"Listen to the Ice"...by Massimo La Rocca

The Magic World of Max La Rocca - VIDEO

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:53:00 +0000

When Italian creativity matches Russian expertise and production management, that's what happens, tnx Bek Narzi,Michael Voinov,Andrey Klimov, PURE...MAGIC!!!

Listen to the Ice...Holiday Wishes, by Max La Rocca

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 19:24:00 +0000

Thank you so much to all the Subscribers and Readers for taking the time to follow this wonderful journey into Mixology with me for one more year...hoping that you enjoyed the contents of my blog.

Always stir..with a dash of love

Max La Rocca

Max La Rocca @ 11Leblon - Istanbul

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 03:32:00 +0000

SAVE THE DATE: 13/14 December

I'll be mixing Libations at 11Leblon in Istanbul, please join me and the 11Leblon Team for a unique experience.

Reserve Your Space. All Max's & 11Leblon's fans are welcome!!

Here you can find the event page on Facebook

Max La Rocca @ CitySpace Bar - Moscow

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 03:22:00 +0000

SAVE THE DATE: 21/25 November 2011

I've been mixing with the head "up in the Coulds" on the 33rd floor @ City Space Bar & Lounge that has been rated among the 50 best Bars in the World by Diffordsguide 2011 and one of the World’s Top Ten Bars by the Bartender’s Guide 2008.
It is located on the top floor (140m) of Swissotel Krasnye Holmy and offers breathtaking 360 degree view of Moscow.

Thanks for joining me, and the amazing City Space Family ;)

Спасибo!

"WHERE IS THE TURKEY?" Cocktail for ThanksGiving Day in..Moscow @ CitySpace with a Renato Carosone "Tu vuò fà l'americano" Background music...a coincidence?? ;)

City Space Official Video Trailer

Max as a Voter for "The World’s 50 Best Bars" 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 23:38:00 +0000

Source: Drinks International’s WebSite

The World’s 50 Best Bars is Drinks International’s annual survey to find the best bars in the world.

Camper English profiles some of the experts from around the globe invited to vote in this year’s poll.

Here you’ll find a full list of those – known as The Academy – who offered their opinion.
The final top 50 was helped along by votes from 100 bars that featured in or voted for last year’s list

HERE you can download the original PDF file with the featured Bars

THE VOTERS
Philip Duff, Amsterdam
Linden Pride, Asia /Australia
Phillip Bayly, Austrailia
Myffanwy Rigby, Austrailia
Stanislav Vadrna, Bratislava /Paris
George Nemec, China
Antonio Lai, China
Jimmy Barrat De Cecco, Dubai
Alexandre Gabriel, France
Helmut Adam, Germany
Stephan Berg, Germany
Hidetsugu Ueno, Japan
Kurt Schlechter,SouthAfrica
Max La Rocca, Spain
Mathin Lundgren, Sweden
Thomas Kuuttannen, Sweden
David Cordoba, UK
John Gakuru, UK
Angus Winchester, UK
Gaz Regan, US
Jacques Bezuidenhout, US
Ann Tuennerman, US
Dale DeGroff, US
Doug Frost, US
Ed Hamilton, US
Eric Seed, US
Francesco LaFranconi, US
Martin Cate, US
Jenny Adams, US
Jim Meehan, US
Steve Olson, US
Wayne Curtis, US
Eben Freeman, US
Jacob Briars, New Zealand
Charlotte Voisey, US/UK
Michael Silvers, Australia
Sophie Decobecq, Mexico
Daniel Estremadoyro, Argentina
Matthew Bax, Australia
Chesterfield Browne, Barbados
Dmitry Sokolov,Russia
Simon Ford, US
Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, US
Kathy Casey, US
Tony Abou-Ganim, US
Camper English, US
Barrie Wilson, Scotland
Rob Rademaker, Amsterdam
Gaston Regnier, Argentina
Kim McDiarmid, Austrailia
Jamaal Bowen, Barbados
Marcus King, Dubai
Gianluigi Bosco, Italy
Josue Merced-Reyes, Puerto Rico
Thomas Aske, UK
Luca Cordiglieri, UK

Max La Rocca on BarBusiness Magazine Spain

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:55:00 +0000

Thanks to Diego Arnold (DrinksMotion) and George Restrepo

Source:
BarBusiness Espana

Google English Translation of the article

Como comenzaste en la coctelería?
Empecé en 2006 en el Lab Bar de Senigallia en Italia, come camarero de Bar y Bar Back, entonces me encontré con un amigo mío que es professor en una escuela de Hostelería, que me convenció para asistir a un cursode la AIBES (Asociación de Bartenders Italianos).

