American Cocktail Club and Russian Standard bring you the Russian Crush. Our featured mixologist for this month takes us to a whole different level. Josue Romero, @the_garnishguy crafted a cocktail that shows the transition of season, from summer to fall. The savory and spicy notes of the ginger capture the fall, and the sweet and citrus, pay tribute to summer, and of course, the blended component is what ties it all together.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF:
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RECIPE YOU HAVE COME UP WITH USING AN ACC PRODUCT? WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND IT?
This is the first cocktail I've created with ACC, and I am very happy with it. Summer was my inspirations, I am a big fan of frozen drinks, refreshing, yet bright and light.
WHEN YOU ARE COMING UP WITH NEW DISHES OR DRINKS, DO YOU HAVE A SOURCE(S) FOR INSPIRATION?
I watch what I eat and drink, so I am health conscious and that translates into my cocktails. I create my own syrups with fresh herbs and spices, as well as making my own juices from fresh seasonal fruits. I do most of my shopping at farmers markets, and tend to use natural sweeteners, and organic produce. My inspirations comes from nature, in addition to art galleries, museums, and other cultures.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT OR BAR, WHAT DAY OF THE WEEK DO YOU RECOMMEND IT, AND WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE CAN A VISITOR EXPECT?
When I first moved to Los Angeles, I stayed at the Freehand Hotel for a few months while I was exploring the city, and trying to find a place to live. I was at the Broken Shaker (on the rooftop of the hotel) almost every night. It has a calming vibe, yet it is located in the middle of busy Downtown LA. It has an amazing view of the city, and of course great cocktails. Everytime I visit Miami, or New York, I make sure I stop by the Broken Shaker in both cities.
WHAT INFO ABOUT COCKTAILS DO MOST PEOPLE MAKING DRINKS AT HOME NOT KNOW THAT WOULD BE HELPFUL TO THEM?
FAVORITE ACC FLAVOR?
Spicy Ginger Mule