Cocktails With Friends

This is a "Hotline" edition of Cocktails with Friends where host Bob Cutler dives into listener questions on all things cocktails! From the debate over muddled fruit in Old Fashioneds to setting up a top-tier home bar, Bob shares his expertise and helpful tips to elevate your cocktail game. Bob answers questions about everything from proper spirits storage to the subtle art of balancing flavors. Do you have a pressing cocktail question? Call 207-814-0177 and leave a message for Bob.

• The Great Old Fashioned Debate: To muddle or not to muddle?

• Essentials for creating the ultimate home bar setup

• Creative ideas for using Irish whiskey (beyond the usual Jameson and Ginger)

• Tips on storing different spirits and mixers for peak freshness

• Troubleshooting common issues for perfecting cocktails at home

Consistency is Key: Whether it's avoiding muddled fruit or measuring ingredients precisely, Bob emphasizes the importance of consistency in crafting high-quality cocktails.

Essential Tools & Ingredients: For a well-rounded home bar, Bob recommends must-have tools from Cocktail Kingdom and shares tips on stocking classic ingredients.

Elevate Your Storage Game: Proper storage can enhance the life and flavor of your spirits and mixers—learn when to refrigerate when to leave out, and how to keep flavors fresh.

Listen in and bring your cocktail skills to the next level! Cheers!

• [00:00:00] - Intro to Cocktails with Friends Hotline Edition
• [00:00:20] - Old Fashioned Debate: Muddled fruit or no?
• [00:01:50] - Essential tools and gifts for a home bar setup
• [00:02:50] - Ideas for using Irish whiskey beyond Jamo & Ginger
• [00:04:10] - Storing spirits: what needs refrigeration?
• [00:05:30] - Troubleshooting cocktail consistency at home
• [00:07:30] - Outro and where to find more cocktail content

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler sits down with Susan Baier, founder and CEO of Audience Audit, to discuss the art of thought leadership and how to share your expertise in a way that truly makes an impact. Susan shares insights from her research and experience, offering practical advice on how to authentically position yourself as a thought leader, no matter your industry. Whether you're a bartender, chef, or business owner, Susan's advice will help you turn your passion into influence.

• What it means to be a thought leader

• How to identify and connect with your audience

• The importance of authenticity and providing value upfront

1. Thought leadership is about teaching – It's not just about being an expert; it's about sharing new, helpful insights that others can implement.

2. Authenticity matters – People are drawn to leaders who are approachable, relatable, and genuine, rather than overly polished or self-promotional.

3. Provide value before asking for anything – Being relentlessly helpful and sharing your knowledge freely builds trust and leads to long-term opportunities.

Susan Baier is the founder and CEO of Audience Audit, a firm specializing in custom attitudinal segmentation research. She helps organizations better understand their audiences to improve engagement and grow their impact. Susan is a speaker and thought leader who brings a wealth of knowledge on how to teach, inspire, and connect with your target audience.

[00:00:00] – Introduction and catching up with Susan Baier

[00:02:30] – What is thought leadership? Defining the term

[00:03:50] – The importance of being authentic as a thought leader

[00:05:00] – Key traits of effective thought leaders: new, helpful, and relatable

[00:07:30] – The role of passion and personal point of view in building influence

[00:10:00] – How to connect with a specific audience and focus your message

[00:12:40] – Ways to get your message out: social media, speaking, and content creation

[00:16:00] – Building your personal brand as a chef or bartender

[00:19:00] – Turning rants and frustrations into thought leadership content

[00:21:30] – Providing value before monetization: trust-building strategies

[00:24:00] – The balance between polish and authenticity in content creation

[00:27:00] – Takeaways: Be authentic, be helpful, and share your expertise

In this Halloween-themed episode, Bob Cutler brings a taste of fall with creative, seasonal cocktails, drawing inspiration from a classic How I Met Your Mother episode. Joined by guest Paul Melrose, Bob whips up the "Slutty Pumpkin," a tequila-based drink infused with candy corn, and a luxurious Amaro Flip. Tune in for fun banter, cocktail tips, and a bit of mixology magic perfect for the spooky season!

• The backstory of the "Slutty Pumpkin" cocktail

• Innovative tools for mixing and batching drinks

• How to create an Amaro Flip using a full egg

• Learn how to infuse tequila with candy corn for a unique Halloween cocktail.

• Discover time-saving tools like the crew bottle for efficient batching.

• The Amaro Flip cocktail: a creamy, frothy treat with artichoke bitters and egg for a velvety texture.

Paul Melrose, co-founder of Compotech, joins the show as a taste-tester and shares his love for festive drinks and innovative bar tools.

