Bartender at Large

Mar 03 2025 469 ep. 32 mins 331
Bartender at Large Podcast artwork

An online series about craft cocktails around the world & the bartenders who make them. Hosted by the award-winning bartender, Erick Castro.

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Spirited Women w Sammi Katz & Olivia McGiff | Bartender at Large ep 437

Mar 03 2025 27 mins  
In this episode, we sit down with Sammi Katz and Olivia McGiff, the author & illustrator of Spirited Women: Makers, Shakers, and Trailblazers in the World of Cocktails. Their book celebrates the groundbreaking women who have shaped the cocktail world, from bartenders and distillers to historians and writers. Sammi and Olivia also share insights into their research process and some

Hanging w the Cocktail Man: Danil Nevsky | Bartender at Large ep 436

Feb 24 2025 28 mins  
Join us for a conversation with Danil Nevsky, entrepreneur, bartender, and founder of Indie Bartender. In this episode, he shares his insights on independent bartending, brand collaborations, and the future of the industry. From creative cocktail development to building a personal brand, Danil offers invaluable advice for bartenders looking to break free from the traditional mold.

Likable Cocktails w Kaitlyn Stewart | Bartender at Large ep 435

Feb 17 2025 27 mins  
Kaitlyn Stewart, the beverage powerhouse behind Likable Cocktails and a former World Class Global Bartender of the Year, joins the podcast to talk about making demystifying cocktails and making them more approachable for folks at home. With years of experience in the industry, Kaitlyn has built a platform that celebrates creativity, education, and a love for great drinks. We also d

State of Bars in 2025 w Tim McKirdy | Bartender at Large ep 434

Feb 10 2025 26 mins  
In this week's episode, Vinepair writer & host of Cocktail College, Tim Mckirdy shares his perspective on the state of the craft cocktail bar in 2025. This week, we dive deep into how innovative trends balanced with experience and price are reshaping the craft cocktail landscape. He highlights the delicate balance between classic cocktail traditions and modern experimentation. Thro

Talking Mezcal w Gilberto Marquez | Bartender at Large ep 433

Feb 03 2025 25 mins  
Join us for an interview with Gilbert Marquez, the Global Brand Ambassador for Mezcal Ilegal. Marquez has been with the brand since its early days and played a key role in its rise to international acclaim. As a first-generation Mexican American, he is deeply committed to preserving Oaxaca’s mezcal traditions, working closely with fourth-generation mezcaleros Armando and Alvaro H

The History of Alcohol w Edward Slingerland| Bartender at Large ep 432

Jan 27 2025 26 mins  
This week, we are joined by Edward Slingerland, author of Drunk: How We Sipped, Danced, and Stumbled Our Way to Civilization. Edward unpacks the fascinating role alcohol has played in shaping human society, from fostering social bonds to sparking creative breakthroughs. We explore how intoxication has influenced culture, cooperation, and innovation throughout history. Edward also c

Hanging w Not Just a Bartender | Bartender at Large ep 431

Jan 20 2025 27 mins  
In this episode, we chat with Chris Leavitt, the creative mind behind the social media sensation @NotJustABartender." Chris shares his mission to highlight the multifaceted lives and talents of bartenders beyond their work behind the bar. We discuss the inspiration behind his platform and how it’s reshaping the way the industry and the public perceive hospitality professionals. C

Catching Up w Lars Williams of Empirical Spirits | Bartender at Large ep 430

Jan 12 2025 22 mins  
Join us, as we chat with Lars Williams, the innovative mind behind Empirical Spirits, to explore the art and science of distillation. Lars delves into the creative process behind their latest creation, a unique cilantro spirit that pushes the boundaries of flavor. We discuss how Empirical Spirits blends culinary techniques and fermentation to craft their distinctive spirits. Lars s

Indian Single Malt Whisky | Bartender at Large ep 429

Jan 06 2025 24 mins  
In this episode, we sit down with Michael Rodricks, CEO of Royal Tiger Whiskey (and full-time physician,) and Craig Henriques, the owner and second-generation master distiller of Ocean King Distillers in Goa, India. Together, they share the story behind Royal Tiger Whiskey and the intricate process of creating a spirit that reflects the heritage and flavors of India. Michael discus

Trans Rights in the Bar World w Chris Cabrera | Bartender at Large ep 428

Dec 30 2024 25 mins  
In this episode, we sit down with Chris Cabrera, the former National LGBTQ+ Portfolio Ambassador for Bacardi. Chris shares his insights on advocating for trans rights and fostering inclusivity in the spirits industry. Tune in for a real conversation about representation, allyship, and the power of community. ____________________________________ Join us every Monday as acclaimed b