How a Simple Highball Inspired Tiffanie Barriere's Stellar Career
Who would have guessed that a simple cocktail like the Seven & Seven could be a catalyst for change? For bartender and educator Tiffanie Barriere, it wasn't just a drink—it was a defining moment. Her story is a reminder of how the simple enjoyment of something ordinary can inspire extraordinary paths. Let's delve into how this common highball set her on an exceptional career course.
The Humble Beginnings of a Career
Tiffanie Barriere's journey into the world of cocktails started with curiosity. Raised between Houston and Lafayette, Louisiana, she was no stranger to the Seven & Seven. "It was the standard cocktail made at family gatherings," she recounts, recalling the ever-present Seagram's 7 Crown and 7-Up on the card table during events. Often accompanied by a cherry, the drink was more than just a staple—it was an experience that resonated with her from a young age.
Discovering a Classic
Barriere's early exposure to the Seven & Seven wasn’t just a family tradition; it was a cultural touchstone. She found herself intrigued by the simplicity and confidence with which it was ordered. In her early twenties, as she stepped into club life, the Seven & Seven became her go-to, a refreshing mix that mirrored the vibrant, sweet simplicity of her favorite childhood memories like the Shirley Temple.
Reinventing Nostalgia
As Barriere's career transitioned into the bartending world, the rise of the craft cocktail movement pushed her to experiment with her beloved Seven & Seven. Embracing the challenge, she worked to elevate this childhood favorite into a highball that reflected both nostalgia and newfound sophistication. "I made a 7-Up syrup, added a twist of lemon, and substituted Old Overholt," Barriere explains, demonstrating her innovative approach.
Balancing Tradition and Craft
Despite not capturing the exact nostalgic flavors she remembered, this experimentation marked the beginning of her exploration into nostalgic adult drinks. Her desire to recreate a memory, yet offer something elevated, guided Barriere through numerous cocktail innovations, ultimately cementing her standing in the industry.
From Local Mixer to National Spotlight
Barriere's dedication to her craft and her ability to tap into the nostalgia of flavor didn't go unnoticed. Her work gained recognition, leading to national opportunities, including an illustrious activation for Pepsi during the Super Bowl. Her unique renditions of classic cocktails became a showcase of her talent and her passion for tying history to modern mixology.
The Legacy of the Seven & Seven
Without that spark of interest in the Seven & Seven, Barriere might not have found her passion or the courage to innovate. "If I had turned my nose up at a drink with soda, I couldn’t have explored the depths of cocktail culture today," she shares. The lesson here is that sometimes, the most profound inspiration comes from embracing the familiar with a fresh perspective.
For those unacquainted, revisiting a Seven & Seven might offer delightful nostalgia, a trip back to simpler times meticulously crafted into something extraordinary. Barriere's journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and tradition, harmoniously blended to forge new paths and redefine the ordinary.
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About Imbibe Magazine: We celebrate drinks as a distinct culinary category, exploring the vibrant people, places, and flavors that make the world of drinks so fascinating. Explore our articles, podcasts, and more at Imbibe Magazine.