Cual es bartender formador de opinión que mas admiras?
Stanislav Vadrna con su "Ichigo Ichie" que es una filosofía japonesa de como se debe atender a un cliente basandose en el concepto "UN ENCUENTRO, UNA OPORTUNIDAD" por lo tanto, la importancia està en el tiempo y en los detalles, cosas que para mi son sagradas.
Razón por cual he sido fotografiado para la portada de este número de Drinksmotion con un reloj de bolsillo (tiempo) y una pinza de cirugía que agarra una coctelera muy pequeña (detalles)
En donde trabajas actualmente?
Trabajo como Supervisor de Bar en el Boutique Bar del Ohla Hotel en Barcelona,
Que tendencias ves en la coctelería en España?
Pienso que España está viviendo una gradual expansión de la "mixologìa" en los últimos años , en un país "gobernado" por la Ginebra y el Gin Tonic, sin embargo hay un gran interés de los clientes (no sólo los jóvenes) por experimentar en el mundo de la coctelería.
Que tendencias ves en la coctelería en el mundo?
Al igual que en todos los ambitos, la evolución llega a un punto donde tiene que reconsiderarse a sì misma y el mundo de los cócteles està viviendo un retorno a la mixologìa clásica (yo diría que a veces, con una búsqueda maníaca por muchos Barmans) cuyas fórmulas y recetas son la base de la coctelería moderna.
El enfoque cada vez se centra en màs en la salud del cliente ofreciendo cócteles más pequeños y creados con productos de calidad, de forma que los clientes puedan revivir el placer de saborear quizás más que un cóctel, sin contraindicaciones exageradas.
Si tendrías que elegir un cóctel, cual elegirías?
Un Americano, bien hecho, por supuesto, con su sabor amargo pero al mismo tiempo refrescante y ligero, desde siempre mi compañero de viajes.

Cual es el producto que salio este año que más te ha gustado?
Kammerling's Ginger Spirit.

Si te tendrías que llevar 3 herramientas de coctelería a una isla desierta cuales serian?
Una coctelera Cobbler, un buen cuchillo Japonés multiuso y uno contenedor isotérmico gigante con el hielo para un tiempo.

Y si te tendrías que llevar un espirituoso y dos licores cuales serian?
Whisky, Chartreuse y Benedictine

Como seria una noche perfecta para Max?
Una noche con una sinergia excelente entre los sentidos, con una agradable compañía, un ambiente calido y acojedor, una buena música, cócteles excelentes, buena comida una interacción agradable con el barman/camareros/anfitrión, que harán todo lo posible para hacer de mi noche, una noche única.

Gracias a DrinksMotion/Bar Business por recibirme en su rivista, y a todos los lectores por tomarse su tiempo para leer mis pensamientos.

slide:ology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:09:00 +0000

If you want to master visual communication, this book is for you.

The Book covers the whole visual presentation process, from concept generation to delivery with a lot of examples and case studies.

slide:ology is written in a humble, respectful tone throughout. This makes it seem like the lessons are coming from a wise village elder rather than a stodgy industry expert.

Key Lesson: Pay attention to the details. They matter.

Here a review of the Book

You can buy the Book here

Boutique Drinks

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 01:07:00 +0000

Boutique Press

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 01:26:00 +0000

Rounding a downtown street corner...and meeting Ohla Boutique Bar

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 01:34:00 +0000

"Rounding a downtown street corner near Passeig de Gracia, a menu caught my attention. Gastronomic was the key word. Fresh take on Spanish tapas it was delivering. The meal was fantastic, amazing food porn picture worthy, and quite affordable.

