Bartender at Large

Join us for a deep dive into the world of whiskey with Matt Klette, Head of Advocacy at Proximo Spirits, as we do a 101 introducory class on their whiskey portfolio. On the show, he walks us through the distinct stories and production methods behind Great Jones Distilling Co., Tin Cup, Stranahan's, Pendleton Whiskey, and the legendary Bushmills. He makes a compelling case for why American single malts and Irish whiskeys deserve a bigger role in tropical and classic cocktails, challenging assumptions about where these spirits belong. From unique barrel finishes to aging techniques, Matt breaks down what gives each whiskey its signature character and how to best showcase them in mixed drinks. The conversation also touches on the exciting rise of single malts beyond Scotland, with American distilleries carving out their own bold identity. Tune in for a spirited and educational journey through some of the most versatile whiskeys on the shelf today. This episode produced in association with Proximo Spirits FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

Join us for a conversation with Michael and Zara Madrusan, the bartending power couple behind one of the most comprehensive new cocktail books in years: The Madrusan Cocktail Companion. Drawing from their own extensive library of drink books dating back to 1862, they have crafted a spectacular compendium that traces the stories behind the cocktail canon alongside every imaginable twist on classics like the Martini. From Sours, Bucks, and Flips to aperitivo-style drinks and non-alcoholic options, they share how the book emphasizes readily available products and minimal preparation without sacrificing sophistication. With stunning photography, imperial and metric measurements, and a gorgeous hardback package complete with dual ribbons and sprayed edges, this is a book built to be used and admired. Tune in for an inspiring look at how these two turned their love of cocktails research into the definitive guide for today's craft bartender. Buy the Madrusan Cocktail Companion here: https://www.quarto.com/books/9781761500442/the-madrusan-cocktail-companion Sign up for Giffard West Cup 2026 U.S. Cocktail Competition here: https://bit.ly/GWC_ErickC FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

Join us for a candid and revealing conversation with acclaimed bartender, Will Pasternak, whose resume includes time at the Dead Rabbit and BlackTail in New York. Will shares the story behind BlackTail's recent pop-up and the invaluable insights it provided about how hospitality concepts must evolve to meet today's economic realities. He reflects on the delicate balance between creative ambition and operational sustainability, offering a masterclass in adaptability from someone who has helped define modern cocktail culture. Drawing on his experiences at two of the world's most influential bars, Will discusses how the industry's most innovative minds are rethinking everything from staffing models to guest experience in order to thrive. Sign up for Giffard West Cup 2026 U.S. Cocktail Competition here: https://bit.ly/GWC_ErickC FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

Join us for a deep dive into the mindful drinking movement with acclaimed bartender and cocktail consultant, Camille Vidal, a leading voice in the world of non-alcoholic beverages. Camille shares how the category has evolved from basic soda water and juice into sophisticated, spirit-free cocktails that hold their own alongside traditional drinks. She breaks down the best practices for elevating the non-alcoholic experience, from proper glassware and garnishes to creative techniques like using diverse sweetening agents beyond simple syrup. The conversation also explores the smart business case for embracing mindful drinkers, revealing how well-crafted zero-proof menus can extend customer visits and unlock new revenue streams across brunch, afternoon, and after-dinner service. Using Giffard's versatile flavor range as a foundation, Camille demonstrates real-world applications for crafting memorable drinks that serve today's increasingly sober-curious clientele. Sign up here: https://bit.ly/GWC_ErickC FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

What happens when two James Beard Award-caliber talents breathe new life into a 1970s dive bar? Join us for a conversation with acclaimed chef Monique King and legendary bartender Toby Maloney as they take us inside the revival of The Elbow Room, a beloved Vancouver, Washington watering hole they rescued from the brink of disaster. King shares the story of discovering the crumbling space and partnering with Maloney—a friend since their Chicago days in the '90s—to give it new purpose. Maloney reveals his philosophy behind creating an approachable "low touch" cocktail program that delivers incredible complexity with minimal fuss, from the signature Freezer Door Manhattan with its boozy vermouth granita to scratch-made pickled onions. Together, they discuss their mission as "restorationists," preserving what makes a neighborhood haunt special while elevating everything from the grilled cheese to the Tater Tots. Tune in for an inspiring story of friendship, preservation, and the magic that happens when two industry icons prove that a legendary bar can rise again. ● drinkgiffardna.com ● backbarproject.com/portfolio/giffard/west-cup-cocktail-competition ● https://www.instagram.com/drinkgiffardna/ ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

