Sofia Mertinezz
Bio
A renowned cocktail mixologist and the owner of a popular speakeasy-style bar in the French Quarter. Her innovative approach to classic cocktails has earned her a loyal following.
Stories (112)
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Fermentation in the Bar: Kombucha, Miso, and More
Fermentation has long been a cornerstone of culinary tradition — from bread and cheese to pickles and kimchi. But in recent years, bartenders have turned to fermentation to bring depth, complexity, and surprise into the glass. No longer just a food trend, fermented ingredients are making waves behind the bar, adding umami, acidity, and even carbonation to cocktails.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Ice Matters: Shape, Size & Why It Changes Everything
When you think of the perfect cocktail, your mind probably jumps to the spirit, the balance of sweet and sour, the garnish, or even the glassware. But one element quietly shapes the entire experience — ice. Whether you're sipping a smoky Old Fashioned or a bright Mojito, the ice in your glass influences everything from flavor and texture to temperature and presentation.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Tequila & Mezcal: Lifting Latin Mixology Beyond the Margarita
When most people think of tequila, the Margarita quickly comes to mind — a salty, citrusy classic that has cemented its place in bars worldwide. Mezcal, tequila’s smokier cousin, often follows as an adventurous alternative. But in recent years, both spirits have surged beyond their stereotypical roles, emerging as the centerpieces of a more refined, complex Latin American mixology.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
French-Inspired Cocktails That Aren’t Just Champagne
When you think of French drinks, it’s likely Champagne that first comes to mind — and for good reason. France’s sparkling wine is iconic, elegant, and synonymous with celebration. But French cocktail culture is far richer and more nuanced than just bubbles. From herbal liqueurs and aperitifs to bold brandies and delicate wines, France has given the cocktail world an extraordinary toolkit of flavors that go far beyond the flute.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Molecular Mixology at Home: Worth Trying or Just a Gimmick?
Molecular mixology has taken the cocktail world by storm, dazzling bar-goers with foams, spheres, and smoky clouds that transform drinking into a theatrical experience. Rooted in scientific techniques, this style of mixology uses tools and ingredients borrowed from molecular gastronomy to manipulate textures, temperatures, and flavors in unexpected ways. But while it’s a spectacular show in upscale bars, is molecular mixology something that home bartenders should try? Or is it just an overhyped gimmick that’s too complicated for casual sipping?
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Plant-Based Spirits: The Future of Non-Alcoholic Cocktails
The cocktail world is evolving — and fast. As more people embrace wellness, mindfulness, and moderation, non-alcoholic cocktails are no longer an afterthought. At the forefront of this movement? Plant-based spirits — sophisticated, botanical-driven alternatives to traditional alcohol that are reshaping how we think about drinking.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Craft vs. Classic: Why Signature Cocktails Still Matter
it's easy to get swept up in the world of craft cocktails. Bartenders are pushing boundaries with infusions, foams, clarified juices, and molecular techniques — and the results can be stunning. But amid all this innovation, one thing remains true: signature cocktails still matter. Whether it’s a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned or a bartender’s personal twist on a Margarita, the drinks that define a bar or individual still carry power, identity, and purpose.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Cozy Winter Cocktails to Warm You Up
When the temperature drops and snow starts to fall, there’s nothing more comforting than wrapping your hands around a warm mug or sipping a rich, spiced drink by the fire. Winter cocktails are more than just beverages — they’re an experience. Whether you’re relaxing solo on a quiet evening or hosting friends for a holiday gathering, a cozy cocktail can set the perfect tone.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Easy Holiday Cocktails That Will Wow Your Guests
The holiday season is all about connection — family dinners, cozy gatherings, and joyful toasts that linger late into the night. And while you may be juggling decorations, gifts, and menus, crafting amazing cocktails doesn’t have to be one more stressor. In fact, a few easy yet elegant drinks can transform your holiday get-together into an unforgettable experience.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Why Low-Waste Cocktails Are the Future of Bartending
As climate consciousness grows across the food and beverage industry, bartenders are stepping up to create drinks that are not only delicious but environmentally responsible. Enter the low-waste cocktail: a modern movement that transforms kitchen scraps and by-products into flavorful, inventive ingredients behind the bar.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Retro-Inspired Cocktails Making a Modern Comeback
Trends may come and go, but some flavors are simply timeless. In today’s cocktail renaissance, retro-inspired drinks are finding their way back onto modern menus — often with a creative twist. From mid-century staples to speakeasy favorites, the cocktails your grandparents sipped are now the darlings of a new generation of drinkers.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Why Aperitivo Culture Is Taking Over Cocktail Hour
It’s 6 p.m. in Milan. The sun is low, the streets are buzzing, and tables across the city fill with friends sipping vibrant, bittersweet cocktails paired with small bites. This is the aperitivo hour — a tradition that has moved beyond Italy’s borders and is now taking over cocktail culture around the world.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
