Bartending is a profession that many people initially get into with the intention of it being a "part-time" or temporary gig. Although career bartending is regaining the respect it once held during the golden era, there are still many who are attracted to the work because of the flexibility it affords to pursue other interests outside of the bar world.
Woodford Reserve takes a look at individuals passionate both behind and beyond the bar and asks them to share what drives their spirit. In this "Beyond the Bar" series, we will speak to several New York City bartenders to explore what fuels these highly dedicated individuals that are certainly ones to watch.
Woodford Reserve Goes Beyond The Bar Part I
Dorothy Elizabeth
Bartender at Henry NoMad, Nomo SoHo & “Friends of Dorothy” - an experimental traveling pop-up raising money for LGBT youth
What is your passion Beyond the Bar?
Math and Science.
How did it start and how are you pursuing it today?
I studied chemical engineering at the University of Michigan and fell in love with calculus and chemistry. I bartended throughout undergrad since scientists aren't always the greatest social outlet. Currently, I instruct for organic chemistry labs and work as a lab technician.
How does your work as a bartender fuel that passion?
It allows me an outlet to play with the world of food science. Most modern mixology is simply food-grade applications of basic lab techniques, so they go hand in hand. Bartending gives me the ability to play with chemistry outside the lab. Infusions and centrifuge clarifications taste so much better in a cocktail at the end of the day.
What is your favorite way to enjoy Woodford Reserve?
Dorothy's 'Capitol Park' Cocktail recipe:
- 1.5 oz Woodford Reserve Rye
- 0.75 oz Cardamaro
- 0.25 oz Bonal
- 5 dashes Angostura
- 5 dashes Hopped Grapefruit Bitters
Stirred, up, with Grapefruit & Orange Twist
Albert Pero III
Bartender at the Royalton Hotel
What is your passion Beyond the Bar?
Beyond the bar, my two biggest passions are people and entertainment.
How did it start and how are you pursuing it today?
In truth, they are both so closely related on my heart. It's interesting for me to look back at the time when I was earning a theatre degree and realize that the real thing I was studying was people. I studied how they interact with one another and what they need in their pursuit of happiness. Entertainment in every form is a way that I can make someone's day better and help make life's struggles seem a little easier. From listening to guests or friends going through hard times to laughing, singing, and dancing on the bar, whatever we do, we just need to be better for each other. It feels good to do good.
How does your work & experience as a bartender help fuel that passion?
I hope that my passion in the booze world will someday translate to a television program where I can be that liaison for the everyday person who wants to see how the passion and love from a distiller starts as a grain and ends up in their glass as a perfect escape into a classic Woodford Old Fashioned! Nothing better than remembering your roots and the roots of all cocktails when escaping from reality for a drink. Whether things are great or not so great, we still have two things: our favorite escape and each other. So if things are great, celebrate with your pals! If not, commiserate with your local caring barman. Because this is our way in the world as people: win or lose... we still booze!
What is your favorite way to enjoy Woodford Reserve?
Definitely a Woodford Old Fashioned!
Patrick Marran
Bartender at On the Rocks and Private bar services, Bar Rover
What is your passion beyond the bar?
My passions beyond the bar are in the arts; I'm an actor, director, producer, and musician.
How did you get into it and how are you pursuing it now?
It's the reason I came to New York! I'm happy to be balancing my love of whiskey with my artistic career. I'd consider it a success that the band I'm in, The Rogue Diplomats, has an album on iTunes and will be touring Ireland in November!
How does your work & experience as a bartender help fuel that passion?
My work as a bartender is ingrained hand-in-hand with being a performer. They live and breathe each other—I have to think on my feet when a guest asks me to make something off menu (improvising), get my drink recipe down (lines/musical notes/staging/emotional inflection), and discipline long hours (rehearsal and tech rehearsal, performance). It's probably why I love doing both so much; they're intertwined to me.
What is your favorite way to enjoy Woodford Reserve?
Oh, definitely a classic Rye Manhattan. It's a cocktail go-to when people say they've never had a Manhattan before, but I also use it as a barometer for testing new bitters. Specifically, I use Woodford Reserve to test/show balance and complexity.
Lynnette Agudelo
F&B Manager at Gin Parlour
What is your passion Beyond the Bar?
To own a boutique hotel with a well-known bar within it in 10 - 15 years.
How did it start and how are you pursuing it today?
I originally studied architecture in high school and college but realized it wasn't the right fit for me. In 2010, I started working for Intercontinental Hotels and developed a passion for the hospitality industry, particularly in bars. I've competed in mixology competitions and currently help run the beverage program at The Gin Parlour bar and restaurant. As one of the world's top gin bars, I continue to create new cocktails and educate consumers about gin.
How does your work & experience as a bartender help fuel that passion?
Multitasking, reading/anticipating people's needs, and determination are essential skills I've developed over the years. These skills are crucial in both my work and in reaching my goals. Being able to self-analyze and handle obstacles is key to success. It's important to stay focused and keep moving forward despite setbacks.
What is your favorite Woodford Reserve cocktail?
I prefer my bourbons neat or with one ice cube, but if it's a cocktail, I'd choose a Sazerac. It's a perfect display of flavors while sticking to a clean-cut style.
