Meet the Gentleman Jack Culture Shakers Class of 2024: New York edition! The Culture Shakers initiative stands as a beacon of recognition and support for Multicultural bartenders ascending in the realm of mixology, revolutionizing cocktail culture in their respective cities while imprinting their unique legacies upon the bar scene. In 2024, the program maintains its commitment to spotlighting a fresh wave of talent, with a dynamic cohort from New York. These trailblazers, armed with creativity and innovation, challenge conventions and redefine the boundaries of bar culture.
Embodying the essence of Gentleman Jack, a Tennessee whiskey distinguished by its smoothness and approachability, the Culture Shakers epitomize the spirit of craftsmanship and dedication. Like the whiskey’s meticulous process, these bartenders exemplify a commitment to authenticity and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Through their passion and determination, they embody the ethos of Gentleman Jack, embracing the role of creators who strive to craft what’s genuine and aspire to leave a lasting legacy.
New York Culture Shakers Class of 2024:
Adrian Fernandez
What makes the City you live and work in an exciting place to be in hospitality right now?
The different type of culture.
How does your personality influence your bartending approach, technique and style?
I like to have fun, and collect personally from different type of people. To gain an understanding in what people really are into or getting them into
What does being a Culture Shaker mean to you & how can bartenders use their influence to impact positive progress in the industry?
Being a bartender in Harlem is a great asset in that Harlem has always been on the verge of new and innovative culture since the early 1900 which speaks globally. So we are just another vehicle to perpetuate culture forward.
Adrian's Cocktail
What is your Gentleman Jack recipe?
Ingredients:
- 2oz Gentleman Jack
- 1oz coffee syrup
- 1/4oz china china liqueur
- On the rocks 1 inch cubes
- Garnish dehydrated lemon wheel
Tell us how you used Gentleman Jack in your signature cocktail - why was Gentleman Jack the ideal base spirit and how does it shine with the other ingredients?
I used Gentleman Jack in particular because of its vanilla characteristics that marry well with the coffee and oils from lemon peels
Jorge Lopez
What makes the City you live and work in an exciting place to be in hospitality right now?
New York City is the whole world’s most diverse city. I can visit different countries by taking a train or a long walk. Each street may represent a different culture which I try to learn from and use as inspiration for my craft.
How does your personality influence your bartending approach, technique and style?
My personality is full of intensity with creativity sprinkled in with inspiration. I love service bar because my competitive nature drives the speed of the drinks coming out. I thrive in high volume atmospheres with the bartender show. The way I shake is important because I want the furthest table from me to want a drink from me.
What does being a Culture Shaker mean to you & how can bartenders use their influence to impact positive progress in the industry?
We have to be teachers to the future generations of bartenders and hospitality professionals. Influence the new employees as a new class of bartenders that will be professionals in the near future if they give it there all. Set them up for success everyday.
Jorge's Cocktail
What is your Gentleman Jack recipe?
- 2 oz gentleman jack
- 1 oz coconut cream
- 1.5 oz Jumex Peach nectar
- Dash Apricot bitters Madagascar Vanilla whipped cream Frozen peach
- Dehydrated peach slices
Put gentleman jack, coconut cream, apricot bitters and peach nectar into shaker. Shake ingredients and put into rocks glass over ice. Top with whipped cream and micro plane a generous amount of frozen peach over whipped cream.
Tell us how you used Gentleman Jack in your signature cocktail - why was Gentleman Jack the ideal base spirit and how does it shine with the other ingredients?
The taste notes of vanilla and a hint of banana play well with the coconut cream and the peach nectar. Gentleman jack has enough strength and structure to create balance. The finish lingers with a unique sweetness of caramel, brown sugar and honey.
Melissa "Melly" Rogers
What makes the City you live and work in an exciting place to be in hospitality right now?
It's New York City , the city that never sleeps with all of the bright lights and opportunities. Everyone travels to NYC whether its to work , or simple just to enjoy our city but almost everyone comes to NYC to have a great drink at an aesthetically pleasing bar.
How does your personality influence your bartending approach, technique and style?
I'm an outgoing individual, so I'm usually the first to strike up a conversation with a complete stranger. I tend to make everyone feel that each drink I curate is made specifically just for them.
What does being a Culture Shaker mean to you & how can bartenders use their influence to impact positive progress in the industry?
Being a culture shaker is an honor, I've been bartending for about 9 years now and each year I feel as if I'm getting better and better each time. Bartenders are mini therapist in a sense, with each interaction with every individual you have to connect. It's not only about servicing our guest, it's about giving them an experience.
Melly's Cocktail
What is your Gentleman Jack recipe?
- Rocks Glass ,
- Sphere Big Rock ,
- Smoker Gentlemen Jack Peach
- Pure Lemon Juice
- Muddled Ginger
- Smoke
- Rocks Glass
While Preparing Drink Muddle two pieces of ginger in shaker , add 3oz of Gentlemen Jack , 0.5oz of Peach Puree 1/2 of Lemon Juice scoop of ice. Shake and remove smoker and strain over sphere ice cube . Garnish with ginger skin.
Tell us how you used Gentleman Jack in your signature cocktail - why was Gentleman Jack the ideal base spirit and how does it shine with the other ingredients?
Gentlemen Jack is a smooth whiskey , I wanted To highlight the notes and enhance the flavor. Peach and ginger are the perfect balance for it .
Shane "Breez" Smith
What makes the City you live and work in an exciting place to be in hospitality right now?
For starters, it is NYC... Furthermore, Harlem is Harlem. We are the epitome of fun. With full creative control, at 67, we are the curators of the music, the cocktails and vibes. And if you know, you know. If not, pullith up.
How does your personality influence your bartending approach, technique and style?
As a musician, performer and vibe curator my personality shines all through my approach to the bar. My technique stems from the many mentors I hold near and dear, thanks guys.
What does being a Culture Shaker mean to you & how can bartenders use their influence to impact positive progress in the industry?
Being a Culture Shaker means raising the bar, being 4 steps ahead, staying ready, not getting ready, ready to teach and being willing to learn, changing the game.
Breezes Cocktail
What is your Gentleman Jack recipe?
Ingredients:
- 1.5 Oz Gentleman Jack
- .75 Oz Lemon
- 1 Oz Fantastical Herbaceous Elixir
- .25 Oz Genepy
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- Top With Uncle Waithley's
- Ginger Beer Glass: Grand Footed Chalice Garnish: Flamed dehydrated lemon with rosemary accent
Tell us how you used Gentleman Jack in your signature cocktail - why was Gentleman Jack the ideal base spirit and how does it shine with the other ingredients?
This was one of many created but I recently made herbaceous tea based elixir that plays well any whiskey and especially with the oak, tropical notes and the subtle nuances of Gentleman Jack. Perfection.
Please Drink Responsibly.
Gentleman Jack and Jack Daniel’s are registered trademarks. ©2024 Jack Daniel’s. Tennessee Whiskey, 40% ALC/VOL, JACK DANIEL DISTILLERY, Lynchburg, TN.
