{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/65fdb820b5218f001713c89b/66f1c5af6f9d68541beef35b?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"017: Exploring Vermouth: Mark Ward’s Journey from Bartender to Brand Founder","description":"<p>In this episode of the <strong>Cocktail Academy Podcast</strong>, Damian Cole interviews <strong>Mark Ward</strong>, the founder of <strong>Regal Rogue</strong>, one of Australia’s leading <strong>vermouth brands</strong>. Mark takes us through his fascinating journey from working in <strong>nightclubs</strong> and <strong>corporate London</strong> to creating his own <strong>vermouth brand</strong> in Australia. He shares the challenges and successes of launching <strong>Regal Rogue</strong> as the first <strong>Australian vermouth</strong> in over 20 years and discusses the growing global interest in vermouth. This episode dives deep into vermouth’s history, how to enjoy it, and the future of this exciting <strong>craft spirits</strong> category.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Topics Discussed:</strong></p><p><strong>Mark’s Journey into the Cocktail Industry:</strong></p><ul><li>How Mark transitioned from working in tech during the <strong>2000 tech crash</strong> to pursuing his passion for cocktails and spirits.</li><li>His time at the famous <strong>Hush Bar</strong> in Mayfair, London, and how he developed his love for <strong>vermouth</strong> and cocktail making.</li></ul><p><strong>Creating Regal Rogue:</strong></p><ul><li>The story of how Mark launched <strong>Regal Rogue</strong>, the first Australian vermouth brand in over 20 years.</li><li>The evolution of the vermouth category, from a misunderstood product to a <strong>low-alcohol, versatile cocktail ingredient</strong>.</li></ul><p><strong>The Global Vermouth Movement:</strong></p><ul><li>How vermouth is becoming popular across the world, from <strong>Europe</strong> to <strong>Australia</strong>.</li><li>The variety and creativity within vermouth-making, including Mark's use of <strong>Australian botanicals</strong> and <strong>organic wines</strong>.</li></ul><p><strong>The Challenges of Growing a Brand:</strong></p><ul><li>Mark discusses the difficulties of navigating a 14-year journey as an entrepreneur in the <strong>craft spirits industry</strong>.</li><li>The impact of sustainability on Regal Rogue’s growth, including the use of <strong>recycled glass bottles</strong>, <strong>organic ingredients</strong>, and the introduction of <strong>bag-in-box packaging</strong> for the hospitality industry.</li></ul><p><strong>The Future of Vermouth and Cocktails:</strong></p><ul><li>Mark’s thoughts on how <strong>vermouth</strong> fits into the current trend of <strong>low-alcohol cocktails</strong> and <strong>responsible drinking</strong>.</li><li>The role of <strong>innovation</strong> in vermouth production and how bartenders and consumers can explore new flavors and combinations.</li></ul><p><strong>Quotable Moments:</strong></p><ul><li>\"Vermouth is a sleeping giant in the world of spirits; it’s perfect for responsible drinking and layering flavors in cocktails.\" – Mark Ward</li><li>\"The journey of a brand isn't just about the liquid, it's about personal growth and navigating the challenges of the industry.\" – Mark Ward</li></ul><p><strong>Guest Contact Information:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Instagram:</strong> <a href=\"https://instagram.com/gallivantingrogue\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">@gallivantingrogue</a></li><li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href=\"https://regalrogue.com\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Regal Rogue</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to the <strong>Cocktail Academy Podcast</strong> for more engaging conversations with industry leaders in <strong>cocktails</strong> and <strong>craft spirits</strong>. You can also follow Mark Ward and <strong>Regal Rogue</strong> to learn more about vermouth and its exciting future in the cocktail world.</p>","author_name":"Damian Cole"}