The Cocktail Academy 019: Behind the Bar with Kaitlyn Stewart: Crafting Likeable Cocktails for Everyone
In this episode of Cocktail Academy, Damian is joined by none other than Kaitlyn Stewart, the brains and talent behind Likeable Cocktails and a former Diageo World Class Champion. Kaitlyn shares her 20-year bartending journey, from humble beginnings in Canada to creating viral cocktail content online. This episode dives deep into her experiences, from winning world-class competitions to teaching the art of approachable cocktails on TikTok and Instagram.
Together, Damian and Kaitlyn talk about the art of "twisting" classic cocktails, Kaitlyn's philosophy on staying authentic while being creative, and how the pandemic led her to start making cocktail videos from home. Kaitlyn also reveals her secret tips on how to create balanced, accessible drinks for home bartenders without overcomplicating the process.
The conversation covers her experiences in world-class bartending, the challenges of cocktail competitions, and what it takes to compete on the global stage. You'll also hear insights into Kaitlyn’s upcoming cocktail book, which offers creative spins on classics for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Key Takeaways:
Keep It Simple: When crafting cocktails at home, focus on simplicity and balance. Use a jigger to ensure precision and flavor.
Twist the Classics: Start with the base formula of classic cocktails and swap ingredients based on what you like or have available.
Behind-the-Scenes Effort: Learn about the unseen work that goes into both cocktail competitions and running a bar, from sourcing ingredients to perfecting the technique.
Respect the Craft: Whether you’re shaking up a Margarita or enjoying a non-alcoholic spirit, understanding the effort behind each drink leads to greater appreciation.
Join us for a fun and insightful conversation with one of the cocktail world's brightest stars, Kaitlyn Stewart, as she breaks down her career, her favorite drinks, and how to make cocktails that are as fun as they are delicious!
Find Damian: Insta, Tiktok, Facebook
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