ADVANCED THE LOCALSMIXOLOGY BARTENDER DRINK SUBMISSION IN HISTORY
Nadine Medina CraftLV
Her father was a significant influence in her bartending career. Medina grew up learning about wine, liqueur, and grappa-making through her family, which played a major part in her joining the hospitality industry and continuing to learn as much as possible. “I watched people around me with so much more knowledge and experience doing their thing. I would sit at Herbs and Rye for countless hours watching and learning as I picked their brains.” When it comes to the execution of cocktails, Medina doesn’t like to go overly simple or too complex. Creating a happy medium is what she does best. “A simple show,” she shares. “Even if it’s not anything big. It’s style. A simple stir of the spoon, and confidence with a smile.” She also considers what the guest typically likes and what they are ordering. She believes that while uniqueness will always be a hit, there still needs to be a palate of balanced flavors. This past year allowed many bartenders to slow down, reset, and learn what’s important in life. Medina sees the bartending industry taking what they’ve learned during the pandemic and translating it into cocktailmaking. “I think we’ve all discovered that health is something to focus on a little more, like teas, freshly squeezed juices, CBD, Kombuchas, and ingredients sought out for improvement of health. So, no need to stop drinking, drink in moderation and appreciation.” She encourages others to stop, smell the roses, and show appreciation for everyday things.
24
CHILLED MAGAZINE
RESET INGREDIENTS
1 oz. Cachaça ½ oz. Chareau Aloe Liqueur ¾ oz. Orchid Orgeat ½ oz. yuzu juice ¾ oz. fresh squeezed lime juice 3 dashes smoked pear bitters 1 egg white PREPARATION
Combine ingredients in a mixing tin. Shake, strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with fuchsia hanging flower with oyster leaf and mini flowers.
Photo by Te Ann Lakeotes
For someone as creative as Nadine Medina, it was in the cards that she’d find a love for bartending. Starting in a banquet bar, Medina worked her way up to lead mixologist at CraftLV. For her, pairing different flavor profiles always brings her excitement, and thanks to her Hawaiian roots, she is a fan of fresh and flavorful ingredients.
