A Bar Above Podcast (Chris Tunstall - Bartender, Mixologist & Drink Designer and Julia Tunstall)

https://www.mixologytalk.com/145

It’s February and it’s… quiet. Crickets at your bar. How can you use this time to stay sharp and improve your skills so you’re ready when folks show up again for St. Patrick’s Day?

https://www.mixologytalk.com/163

Infusions are fun to play with, but can you really use them in a service setting? Lucas England says YES and is here to show us how! Listen in to hear his tips and tricks for making infusions work, even in a high volume bar.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/187

We asked our two 5000+ member Facebook groups what gifts they wanted most this holiday season. Here’s what they said!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/135

Another listener questions episode! This week we’re talking about pricing high-end spirits, what to do if a coworker takes their “Mixology” a little too seriously, and some thoughts about rekindling your love for bartending.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/196

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We asked a bunch of bartenders what the hardest part of bartending was. Here are the top three responses and some suggestions for tackling them.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/129

“Inventory” isn’t a bad word! Here’s how to do inventory without the frustration so you can start seeing the benefits for your bottom line!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/185

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It’s rum month for A Bar Above so we felt the perfect way to start is to go back to the basics. Today on the podcast we’re joined by Matt Pietrek to teach us all about it!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/140

Tea is a great way to add flavor and aroma to cocktails. This week we’re chatting with Spirit Tea’s founder to learn about making great tea and using it to make great cocktails too!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/170

What’s new in the world of craft cocktails and hospitality? We asked a few thousand bartenders and here’s what they said.

You may have heard of Small Hand Foods. But did you know its founder, Jennifer Colliau, started the business while working full time as a bartender?

http://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Learn from Dr. Joe Fisher, founder of SOBAR, about how alcohol affects your body, how food consumption changes your alcohol absorption, and the benefits of not drinking alcohol in Dry January— and staying sober the rest of the year!

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What’s new in booze? We went to the Fancy Food Show in San Francisco to Find out! Here are the key trends and most interesting new products we found.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/180

https://www.mixologytalk.com/142

Foams, spherification and pH… this week’s episode dives deep into the world of molecular gastronomy with the head chef from Modernist Pantry. It’s getting nerdy!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/191

Think you hate gin? Don’t give up! Today we’re talking about the reasons a lot of people think they hate this misunderstood spirit, and ideas for giving it another chance.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/138

After working behind the bar long enough, you find a few tips and tricks that help make your day easier. Here are the tools and hacks that Chris found over the years behind his bar.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/168
Going low carb for January? Don’t despair! Listen in for some ideas for “no carb” cocktails and tips for making “no sugar” simple syrups as well.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/178

Welcome back, and happy June! This month, we are talking all about tiki. And who better to talk to than Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, author of seven tiki cocktail books, owner of Latitude 29 in New Orleans, and all-around expert in all things tiki?

https://www.mixologytalk.com/148

Your regulars might call you a “super hero” all the time, but I would argue that bartenders really are modern day superheroes. Listen in for a fun episode all about the “super powers” that experienced bartenders all seem to have after a few years behind the bar.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/150

It’s a day we’ve been waiting years for - and it’s here! The A Bar Above Store is officially open for business. Listen in for the whole story, including some hints at what’s coming and a few hiccups we experienced along the way.

http://www.mixologytalk.com/115

Listen in to hear Matthew Seigel’s crazy story - from Music producer to bar consultant.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/199

Today, we’re revisiting our favorite 10 podcasts of the last 100 episodes-- with a special guest, our very own Julia Tunstall. Split up between technique and career-focused episodes, these are podcasts you definitely want to go back and listen to if you missed them the first time!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIROCipaMEw

https://www.mixologytalk.com/132

Curious what’s new in the world of “bleeding edge” mixology? Here’s what we learned in a few great seminars this year on the topic.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/127

In an age where you can buy strawberries in Alaska in January, what’s the point of a seasonal cocktail menu? And is it right for your bar program?