Join us for a conversation with Bryan Inman, better known as The Rum Champion, a bartender, educator, and community builder who has made it his mission to celebrate the world's most diverse and misunderstood spirit. Bryan shares the origin story of the Rum Curious Club, which began as casual rum parties with friends and has now grown to over 2,100 members hosting events across California. He also shares the inspiration behind the Rum Curious Summit, an annual gathering that brings together attendees and dozens of rum producers for tastings, seminars, and celebration. From tasting over 1,500 rums to bartending at The Lucky Tiki in West Hollywood, Bryan's journey is a testament to the power of obsession turned profession. Tune in for an inspiring look at building community around shared curiosity, challenging preconceptions, and why there truly is a rum for everyone. ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

What does it take to resurrect a pre-Prohibition whiskey brand while building one of America's most celebrated cocktail bars? Join us for a deep dive into the business of hospitality with Ryan Maybee, the Kansas City entrepreneur behind the legendary speakeasy Manifesto and the historic revival of J. Rieger & Co. Ryan pulls back the curtain on the operational realities of navigating federal regulators, raising capital for a distillery, and the five-year grind to bring a 100-year-old brand back from the dead. He shares hard-won lessons on partnership structures, the discipline of knowing your numbers, and why creating an entirely new whiskey category required as much business savvy as creative instinct. From surviving the pandemic to building a sprawling distillery campus with a 40-foot slide, Ryan offers an unvarnished look at the entrepreneurial roller coaster. Tune in for a masterclass in calculated risk, brand building, and the long game of leaving a lasting mark on an industry. This episode produced in association with J. Rieger & Co. ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

What happens when your dream project becomes your darkest hour? Join us for a raw and unflinching conversation with Trevor Frye, renowned bartender, consultant and entrepreneur who watched his lifelong dream of opening his own bar spiral into a psychological and financial nightmare. Trevor holds nothing back as he recounts the cascade of setbacks—from delays and budget mishaps to partnerships fracturing under pressure—that brought him to the brink of ruin. He opens up about the toll it took on his mental health, the isolation and stress, and the moment he had to confront whether walking away meant losing himself entirely. This episode is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is often messy, lonely, and brutal, far from the highlight reels we usually see on social media. But it's also a story of resilience, offering hard-won lessons on survival, humility, and the slow, painful path back from the edge. Tune in for one of the most honest conversations we've ever had about the real price of chasing a dream. This episode produced in association with J. Rieger & Co. ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartendert=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

What does it take to build a multi-state bar empire while staying true to your roots? Join us for a masterclass in hospitality entrepreneurship with *ravis Tober, the bartender-turned-owner behind Texas's beloved Nickel City chain, Murray's Tavern, Old Pal, and a growing portfolio of distinctive concepts. Travis shares the hard-won wisdom from opening his first venue in 2017 to now operating over a dozen properties across Texas and beyond, all while maintaining a "neighborhood bar" ethos. He reveals his philosophy that "we're in the entertainment business, not the bar business," explaining how he approaches hiring like casting a film and trains teams to create genuine human connection. From implementing corporate-style systems without losing soul to the strategic discipline of knowing your numbers cold, Travis offers an unvarnished look at the grind behind the glamour. Tune in for a candid conversation on balancing profitability with accessibility, building staff longevity, and why the world needs more bars opened by actual bartenders, not just millionaire investors. This episode produced in association with J. Rieger & Co. ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

What does it mean to truly innovate while honoring centuries of tradition? Join us as we explore the future of spirits with Alexandre Gabriel, the award-winning Master Blender and visionary distiller behind iconic brands like Plantateray Rum, Citadelle Gin, and Maison Ferrand Cognac. In a conversation dedicated to innovation, Alexandre draws from his deep reverence for history and relentless curiosity to explain how he pushes the boundaries of what a spirit can be. He reveals the creative alchemy behind developing entirely new categories, perfecting forgotten techniques, and finding inspiration in unexpected places—from antique books to new agricultural frontiers. This episode goes beyond the barrel to examine the philosophy of meaningful progress, balancing bold experimentation with unwavering respect for craft and terroir. Learn More: https://maisonferrand.com ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge

Join us as we pull up a stool with one of hospitality's most decorated figures, Bobby Hiddleston, the award-winning bartender behind the scenes of many of the World's #1 bars. With over two decades of experience shaping the scenes in Edinburgh, New York, and London, Bobby reveals the philosophy he's bringing to his latest and most personal venture: Sally's Cocktail Bar at the Sheraton Stockholm Hotel. He shares the enchanting origin story of its name—a tribute to Sally Lippman, the beloved Studio 54 regular who danced into her seventies and embodied freedom and joy. Bobby connects that 1969 New York spirit to his mission in Stockholm: reviving the hotel's legendary era. This conversation is a masterclass in blending legacy with modern hospitality, creating a glamorous, welcoming space anchored by timeless cocktails. Sally's Menu: https://thatsup.website/storage/549/71736/Sally's-Bar-Menu-FINAL.pdf?v=1762865272 ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge

Join us for a captivating journey through the fields and distilleries of Mexico with Francisco Terrazas, Executive Director of the Tequila Interchange Project and co-founder of Paranubes Oaxacan Rum. We follow his path from the craft cocktail bars of Tucson, Arizona, to the heart of the agave world as the former General Manager of Houston's renowned mezcalería, The Pastry War. Francisco shares his deep dive into advocacy and production, from his time as Brand Ambassador for Mezcal Vago to co-founding one of Mexico's pioneering craft rum brands. He reveals the story behind Paranubes—a groundbreaking project that honors Oaxacan terroir and traditional methods outside the world of agave. This conversation goes beyond the bottle to explore his critical work with the Tequila Interchange Project, promoting sustainability and ethical practices in the spirits industry. Learn More: https://www.tequilainterchangeproject.org/funding Import Project: phttps://www.raicesimports.com Paranubes Rum: https://www.paranubes.com/about ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

How does an arcade video game passion project become a national phenomenon? Join us for an in-depth conversation with Paul Kermizian, CEO and co-founder of Barcade, the pioneering company that invented the retro arcade bar concept in 2004. He reveals the accidental success story of a Williamsburg hobby that proved the simple, powerful appeal of pairing classic 80s arcade games with American craft beer, thus creating a social hub for two dedicated communities. Paul breaks down the operational wisdom behind the brand, detailing their unique ownership of over 1,200 vintage games and an in-house tech team dedicated to near-perfect uptime. He also shares insights on strategic growth, including why the company is pausing expansion after opening its largest location to date and exploring franchising as a future model. Be sure to check out our Patreon to gain access to an extended hour long version of this same episode: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

Join us for a conversation with Kim Grilc, bartender and co-founder of Kobe Japan's acclaimed tiki bar, The Kazan Room. As a three-time national finalist in prestigious competitions like the Tokyo International Bar Show and Diageo World Class, she is one of the only foreign-born women to compete at this level in Japan. We explore her journey of balancing high-level craft with Tiki's vibrant spirit, a style she shares globally as she travels with The Kazan Room for guest events. Kim also dives into her active role in the worldwide Tiki community, where she serves as a speaker, judge, and celebrated bartender at events like Tiki Oasis. Off the bar mat, she brings the same dedication to her parallel career as an ESL teacher, holding a Master's in Education. ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge

Ever wonder what professional whiskey tasters actually smell? Join us for a fascinating conversation with Edwin Cruz, West Coast American Whiskey Ambassador for the historic Beam Distilling Company, as he guides us through his acclaimed sensory class, Know Your Nose. Edwin pulls back the curtain on the science and art of spirits evaluation, teaching us how to move beyond simple tasting notes to truly understand and articulate the complex aromas in a glass of whiskey. He reveals how anyone can train their olfactory senses, unlocking a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle. This episode is more than a whiskey chat; it's a masterclass in sensory awareness that will forever change the way you experience your next pour. Tune in to sharpen your senses, expand your whiskey vocabulary, and learn how to confidently navigate the aromatic world of fine spirits. Bourbon Serial Number Lookup: https://www.beamdistilling.com/bakers/single-barrel-journey Camp Runamok Application: https://www.camprunamok.org/campapplications ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: Get early access to episodes, exclusive bonus episodes, special content and more: https://www.patreon.com/BartenderAtLarge WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Erick Castro: www.twitter.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.twitter.com/BartendAtLarge