As I was exiting the lobby, I saw the edge of a bar. Tucked away to the right of the concierge desk, is a bar ran by one Max La Rocca. Black, glass, simple quadrilateral wood, highlight this sophisticated bar. Read the menu and you know you're in good hands. Quotes from the Savory Cocktail books, award winning drink concoctions (citations included), both simple and inventive ingredient combinations.

This video was shot by third time there. I and 3 other friends rushed from Pobleneu at 1:37am in a taxi to make it there by 2am. We made it, had two amazing drinks each, edible negroni shots, and this amazing smoke infused shot. There was dancing to the Palmetto Bug Stompers, there were hat tricks performed, and we closed Ohla Bar that night!"

Drink Suggestions:
El Conde (a twist on the classic Negroni)
Madama Baudelaire (a wonderful absinthe based drink)
The gold dusted mojito.

Just go crazy there

KENNY

Read the full Article

Max La Rocca & Giuseppe Santamaria @ Boutique Bar

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 01:37:00 +0000

We are currently mixing Libations @ Ohla Hotel's Boutique Bar
Via Laietana 49
08003 Barccelona

www.ohlahotel.com/#/es/gastronomia/ohla-boutique-bar

Manabe Ohtake - Diageo World Class Global Champion 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 13:37:00 +0000

New Delhi - 14 July

Manabu Ohtake from Tower's Bar Bellovisto in Tokyo, was crowned Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year 2011, beating the other finalists to the highest accolade of the liquid world.

World Class, a celebration of the flair, creativity and skill of the bartender, is an international, year-long training programme founded by Diageo Reserve that elevates the craft of the bartending profession and brings consumer trends to life in the greatest bars across the globe.

Over the past eleven months, contenders from the most established and prestigious bars around the globe have competed in regional heats, to win a coveted place at the Global Final in New Delhi. Just 32 were selected to go head to head judged by of some of the most revered names in the industry - Dale DeGroff, Salvatore Calabrese, Peter Dorelli, Gary Regan, Hidetsugu Ueno and Daniel Estremadoyro.

Here some highlights of the Prestigious Competition:

TOP TEN LIST

1. MANABU OHTAKE
2. HEINZ KAISER
3. JAMIE MACDONALD
4. THORSTEN SPUHN
5. JIMMY BARRAT
6. TIM PHILIPS
7. MICKEY LEE
8. AYMERIC TORTEREAU
9. RYAN NOREIKS
10. MARK HUANG

EUROPE AND THE MIDDLE EAST
1 Heinz Kaiser
2 Jamie MacDonald
3 Thorsten Spuhn
4 Jimmy Barrat
5 Aymeric Tortereau

LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN
1 Jesús Cabrera
2 Talita Simoes
3 Stephon Scott
4 Roberto Berdecia
5 Jorge Garzon

ASIA PACIFIC
1 Manabu Ohtake
2 Tim Philips
3 Mickey Lee
4 Ryan Noreiks
5 Mark Huang

CHALLENGES WINNERS
Theatre and the Stars : Alberto Pizzaro
Food Pairing : Thorsten Spuhn
Spice Market : Mickey Lee
Classic Vintage & Twist : Hemant Pathak
Gentlemans Drinks and fancy Tiples - Mark Huang
Cocktails against the clock - speed : Heinz Kaiser

Sources:
Global World Class Finals Facebook Page

Diageo Website

-

Bartender = Person = NOD (Not only Drinks)

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 13:43:00 +0000

In this section I added a series of links on Motivation, Mindfullness, Well Being, Meditation and excellent speeches on various subjects that will help you NOT identify (too much) in what you do..and DETACH yourself when you're not behind the stick!

It will be a section continuously updating so please drop by when you have a few minutes to spare..

After months of pressure for the opening of the New Ohla Boutique Bar in Barcelona, finally I have a bit of time for writing again..

Over the last years I've exchanged lots of mails with some Gurus like Gary Regan, Hidetsugu Ueno, Stanislav Vadrna, Dom Costa during my Bartender crisis (who has never had one?) and had amazing inputs on subjects like:

-- The perfect workplace
As a Bartender you need to be able to shape yourself and adapt to the different challenges and work surroundings (without loosing your identity, of course), it's not an easy task but with tolerance, patience, respect and time, you'll be fine!

All living species are born with a sense of adaptation.