https://www.MixologyTalk.com/167

If you saw the last episode, you know how Chris feels about hot cocktails. Now it's time to set him straight! Chris is chatting with bartender Bradley Thomas Stephens who has some great tips for making delicious hot cocktails for service - and avoiding the pitfalls that drove Chris crazy!

http://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Today, Chris is having a serious, important conversation with former addict and neuropharmacologist, Dr. Judy Grisel about drug and alcohol addiction to better understand how the brain works and how addiction begins.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/179

Just because we can’t go to the bar right now doesn’t mean we can’t have fun. We’re wrapping up our vacation-inspired voyage into tropical cocktails by talking about modern tiki with the very knowledgeable Daniel “Doc” Parks, beverage director of San Francisco’s Pagan Idol and Zombie Village.

http://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Learn all about whiskey cocktails and unique flavor combinations from cocktail enthusiast and Instagram influencer, Snehal D’cunha.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/133

Tired of the bartender life? There are so many great career options that leverage your bar skills - here are a few to get you started!

https://mixologytalk.com/182

As summer comes to a close but the weather is still warm, we at ABA are longing for the pre-COVID barbecues of yesteryear. So, in lieu of that, we’re talking this month about smoke in cocktails!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/152

Ever used Mead in a cocktail? It might just be the next big hipster beverage, and this week have we have Mead expert Samuel Boulton on the podcast to teach us all about it!

http://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Chris & Julia have a big announcement today– Tune in to hear all about the future of A Bar Above and what we’re currently working on!

http://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Come learn all about whiskey types-- from Irish whiskey to bourbon-- and the best whiskey brands to try with Samara Davis of Black Bourbon Society!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/192

Join us as we chat with Cornelia Mathis and Cody Carney to hear all about their incredible story of launching a boozy popsicle brand during the Pandemic!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/146

What happens when you get 1,000 bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts in the same place to talk cocktails? Here’s a recap of our favorite debates and conversations from the last few months in our Facebook group!

Surprise! Your boss hired a consultant. How do avoid frustration and make the most of this opportunity?

https://www.mixologytalk.com/141

Ever wonder what cocktail culture was really like 15 years ago? This week we’re chatting with H. Joseph Ehrmann about how the Craft Cocktail movement got its footing in San Francisco, and what he sees for the future of craft cocktails.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/158

We’ve published more than 800 things since we started A Bar Above in 2013. I think it’s time to grow up!  Here’s what’s new, starting September 1!

www.mixologytalk.com/119
You may have seen “Gomme syrup” listed as an ingredient in some very old cocktail recipes. What is it, and why was it used in cocktails?

https://www.mixologytalk.com/130

Brand reps are a key part of any successful bar - but they aren’t all perfect. Here’s what to do if you’re not getting what you need from  your reps.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/139

Ever considered bartending for private events? Check out this interview with mobile bartending pro, Ozeal Debastos to learn how he got started and great tips for success

https://www.mixologytalk.com/188

Craft cocktails are an expensive hobby! We’re talking about tips for making the most out of your home bar without breaking the bank (or budget!)

Part 2 of our “getting hired as a manager” series, this one’s all about finding job openings and getting the interview.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/124
Ever wondered what it’s like to manage a multi-site operation? Join us this week with David Sangwell to hear about his experience and tips for others doing the same.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/153

What do you do when a coworker hates their job and makes your life miserable? Before you quit in exasperation, here are some ideas for trying to make things better.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/128

Have you used crab apples in cocktails, adjusted your citrus or tried to replicate a cocktail you had in a bar? You’ll like this episode!

https://www.abarabove.com/acing-the-bar-manager-interview

It’s the last (and maybe hardest) step to getting your first bar manager job: The interview. Here’s how to make sure you ace it!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/183

Everyone knows the traditional smoking gun method for smoking cocktails. But if you want to know all about using wood to introduce smoke and flavor into your cocktails, this podcast is for you.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/134

Love the career but with you could take home more money? Check out this week’s episode for some tips for increasing your hourly rate, getting more tips, and keeping the money you make!

