The drink snob

Am I a drink snob? Yes, absolutely! There is no wrong in being one, but depends on what kind you are. Of course, there are different types there – I do not generalise for that will just kill my imagination and the purpose of this babble.

There are those who claim to know everything. Those who know everything, okay, but are stuck up. Why can’t they be a little more down to earth?! Those who know their whisky from bourbon, but are still open to hearing what others have to share. That is me! J

Bartenders often come across customers who completely bastardise a spirit. Committing the cardinal sin of having a single malt with lemonade or Cognac (VSOP) with coke. Some of you reading this, would say, each to its own and consumer is the king. True that cliché, but then having informed people at the helm of service industries can change the way dynamics. It is similar to the fashion industry, where you may find dozens wearing designer brands, but wouldn’t know how to carry it off or let alone accessorise it.

It is the same thing, I believe, when it comes to what people drink. A classic white shirt can have the same effect when tastefully put together with well-tailored denims. Similarly, some drinks/spirits do not need any accessories. Let them be, you mortals!

A good friend of mine, who is the head sommelier of a Michelin starred restaurant in London, and someone I really respect, once told me that he would prefer not to correct his guests. “It is my job to serve them,” he says, “if they do ask me something, I will always let them know but I find it inappropriate to correct.” I do agree, but I believe that there is a thin line when it comes to informing or gently suggesting. I call it, ‘doing it without bruising the ego’.

In fact, Jiri, my husband, and I were discussing how most people in England are not aware of how gin is made or what goes in to it. When it comes to food, most out there know what goes into it or try to keep themselves informed. In fact, in most circles, it is about the Michelin star restaurant is one going to and so on. I wonder often why there isn’t any official body to rate bars. Especially with London being one of the drink capitals and the place where some of the greatest bartenders were born. We should have something that would make people take their drinks as seriously, or moving on from Mojitos, sex on the beach, and the list can go on. Phew!

Alright, that’s it, I need a drink. A half-full bourbon and champagne are vying for my attention. ;-) x