-- Devil wears Ego
Just do your things bro!!

And well too, since doing them well or bad takes the exact same time (actually doing them bad you need the time to fix it, no?)

Why do you need to show off? You're already on stage behind the Bar, so what's the need to push it further?

Why if someone orders a Vodka & Cranberry you look at him as if he was idiot...and think you're not there for this sh….??

Why when visiting a colleague in a Bar you give him an hard time?

Wouldn't it be nice to take a deep breath, pause and think: "would I be happy if someone will act the same way back at me?"

-- The pressure of Worldwide Bartending
Once I was talking to the great Mauro Lotti, unforgettable Bartender of the Grand Hotel in Rome during "La Dolce Vita" and he told me: "Has a Barmanager it is your duty to have an agenda and write the likes and dislikes of your customers as well as their telephone numbers to contact them everytime there is a Party/Event you would like them to join!!"

I was speechless…but today we do it with files, Facebook, Iphone reminders, no? So the principle is (nearly) the same.

Blogs, Twitter, Youtube, Facebook, they're all fine, just imagine how this profession was in the Old Times without this powerful tools that in a matter of seconds enable us to get an incredible amount of information.

Sometime all this information can put us in a state of mind of always wanting to know more, have
more spirits/tools/books, wanting to always get a better job position, leaving us with a feeling of never being good enough..

On top spending a life doing long shifts, web researching and extra work on your days off, not having a social life, do we really need to feel that way?

I don't think so!! As long as you're the best for you guest, here and know, all the rest will come to you, you'll be amazed!

-- Complaining about what happens in life
Instead of complaining about how things turn out, use this energy to do the work that will determine how they turn out.

Only from the moment you start ACTING on the problems you'll see a completely new scenario in front of you.

Watch also this..

-- The power to say NO
As Bartenders, even outside work ,we are most of the times inclined to say YES to things that happens around us and to people's requests

Apart from making us feel good, this takes SO MUCH energy out of us, day after day.

So what about start setting priorities and freeing ourselves from this big weight??

This video will keep you thinking..

-- Your IDENTITY after work
You are a person and THEN you are a Bartender, that's all!!
I've seen a lot of colleagues that don't go out with certain people because they're not part of "the business" or they're not considered worth enough hanging out with..

Or they only go to places where they're well know in order to be seen and (once again) fullfill their EGO's thirst.

What's with this crap?

Once you take off your uniform our SOUL needs to detach and be back, carrying out our normal life with walks, movies, friends, family, hobbies, so please start reconsidering the whole scenario.

SOME of this represent my mistakes at the beginning of this wonderful career, and thinking back on them, they made me feel lonely and miserable and I wanted to share them with you all, begging you not to do the same, in order to lead a peaceful life and really ENJOY your profession at the fullest, as I'm doing NOW !!

I also wanted to talk about stress, back pain, simplifying your life, and other interesting subjects by including a series of link on these topics:

- The Daily Motivator!!
- TED..ideas worth spreading
- Create change in your life
- Vagabond Steve
- Dan Brulé
- Buddhist Society
- Zen Habits
- Don't we all suffer from back pain?
- Nick Vujicic..no arms, no legs, no worries, no limits
- Improve Memory
- Jeffrey Morgenthaler on Relationship Advice
- International living

ENJOY!!

And please don't take yourself..TOO SERIOUSLY

Max La Rocca

From Sperlonga to Brazil selected by U2

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 15:18:00 +0000

Mixing with the Stars..Max La Rocca as Head Bartender @ U2 VIP Lounge

FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE by Barbara Savodini (Source: Corriere Pontino):

After carrying out amazing jobs, perhaps this is the most prestigious ever, since Max La Rocca, a Bartender of International fame, was contacted by U2.

But what do a Mixologist and a rock band have in common?
Perhaps only Ireland, the birthplace of Bono Vox and his group, but also a land of outstanding cocktails that hosted Max and crowned him "Bartender of the year" in 2010.

A really important recognition that, shortly thereafter, gave him the chance to fly to Athens and score an excellent third place in the world of cocktails worldwide.

Over 900 bartenders from all over the world, Max La Rocca was so brilliant to be chosen amongst the best 24 and achieved the third place, that's why U2 have thought he was the person they were looking for to create a VIP Lounge Area and make it into a masterpiece.

