Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/376390
Brett Esler: A Southern Gent with Sensational Skills Brett Esler, this year's Broker's Bowler Cup champion, wasn't always masterfully crafting delicious cocktails while wowing crowds with a presentation worthy of a stage, integrating rose petals and chocolate-covered strawberries to his England's First Love Affair cocktail tasting at the 2014 Broker's Bowler Cup finals. In fact: "It's been a long journey, and I definitely started at the bottom," he admits. "There've been a lot of mistakes on my part, but I wouldn't be where I am today without all of those experiences. I've been able to learn from some incredible mentors along the way, and I'm proud of the bartender I've become," Esler continues. After graduating from the University of Arizona, Esler began his bartending career as a busboy at Scottsdale's Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort, where he climbed the ranks one step at a time until finally earning the title of bartender a year later. "The bar program was the best in Arizona, and I didn't have any experience. But they assured me I would learn a lot, and they were so right," he explains. Three years later, Esler took those skills to Whisler's in Austin, TX, and proudly represented the South in New Orleans at Tales of the Cocktail: "Winning the Broker's Bowler Cup was super inspiring and motivat- ing! It lit a spark in me to be better at what I do and to bring my A-game at all times. I'm bringing that passion back to Austin, and I'm going to pass that along to as many people as possible." A true testament to both his passion and his craftsmanship, Esler's winning cocktail, "England's First Love Affair," had Tales-goers in New Orleans completely romanced and enamored. Impressing everyone with his cocktail's complex, balanced flavor and a presentation worthy of a wedding proposal—candles were lit and heart-shaped candies assembled—Esler's contributions to the craft cocktail movement are known far and wide, and that's a love affair that we're happy to be a part of. England's First Love Affair ◗ 2 oz. Broker's London Dry Gin ◗ 4–5 mint leaves ◗ ¾ oz. fresh lemon juice ◗ ½ oz. B.G. Reynolds Orgeat Syrup ◗ 1 full egg white ◗ 1 mint sprig for garnish ◗ Muddle mint leaves gently in building pint. Add all other ingredients. Give a hard dry shake for 30 seconds. Proceed to add ice to shaker and shake vigorously for an additional 10–12 seconds. Double-strain with a fine-mesh strainer into a coupe glass. Slap a mint sprig against forearm to release aroma and place into cocktail. september 2014 / the tasting panel / 1 13