The Little Nell is asking which local bartender has the skills to be named “Aspen’s Iron Bartender.” Every Sunday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the Terrace Bar, two of the town’s leading bartenders will square off in a round robin competition to determine whose cocktail reigns supreme.
The drink gurus show their stuff, using Grand Marnier as an element in creating delicious concoctions. Each guest will get one vote with the purchase of a featured cocktail. The bartender with the most votes at the end of the night moves on to the next round. The contest will continue Sundays through March, culminating in a March 26 throw-down with the ultimate victor winning the crown and a trip to “Tales of The Cocktail” in New Orleans to party with some of America’s greatest cocktail creators.
Last week pitted Leah from J-bar against Erin from Jimmy’s, and Erin advanced in the competition! This week we have Nate Harnish of Pacifica “mix off” against Austin Sessions of 39 Degrees at the Sky Hotel. Here’s the stats:
Nate Harnish
What is your strategy for victory in the Iron Bartender Competition? Two a Days.
What is your favorite bar tool? Basic Jigger–and Tim Kurnos
What is something you would never be caught drinking? Decaf
What is your height? 6 foot 3 inches in heels
What cocktail would best describe your personality? “Old Fashioned” I’m aged, well balanced and like to be muddled.
Austin Sessions – 39 Degrees
What’s your favorite drink to make? The Sweet and Spicy. It is muddled red bell pepper and jalepeno with lime juice and agave nectar. Then add Milagro silver tequila and Domaine de Canton, shake and serve up in a martini glass. Garnish this with a slice of red bell pepper. It is a very delicious drink, and I take pride in making it.
Who are three people you’d like to have dinner with, alive or dead? I would have a drink with my dad because I always like having a drink with him. I would have a drink with my Great Grandpa who passed away when I was young. He was a very interesting guy and I would have really loved to get to know him. Shane McConkey because he seemed to always be having a good time no matter what.
What’s your strategy for winning? My strategy for victory is to make a good all around cocktail that people can enjoy during apres, and invite as many friends as I can to show up and vote.
What’s your favorite winter cocktail? My favorite winter cocktail right now is just a simple hot toddy. I like it a little on the tart side. It warms up the body and is good for a cold or anything the winter throws at you.
What would your last supper be? A filet cooked medium rare with crab on it then smothered in bearnaise sauce. Then mashed potatoes and steamed veggies on the side. To finish all that off I would have a good bottle of red wine.
Check out this video from Round 1, or take a look at the full bracket here.
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