktails exclusively through the lens of women makers, shakers, and trailblazers of the beverage world by way of 45 profiles and accompanying recipes—all whimsically illustrated in color. The release celebrates the influence of diverse women in beverage, while teaching the “why” behind the sexism that exists in the industry and debunking stereotypes through the process. Featuring names like co-founder of Speed Rack, Lynnette Marrero, Bartender and Indigenous Hospitality Advocate Chockie Tom, and Founder of Yola Mezcal, Yola Jimenez, each profile is written with wit, integrity, and curiosity, and is complemented by an original cocktail recipe that echoes the woman’s story and showcases their spirit in every sense of the word.

The Bartender’s Bookshelf: Book of the Month Club

Welcome to Chilled’s Bartender Book of the Month Club, your monthly guide to essential reads for bartenders, cocktail enthusiasts, industry pros, and anyone looking to elevate their craft. Each month, we spotlight a standout book—whether it’s a deep dive into cocktail history, a recipe-packed guide, or a memoir from a legendary bartender—Chilled will help you build a library that inspires and educates while keeping your creative spirits flowing.

The post Bartender Book of the Month Club: Spirited Women appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

The world of vodka is never going to be the same again.

The classic Vodka Martini gets a bold and unexpected twist thanks to Weber Ranch Vodka. Made with 100% blue weber agave, this vodka brings a distinctively smooth, earthy character to the timeless Martini—still elegant, but with a modern new edge.

While traditional vodkas made from wheat, corn, and potato can be produced in only a few months, using Blue Weber Agave requires a much longer time commitment since the plant matures slowly for up to seven years. Once they achieve peak ripeness, the agave is hand-selected and distilled in Jalisco. When the distillate arrives at the Weber Ranch Distillery in Muenster, Texas, it is combined with water from the local Trinity Aquifer, then further distilled in bespoke copper pot and column stills, filtered, and bottled.

Master Distiller Antonio Rodriguez says that agave is a higher-quality base ingredient for vodka due to its age. “It imparts a natural sweetness to our vodka, without any vegetal notes, and creates a silky and smooth mouthfeel without any aftertaste or bite,” he says. The company’s goal is to introduce more consumers to agave spirits, especially those who don’t drink tequila or find it too intense.

A Jalisco native, Rodriguez brings over twenty years of experience to the project. As Production Director at Patrón Tequila in Mexico, he managed a team of 1,500. He led brand education for the Patrón portfolio in the United States, which gave him a good foundation to launch Weber Ranch 1902 Vodka. “We spend a good deal of time and effort educating people about what it is and why they should try it,” he says.

“The good news for us is that as soon as people taste Weber Ranch, they quickly understand why this is such a superior quality spirit.”

Bartenders know a quality base spirit is the backbone of a well-crafted Martini. Vodka in a Martini influences everything from texture to taste, with premium options providing a smooth, clean experience. Weber Ranch vodka is 100% gluten, carb, and additive free. When it comes to Weber Ranch Vodka, the difference is immediately noticeable—it’s familiar yet excitingly new.

Interested in trying Weber Ranch in your classic Martini? Find Weber Ranch here.

Vermouth, Vodka

Weber Ranch Martini

Ingredients

• 2 oz. Weber Ranch Vodka
• ¼ oz. Dolin Dry Vermouth

Preparation

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice.
2. Shaker vigorously to chill.
3. Strain into a chilled Martini glass.
4. Garnish with lemon twist.

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The post The Martini Gets an Unexpected Twist with Weber Ranch Vodka appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Bar Bastion—the lavish cocktail lounge perched above fine dining destination Le Jardinier and part of The Bastion Collection—is unveiling an exclusive collaboration with Baccarat.

For a limited time, Bar Bastion presents a specially curated cocktail menu served in Baccarat’s iconic crystal glassware, accompanied by a decadent dessert from Le Jardinier’s Executive Pastry Chef, Salvatore Martone.

This partnership is a celebration of craftsmanship, where artistry, technique, and heritage intertwine. Each cocktail is thoughtfully designed to complement the elegance of Baccarat’s signature glassware:

• Radiant Rouge – A bold, refreshing blend of olive oil-washed Truman Vodka, tomato water, and dry vermouth, finished with basil oil. Served in the Talleyrand “Encore” Coupe.
• Golden Harmonie – A luxurious fusion of Zacapa 23 Rum, Diplomático Reserva, and walnut bitters, topped with edible gold flakes. Served in the Harmonie Tumbler.
• Le Fourneau – A visually stunning creation featuring The Gardener Gin, rhubarb, and ginger foam. Served in the Mille Nuits Glass.

