Sip, savour and stir: master mixologist Sebastian Rodriguez shakes up Juniper Moon's gin-pairing event

Master mixologist Sebastian Rodriguez promises attendees at the Juniper Moon exclusive gin-pairing experience in Cape Town “a journey of flavour through simplicity.”

“⁠I'm looking forward to seeing everyone's reaction to the drinks and how they pair with the food,” he said.

At the event, which will be held at Auslese by Aubergine in Cape Town on Thursday night, Rodriguez will create delicious gin creations to pair with cuisines cooked up by former Masterchef Australia runner-up Ben Ungermann and the restaurant’s chef, Harald Bresselschmidt.

The mixologist believes that the popular alcoholic beverage pairs well with food ⁠because of how well-rounded the gin is. 

“Richer and more decadent foods pair better with this gin, as the Juniper Moon notes help neutralise the fat but also bring out the flavour of the dish.”

He added that “something light and fresh” can also be enjoyed together with the Juniper Moon Gin.

“It is a very easy drinking gin, so it will blend very nicely with something lighter.”

Rodriguez said that he became a mixologist because of his passion for creativity and that he wanted to use his craft to express himself.

“I became a mixologist because I really enjoy flavour and I love playing around with people's preconceptions on what the drink looks like versus what it tastes like,” he said. 

“I feel like the most exciting part is the risk you take because you never really know if someone's going to enjoy the drink you just made for them, but the only way to find out is to give it to them and let them taste it.”

He added, “The moments after the drink has been sipped and before the guest has decided whether they like it or not are the most exciting for me.”

After several successful years as a master mixologist, Rodriguez said that some of his career highlights so far have been when he was flown down to Dubai for a cocktail competition, as well as working at a private resort in the Seychelles.