Nick Lappen

Nick Lappen is a bartender, writer, and occasionally a teacher from Watertown, Massachusetts. Nick has worked in the restaurant industry since age 13. Beginning as a busser, runner, and crab steamer at Cantlers in Annapolis, Maryland he has gone on to work at bars and restaurants across the United States and abroad. At one time or another Nick has held almost every position in a restaurant, from dishwasher to cook, food runner to bar manager. He has traveled to over 50 nations and brought with him a passion for discovering local food, beer, wine, and spirits which has inspired his bartending. Most recently Nick has worked as a cocktail bartender and bar consultant in the United States and China. When not caught in a global pandemic he lives in Shanghai and runs the cocktail instagram page @thenickromancer.

Mastering the Art: How is Tequila Made?

The robust world of tequila is as intoxicating as it is informative. An iconic Mexican spirit born of the lush blue agave plant, tequila’s creation is a meticulous process steeped in tradition and careful consideration. The heart of tequila lies with its primary ingredient, the blue agave, whose cultivation and harvesting play a quintessential part…

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Understanding the Mystique: Mezcal vs Tequila

The fascination, tradition, and nuanced intricacies enveloping Mezcal and Tequila, two distinct distillates of the agave plant, extend beyond their shared Southern Mexican roots. From sipping on a rich añejo after dinner to indulging in the sharp yet soothingly complex flavor sets of a vibrant joven, the joy these spirits bring is not merely about…

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The Art of Drinking Tequila Neat: A Comprehensive Guide

Immerse yourself in the striking world of tequila, an iconic spirit that encapsulates Mexico’s rich heritage and biodiversity. The adventure begins with understanding its origin, the stringent laws governing its production, and the distinction between Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo – each presenting a unique blend of craftsmanship and flavor. The journey winds through…

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Crafting a Tequila Sunrise: Must-Have Ingredients

Tequila Sunrise – a mesmerizing cocktail whose name paints a vivid image of a vibrant morning sky. This exquisite cocktail isn’t simply about its alluring aesthetics; it’s an intricate blend of flavors gleaned from key ingredients like tequila, orange juice, and grenadine. Understanding the flavor profiles of these ingredients, their interplay, and their individual contributions…

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Patron Prices & Buyers’ Guide

Overview of Patrón Tequila Patrón Tequila is a symbol of premium quality that reflects the rich heritage of its Mexican origins and the meticulous care in its production. Its range showcases the versatility of tequila when crafted with precision. Brand Heritage and Origin Originating from Mexico, Patrón Tequila has built a reputation as a premium…

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Jose Cuervo Prices & Buyers’ Guide

Overview of Jose Cuervo Tequila Jose Cuervo is synonymous with tequila, a spirit deeply rooted in the culture of Mexico. As the best-selling tequila brand globally, Jose Cuervo has an enduring presence in the market, with a storied history dating back to 1795. Hailing from the state of Jalisco, the heartland of tequila, the distillery La…

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