[00:00] – Intro to the Halloween-themed episode and How I Met Your Mother inspiration

[00:50] – Special guest Paul Melrose joins the show

[01:30] – Bob's experience at a New York mixology event

[03:00] – The "Slutty Pumpkin" cocktail: tequila and candy corn infusion

[05:30] – Discussion on innovative cocktail tools like the crew bottle

[09:00] – The Amaro Flip: creating a frothy, egg-based drink

[12:00] – Paul's reaction and tasting notes on the cocktails

[14:00] – Closing thoughts and how listeners can reach out with cocktail questions

In this fall-themed episode of Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler is joined by Courtney, the head bartender at Novio's Bistro, to dive into their favorite season for cocktails. From hot toddies to seasonal syrups, they share how the flavors of autumn inspire their latest cocktail menu. Get ready for cozy drinks and behind-the-bar banter as they talk about their creations, including the infamous "Slutty Pumpkin Returns" cocktail and how a simple syrup can transform your drink.

• The inspiration behind fall cocktail menus at Novio's Bistro
• The creation of the autumn simple syrup and its versatile uses
• Spotlight on the "Slutty Pumpkin Returns" cocktail

1. Seasonal Ingredients Shine: Discover how fall flavors like apple cider, cinnamon, and brown sugar elevate cocktails, creating warm and comforting drinks perfect for colder weather.
2. Creative Cocktails: The "Slutty Pumpkin Returns" is a must-try—infusing tequila with candy corn adds a playful twist to a seasonal drink that keeps customers coming back.
3. Syrups Make the Difference: An autumn simple syrup made from apple cider and dark brown sugar is a versatile addition that enhances everything from old fashioneds to mocktails.

[00:00] Introduction & Fall Vibes – Bob discusses the arrival of fall, Halloween, and a hot toddy to kick off the season. [00:50] Fall Season for Cocktails – Bob and Courtney talk about the changes in the cocktail menu and how fall inspires new drinks. [03:00] The Autumn Simple Syrup – Courtney explains how they make their autumn simple syrup using apple cider and fall spices. [05:40] Versatility of the Autumn Syrup – The autumn syrup is used in various cocktails, from old fashioneds to mocktails. [07:50] The "Slutty Pumpkin Returns" Cocktail – A seasonal favorite: tequila infused with candy corn and served with a spider ring garnish. [10:30] Cocktail Garnishes & Instagram Culture – Bob shares his thoughts on elaborate garnishes and their role in the Instagram cocktail scene. [15:00] Upcoming Cocktail Classes – Announcement of the return of cocktail classes at Novio's Bistro, with details on the sessions. [17:30] Old Fashioned Week & Courtney's Fall Old Fashioned – Courtney introduces her fall-inspired old fashioned featuring apple cider and caramel. [19:00] Closing Remarks & Teasers – Bob wraps up the episode with teasers for upcoming events and his travels.

In this "Hotline Edition" of Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler takes listener questions straight from the community! From crafting the perfect cocktail to impress a future father-in-law to spicing up Halloween treats for parents, Bob provides expert advice and personal insights on cocktail-making for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party, preparing a special dinner, or just looking for the perfect drink to pair with oysters, this episode has all the tips you need. Plus, you'll hear about a signature cocktail worthy of any bourbon lover.

Do you have a question for the Cocktail Hotline? Call or text Bob at 207-814-0177.

• Crafting the perfect scotch cocktail for an important family moment

• Halloween cocktail ideas for parents handing out treats

• Non-alcoholic drink alternatives for sober guests

• Bourbon cocktails for festive occasions

• The art of shaking drinks and perfecting ice technique

Scotch and cranberry bitters make an excellent Old Fashioned for impressing a future father-in-law during a heartfelt moment.

Offering warm cider cocktails with whiskey and spiced rum can turn Halloween night into a fun treat for adults.

Shaking a cocktail properly is an art—knowing when your ice has reached the right level of dilution can elevate your drinks to the next level.

[00:00] – Introduction to Hotline Edition and listener questions

[00:30] – Crafting a scotch cocktail to impress a future father-in-law

[02:00] – Halloween cider cocktails for parents handing out treats

[03:30] – Non-alcoholic drink options for sober neighbors

[05:10] – Bourbon cocktails for a festive surprise birthday party

[07:00] – The perfect cocktail to pair with oysters for a special dinner

[08:30] – How to shake cocktails properly and tips on ice usage

[09:50] – Closing thoughts and hotline reminders for listeners

In this week's Cocktails with Friends, Bob Cutler goes pro at the Bangor Municipal Golf Course with Rob Jarvis, the head professional and former New England PGA Golf Professional of the Year. The pair play a few holes and discuss everything from golf course history to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, all while sharing tips on improving your golf game.

