Film Lens
The film examines the evolution of cocktail culture from the 1980s to the present, focusing on the shift towards fresh ingredients and craft cocktails. It shows the contributions of influential bartenders like Dale Degraph, who emphasized the importance of quality ingredients in drinks, contrasting this with the convenience-focused approach that emerged after World War II. The narrative captures the growing community of bartenders and enthusiasts dedicated to improving drink quality and education in the spirits industry.
By the mid-1990s, a craft cocktail movement took shape, driven by bartenders and customers alike seeking better drinks. The film features notable figures such as Steve Olsen, a master sommelier and master of wine, and Dave Wandrich, a drinks editor for Esquire magazine, showcasing their efforts to elevate the standards of cocktail preparation and education. The documentary also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and sharing knowledge within the bartending community, illustrating how this commitment to quality has transformed the industry.
Why Watch
- •Meet Dale Degraph, a pioneer of the craft cocktail movement.
- •Find out how fresh ingredients changed the cocktail scene.
- •See the impact of mentorship in the bartending community.
- •Discover the credentials of a master sommelier and master of wine.
Did You Know
•Dale Degraph was a key figure in changing cocktail culture in the 1980s.
•Only four people have passed both the master sommelier and master of wine exams in history.
•The craft cocktail movement gained momentum in the mid-1990s due to audience demand for better drinks.
•Steve Olsen has opened over 40 restaurants throughout his career.
Perfect For
Cocktail enthusiastsAspiring bartendersFood and drink loversCulinary history fans