NOLADrinks Show – 2-16-17 – Justin Winery and Mark Schettler

On this edition of the NOLADrinks Show with Bryan Dias, we start-off with a visit from Justin Winery founder and Krewe of Cork Grand Marshal, Justin Baldwin. We then talk bartender guests shifts and charitable efforts with USBG NOLA President and Bar Tonique GM, Mark Schettler!

NOLADrinks Show – 2-16-17 – Justin Winery and Mark Schettler

We kick-off the show talking about the recent announcement of the James Beard Foundation semifinalists. As usual, New Orleans is heavily represented with many great selections. We also talk about some of the upcoming Mardi Gras parades happening this weekend around the area. We’re in full Carnival mode now!

Pictured at left, from left – Bryan Dias of NOLADrinks and Justin Baldwin of Justin Winery.

Justin Baldwin, who founded Justin Winery, located in California’s ascendant wine region Paso Robles, comes in. He is participating in Mardi Gras this year, serving as the Grand Marshal for the Krewe of Cork, a walking group that celebrates wine. The parade takes place on Friday, February 17 at 3 pm in the French Quarter. We also talk about the winery’s program tasting and chatting about a few of their wines including some terrific red blends.

In the second hour, Mark Schettler, President of the New Orleans chapter of the United States Bartenders Guild and general manager of noted French Quarter cocktail bar, Bar Tonique, joins the show. Mark, who is a friend of the show and regular guest, “blew up the Internet” this week! He was highlighted on Punch talking about the Ramos Gin Fizz. We chat about this iconic and sometimes mysterious traditional New Orleans cocktail. He was also featured in a brand-new book New Orleans Cocktails by Sarah Baird. The cherry on the cake, or, should we say the “garnish on the cocktail?” Mark is the most recent “babe” selected by Babe Squad. So, you know we go that angle covered!

Pictured above with Bryan Dias from NOLADrinks, Mark Schettler and Molly Bird.

We then get into a conversation about the value and experience of doing guest bartender shifts both in other cities and abroad. We talk about Mark’s recent experience doing so in Singapore. We also discuss the importance of doing charitable work – such as raising awareness and funds through special events, donating tips, and more. We touch on some upcoming efforts associated with combating sexual violence connected to bars and alcohol consumption. We will be doing a show on this important topic on Thursday, March 2 (podcast on Friday, March 3.) Be on the lookout for that!

Below the map that highlights some location on this week’s show, you can download, stream, and subscribe to the NOLADrinks Show podcast! Please tell a friend!

Cheers, You All!