Pandan Liqueur w Nico de Soto | Bartender at Large ep 411

Pandan, the "vanilla of Southeast Asia," defines the development of the Kota Pandan Liqueur. Nico de Soto, owner of Mace and Danico, details the years-long process of creating a shelf-stable, versatile liqueur that captures the plant's distinct, long-lasting nutty finish. Achieving the ideal balance of sugar content and ABV ensures the product remains both affordable and highly mixable for professional bar programs. Beyond product formulation, the dialogue examines the evolution of cocktail culture across New York, Paris, and London, tracking the shift from basic mixed drinks to complex, historically inspired recipes. Success in these diverse international markets requires balancing consumer education with high-quality standards, proving that accessible yet innovative ingredients are essential for modern bartending. This exploration of entrepreneurship underscores the transition from behind-the-bar service to creating specialized tools for the global industry.