www.MixologyTalk.com/161

Listen in as we chat with sommelier Lucas Huff to learn how he creates delicious food and cocktail pairings, and some tips and tricks for how you can do the same at your bar.

www.abarabove.com/podcast

Vodka is known as a neutral spirit, but that may all be changing! Learn all about vodka with character and the new law regarding vodka production from Devon Trevathan of Liba Spirits.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/143

That’s a wrap! Here are our key takeaways from Chris’ best interviews of 2018.

https://mixologytalk.com/195

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It’s true - Chris hates hot cocktails. Join us this week to experience his rant and some great suggestions for preparing hot cocktails that actually taste good!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/147

It’s great to get creative with your cocktail recipes, but how do prevent your creativity from going too far? This week we’re chatting with Camper English about keeping cocktails safe.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/181

From how to break down ice to what kind of ice to choose for which drink, if you want to learn more about working with craft cocktail ice at your bar or in your own home, you’ve come to the right place.

This guy knows his beer. Join us this week as we’re chatting about choosing beer and getting certified as a Cicerone!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/131

Everything tastes amazing in the summer! Here are some ideas for preserving those great seasonal flavors to enjoy in your cocktails year-round.

http://www.mixologytalk.com/121

You’ve got a good amount of bar experience and you’re ready to dip your toe in management. This week on the podcast we’re talking about your first steps to prepare apply (and interview) for management roles.

www.MixologyTalk.com/165

Looking to add punches to your bar program? Join us this week as Chris learns all about the ins and outs of making and serving large format cocktails behind the bar.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/155

The modern craft bar isn’t all glitz and glamour. Bartending comes with its dark side as well. This week we’re chatting with Justyn Myers to discuss the grittier side of bartending and what he’s learned from hosting a show all about it.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/200

Celebrating episode 200, we are announcing both a name change for our podcast and the launch of our new gold bar tools line!

https://abarabove.com/podcast/

We’re talking vodka, vodka, vodka with vodka expert and spirits judge Veronika Karlova from Girls Drink Vodka. From which cocktails to make to which vodkas to buy at different price points, you’re guaranteed to also become an expert after today’s podcast!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/174 

Ever wonder how to work beer flavor into your cocktails? This podcast has some incredible ideas from the basic to the very advanced!

https://mixologytalk.com/169

Who better to ask about the nitty gritty details of sugar substitutes than a food scientist? Zach Gooding is an expert in all things sweet. Join us to learn all about sugars (and alternative sugars) and how to use them in your next cocktail.

http://www.mixologytalk.com/116

It’s the new year and things are (finally) slowing down. Here’s how you can use your downtime to grow your skills and career!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/137

Who says a drink needs booze to be delicious? Join us this week for a chat with Julia Momose, one of the world’s foremost experts on alcohol free cocktails that put the word “mocktail” to shame.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/162

It’s one of the easiest “mixology” techniques there is! This week we’re talking all about infusions and how you can easily make them for use in your cocktail creations.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/175

Today, Chris is talking with bar owner Chris Elford (yes, another Chris!) about a new way bars are serving their community, through to-go cocktail programs. Depending on your state’s current laws, this to-go service is a great option for staying in business during the COVID-19 shutdown.

http://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Wondering what to drink this holiday season? Chris is talking with beverage director, bartender, author, and podcast host Sother Teague about Christmas cocktails that can be enjoyed all year round!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/186

Beautiful Booze’s Natalie Migliarini is one of the most influential voices in cocktails today. Listen in as she shares with Chris, cocktail gift ideas, how to capture the perfect cocktail shot for IG and more.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/136

You may not realize it, but you use systems every day to work faster, better, and longer. Listen in for more ideas on how you can leverage systems to improve every shift!

https://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Frustrated by memorizing cocktail recipes? We’ll walk you through the six main cocktail families so you can make hundreds of different types of cocktails using these simple cocktail family structures!