To complete the experience, Chef Salvatore Martone has crafted a Raspberry Chocolate Bonbon, inspired by Baccarat’s timeless crystal artistry.

For over 260 years, Baccarat has embodied elegance and celebration, enhancing life’s most memorable moments. Now, for a limited time, guests can indulge in a one-of-a-kind experience where exceptional mixology, exquisite cuisine, and masterful crystal design converge at Bar Bastion.

The post Bar Bastion & Baccarat Unite for an Exclusive Cocktail Experience appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Bartending can be a paradox—it’s all about building connections, but it may sometimes lead to disconnection from your own needs.

As a bartender, you must take advantage of self-care strategies to recharge your energy and creativity.

Why Bartenders Need Self-Care

The long working hours, constant social interaction and physical strain from mixing and shaking can affect your health. The long nights can also leave you restless, making it challenging to balance work and life demands. Self-care is more important now than ever, given that burnout is common in the hospitality industry.

7 Self-Care Strategies for Bartenders

Self-care is essential for your physical, mental, and emotional wellness, allowing you to perform better at your job.

1. Eat Healthy

Late nights and fast-food options can make it tempting to skip proper meals. However, relying on quick fixes can lead to poor health. Prioritize nourishing your body with nutrient-dense meals and snacks to combat stress and other health risks. Additionally, avoid drinking too much caffeine if you’re prone to anxiety or working long hours so that you can sleep better.

2. Stay Active

Bartending is a physically demanding job that involves repetitive movements and standing for hours. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, even on your days off. You don’t have to go to the gym daily — walking in the park or following a yoga session on YouTube can do wonders. It’s a productive way to release stress and recharge your batteries, allowing you to return to work feeling refreshed.

3. Meditate

Life can feel too fast-paced, especially when working in a stimulating and social environment. Meditation can help you manage your stress and focus on yourself. Simply allot a few minutes to notice how your body feels and do breathing exercises. You’ll be surprised that this short routine can relax your mind and body.

4. Treat Yourself to a Massage

The constant shaking, pouring and tapping can lead to repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and bursitis. While regular stretching can help alleviate aches and pains, a good massage offers a different kind of relaxation. Go to a spa at least once a month for your well-deserved me-time.

5. Go out With Your Loved Ones

Make time for your friends and family. Deepen your connections through video calls, brunch invitations or casual coffee dates. Consider joining groups that align with your interests to expand your social circle.

6. Travel

The bar is a high-pressure environment, and travel provides an escape from that intensity. Stepping away from the busy bar scene can offer a much-needed reset. You can also treat it as a learning opportunity — visit wineries, local markets, distilleries and bars, and you might get inspired to create new cocktails.

7. Learn How to Say “No”

It can be challenging to say no as a hospitality worker. However, you must learn how to establish boundaries to protect your time and energy. Don’t be afraid to say no to extra shifts while recovering from the previous day. It’s OK to decline invites if you’d rather stay home with your pet. Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Pour Yourself Some Love

Embrace self-love by practicing these routines. You don’t have to do everything all at once—take some time to familiarize yourself with these practices to see which ones you’ll love.

The Balanced Bartender with Mia Barnes

Crafting the perfect cocktail is an art, but true mastery lies in balance—not just of flavors, but of creativity, precision, and passion. In a profession where long hours and high-energy are the norm, maintaining balance both behind the bar and in life is essential. The Balanced Bartender will help guide bartenders toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Stay in tune with your mind, body, and spirit.

The post 7 Self-Care Tips Every Bartender Should Know appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Shake up sustainability: Enter Chilled’s Sustainable Cocktail Challenge! sponsored by Flor de Caña.

Attention all bartenders! It’s time to show off your skills and commitment to the planet with the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge sponsored by Flor de Caña. This global competition invites bartenders everywhere to craft exceptional cocktails that champion sustainability—while featuring the award-winning, carbon-neutral, and sustainably produced Flor de Caña Rum.

Beyond showcasing your bartending skills, this challenge is your chance to inspire others to embrace sustainability behind the bar while having a shot at some incredible prizes and a possibility of global recognition for making a difference.

Here’s how to enter:

The post Enter Now! Chilled’s Sustainable Cocktail Challenge Sponsored by Flor de Caña Rum appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Pickles are no longer just a sidekick to your sandwich; they are taking center stage in the world of flavors.

From tangy cocktails to flavored picklebacks, the briny, bold taste of pickles is trending across the drinks industry. Whether it’s the rise of pickle juice or pickle-flavored elements, one thing is certain: the pickle trend is growing, and it’s only getting bolder.

