We are proud to work with some of the top venues and bartenders. Here, our Brand Ambassador, John, spends five minutes with some of the bar-trade professionals who love our spirits.
Five Minutes with… Max Hayward, from the Lab 22
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Favourite Rock Rose Gin and/or Holy Grass Vodka serve?
I think Rock Rose makes a cracking martini! The gin is high enough quality to really hold its own with few additions.
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What’s the top-selling cocktail in your venue?
The top-selling drink is called #makemefamous. The concept was “what happens if you cross a gin and tonic with a porn-star martini?” The result is a lovely, refreshing gin cocktail with a backbone of passionfruit wine and a hint of vanilla.
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First time you encountered our spirits and why you like them?
I first saw Rock Rose and Holy Grass at my old job about 5 years ago. The branding really stood out to me, and I tried a Rock Rose G&T which I really enjoyed. I think the spirits are well made, versatile, and most importantly, delicious!
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How long have you been working at your venue?
Just over 4 years now
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Who is your drinks trade hero or mentor?
I’ve had so much great advice, mentoring, and training over the years, but if I had to pick one which really had a lasting impact on me, it was Peter Dorelli, who ran the American Bar at the Savoy from 1984 until 2003. I saw him give a talk in London, and his attitude towards bartending and hospitality in general really changed my perception of the industry and my career path.
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What’s your all-time favourite cocktail?
Corpse Reviver #2, no question. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and sour citrus, with a little gin and absinthe kick.
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And which piece of music would you listen to whilst sipping this drink?
If I’m relaxing, 90s hip-hop, or if it’s been a long day, something heavy like Deftones or Queens of the Stone Age.
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Favourite venue (anywhere in the world) other than your own bar?
Homeboy in Islington, London. Guinness, lots of whiskey, cocktails, snacks, and great hospitality. All of the things I want in a bar!
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Fantasy cocktail hour: who with and what would you drink?
Honestly? Several pints of Guinness and some cheeky martinis with my friends and family.
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Is sustainability important to you and, if so, how do you incorporate that interest into your work?
Yes I’m a really big believer in it. We like to make our menus as closed-loop as possible, upcycling whatever ingredients we can. I think the best thing you can do, though, is source your ingredients locally – the less distance it has to travel, the less impact on the environment!
In 2021, Max won the Judges’ Choice prize category of the Rock Rose Gin/ Scottish Licensed Trade News competition with his cocktail (as pictured above) called The North Coast Southside
