Most cocktails call for a sweetener of some type. Maybe there’s a better way to make simple syrup? Learn how to sweeten your cocktail game in this episode of Agave Road Trip! We’re joined by 2019 World Class US Bartender of the Year Katie Renshaw so, you know, it’s not entirely amateur hour.

This episode of Agave Road Trip is brought to you by Sombra Mezcal and their new reposado expression, Sombra Reposé. Sombra Reposé is a first-of-its-kind reposado made with Sombra's award-winning Joven mezcal, aged in Bordeaux wine barrels. Sourced from the historic and renowned Château Léoville Poyferré, a second growth wine estate in St Julien, France, the barrels are filled with Sombra's Joven mezcal and aged for up to six-months. Enjoy Sombra Reposé by sipping it straight or try it in your favorite cocktails

This episode of Agave Road Trip is also brought to you by Diageo Bar Academy. Did you know that something like 40% of produce is wasted after a farmers market? Because it’s imperfect or bruised? That same imperfect and bruised produce is perfect for making syrups and flavored ice cubes, or can be dehydrated into powders or fermented into shrubs. World Class US Bartender of the Year Adam Fournier has a project on DiageoBarAcademy.com that helps you do exactly that. DiageoBarAcademy.com has gathered the very best serving inspiration from around the globe, with top tips on canning, batching, garnishing, smoking, muddling, shaking, measuring, pouring … all this and so much more! Stay informed, get inspired, and nurture connections to grow your career or your business by joining Diageo Bar Academy.

Agave Road Trip is a podcast that helps gringo bartenders better understand agave, agave spirits, and rural Mexico. It’s hosted by Lou Bank and Chava Periban. 

Episode notes

Katie Renshaw runs High Proof, an online source for cocktail classes, digital cocktail content, cocktail photography, and more.

Vinik Jure runs Expresiones del Mezcal. I’m sure he could get you some amazing honey sourced from the communities where heritage agave spirits are made. Ask him!