Expert Interview: Jose Luis Bonga

Behind the Mixologist

What is your favorite drink to make?
Gin Fizz and other international cocktails like the caipirinha, mojito, which is a pretty drink that he enjoys making.

I make everything from scratch and enjoy making everything at the table, especially for more complicated drinks.

One of the preferred drinks of the area is Agua de Asturias--natural cider and orange juice.

What is your favorite drink for yourself
Gin and tonic

What brought you into the drink business?
My parents had a bar 20 kilometers away from Oviedo in a very small town.

What's your least favorite drink?
I don't like anything that is too sweet.

What are your thoughts on recent trends within the industry?
People try to make simple drinks complicated but the key is to make drinks with attention and heart. It's even better to make the drinks in front of the customers so that they can see all of the attention paid to the details of even a simple drink.

What booze should no home be without?
Gin above all else. Whiskey. Those are the basics. Rum and vodka are secondary.

What are your three best tips, tricks or techniques cocktail fans?
Care, only care. Nothing more is needed!

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Expert Profile

Behind the Burner: Jose Luis Bonga, Mixologist

Jose Luis Bonga

Jose Luis Bonga has been a bartender at Castillo de bosque la Zoreda for the last year and half since the hotel opened. Prior to than was a bartender for 28 years in Oviedo. With no formal training, he learned on the job.

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