It is an incredible challenge to work as Head Bartender of the "VIP lounge" for the 3-day concert that Bono and his people planned in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

And while Morumbi Stadium, was hosting 80.000 people, Max La Rocca was making liquor libations to VIPs and international celebrities.

And so, after collecting important awards in Europe, Max has flown across the globe to bring, even in the land of samba and capoeira, a pinch of his beloved hometown Sperlonga.

Thanks so much to all the people behind:

- TAM Airlines The Main Sponsor
- Reisman Producoes The PR Agency
- Pernod-Ricard Distribution
- St Germain Elderflower Liqueur
- DLX Bar ServiceThe Bar Catering Company
- My friend and colleague RAFAEL PIZANTI froma Copacabana Palace Luxury Hotel in Rio de Janeiro.
- My friend and colleague MARCIO SILVA for his support and kindness

and ALL the other new friends and colleagues who have made this event AMAZING!! It as been a REAL pleasure to work with you ALL!!

Max La Rocca judges Diageo World Class in Belfast

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Thu, 26 May 2011 10:53:00 +0000

Incredible new experience in Belfast, judging for the first time my peers and see what's "behind the curtains".

Quite a wierd sensation at the beginning, seeing all your friends and colleagues a bit nervous getting ready, but I knew I was there WITH them and FOR them, 100% present.

I'm so happy to see that the level of competitions at Diageo World Class are improving year after year and bartenders in Ireland are little by little taking their place as influencers in the art of cocktail making around the world.

After the competition I made a presentation on what to expect from World Class Global Final, with a nice summary and great insides, talking about different subjects like: panic control, how to discipline yourself for the competition, what the judges expect from the contestants and talking a little bit about the various callenges with "tips and tricks" to feel a bit more confident, relaxed and HUMBLE.

"It was a brilliant experience that thaught me really a LOT both as a Bartender as well as a person, thank you guys!!"

I wouldn't mind to do it again in order get more and more experience and keep learning from my colleagues.

Javier Bravo from Long Island, Cork clinches place in World Class Ireland Final

Reserve Brands, the luxury spirits portfolio from Diageo, has named Javier Bravo, from Long Island Bar in Cork, as the third and final bartender who has shaken and stirred his way to the Irish Final of the 2011 World Class Bartender of the Year competition.

Javier won his place in the esteemed country final at the third competition heat, held north of the border for the very first time, in the stunning Bert’s Bar at The Merchant Hotel, Belfast on 9^th May 2011.

The TANQUERAY® and TANQUERAY® No TEN™ Gin heat was judged by an expert panel including the 2010 World Class Bartender of the Year Ireland winner, Max La Rocca; Gleneagles Hotel Bar Manager, David Sinclair and Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud Sommelier, Julie Dupouy.

Javier triumphed in the heat with his bespoke TANQUERAY cocktails, the‘Gin Gold Standard’ and the ‘Herbal Collins’.

David Sinclair said: “Javier absolutely deserved the win today. He impressed us with a humble style coupled with a great deal of cocktail expertise, finished with immaculate presentation. Not only that, but he gave a little of himself away, captivating his audience with stories that brought his cocktails to life – a true mark of a good bartender.”

Max La Rocca, who is now Bar Supervisor at Ohla Hotel’s Boutique Bar, an exclusive five star boutique hotel in the heart of Barcelona, said: “I can see the level of competition at World Class improving year after year as bartenders in Ireland are taking their place as leaders and influencers in the art of cocktail making around the world.

“Javier, with his accomplished and innovative cocktail repertoire, fantastic personality and knack for presentation would be a great choice to represent Ireland at the global World Class finals.”

Darren Geraghty from The Exchequer, Dublin and Luke McMullan from the Merchant Hotel, Belfast were named runners up at the heat.

Javier will join Raf Agapito from Bar With No Name, Kelly’s Hotel, Dublin and Sylvia Carcagno from Sheen Falls Lodge, Kerry at the World Class Ireland final on 13^th June, to compete for a coveted place at the global final to be held in New Delhi, India from 11 – 14 July 2011.