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https://www.mixologytalk.com/164

It’s so much more than “Jungle Juice”. Large format cocktails are an awesome way to serve delicious craft drinks at parties without bartending all night!

https://mixologytalk.com/193

Join our conversation with gin and genever expert Philip Duff of Old Duff Genever to learn all about these spirits. Hint: they’re very different!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/173

We’re discussing all things beer cocktails! From how to get started if you want to offer beer cocktails on your drink menu to tips and tricks to elevate your cocktail service.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiVeKXO-9CY

Join us in our Mixology Talk Podcast as we chat with Spirits Specialist and Bar Designer Zane Harris - @zanemharris - and dive deep into his experience as the designer of Riedel's cocktail glasses line, as well as the importance of using the perfect choice of glassware to serve beautiful cocktails!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/125

Ever wanted to be a Brand Ambassador? Check out our chat with Reyka Vodka ambassador Trevor Schneider to hear about what it’s really like - the good and the bad!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/154

Making specialty syrups? This is your episode! We’re talking with Jared and Absinthia from Nickel Dime Syrups this week and learning all of their tricks for flavor extraction.

www.mixologytalk.com/126

There are good and bad sides to being a cocktail bar in a smaller market. This week we’re chatting with Micah LeMon to learn about how he found success in his own small market.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/151

It’s already conference season! Bar Convent Brooklyn is coming in just a few weeks, and is a great event if you’re a bartender looking to learn and grow. Join us this week as we chat with their head of education (and a man who needs no introduction), Angus Winchester.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/177

Who better to learn from than the best known non-alcoholic spirits brand?
Laura Lashley, the National Education manager for Seedlip, is joining us on the podcast to help us learn all about the art of non-alcoholic cocktails.

Time to leave? It happens! Here are some tips for giving notice and moving on without making enemies along the way.

Come along on a journey of learning as Chris talks with bartender, beverage director, author, and advocate Tiffanie Barriere about inclusion and diversity in the hospitality industry. 

Join us as Julia talks with master distiller and co-founder of AMASS Gin, Morgan McLauchlan, about the art and hard work of distilling & about being a woman in the spirits industry. These two female entrepreneurs celebrate the female perspective and female distillers in a male-dominated industry on today’s episode.

Who better to ask about colors in cocktails than pastry chefs? Learn their tips, tricks & techniques for adding beautiful color - in and out of the glass.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/171

https://www.mixologytalk.com/201

Leah Hall is the co-owner of gastronomblog.com, a website dedicated to all things alcohol and making cocktails accessible to the home bartender. On the website and social media, she and her husband, Jay, share content dedicated to spirited travel, cocktails, and even boozy food. Bringing her background in hotel and restaurant management, Leah incorporates her unique views into the storytelling of bars and other amazing locations around the world.

The Halls started their website in 2012; and while doing what they love most, they offer bar menu consultations, recipe development, cocktail & food photography, social media consultations, event bartending, and cocktail classes.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/156

Moving day! How do you find a job in a new market? Listen in for tips in how to move and find a new job - sometimes before you even leave!

What’s new and happening in cocktail bars in 2018? Here’s what we’re hearing and seeing today.

www.mixologytalk.com/160

Ever wonder what makes different styles of Rum different? Join us this week as we learn about three common and two obscure styles of rum and how their unique production processes make them what they are.

https://www.mixologytalk.com/176

Wish you could drink Amaro at work? Listen in as we chat with the founder of Casamara Club on how he created an “Amaro” soft drink - without alcohol!

https://www.mixologytalk.com/149

Time to raise prices? Don’t chicken out! Here are some tips for increasing your menu prices in a way that’s good for the bottom line and doesn’t scare away your customers. (I promise!)

https://www.mixologytalk.com/189

Mocktails Anyone? It's not too late to start your Dry January or a dry week. Let’s dive into the relatively new world of craft, booze-free adult beverages and explore our options.

http://www.abarabove.com/podcast

Learn what bartenders really want this holiday season! Whether you’re a bar owner or a regular customer, Chris & Julia lead you through what the bartenders in our Craft Bartender Community said they’d appreciate for the holidays.