Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/164544
Chris Marty: A Chicagoan Heads South A t the massive Chicago speakeasy-meetssupperclub Untitled, bartender Chris Marty is a veteran who strives to put hospitality first. "I like taking care of people," he says. "I like making sure there's a napkin under everyone's drink, and getting them water before they know they need it. I value bringing a level of service to the guest, and I believe that makes the difference." With 13 years of bartending under his belt, Marty's entrée into the Broker's Bowler Cup was a testament to his vast experience. "The creation of the cocktail really started with me trying to combine a few elements that were not necessarily going to be obvious matches for each other," said Marty. "It was a challenge cocktail for me, and I was trying to come to a cohesive whole with all of these disparate elements. I was really trying to bring an earthiness to this cocktail, and I've been playing with putting whisky and gin in the same glass, so I thought a peaty Islay malt would bring that smoky, earthy flavor I was looking for." Although he wanted to challenge himself, Marty knew he had a great base spirit to build off of with Broker's: "It's a phenomenally well-distilled gin," comments Marty. "I love the flavor profile, but it's also incredibly affordable and can make an approachable price tag for a guest without sacrificing quality on any level." With hospitality at the forefront, Marty admits, "I would much rather sell someone an $8 or $9 cocktail at the same quality than a $14 cocktail just to keep the lights on." Despite his level of expertise, Marty was as eager to jump at the chance to learn from his peers at Tales of the Cocktail as any newbie. "To be able to spend all this time with all of these other professionals, talking about business in L.A. or San Francisco or New York, knowing that all of these people I respect will be there, is such an incredible opportunity. Tales of the Cocktail is absolutely the number-one event for spirit professionals and bartenders, and I really couldn't have asked for a more positive, educational experience." Christopher Marty stops in front of Jackson Square, while live music plays in the background. Bring Us a Shrubbery ◗ 1½ oz. Broker's Gin ◗ ½ oz. Rothman & Winter Crème de Violette ◗ ½ oz. Bitter Truth EXR Kräuter Liqueur ◗ ½ oz. Laphroaig 10 Year Single Malt ◗ ¼ oz. simple syrup ◗ Stirred and served up in a coupe. Place a fresh rosemary sprig soaked in Lemon Hart 151 Demerara Rum in the drink and set aflame. For more info, visit www.BrokersGin.com. Broker's is exclusively imported by Hood River Distillers. september 2013 / the tasting panel / 117 TP0913_104-156.indd 117 8/22/13 10:31 PM