Drink Responsibly Enjoy Alcohol Sensibly

The TANQUERAY, TANQUERAY No. TEN words and associated logos are trade marks. ©Charles Tanqueray &Co. 2011

2011 Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year Gin Heat Competitors

Domhnall Carlin The Spaniard, Belfast

Lukasz Wojcik The Dylan, Dublin

Ross McDonald Muriel’s, Belfast

Darren Geraghty The Exchequer, Dublin

Greg Kwasny Harvey Nichols, Dublin

Jonathan Magennis Bert’s Bar, The Merchant Hotel, Belfast

Gillian Boyle The Mint Bar, The Westin, Dublin

Javier Bravo Long Island, Cork

Karim Mehdi Saba, Dublin

Pat Thomas The Lost Society, Dublin

Shane Nolan SoHo, Cork

Luke McMullan The Merchant Hotel

Sam Metcalfe Apartment, Belfast

Mark Atkinson Horatio Todd’s, Belfast

Judge Biographies

Max La Rocca, Ireland World Class Bartender of the Year 2010

Max La Rocca was crowned Ireland’s World Class Bartender of the Year in June 2010, advancing to the Diageo World Class Global Final in Athens, where he competed against 24 of the most talented and inspirational bartenders over four days to be placed third in the world.

Max has worked as a Bartender and Bar Manager in some of the world’s finest establishments, including Claridge’s in London, the Stravinskij Bar at the Hotel De Russie in Rome, The Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona and currently holds the position of Bar Supervisor at Ohla Hotel’s Boutique Bar, a brand new and exclusive five star boutique hotel in the heart of Barcelona.

David Sinclair, Bar Manager, The Gleneagles Hotel

David has spent more than 15 years working in bars in luxury hotels in the UK and Ireland. Currently the Bar Manager at the world-renowned Gleneagles hotel, which was voted as one of the top 50 bars in the UK by the Independent newspaper in 2011. The Gleneagles Hotel has one of the rarest whisky collections in the world and David also acts as an ambassador for Scottish Whisky most recently promoting Whisky in Hong Kong. Being the custodian of some of the rarest spirits in the world David believes the key to success in any bar is education.

Julie Dupouy, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud Sommelier

Julie Dupouy is currently the Head Sommelier at Dublin’s two time Michelin star award winning ‘Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud’. Born in Gascogne in France, Julie has quickly established herself as one of the country’s top sommeliers. Her unique knowledge and passion for wines and spirits led to her becoming a finalist in The French Guild of Sommeliers awards in 2008. She was also awarded the title of Best Sommelier in Ireland in 2009 by the Irish Guild of Sommeliers. Julie has previously worked as sommelier in some of Ireland’s finest establishment including Lyons Estate and Residence Private Members’ Club. Julie spends much of her free time perfecting her craft and educating herself in the world of wines and spirits.

About World Class

Developed by Diageo Reserve Brands, Diageo’s luxury spirits portfolio, the aim of the year long World Class programme is to educate and inspire bartenders to create exceptional cocktails, services and experiences, raising the standard of bartending.

Now in its third year, World Class is not only about finding the best of the best, it is an international celebration of the craft of bartending and a global leader for setting cocktail trends alight. Using only the finest liquids and exceptional ingredients, World Class has come to be known as the Oscars for the cocktail world

BACARDI LAUNCHES NEW GLOBAL ONLINE BARTENDER COMMUNITY

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 25 May 2011 21:56:00 +0000

Hamilton, Bermuda –Bartenders around the world can elevate their skills through a new bartending web community, www.trueoriginals.com (TRUE ORIGINALS™), created by BACARDI rum, the world’s favorite and best-selling premium rum, as well as the world’s most awarded rum.

True Originals has specifically been developed for bartenders to help them achieve the level of bartending status they aspire to, by providing information on the latest bartending trends, techniques, recipes and cocktail history. As a unique environment for users to learn from, contribute to and earn accolades through a series of virtual badges, it will unite bartenders worldwide. Bartenders can earn badges and work their way to becoming a ‘True Original’ bartender with a variety of career-related activities such as recruiting five colleagues to earn the ‘Recruiter’ badge, commenting on 20 or more entries to earn the ‘Commentator’ badge, or even earn the ‘Thought Leader’ badge by gaining 50+ followers or winning the weekly MixMaster Challenge to earn the ‘Mix Master’ badge.

