All Hail the Upscale Cocktail

What better place to sip and schmooze than the revamped patio at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek? With its recent, ritzy renovations, this Dallas mainstay is where the bold and the beautiful go to gather gregariously. Might we suggest satisfying your longings for luxurious liqueurs by enjoying the eye candy whilst savoring specialty cocktails created by mixologist Michael Martensen.

In his first six months at the Mansion, this master mixer has transformed the storied bar's cocktail program, creating new infusions, experimenting with simple syrup recipes and developing his own homemade tonic water. His passion for unique flavor profiles, clever concoctions, and whimsical presentations translate to a refreshing cocktail list. The dimples and dashing good looks don't hurt either.

Regarding his Mansion-esque methods, Martensen says, "There is an excitement about [bartending] that I love. You always have to be thinking five steps ahead. It keeps you on your toes. I also enjoy the interaction with guests, whether they are locals or hotel guests from around the world. You listen to a lot of different stories, and you learn a lot about people."

For the record, this connoisseur of cocktails will be the first to admit that being quick does not necessarily translate to being qualified. "I personally enjoy being able to gauge a person's tastes and offering a new drink recommendation. The other night, I introduced a guest to a drink that we serve called a Noioso. It is a savory combination of basil-infused vermouth, fresh lemon juice, rum and sake. The guest loved it and ordered another."

Regarding his favorite trend in bartending, Martensen relays his own personal fascination with molecular gastronomy. "I have been playing around in the kitchen and tinkering with these new techniques. There are so many possibilities when you look at the science and skill involved. You can really change the texture of a drink without compromising the flavor. Lately, I've been experimenting with flavorful foams and this idea of an edible cocktail. The spring drink list offers an Edible Cosmo. It's like a 'Dippin' Dots' version."

"I am a foodie and adventurous eater," offers Martensen. "I also love seasonal ingredients, and I've been doing a lot of research and learning more and more about what's in season. These are both elements that inspire me to create new cocktails. I also like to challenge myself to think outside the box. I am always wondering what quirky twist I can take with a new cocktail."

Experience ecstasy with these mixes à la Martensen:

Blazing Turtle
The Mansion's own unique signature cocktail with lots of champagne.
Gin and Tonic
House-made tonic with quinine powder and gin.
Noioso
Feeling Dull? Try this creative concoction of basil-infused vermouth, fresh lemon juice, rum, and sake.
Tokyo Rose
Asian influenced cocktail with shochu and yuzu.
Passion Lily
Who says that flowers are only for gazing upon or smelling?
String of Pearls
Can anyone say strawberries and champagne it one flute?
Ginger-rita
A ginger infused cocktail with fresh squeezed lime juice and tequila.
Mai Champagne
Classic Mai Tai with the freshest ingredients and bubbly.
Real Espresso
A true espresso with the Mansion's touch.
Brazilian Dream
Exotic fruits with a Brazilian twist.
Gazpacho Martini
A refreshing spin on a Bloody Mary.

DallasCrowd counsel: Any day of the week is fine for these divine drinks, yet on Thursdays, it's prime time to partake, as they're half-priced from 6-7 p.m.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

2821 Turtle Creek Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75219

Call: 214.559.2100
Contact: themansion@rosewoodhotels.com
Visit:www.mansiononturtlecreek.com