THL: What are your other gigs and interests?

Some of the things I love are trips to the library, the woods, up into the mountains, or out to the coast. I like to travel and try to write about it. Spent a greater deal of time visiting distilleries in far off places collecting photos of their stills and samples of their output. I also like to fix up old homes.

THL: What is something that best represents your personality?

I'm known for being somewhat of an old man.

THL: What is your bartending style?

I've always been more comfortable behind the bar rather than on the opposite side of it. I put a great deal of consideration into overall hospitality and attention to detail. Even when I'm at a cocktail party I'm looking around to see what needs to be done. Attentive?

THL: How do you find inspiration for new cocktails and recipes?

The seasons.

THL: Besides bartending, what things do you do well?

Cooking, cleaning, and mechanics.

THL: Ever had any strange customer requests while bartending?

I have been asked to dance on the bar, accompany a guest to the bathroom, feed the parking meter, and even park their car. I've also been asked if to make samples of the cocktails before they actually would commit to drinking one. (Think the last one confused me the most.)

THL: What is your favorite after-shift drink?

Depends on the shift. But I can say that it's almost always barley, sugarcane or agave based. Sometimes with a beer.

THL: What is the one thing you can’t live without from your home liquor cabinet?

Single malt whisky because it makes me happy.

THL: What is the most underrated cocktail?

Could it be the Gibson? Because it has vermouth and onions in it — yuk. But it also has gin. This cocktail could be really bad, I don't know why anyone would order it. That said, what originally made it great? Some bars have gone as far to prepare their onions in house. Give this cocktail another chance.

THL: What is the test of a great bartender?

Cutting someone off with tact. Noticing when someone has over-imbibed and then having to kindly let them know that they have had one too many. This is never easy and can quickly go wrong. A good bartender can work a room, keep drinks flowing out of the well, and quietly yet calmly handle an unruly guest that may have become intoxicated while at your bar.