Interview With Freddy Pinto – Head Mixologist at The Octagon Bar

We’ve always had a passion for Fizz Cocktails here at Glass of Bubbly, experimenting and putting new recipes to the test, so when we got the opportunity to share Freddy Pinto’s story as the Head Mixologist at Octagon Bar, we were pleasured to accept, so let’s find out about his life and career in the drinks industry.

Tell Us About Yourself & What Inspired You To Become a Mixologist?

“The ability to play with people’s senses and palettes and explore different ingredients & create unique drinks that I can call my own. Mainly, the creative element of the art of mixology.”

Do You Remember Your First Experience With Sparkling Wine? When It Was And What Kind Of Wine It Was?

“A long time ago…My first experience tasting sparkling wine was in the Soho Hotel, it was called Nyetimber which is an English Sparkling Wine. This was actually my first experience trying out English sparkling wine overall. When trying it, I wasn’t exactly surprised but I compared it with Prosecco as it has delicate bubbles and minerals. I’m very impressed that England supplies this quality of wine!”

During Your Time As A Mixologist, What’s The Most Surprising & Interesting Thing You’ve Learnt?

“The evolution over the years of cocktails and technology involved in the creation of drinks for people. For example, we have a new cocktail coming soon which we cannot reveal, however, the process of clarification to make this cocktail has been mind-blowing for not only myself, but the whole team and guests who have had a sneak peek. The idea of all the cocktails we make is to encourage the wow factor and blow people away.”

What Inspires You The Most When Putting Together The Ingredients For Your Cocktails? And How Do You Decide On The Perfect Name?

“I like to play on what is seasonal (e.g. fruits and herbs) and what best spirit complements the flavours at the time. I always try and think outside the box and create something unique. I like to keep up with industry trends as well and see what is new. Normally, the name of a cocktail comes from the aspects of the ingredients, but it isn’t always that simple. Historical factors play a massive part in choosing the names, too. Personally, I find inspiration in the location and atmosphere I am in during the time I am creating a cocktail.”

For Anyone Looking to Create Their Own Sparkling Wine Cocktails At Home, What Advice Would You Give Them?

“Try to balance the ingredients out (e.g. sweet and sour). When you are playing with sparkling wine or Champagne it is very important that these are balanced as it is very easy to go wrong. Have a look at the specific notes in the sparkling wine of your choice and find their complementary flavours, herbs and fruits.

The main thing is to have fun when making your own cocktails, that’s what makes it your own and you could invent something completely unique by experimenting.”

Where’s The Most Memorable Place You’ve Enjoyed A Glass of Bubbly?

“In a vineyard back home in the North of Portugal, where we have not only amazing scenery, but also home comforts.”

Thank you, Freddy, for sharing your story and experiences with us and we at Glass of Bubbly wish you the very best for the future!

Image Credit: Freddy Pinto and Octagon Bar. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.