Mamiverse: What inspired you to become a professional Mixologist?
Juan David Marin: I started my career by accident. When I decided to move to the USA from Colombia my first choice of employment was in the restaurant industry. After a few months of work, I realized that mixology was a job that gave me an opportunity to learn about international cuisine, wines, and cocktails. However, I can now say that the most important thing in my career is the quality of service and experience, which people love when they visit the bars or events in which I work.
Mamiverse: What advice can you give us on what to offer to the guests that you have at home this summer?
Juan: Summer is my favorite time of year! As a Colombian, I love the heat and enjoy a good cocktail in the evening to catch up with friends. Here are some of my recommendations for hosting guests:
1. Make sure you always have fresh juices in your refrigerator. They will help cool drinks and add more flavor to cocktails than other mixers.
2. Keep in your refrigerator the type of alcohol you like such as whiskey, tequila or wine. That way you can just grab it and serve with a few ice cubes.
3. Finally and most importantly, always be sure to have lots of ice in the freezer. This is one of the most important things for the preparation of cocktails, especially during the summer heat.
Mamiverse: How does your family celebrate Father’s Day?
Juan: This date is very important to me and I have many fond memories, especially when celebrated in Colombia. We gave gifts to my father in the morning during breakfast and in the afternoon visited grandma’s house where the family got together to enjoy a good lunch. My dad and his brothers would sit in the room having drinks while telling stories and jokes.
Mamiverse: With Father’s Day here, what drinks do you recommend us to give to the dads in our lives?
Juan: Most men like to enjoy a good whiskey or scotch which is well known for its excellent quality and taste. That’s why I recommend to give him a bottle of Buchanan’s Special Reserve, which is very special because it is aged for a minimum of 18 years in European oak sherry.
