I often say choosing a favourite gin is like choosing between my children (which is why I don't have any)
What's your desert island gin & why?
Oxley is my current favorite it's very crisp and clean.
I have many different favourite bars depending on the occasion.
What's your favourite bar for:
- A. A Dry Martini & Date Night?
- B. A Red Snapper & Brunch?
- C. Gin & a party?
Which drinks professionals have inspired you & how?
Dre Masso. His passion for his craft is infectious, it makes me remember why I chose this career.
Do you have a favourite Gin Botanical? (Yes. Really.)
Juniper.
If you were a gin or a gin cocktail which would you be and why?
A Dry Martini. There is no better gin cocktail.
Angus Winchester says olives are the devil's testicles. Thoughts?
Olives are great... not sure what he's on about... and I'm pretty sure I've served him a martini with an olive before. 8ish yrs ago, a Tanqueray Export Strength Montgomery in Montgomery Place.
Which gin has your favourite packaging? How important is this?
Do you have a preferred tonic?
No. I try to match the correct tonic to gin.
What's your favourite trade event?
I like the idea of the London sessions.
What's your favourite food to pair with gin?
Smoked salmon.
How did you get into the Gin industry?
I'm not. I just sell it.
What do you love most about your job?
The people I have met and the times we've had together.
And the worst bits?
The hours and money are shit compared to other similar jobs.
If you could share a martini with anyone who would it be?
I don't share martinis.
Do you have any recommended reads for gin lovers?
Try reading the back of the bottle it normally tells you a lot.
What are your Gin goals?
To go back to Dukes asap.
What advice do you have for aspiring Gin professionals?
Try more.
What's your pet Gin industry hate?
Badly made gin and tonics. Don't touch that gun.
If you aren't drinking Gin what is your tipple?
Good wine, beer, agave spirits and all the rest.
What's going to be the next big gin trend?
Back to front gin and vermouth cocktails.
Any other pearls of wisdom or Gin rants?
Bartenders who poor the fucking tonic over a bar spoon when making g&ts. What is it you think your doing? Stop now! Go home now and re-think your life!
Where can I send readers to find you online?
Find Spirited Mixers Citadelle Gin Bar on Roof East, Stratford this summer.
Get tickets to The Gin Whore Tour - enjoy tasting 4 gins & plenty of giggles at a venue near you!