The bartender

Wen Wang

Maybe Sammy - (NSW)

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A BARTENDER?
My first job was in the fashion industry, even though I studied information management at college. Although my field of study and my job were not related, I was quite content. However, at the same time, I wasn’t satisfied with the status quo, so I wanted to explore life overseas and experience different cultures. I realized that language could be a barrier in different countries, especially since I was working in sales. Without strong communication skills, I would need exceptional technical expertise that others couldn’t easily replace. So I became a bartender. With determination, I started delving into the art of classic cocktail mixology. Unbeknownst to me, more than a decade passed, and I found myself flying from my hometown in Taiwan to Australia. However, I soon discovered that mixology was not just about techniques; it encompassed science, aesthetics, market knowledge, and cost considerations. The scope of this field was broader than anything I had encountered before. Now, I am wholeheartedly dedicated to learning more and further immersing myself in this craft.

WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE?

My parents have never witnessed me crafting a cocktail, nor have they ever tasted one of my creations. This is a significant driving force for me. I hope that when they sit in front of my bar for the first time, they can savor the finest experience possible.

The hero cocktail

Matcha Tini

Classic cocktails serve as a benchmark for evaluating mixologists, much like practicing Bach or Chopin for a pianist. Every industry has its fundamentals, and by continuously honing these basics while scrutinizing one’s own techniques, we can progress. Classic cocktails also provide the foundational stepping stones for crafting our own creations. If we can’t master the balance of sourness, sweetness, bitterness, freshness, and spirits, it becomes challenging to create a well balanced cocktail. I always start with classic cocktails as a starting point and then explore all possible aspects to expand my knowledge. Ultimately, it’s about connecting memories and locality. “Memories” refer to the ability to resonate with customers or others through shared experiences and recollections. “Locality” involves using ingredients and spices native to the place where we live. Same as the idea behind Botanist Gin, The uniqueness of Botanist Gin lies in the variety and proportion of Scottish wild botanicals it uses, which contribute to its rich aroma and flavor profile.

A local twist on the classic Vesper Martini with Japanese matcha and first harvest green tea fresh from Australian farmlands.

Classic, Memories and Locality

Ingredients

• The Botanist Gin

• Lillet Blanc Aperitif

• Recompose lemon juice

• Sugar Syrup

• De Kuyper Elderflower Liqueur

Like this cocktail? The full recipe can be found in this year’s copy of the Top 25 Bartenders. Get your copy by clicking the button below.

The bar

Maybe Sammy

I’ve been at Maybe Sammy for 3 years now, working with an incredible award-winning team of bartenders hand-selected from the world’s top bars. Maybe Sammy isn’t just a cocktail bar; it’s an experience that brings the high-end service of a luxury hotel bar

to life. Influenced by the glamour of 1950s Hollywood and Vegas, this spot boasts a cocktail list that exudes sophistication and elegance.

Step inside and you’re greeted by a design that fuses Hollywood Regency with Palm Springs vibes—a throwback to the glam of the ‘50s with a touch of extravagance. But it’s not just the ambiance that captivates; the signature cocktail list takes classics and elevates them with a modern twist, presented with a flair that adds a touch of theater to your evening. From mini martinis to cocktails crafted with vintage and limited edition spirits, there’s a rich variety

to explore.

And if cocktails aren’t your preference, fret not! Maybe Sammy also showcases vintage champagnes on the list, alongside an array of international wines and a mainly Australian beer selection. It’s a haven for those seeking classic elegance intertwined with a vibrant, luxurious atmosphere.

Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Thursday,

4:30 pm – 12 am

Friday to Saturday,

4:30 pm – 1 am