The art of mixology is a natural outgrowth of my love of food and entertaining. As much as I loved observing and reading about cocktail craft, somehow I used to think that to bartend at home meant you needed an exhaustive recall of all the classic drink recipes, as well as all the liquors, mixers, and tools. Nothing could be further from the truth. (Though having a few basics and a few tools helps!)

My love of cocktails and wine really began nearly 30 years ago with event design and coordination for clients. Asked to concept, brand, and deliver an event, I wanted every detail to resonate and enhance, down to signature cocktails that delighted and integrated with themes, and wine that paired exceptionally well with food. Fast forward to today and all of that has enhanced my life and home more than it ever did my business. 

The intrigue in the art of the balance of flavors and presentation of cocktails is immense; almost more interesting than that of food. You have fewer and typically more complex ingredients, and a slight move in a single cocktail can be much more glorious (or disastrous) than across an entire dish. Plus…the sound of a cocktail shaker or mixing glass just plain makes people happy. 

Inspirations: A dinner party menu, the seasons, a soundtrack, a new ingredient, beautiful glassware.