Sofia Mertinezz
Bio
A renowned cocktail mixologist and the owner of a popular speakeasy-style bar in the French Quarter. Her innovative approach to classic cocktails has earned her a loyal following.
Stories (120)
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The Rise of the “Cocktail Geek”: Hobbyist Mixology Goes Mainstream
Not long ago, mixology was a term reserved for elite bartenders working behind sleek counters in dimly lit speakeasies. The average person might know how to pour a rum and Coke or shake up a basic Margarita, but the real alchemy of cocktails was left to the pros.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Drink Like a Local: How to Explore Regional Cocktails When You Travel
Food tourism is everywhere — but drink tourism? It’s finally getting the spotlight it deserves. When you travel, tasting the local cocktail culture can unlock a deeper understanding of the place you’re visiting. A city’s flavors aren’t just on plates — they’re in highballs, coupes, and clay cups, shaped by history, climate, and community. Whether you’re in Tokyo or Tbilisi, drinking like a local offers a sensory map of tradition, innovation, and identity.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
What Does “Balance” Really Mean in a Cocktail?
Ask any experienced bartender or mixologist what makes a great cocktail, and you’ll likely hear one word over and over again: balance. But what exactly does that mean? Is it about equal parts? Perfect ratios? Or something more subtle — a feeling, even?
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Your First Home Bar on a $50 Budget
Setting up a home bar doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With just $50, you can create a surprisingly versatile setup that allows you to mix dozens of classic and creative cocktails. The key is choosing smart essentials that do double duty, deliver big flavor, and give you flexibility.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
How to Build a Flavor Profile from Scratch
When you sip a truly great cocktail, you're not just tasting alcohol — you're experiencing a symphony of flavors that unfold in harmony. Building a flavor profile from scratch is what separates casual mixing from true mixology. It’s where intuition meets intention, and creativity blends with structure.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
What to Drink in the Sauna? Yes, It’s a Thing
If you’ve ever sat in a hot sauna and craved more than just water, you’re not alone. Around the world, sauna culture has long been paired with thoughtful drinks — from herbal teas to light beers, and even carefully chosen cocktails. But what exactly should you drink in (or after) a sauna session? And yes — it is a thing.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
90s Party Cocktails to Bring the Vibe Back
If you’re throwing a 90s-themed party, you’ll need more than flannel shirts, chokers, and a playlist full of TLC and Nirvana. You need cocktails that capture the spirit of the decade — bold, fun, and unapologetically colorful. The 1990s were a wild time for drinks, filled with bright hues, fruity flavors, and over-the-top garnishes. It was an era of experimentation and, yes, a little sugar overload.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Coffee & Cocktails: A Match Made for Late Nights
Coffee and alcohol — two of the world’s most beloved beverages — may seem like an unlikely pair, but when mixed thoughtfully, they create cocktails that are bold, balanced, and perfect for lingering evenings. From creamy indulgence to sharp intensity, coffee cocktails offer an exciting blend of caffeine and spirit that can fuel conversation, add warmth, and leave a lasting impression.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Fermentation in the Bar: Kombucha, Miso, and More
Fermentation has long been a cornerstone of culinary tradition — from bread and cheese to pickles and kimchi. But in recent years, bartenders have turned to fermentation to bring depth, complexity, and surprise into the glass. No longer just a food trend, fermented ingredients are making waves behind the bar, adding umami, acidity, and even carbonation to cocktails.
By Sofia Mertinezz7 months ago in Proof
Ice Matters: Shape, Size & Why It Changes Everything
When you think of the perfect cocktail, your mind probably jumps to the spirit, the balance of sweet and sour, the garnish, or even the glassware. But one element quietly shapes the entire experience — ice. Whether you're sipping a smoky Old Fashioned or a bright Mojito, the ice in your glass influences everything from flavor and texture to temperature and presentation.
By Sofia Mertinezz8 months ago in Proof
Tequila & Mezcal: Lifting Latin Mixology Beyond the Margarita
When most people think of tequila, the Margarita quickly comes to mind — a salty, citrusy classic that has cemented its place in bars worldwide. Mezcal, tequila’s smokier cousin, often follows as an adventurous alternative. But in recent years, both spirits have surged beyond their stereotypical roles, emerging as the centerpieces of a more refined, complex Latin American mixology.
By Sofia Mertinezz8 months ago in Proof
French-Inspired Cocktails That Aren’t Just Champagne
When you think of French drinks, it’s likely Champagne that first comes to mind — and for good reason. France’s sparkling wine is iconic, elegant, and synonymous with celebration. But French cocktail culture is far richer and more nuanced than just bubbles. From herbal liqueurs and aperitifs to bold brandies and delicate wines, France has given the cocktail world an extraordinary toolkit of flavors that go far beyond the flute.
By Sofia Mertinezz8 months ago in Proof