Featuring spirits industry leaders, the site will include content such as cocktail-making demonstrations, advice and career inspiration, plus registered members can contribute by uploading their own content. Apart from the site itself, www.trueoriginals.com will fully integrate with other social media channels, including Facebook™ and Twitter™.

BACARDI Global Brand Director Christian Woolfenden comments, “Over the years we’ve seen a real thirst for knowledge from the bartending family all over the world, which is why we’re launching this True Originals online community. We want to inspire them through engaging content and help them acquire new skills to reach their career goals. Whatever a bartender’s level, from the world’s best bartender to those aspiring to reach the top of their game, he or she can find useful information and inspiration on the site.”

In recent years BACARDI released a series of videos about ‘True Original’ bartenders that showcased cocktail-making skills from the world’s best bartenders. They were created to celebrate the unique skills that each bartender at the top of their game possesses and to start debate in the industry about what being ‘the best’ means. Each video is available among the array of content found on www.trueoriginals.com.

About True Originals

True Originals is an online community specifically developed for bartenders around the world as a resource to discern the latest trends, techniques, recipes and history within the drinks industry. The site aims to inspire each bartender to reach his/her career goals with information designed to elevate bartending skills to ‘true original’ status. Launched as a membership site, it aims to fill a gap in the industry for a worldwide drinks community dedicated to bartenders. www.trueoriginals.com

Max La Rocca on Tony Conigliaro & Spike Marchant's Drinkfactory Website

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 25 May 2011 13:08:00 +0000

http://drinkfactory.blogspot.com/2011/05/max-la-rocca-interview.html

ENJOY!!

Copenhagen Spirits and Cocktails

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:51:00 +0000

"DENMARK FIRST COCKTAIL FESTIVAL"

Enjoy cocktails mixed by the best bartenders and mixologists in the world, taste the latest spirits from the best producers in the business and learn how to mix the perfect cocktail. This is what’s in the shaker, when Denmark’s first spirits and cocktail festival on 26 and 27 February invites you to two unique days of celebrating the cocktail.

‘Copenhagen Spirits and Cocktails’, which is the name of the festival, is for both the professional staff behind the bar and the happy guests in front of it. In Moltkes Palæ, the historical venue of the festival, you can experience some of the best bartenders in the world show their skills with shakers, spirits and mixers – and have a taste of their extraordinary craft.

Apart from seminars and lectures, the festival also offers a wealth of stands where you can treat your palate to news and classics from the leading spirits producers in the business. And you can look forward to special cocktail events which will take place in restaurants and cocktail bars throughout Copenhagen.

RESERVE THE DATES OF 26 & 27 FEBRUARY 2011

SOURCE: Copenhagen Spirits and Cocktails Website

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from LISTEN TO THE ICE

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 01:07:00 +0000

ENG: Thank you so much to all the Subscribers and Readers for taking the time to follow this wonderful journey into Mixology with me for one more year...hoping that you enjoyed the contents of my blog.

IT: Grazie mille a tutti gli Abbonati e Lettori per il vostro tempo nel seguire questo meraviglioso viaggio nel mondo della Mixology con me per un altro anno...sperando che vi siano piaciuti i contenuti del mio blog.

Always stir..with a dash of love

Max La Rocca

Punch: The Delights (and Dangers) of the Flowing Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:36:00 +0000

Acclaimed cocktail expert and historian David Wondrich takes readers on a raucous guided tour of all things punch-a tour that starts with some very lonely British sailors and swells to include a cast of lords and ladies, admirals, kings, presidents, poets, pirates, novelists, spies, and other inimitable characters. And of course, authentic recipes appear throughout, with notes for the modern punch-maker.

It is a tale only Wondrich can tell-and it is sure to delight, inform, and inspire the mixologist in everyone who reads it, from veteran drink connoisseurs to absolute beginners.

Source: David Wondrich PUNCH Book on Amazon

BarForum Barcelona 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 13:41:00 +0000

BarForum is a platform dedicated to all the Mixology world with a major emphasis on training and interactivity, plus workshops and an opportunity to both professionals and amateurs to observe the great experts in action and learn from them, with seminars and demonstrations.

