The Master Distiller's Bookclub by The Blend: Recent Episodes
The Blend World
In the Master Distiller’s Book Club, we’ll be exploring some of Jared Brown’s favourite books in audio form, with a weekly podcast that offers helpful takeaways, unique insights and tasty tipples. Through his career as a drink historian, writer and Master Distiller for Sipsmith Gin, Jared has walked in the footsteps of the greats and documented the journeys taken by luminaries like Harry Johnson, whose synonymous book ‘Harry Johnson’s Bartenders’ Manual’ is the focal point of our first three episodes.
Episode 3 sees the spotlight put firmly on the importance of good customer service. As Jared details, Harry’s entire book and every tip held within always relates back to the guest – the most important person in the room.
Don't forget to join us over at www.theblend.world to read along and be part of the book club!
On page 40, we begin with ‘the treatment of patrons and behaviour toward them’, explaining how all guests must be treated equally regardless of income or social standing. If they behave themselves, says Harry, every person must be treated the same. In this section, we also discuss the ‘free lunch’ and the use of food to increase beverage sales, a technique still used today, particularly in Italy.
Page 45 explains the importance of knowing your guest and understanding how they enjoy their drinks ‘stiff, strong, or medium.’ In Harry’s words, ‘The greatest accomplishment of a bartender lies in his ability to exactly suit his customer.’ Further along, we look at the origins of the term ‘mixologist’, the first printed reference to a cocktail shaker, and Jared’s love for throwing drinks – a technique he implores us all to learn.
In the Master Distiller’s Book Club, we’ll be exploring some of Jared Brown’s favourite books in audio form, with a weekly podcast that offers helpful takeaways, unique insights and tasty tipples. Through his career as a drink historian, writer and Master Distiller for Sipsmith Gin, Jared has walked in the footsteps of the greats and documented the journeys taken by luminaries like Harry Johnson, whose synonymous book ‘Harry Johnson’s Bartenders’ Manual’ is the focal point of our first three episodes.
In the Master Distiller’s Book Club, we’ll be exploring some of Jared Brown’s favourite books in audio form, with a weekly podcast that offers helpful takeaways, unique insights and tasty tipples. Through his career as a drink historian, writer and Master Distiller for Sipsmith Gin, Jared has walked in the footsteps of the greats and documented the journeys taken by luminaries like Harry Johnson, whose synonymous book ‘Harry Johnson’s Bartenders’ Manual’ is the focal point of our first three episodes.