Bartender at Large

Latest Episodes:

Martini Expo w Robert Simonson | Bartender at Large ep 463 Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

We are joined by renowned cocktail writer Robert Simonson to discuss the first-ever Martini Expo in New York City. He tells us about this unique convention dedicated entirely to the history and culture of the Martini. The event will feature seminars, tastings, guest bartenders, and a special Martini dinner. Robert explains his inspiration for creating this celebration of the world's most famous cocktail. Don't miss our talk on the must-attend cocktail event of the season. Martini Expo: https://www.martiniexpo.com The Mix: https://robertsimonson.substack.com

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Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge

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Rhum Agricole w Ben Jones | Bartender at Large ep 462 Sep 01, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a fascinating talk with Ben Jones from Rhum Clément. He delves into the unique history and production of Rhum Agricole. Jones, U.S. Managing Director of SPIRIBAM, explains what makes this style of rum so distinct from all others. He also shares the rich heritage behind the Clément brand. Listen now to discover the story of this exceptional spirit.

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Bar Consulting & Work Life Balance w Sean Finter | Bartender at Large ep 461 Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

This week, we are joined by industry entrepreneur and hospitality guru, Sean Finter, bar coach of Finter Group, and founder of the consulting firm, Barmetrix. During his years as a consultant, he and his team opened 26 offices in 8 countries, but at huge cost to his health and personal life. In many ways, he conquered the bar consultancy world, yet lost a great deal of himself in the process. So tune in as we learn firsthand about the hard lessons learned by such a titan of the industry, and what he can pass along to those coming up in the industry today.

To check out the extra hour long version of this episode be sure to check out the Bartender at Large Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge 59 Franklin: https://59franklin.com Eisenhower Matrix / Four Quadrants: https://youtu.be/tT89OZ7TNwc?si=oIgwGUyQloCo_sJD ____________________________________

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The Finer Points of Garnish w Joaquin Simo | Bartender at Large ep 460 Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

We sit down with award-winning bartender Joaquin Simo, Global Brand Ambassador and mixologist for On the Rocks Cocktails, to talk about the details of a great drink. He shares his expert thoughts on the purpose and art of the cocktail garnish. We also learn about his new role and work with On the Rocks Cocktails. Joaquin explains the process behind creating their new line of premium canned cocktails. Learn more: https://www.otrcocktails.com/garnish-guide ____________________________________

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Awards Season w Naren Young | Bartender at Large ep 459 Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a conversation with award-winning bartender Naren Young, creative director of Sweet Liberty, Medium Cool and Zebra Club in Miami. In the show, we discuss the world of cocktail awards and the pros & cons of what they mean for the industry. Naren shares his unique perspective from both judging and winning these awards, as well as all the drama & controversies that can come with it. ____________________________________

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Live from the Irish House at Tales of the Cocktail | Bartender at Large ep 458 Aug 04, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a live & on location recording from Tales of the Cocktail at New Orleans' Irish House, featuring Ireland's finest in drinks and hospitality. Tim Herlihy & Leah Doyle, of Lost Irish, share the revival of historic Irish spirits, while Dave Mulligan, owner of Bar 1661, dives into modern Irish cocktail culture. Kealan Finlay Mulligan, of Mad March Hare Poitín, explores poitín's rebellious roots, and Alice Carroll, of Foxes Bow Irish Blended Whiskey, discusses innovation in Irish whiskey. Jack McGarry, of The Dead Rabbit, reflects on global bar excellence and Irish influence. From tradition to cutting-edge craft, this panel celebrates Ireland's booming drinks scene—sláinte from the Big Easy!

Produced in association with Bord Bia The Irish Food Board

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Talking Cocktails w Run the Jewels | Bartender at Large ep 457 Jul 28, 2025

Show notes

Legendary hip-hop duo Run the Jewels—EL-P and Killer Mike—stop by to spill the tea (and the liquor) on their new line of canned cocktails, Juice Runners. They break down the flavors, the creative process behind the brand, and how it ties into their music and lifestyle. Of course, no RTJ interview is complete without some industry insights, and a few laughs along the way. Plus, they discuss balancing business ventures with their music careers and drop hints about upcoming projects.

Learn more: https://runthejewels.com/pages/drink

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FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge

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Low ABV Gin w Leo Robitschek | Bartender at Large ep 456 Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

Join us as we sit down with Leo Robitschek, award-winning bartender, consultant, and Partner/VP of Food & Beverage at The Nomad Hotel. Former Managing Partner of Make It Nice—overseeing Eleven Madison Park and the iconic Nomad Bar—Leo shares insights from his storied career, including winning the 2014 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program. He discusses the art of crafting unforgettable cocktail experiences and the inspiration behind his innovative low-alcohol gin, Second Sip.

Learn More: https://www.secondsip.com/products/second-sip-low-proof-gin

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FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge

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Education & Advancement w Jessamine McLellan | Bartender at Large ep 455 Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring chat with Jessamine McLellan, Director of the U.S. Campari Academy & Trade Advocacy, as she shares her journey from bartending to shaping spirits education. With over a decade in the industry, she's a driving force behind innovative training programs and mentorship that elevate bartenders nationwide. Discover how her expertise in spirits development has influenced groundbreaking products globally. ____________________________________

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Letters to a Young Bartender w Colin Asare-Appiah | Bartender at Large ep 454 Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

Tune in as we chat with Colin Asare-Appiah, creator of "Letters to a Young Bartender," a mentorship program guiding the next generation of craft cocktail professionals. Colin shares invaluable advice on honing your skills, building confidence behind the bar, and navigating the industry with intention. From cocktail techniques to career growth, this conversation is packed with wisdom for the modern bartender. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your craft, Colin offers insights for all skill levels.

Ajabu Festival: https://ajabufestival.com

Link to article: https://edition.pagesuite.com/html5/reader/production/default.aspx?pubname=&edid=478f96ec-e50a-4d17-ab5e-39f6d54d11e7

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FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge

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