• The history and development of Bangor Municipal Golf Course.

• Insights into becoming a PGA golf professional.

• The rise of golf post-pandemic, particularly among women and young adults.

Exploring how golf is simultaneously a sport and a social experience that provides exercise, competition, and networking.

Understanding the difference between a professional golfer and a golf professional, and the extensive training required to become the latter.

The importance of community involvement, from veteran programs to youth initiatives, in making golf accessible for all.

About the Guest: Rob Jarvis is the head professional at Bangor Municipal Golf Course. With over 30 years in the industry, Rob has earned multiple accolades, including PGA New England Instructor of the Year. He's also deeply involved in community outreach, with initiatives ranging from youth programs to veteran support through the PGA HOPE program.

[00:00:00] - Introduction and golfing setup at Bangor Municipal Golf Course

[00:01:00] - Rob Jarvis' journey to becoming a PGA golf professional

[00:04:00] - The history and development of Bangor Municipal Golf Course

[00:06:30] - Golf course design and the importance of maintaining public courses

[00:10:20] - The rise of golf post-pandemic and new leagues for women and couples

[00:14:00] - Community involvement and running programs for veterans and youth

[00:18:10] - Golf and environmental sustainability, including pollinator habitats

[00:23:40] - Navigating challenges and rules of golf, including Rob's golf tips

[00:27:30] - Growth of women's golf and creating an inclusive environment

[00:33:50] - Rob's work with PGA New England and the HOPE veterans program

[00:38:00] - Reflections on golf as a sport, networking, and its personal benefits

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In this episode of Cocktail with Friends, Bob Cutler takes us on a journey as he crafts a cocktail worthy of becoming the official drink of Maine. Bob shares his expert cocktail tips while discussing the potential of creating a state-signature drink. With a unique combination of Maine-made ingredients like gin, blueberry syrup, and Moxie, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves mixology with a local twist.

• The absence of an official cocktail for the state of Maine

• Crafting a cocktail using local ingredients like Barron's gin and blueberries

• The history of classic cocktails, including "Remember the Maine"

• Anatomy of a cocktail: In order to be considered a true cocktail, the drink must contain at least three ingredients, not including ice.

• You've got Moxie, Maine's official soft drink. Due to its unique flavor profile, it can be a key ingredient in cocktails.

• Remember the Maine: Having already celebrated Maine's ingredients, this cocktail is inspired by the history of the phrase "Remember the Maine."

• [00:00] Introduction and the quest for Maine's official cocktail
• [00:30] Discussion on Maine's unofficial drink, Allen's and whole milk
• [01:10] Bob returns to mix cocktails on-air at Blueberry Barons
• [02:00] What defines a true cocktail: the three-ingredient rule
• [03:00] The history of American cocktails and the influence of New Orleans
• [04:10] First cocktail: Blueberry syrup, Barron's gin, and Moxie
• [06:40] Naming the new Maine cocktail: listener suggestions
• [10:30] Cocktail history: "Remember the Maine" recipe breakdown
• [13:00] Choosing between the two cocktails as Maine's official drink
• [14:50] Bob's cocktail hotline and how listeners can get recipe help
• [15:10] Outro and call to action for listeners to share and subscribe

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler is joined by returning guest Robert Haynes, co-founder of Hoste Cocktails. Together, they dive deep into creating high-end, ready-to-drink cocktails that elevate your drinking experience. From the intricacies of the Gold Old Fashioned to the Hoste's latest creations like the Mezcal Negroni and Perfect Manhattan, this conversation blends insights with personal stories behind each cocktail. Perfect for anyone looking to bring bar-quality drinks to their home gatherings.

• The story behind Hoste Cocktails and their commitment to crafting premium RTD beverages.

• A deep dive into the Mezcal Negroni and Perfect Manhattan releases.

• How art and collaboration play a key role in the Hoste brand experience.

The Art of RTD Cocktails: Learn how Robby and his team use premium ingredients, like vintage whiskeys and bespoke bitters, to craft bar-worthy cocktails at home.

Elevating the Senses: Hoste Cocktails introduces a unique citrus zest atomizer to enhance the aromatic experience of their drinks.

Collaborative Creativity: From working with local artists for packaging design to partnering with international spirits producers, Hoste brings together diverse talents to perfect each bottle.

About The Guest: Robert Haynes is the co-founder of Hoste Cocktails, a brand known for creating ready-to-drink cocktails that rival those made by professional bartenders. With a background in hospitality and a passion for high-quality ingredients, Haynes shares how he's building a premium cocktail experience that's both accessible and luxurious.

[00:00] Introduction: Bob welcomes guest Robby Haynes, co-founder of Hoste Cocktails.

