Well the revamp of Sauce’s Cocktail program began ten short months ago and the results have been nothing short of touching. So many communities and cultures in our world brand themselves on exclusivity and throw a cold shoulder to anyone perceived as an outsider. I’m here to tell you that the Cocktail Community, at least in Victoria, does not fall into this category.
From the very beginning, when I asked Shawn Soole of Clive’s Classic Lounge for some help in producing a more dedicated cocktail program, I was blown away. Shawn went, and continues to go, out of his way to help anyone willing to ask. Shawn, and the rest of the bartenders and managers leading the cocktail charge in this city, understand the importance of increasing awareness city wide for what’s possible with a little spirit, sugar, bitters, and water. By helping other establishments spread the word, the end result is so much brighter for all.
Tomorrow is the start of Art of the Cocktail 2011 in Victoria. A massive and amazing collection of seminars and tastings that happen throughout the city over the next three days. With cocktails in the air, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank some of those responsible for the transformation of my cocktail program here at Sauce.
First, to my Bar Team:
- Kyle and Josh, I am eternally grateful for all you’ve done and continue to do to push the envelope of cocktails at Sauce. Kassia, Jon, and Mike your willingness to embrace a new style of bartending and make it your own, warms my heart. Hats off to you all.
To the inspirational barkeeps around Victoria:
- Shawn, Nate, and George from Clive’s; Katie, Simon, and Solomon from Veneto, Ryan from Glo, Vinnie from Canoe, and all the others leading the revolution, thanks for setting such an amazing example and high standards. We’d be nothing without you.
Victoria, if you haven’t seen what’s possible with cocktails, do yourself a favour and check out this weekend’s Art of the Cocktail. You won’t be disappointed.
Steve Hof
