GSN Week in Review: Oct. 2-8, 2011

Editorial: Every so often I trade my usual evening cocktail for the pleasures of wine. Earlier this week, I attended a wine tasting with my wife and a female friend of ours. We’re all roughly the same age, but as we went up to the hostess serving the pours, I was the only one in our party that she proofed. Granted, when I’m wearing a hat, I look younger than my 47 years, but less than 21? Now, I could take it as a compliment, but it’s happened enough times over the years, that I’m used to it, and I usually just pull out my driver’s license and move on. However, the two women with me were quite offended that I was the only one proofed. It was as if the hostess had verbally said to them, “I don’t need to see your ID, you’re obviously way older than him”. That one act on her part ruined the experience for both of them.

Which brings me to my point this week. Bartenders and servers, if you see a party of people come into your bar or restaurant, and some of them seem like they might be underage; proof everyone. Not just the ones who look or dress young. That way, you’re 1) saving your ass from losing the liquor license at your establishment and 2) you’re complimenting the women in the party. As some famous older woman said, “It’s a good thing”.

Cheers!

Blair

Quote of the Week: “It is up to all of us to mentor, and to be mentored, and it is up to the head bartenders and managers and employers to set the standard, to not accept less, to hire bartenders who have warm HEARTS and who live to serve.” – Steve Olson

Winners of the week: Brandon Josie and Susan Eggert, Phil Thompson, Eric Adkins

Trends: Colorado Bartenders, Mescal, Tasting Before Serving, Honey

Upcoming events: LA’s Best Bartender Competition, Ultimate Blast Cocktail Party

New Spirits of note: Avión Tequila, R&R Reserve

Cocktail of the week: Balvenie Smash by Charlotte Voisey

Cool barware: Gin Aroma Kit

Bar of the week: Carnival Cruise Lines New Bars

Book of the week: The American Cocktail: 50 Recipes That Celebrate the Craft of Mixing Drinks from Coast to Coast

Interview of the Week: The Bon Vivants

Video of the Week