[02:30] Origin of Host Cocktails: Robby shares the brand's mission to create premium ready-to-drink cocktails.

[06:10] Gold Old Fashioned: The story behind the elevated old fashioned and its premium ingredients.

[10:45] Mezcal Negroni Release: Discussion on the latest Negroni, made with mezcal, custom vermouth, and mole bitters.

[16:30] Craftsmanship and Art: How Host collaborates with artists and artisans to create unique packaging.

[21:05] The Perfect Manhattan: Preview of Host's upcoming Manhattan release and its complex flavor profile.

[27:00] Future Plans: Host's expansion with a new space in Chicago and plans for one-off cocktail releases.

[32:00] Closing Thoughts: Bob encourages listeners to explore Host Cocktails for entertaining and gifting.

This is the Hotline edition of Cocktails With Friends. Bob Cutler answers the audience's burning cocktail questions live from the deck at Bertie's at Bangor Municipal Golf Course. From perfecting cocktails for an Italian dinner party to creating low-ABV sippers for stressed-out parents, Bob dishes out advice with a side of humor.

• Ideal cocktails to pair with Italian food

• Techniques for shaking, stirring, and rolling drinks

• Low-ABV cocktails for managing stress while parenting

• Blue-themed cocktails for a gender reveal party

• Refreshing and easy-to-make cocktails for business events

• Cocktail Pairing Tips: Discover the perfect cocktail to complement your Italian-themed dinner party—featuring a Godfather cocktail with Scotch and Amaretto.

• Mixology Techniques: Learn when to shake, stir, or roll your drinks, and why it matters for achieving the best flavor balance.

• Creative Cocktail Ideas: Get inspired with low-ABV options, blue cocktails for celebrations, and romantic drinks that pair perfectly with chocolate-covered strawberries.

• Tune in to this episode for practical cocktail advice that's as entertaining as it is educational.

• [00:00] Introduction to the Cocktail Hotline Edition

• [00:30] Cocktail pairing for Italian food: The Godfather

• [02:00] Shaking vs. stirring vs. rolling: Key mixology techniques

• [03:20] Low-ABV cocktails for stressed parents: Amaro drinks

• [04:40] Blue cocktails for a gender reveal party

• [06:50] Classy cocktails for business events: Aperol Spritz

• [08:10] Romantic drinks for date night: Espresso Martini

• [09:40] Closing remarks and hotline information

In this episode of Cocktails with Friends, host Bob Cutler sits down with Joseph "Joey" Newell, the pastry chef at Novio's Bistro, as he prepares to embark on a new adventure. Joey reflects on his time at the Bistro, sharing stories of culinary creativity, personal growth, and friendships forged in the kitchen. From wrestling fandom to the intricacies of dessert preparation, this conversation is a warm tribute to a talented chef and colleague.

• Joey's journey as a pastry chef at Novio's Bistro.

• The dynamic of working in a small, high-pressure kitchen.

• Memorable moments, including meeting Deb Haaland, Secretary of the Interior.

1. Creativity in the Kitchen: Joey discusses the challenges and rewards of creating unique desserts in a fast-paced environment, highlighting the importance of adaptability and innovation.

2. Building Relationships: The episode emphasizes the deep connections formed through shared passions, whether it's food, wrestling, or just daily banter in the kitchen.

3. The Value of Mentorship: Joey reflects on how his experience at Novio's has shaped his career, underscoring the impact of supportive mentorship and a positive work environment.

About the Guest: Joseph "Joey" Newell is the pastry chef at Novio's Bistro, known for his creative desserts and dedication to his craft. As he prepares to leave for a new chapter in Detroit, this episode serves as a heartfelt farewell to a key member of the Bistro family.

[00:00:00] Introduction – Bob Cutler welcomes listeners and introduces guest Joseph "Joey" Newell.

[00:01:20] Joey's Journey at Novio's – Joey reflects on his experience working as a pastry chef, handling desserts, and the challenges of kitchen life.

[00:03:30] Creative Process in the Kitchen – Discussion on the complexity of creating and plating desserts, including favorite recipes and kitchen hacks.

[00:05:40] Timing is Everything – Insights into the meticulous timing required in a busy kitchen, balancing creativity with efficiency.

[00:13:20] Meeting Deb Haaland – Joey shares the memorable experience of meeting the Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland, at Novio's Bistro.

[00:15:30] Passion for Wrestling – Joey and Bob bond over their shared love of wrestling, discussing favorite matches and storylines.

[00:17:10] Joey's Next Adventure – Joey talks about his upcoming move to Detroit, his plans, and the excitement of new culinary opportunities.

[00:21:10] Farewell and Final Thoughts – Bob offers a heartfelt farewell to Joey, highlighting his contributions to Novio's and wishing him success in the future.