Demonstrations and workshops of classical cocktails, acrobatic, molecular, speed ...
- An extensive exhibition of innovative and different brands
- Seminars
- Interactive workshops and exhibitions by national and international bartenders
- Participation of national and international bartenders

All these activities will unite at the unique Pullamn Barcelona Skipper Hotel on the seaside, with good connections to downtown and fantastic views of the mediterranean sea.

Bar Forum Barcelona offers you the ideal space to introduce and promote your products to all:

- Professionals in the field of mixology, catering, hotels
- Specialized shops
- Distributors
- Press
- End user

SEE YOU THERE!!

To learn more about barforum ’09 or information on exposing please contact:

info@barforum.es
Office 00 34 93 788 01 39
Gemma 00 34 609 429 612
Cristina 00 34 606282575

Maxologist Presentation @ BCB and Diageo Reserve Bar

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 08:56:00 +0000

Max La Rocca's presentation on "Ritual and Cocktail Theatre Challenge" at Bar Convent Berlin 2010 with Spike Marchant and Angus Winchester introducing the prestigiuous Diageo World Class Competition.

The room was extra crowded and the atmosphere was magical...thank you guys for all the support, you have been amazing!

A SPECIAL thank to Spike Marchant for including me in this beautiful experience and Diageo for giving me the opportunity to work side by side with great Bartenders like Ian "Ambassador" Burrell, Ricardo Albrecht from Lebensstern Bar and René Förster @ DIAGEO RESERVE BAR on this fantastic event!!

Thanks to Szabi Sandor for the beautiful pics

Japanese Cocktails Book by Yuri Kato

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 14:12:00 +0000

Japan has a rich history in spirits and the country's expert mixologists have shown the world a deft hand at preparing delicious drinks. Today, this tradition is experiencing a renaissance in the form of classic cocktails that have become popular around the globe. Now, a new guide from Suntory, one of the world's leading wine and spirits companies, brings the country's exciting spirits story to life. Brimming with unexpected and exotic combinations, JAPANESE COCKTAILS by Yuri Kato showcases the sophistication, adventure and cosmopolitan sparkle of the nation's varied drinks.

Spirits industry expert and publisher of CocktailTimes.com, Kato explores Japan's cocktail heritage, collecting more than 60 recipes from classics to signature creations with a modern twist. Authentic recipes in chapters devoted to sake, shochu and Japanese whisky allow at home mixologists to re-create such favorites as Sake Eggnog, the Zentini, or the Echo Julep. Yuri's own original creations, are crafted in keeping with the spirit of Japanese cocktail culture and infused with other ingredients such as vodka, rum and tequila. New concoctions range from the Lady Godzilla and Melon Cream Soda, made with premium melon liqueur, to the fragrant and tart Yuzu Mojito and the Red Eye, made with Japanese beer.

SOURCE: Yury Kato's Website

Wine To Water non-profit AID organization

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 12:38:00 +0000

WINE TO WATER is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit aid organization focused on providing clean water to needy people around the world. Nearly 1 billion people in the world today lack access to adequate water and sanitation. We are devoted to fighting this epidemic. Wine symbolizes fortune in our society. Our goal is to give the fortunate population an opportunity to fight for those who can’t fight for themselves.

Doc Hendley is the founder and president of Wine To Water. In 2003 he dreamed up the concept of the organization while bartending and playing music in nightclubs around Raleigh, North Carolina.

"When the idea came to me to start Wine To Water the only real world job experience I had was tending bar. I dreamed of building an organization that fought water related death and disease using completely different methods than anyone else. So I started raising money to fight this water epidemic the best way I knew how, by pouring wine and playing music."

Source: WineToWater Website

Max La Rocca on WorldWideBestBartenders.com

noreply@blogger.com (Massimo La Rocca) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:16:00 +0000

This Project is getting off the ground in the summer of 2010, and it's likely going to take quite some time to populate the site with profiles of the world's best bartenders, but it's a project that must be done and the wonderful behind Ardent Spirits are definitely up to the task.

A million thanks to my dearest friend Mr. Gary Regan for including me on this GREAT resource.