Nick Van Tiel

Name: Nick van Tiel

Bar: The Lincoln

Bar Address: 36 Bayswater Road, Kings Cross

What is the name of Your Glenfiddich Signature Cocktail?

Robbie Dhu - named after the springs which are the source of the pure, soft water used in the production of Glenfiddich

Tell us about your Signature Cocktail & Why you designed it?

I started out with my favourite of the Glenfiddich range - the 15 year old Solera Reserve, and began to think of the best way to compliment the diverse flavours already present in this remarkable spirit.

My aim was to create a drink that was palatable to a wide range of tastes – particularly those who may not be acquired to the taste of Scotch Whisky. Rather than create a drink for Bartenders or Scotch lovers, I wanted to share the unique character of this Whisky with people who may not otherwise try it.

Building on the Honey and Vanilla notes of the Whisky, I added a touch of natural honey and complimented the spirit’s gentle spice undertones with the kick of fresh ginger. Honey and Ginger are flavours that have always gone well together, particularly in Asian cooking.

A touch of fresh lemon juice rounds off this delicate balance of sweet, sour, spice and smoke, and the addition of a little fresh egg white lends a lovely velvety texture and mouth feel to this delicious, refreshing drink - perfect for any occasion.

The garnish of Vanilla, Cinnamon and Lemon dust is used as an aromatic tool to prepare the drinker for the delicate flavours of the cocktail.

Who do you envisage Drinking your Signature Cocktail?

I can see this cocktail becoming a Glenfiddich signature drink, which could appear on any good cocktail list as a simple but delicious reflection of one of the finest Single Malt Whiskies available, to be enjoyed by anyone.

How long have you been in the bar industry?

Almost 8 years

What do you have that makes you Untouchable?

A massive penis

What is your best advice for younger players?

Stay true to the heart of the spirit when creating your drink. There are so many dynamic and complex layers of flavour to a spirit like Glenfiddich, pick one and build your cocktail around it.

If you could pick any Glenfiddich variant to take with you on the plane to Scotland if you win, which one would it be?

Definitely the Solera Reserve.

And who would you most like to sit next to and share it with?

My Beautiful girlfriend who had to endure so many tasting sessions to help decide on my signature drink!