“Pickles are having a moment, and we’re here for it,” says E.G. Fishburne, VP of Marketing at Zing Zang.

“We know plenty of Bloody Mary lovers already add pickle juice—so we made it easier for them. Our new Dill Pickle Bloody Mary Mix blends real pickle brine with our signature mix of seven vegetable juices and bold spices, delivering the perfect pickle punch in every sip.”

With their crisp, vinegary bite, pickles play surprisingly well with a variety of spirits—from vodka and tequila to bourbon and mezcal. Think of them as the zesty wildcard that takes any cocktail from ordinary to unforgettable. You’ll find them starring in modern riffs on classics like the Pickle Martini or Dirty Pickle Margarita, as well as adventurous newcomers like a Pickle Paloma or a briny twist on the Whiskey Sour.

The Flavor Feed: Pickles

The punchy, briny taste of pickles adds a surprising and complex dimension to cocktails, mocktails, and even savory sodas. Pickle brine works wonders in balancing acidity, while pickled garnishes lend a bold visual and flavor statement. Pickles are constantly proving that they’re more than just a burger’s best friend—they’re now a bar essential, too.

Did you know?

Pickles date back over 4,000 years and were even a favorite of Cleopatra, who believed they contributed to her beauty.

Vodka

Zing Zang Dill Pickle Bloody Mary

Ingredients

• 3 parts Zing Zang Dill Pickle Bloody Mary Mix
• 1 part Vodka

Preparation

1. Pour over ice and stir.
2. Add a squeeze of lime.
3. Garnish with a pickle spear.

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Welcome to The Flavor Feed, your go-to column for the latest buzz in the world of spirits, cocktails, and all things flavor-packed. Whether it’s uncovering bold new trends, spotlighting standout ingredients, or diving into expert tips, we’re here to keep your palate inspired and your creativity flowing. Let’s explore what’s shaking, stirring, and mixing in the industry this month!

The post The Flavor Feed: The Rise of the Pickle appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Each month Chilled presents you with five essential cocktails based on our National Drink Day Calendar. Don’t forget to reference it so you can prepare for the upcoming holidays.

There is no better time to brush up on your cocktail-making skills than the start of a new month. As the weather warms and the days become longer, fresh ingredients are becoming in season—think herbs, citrus, and florals. It’s an opportunity to update your cocktail repertoire to keep your menu in tune with the season.

These five essential cocktails highlight and reflect the blooming energy April brings. If you’re behind the bar or at home and diving into your mixologist’s side, one of these cocktails should make its way to your monthly roundup.

El Conejo Bueno

If you’ve been lacking in the vegetable department, simply add them to your next cocktail. National Carrot Day on April 4 is the perfect excuse to whip up this veggie-forward drink. This vibrant cocktail is as savory as it is sweet. Fresh carrot juice in cocktails provides an earthy sweetness that pairs delightfully with the aged rum. The added chickpea water makes this cocktail vegan and provides the right amount of creaminess in every sip.

Berry Nice

The easy answer to celebrate National Gin & Tonic Day on April 9 would be to make a simple yet classic cocktail. And while we love to enjoy a good G&T, it’s the perfect drink to add something extra to make it special. With spring in full blast, the Berry Nice is an excellent choice when you’re in the mood for a refreshing beverage. The vibrant and tart berries complement the juniper notes from the gin. Top it off with some sweet tonic water for a bubbly afternoon beverage.

Godfather James

Get hopped up on National Beer Day (4/7) with this whisky-based mixed drink. This cocktail is ideal for those who love the taste of beer but want something that packs a punch. It’s more than likely that all of these ingredients are already behind the bar—whisky, amaretto, and a bottle of Guinness. The spirit base balances out the heaviness that Guinness beer is known to have. Finish the drink with a fresh sprig of mint for an herbaceous note with every sip.

Moonrise

On Malbec World Day (4/17), swap that simple glass of red wine for something that has the tannin notes but is a tad more refreshing. Not only is this cocktail beautiful in presentation, but it truly tastes as good as it looks. The tequila-based cocktail has both a sweet and herbaceous flavor profile that is flawlessly complemented by the rich and jammy taste of Malbec wine.

Gentleman And A Scholar

Don’t let the month pass by without raising a glass to National Tea Day on April 21. Tea is a great way to get creative with your cocktail-making. The Gentleman And A Scholar is a blend of citrus and botanicals with a subtle hint of Earl Grey Tea to round it out. Honor the timeless and beloved beverage by giving this cocktail a try.

The post 5 Essential Cocktails for April 2025 appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News