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Ask The Expert: Happy J. Byrne

Posted August 28, 2017 by Editorial

We asked Happy J. Byrne, bartender at Ampersand 27, about his take on mixing the perfect cocktail.

Photo by Jon Popowich

WHERE: What are some trends in cocktail mixing that interest you right now?
Byrne: Sherries and ports are super popular—also scotch. People are starting to care less about how the purists think a cocktail should be made (which is far from consistent) and are making drinks with a ton of depth. Most notably, bartenders are starting to focus on providing better service. I think more of us need to realize that we are hosts first, servers second, and the person who makes your drink third. I don’t care how great your Old Fashioned is if you don’t extend a welcome and shake your guest’s hand.

W: Do you have a favourite spirit to experiment with for new cocktails?
B: Pisco is a favourite of mine, and Aquavits are becoming more accessible as well. However, the sheer diversity of the Gin category offers a ton of new challenges. There are some beautiful gins out there that are really challenging the traditional London Dry style for space on the back bar. It’s nice to find a style or type of gin that doesn’t hold up to classic cocktails and then you really get to play with it.

W: What’s your go-to summer cocktail for enjoying on a patio?
B: Any style of spritz cocktail. Patio drinking can take its toll, so I like a low alcohol content with bubbles and lots of ice. Staying hydrated while drinking socially is key. I recently came across a Mai Tai Spritz that I really enjoy, so I scaled back the alcohol content to extend my patio time.

W: Do you have any tips for finding a customer a new cocktail that’s out of their comfort zone?
B: Keep to their preferred flavour profile (sweet, sour, bitter, etc.) and explore a new style of spirit or one they may not love, and use it as a modifying ingredient rather than the star. There are complex layers to many drinks, so subtlety is key. A well-balanced and individually crafted drink can really change someone’s opinion of any spirit.

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