Welcome to the realm of molecular mixology, where science and art converge to create liquid masterpieces that tantalize not only the taste buds but also the senses. This groundbreaking approach to cocktail creation employs cutting-edge techniques and ingredients to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, elevating the drinking experience to new heights. Join us as we embark on a journey into the enchanting world of molecular mixology, uncovering its secrets, techniques, and the awe-inspiring creations that have revolutionized the cocktail scene. Get ready to have your perception of cocktails shattered and your senses dazzled.
Galaxy is an extraordinary libation that emerged from my captivating journey through Dubai. As I meticulously crafted my illustrious drink selection, I sought to create a concoction that would pay homage to the renowned Paloma while infusing it with a modern and magical twist. To transport you to a realm of sensory wonder, I embarked on an endeavor to create an alluring visual spectacle by using the Flavour Blaster, the quintessential tool in a mixologist’s toolkit—the official smoking gun. With this ingenious contraption, I conjure aromatic clouds that cascade and swirl, enveloping each precious sip with an enchanting and dramatic aura.
45ml Tequila
22.5ml Cointreau
15 ml Grapefruit Juice
A Squeeze of Granadine
Aromatic clouds
1913
Allow yourself to be immersed in the captivating elixir of the “1913” cocktail—a fusion of flavors that pays homage to the French Martini while embracing the essence of Prada’s innovation and style. Elevate your senses, indulge in the beauty of each sip, and let this cocktail transport you to a world where sophistication, creativity, and unrivaled taste collide.
45ml Vodka
15ml Raspberry liquor
15ml Fresh Pineapple juice
3 Rasperries
Aromatic air
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In this unique twist of the French Martini, I embarked on a creative journey, infusing it with a captivating floral essence amidst the glamour and excitement of a Prada event near the fashion capital of Milan. The “1913” cocktail was meticulously crafted to coincide with the launch of their latest masterpiece, adding an extra layer of sophistication and elegance to the occasion. With every sip, you’ll be transported to a realm where the essence of blooming flowers mingles harmoniously with the velvety smoothness of vodka, imbuing the cocktail with a comforting warmth and captivating depth. It’s a sensory adventure that captures the very essence of Prada’s allure and the artistry of mixology.
Curacao Orange
Introducing the Curacao Orange — a cocktail that you can sink your teeth into, literally! I’ve harnessed the power of molecular cuisine and the mesmerizing technique of gelation to bring you a solid drink like no other.
40 ml citrus-infused Vodka
20 ml Blue Curacao
20 ml Lime
10 ml Simple syrup
bitter gelatin sheets
First, we break up the isinglass and let it soak in a bowl of water, anticipation building as we prepare for the alchemical transformation. In another bowl, we pour the vibrant Blue Curacao, tangy lime, and a touch of sugar, creating a symphony of flavors that will dance on your palate.
Once the isinglass has softened, we squeeze out its essence and place it in a small saucepan with a splash of water. As we heat and stir, the isinglass dissolves, like a potion brewing in a cauldron, infusing the cocktail with its magical properties. With a final stir, we pour this elixir into our concoction, ensuring every drop is imbued with enchantment. Now, the grand finale awaits. We transfer the bewitching liquid to a container with a graceful spout, ready to pour it into its vessel. And what better vessel than a hollowed-out orange? The drink takes its rightful place within the orange’s embrace, a perfect fusion of nature and artistry. With a sense of anticipation, we place it gently in the refrigerator, where time will work its wonders for the next 12 hours.
Ah, patience, my friends, for true magic takes time to unfold.
But let me share a secret about the captivating Blue Curacao. This extraordinary liqueur extracts its essence from the peel of the laraha, a unique orange with a bitter allure that thrives on the sun-kissed shores of Curaçao, a Caribbean paradise. It’s the drying of these orange peels that bestows upon the liqueur its mesmerizing blue hue—a hue that adds an ethereal touch to our creation.
The Three Crystals
Prepare to be wowed as you indulge in a truly extraordinary cocktail adventure for the senses.
The process begins by freezing water in a specially designed mold, shaped like a dazzling crystal. It’s carefully placed in the freezer, allowing the outer layer to solidify while keeping the inside in a liquid state. This delicate balance sets the stage for what’s to come.
With fine precision, I use a syringe to extract the frozen water from the crystal, making way for a concoction of carefully selected drinks that will take its place. Each injection infuses the crystal with a symphony of flavors, turning it into a frozen masterpiece just waiting to be unveiled.
But here’s where the real show begins.
When it’s time to serve, the crystal is handed over to you, our esteemed customer. With a satisfying crack, you have the fun of breaking the crystal, unlocking a world of taste sensations that have been patiently waiting inside. It’s an exhilarating moment that adds an extra layer of excitement to the cocktail experience.
(Left) Camparino
5o ml Campari
Seltz
(Center) Blue Margarita
45ml Tequila
15ml Blue curacao
15ml Triple sec
15ml Camparino:
5o ml Campari
(Right) Argintario Tonic
50 ml Argintario Gin
Mediterranean tonic water
Gianluca Vento works as a Food & Beverage Manager in Capalbio in the magical Tuscan Maremma. After attending the Mixology Academy in Rome and achieving the status of Global Bartender, he traveled to Dubai and London to refine his mixing techniques. Upon returning to Italy in 2019, he won the VinUva Cocktail Cup with his “molecular drink “El Buttafuoco”. As Bar Manager at Villa Naj, he has introduced innovations such as Food Pairing, combining high-class dishes with cocktails. This ongoing quest for innovation continues to lead him to experiment with new ideas to dazzle his patrons.
