From crafting cocktails to shaping the subsequent era of bartenders, Jessica Christensen blends creativity and keenness because the Lead Mixologist at Graton Resort & On line casino.
She started her journey within the hospitality business in 2011 at an Italian restaurant, the place she rapidly gained hands-on expertise in bartending, specialty cocktails, and visitor service. Becoming a member of Graton Resort & On line casino in 2013 as a bartender, Jessica steadily superior to Assistant Beverage Supervisor and, finally, to Lead Mixologist in 2021. Over time, she has been the inventive pressure behind lots of Graton’s signature cocktails and drink specials, mixing artistry and taste within the fast-paced on line casino setting.
One in every of her favourite facets of the job is working with the staff throughout coaching classes, the place they get to share new cocktail creations and collect suggestions from the workers. Jessica additionally runs the Bartending Faculty at Graton, educating, mentoring, and serving to new bartenders develop within the craft. With a real ardour for creativity and educating, Jessica’s function at Graton permits them to encourage each their staff and visitors every single day.
In celebration of the upcoming duo of the Tremendous Bowl and Valentine’s Day, Jessica has created two specialty cocktails for visitors to get pleasure from; the Hail Mary Beer-Rita and Roses are Crimson. “The inspiration behind the Hail Mary Beer-Rita possible ties on to the vitality, camaraderie, and boldness of the Tremendous Bowl. The drink combines the favored flavors of a margarita with the sunshine, easy-drinking profile of beer—excellent for recreation day gatherings.
The title “Hail Mary” is a playful nod to the well-known high-risk, high-reward soccer play, making it each thematic and enjoyable. The Roses are Crimson cocktail attracts its inspiration from the basic romance of Valentine’s Day. Its use of Sipsmith Strawberry Smash Gin, rose water, and dried rose petals displays love, class, and the custom of gifting roses. The blackberries and champagne add depth and class, symbolizing indulgence and celebration. The drink’s title, a nod to the timeless poem “Roses are purple, violets are blue,” ties it again to like and poetry, making it excellent for a romantic event. Each cocktails are thoughtfully crafted to swimsuit the spirit and themes of their respective occasions!”
Jessica emphasizes that making a contemporary and interesting cocktail program entails mixing creativity, understanding traits, and contemplating visitor preferences.
“Each cocktail has a narrative. Whether or not it’s a tribute to an area custom, a twist on a basic, or a nod to a vacation, we craft drinks that resonate emotionally with visitors. This private connection retains them coming again.”
By introducing seasonal specials and utilizing native components, Jessica maintains pleasure whereas staying on development with in style components like botanical gins and craft liqueurs. She tailors her cocktail creations to suit the vibe of every venue, from elevated drinks on the Foyer Bar to informal, refreshing choices on the Pool Bar.
“We make sure that each visitor finds one thing they love—regardless of the place they select to unwind.”
