Iain McPherson and Altos: Celebrating World Bartender Day with Innovation and Creativity
The world of mixology is not just about blending liquors and flavors—it’s about innovation, creativity, and a deep passion for hospitality. Few have taken this craft to new heights quite like Iain McPherson. His legacy and work have established him as one of the best, positioning him as one of the most influential minds in the industry today.
At House of Tequila, we celebrate World Bartender Day on February 24, a day dedicated to those who elevate mixology with passion and creativity. And there’s no better way to do so than by recognizing bartenders like Iain McPherson, whose work has redefined cocktail-making through ice and sensory experimentation.
Moreover, at Altos Tequila, we understand that bartenders are at the heart of everything we do. As a brand created by bartenders, for bartenders, we are inspired by the innovation and dedication of those behind the bar, transforming ingredients into unforgettable experiences.
We had the opportunity to speak with McPherson to learn more about his journey, his vision for the industry, and, of course, his passion for ice as a tool for transforming cocktails. In this interview, he took us through his story, from his beginnings, sharing anecdotes, lessons learned, and his philosophy behind the best mixology in the world.
From Books to the Bar: An Unexpected Journey
“I never planned to be a bartender,” he confessed. He moved to Edinburgh to study marketing, but the need for a job led him to his first experience in bars. “I worked in several places, but I wasn’t motivated until, in 2007, I joined The Voodoo Rooms. That’s where I saw for the first time what it meant to be a true bartender.” Surrounded by industry-renowned figures, Iain absorbed knowledge and developed a genuine passion for hospitality and creativity in mixology.
The Moment That Defined His Career
Over time, his innovative approach began to stand out, leading him to explore unconventional techniques. “I’ve always been curious, and I like experimenting with methods others haven’t tried.” His deep dive into freezing techniques applied to cocktails began as an experiment but soon became his signature. “Cold doesn’t just preserve flavors—it transforms and enhances them.”
That dedication and constant exploration led him to receive the prestigious Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award 2024 at the World’s 50 Best Bars Ceremony 2024, a recognition that places him among the best in the world. “Receiving this award was incredible. I don’t see it just as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of my entire team’s work.”
Freezing Flavor: His Legacy in Mixology
Iain McPherson’s name is inevitably linked to ice innovation in mixology. “My first real experiment with freezing came with cocktail ice creams at Hoot The Redeemer, and from there, everything evolved.” His bars, Panda & Sons and Nauticus, have served as experimental labs where he has perfected his methods to enhance flavors in unconventional ways.
“The most exciting part is that we are still discovering new possibilities.” For Iain, the best cocktail experience is not just about the drinks—it’s about the entire experience: the story behind the recipe, the presentation, and the interaction with guests.
Overcoming Challenges: Learning to Adapt
As in life, success is not always a straight path. It’s also about looking back and learning from setbacks. “We’ve had tough moments. The closure of Hoot The Redeemer was one of the hardest blows,” he admitted. This bar, a key space for his exploration of freezing techniques, shut down due to circumstances beyond his control. “It wasn’t easy, but we decided to see it as an opportunity to reinvent ourselves.”
For aspiring bartenders, his advice is clear: “Success doesn’t come quickly. It takes patience, constant work, and, most importantly, the humility to keep learning every day.”
What’s Next for Iain McPherson?
When we asked what’s next, his response was simple: “Keep exploring.” For Iain, mixology is an endless world of possibilities. “There are still so many ways to experiment with cold and flavor. What we’ve done so far is just the beginning.”
With the prestigious Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award 2024 in his hands, a cutting-edge approach, and an unbreakable passion, Iain McPherson continues to challenge conventions and redefine the best mixology in the world, one glass at a time. At Altos Tequila, we proudly celebrate him and all bartenders who make this industry extraordinary.