Cocktail Profiler: Yan of Face

Every month, we ask one of the city's expert mixologists to profile a selection of Beijingers based on a single snapshot and a brief factoid.

This month’s cocktail profiler went back to basics, saying, “If the drink is already out there, and it’s suitable for the subject, then why change a winning formula?” Face bartender Yan provided a master class in presenting some classic mixes with a slight twist. We arrived 15 minutes early, only to find Yan busily sculpting ice balls and preparing her mixology gear ahead of the tasting.

If you’d like one of the Beijing’s best bartenders to create a drink especially for you, email a photo and an interesting fact about yourself to do@thebeijinger.com.

MINNIE

Interesting fact: "I'm very honest in every way," says Minnie. She likes strong but tasty cocktails. In fact, she doesn't think anyone can make them better than she does, so she asked Yen to surprise her.

The resulting drink: A Julep Kick

Ingredients:
60ml Wild Turkey 8 Year Old
5ml bitters
one sugar cube
mint

Served: In a large glass with ice, sliced lime and ginger

Straight-shooter Minnie blamed our photographer for taking his sweet time shooting the drink before she could sample it, thus allowing the ice to melt a little too much. “It’s definitely still strong! It could be my summer party drink.”

PETE

Interesting fact: Pete is a massive hockey fan, and a Canuck to boot. He also has a taste for whiskey – and, like all good Canadians, maple syrup – though not always together.

The resulting drink: The Brown Bear

Ingredients:
60ml The Macallan 12 Year Single Malt
20ml apple cognac
20ml apple juice
10ml lemon juice
one spoonful of honey

Served: Shaken in an iced Martini glass.

"Strong and slightly sweet with the honey. The hint of apple is nice and the whiskey doesn’t overpower the other ingredients."

LOUIS

Interesting fact: Louis says he likes to participate in outdoor activities, especially hiking, and he loves to travel.

The resulting drink: The Wandering Mule

Ingredients:
50ml ginger-infused vodka
150ml ginger beer
25ml lime juice

Served: In an tall glass, with ice and sliced lime

"Good. It’s very fresh-tasting. Not as strong as I like, but nice and fresh."