Welcome to “Under the Influence” our interview series featuring exclusive insights with LA’s movers and shakers. Today we are catching up with Kevin Vanegas, a tequila scholar and Brand Ambassador for Diageo. Kevin is certified by the Columbia University school of Mixology, the Academy of Tequila Catadores, the Mexican Academy of Tequila, and is a certified Catador “Tequila Taster” by the Academy of Tequila Tasters (one of just 50 people in the world with that distinction). Yeah, the dude knows his shit. Kevin relishes his role as a Catador and views it as a way of life…not just a profession.
How did you become a Brand Ambassador?
It started back in NYC where I was a bartender at Centro Fly and Old Homestead Steakhouse, the oldest steakhouse in NYC. I grew an appreciation for drink making and began to work for a company that focused on advertising for alcohol brands.
It was there where I met Alan Katz (now host of “The Cocktail Hour” a weekly segment on Martha Stewart Living Radio). Even though we were in a cramped up office, I was intrigued by these unique cocktails that Alan was putting together. And it was fascinating that he had a legit corporate job where he was making drinks…and he was making a good living doing it.
Alan invited me to start making drinks with unique flavor combinations. So, of course, I did. I knew that I wanted to make it a career so I went on Craigslist, found a job as the brand ambassador for Jose Cuervo, and the rest, as they say, is history…
What is the best and worst part about your job?
Best – Waking up every day and enjoying what I love to do. Going to bed and knowing that I am going to love tomorrow. I love being able to interact with all walks of life, from CEO’s to celebrities to bar patrons. I enjoy the variety of the job. In life, you need to find out what you love to do and make it a job. I am happy to say I did that.
Worst – It absolutely consumes my life. It’s incredibly difficult to be in a relationship because I’m married to the brand. I’m always traveling which can be fun, but it’s also hard. There are definitely lonely nights in hotel rooms where I fall asleep with a glass of tequila instead of a girlfriend.
What do you love about nightlife in LA?
I live on Hollywood and Vine and I love that I can walk anywhere I want to go in Hollywood. I can easily bar hop to 6 different bars in a night.
And the bars are so diverse with a diverse crowd. You can go from a crazy, futuristic club like supperclub and then travel back in time next door with the Writers Room crowd.
I also love that there is always something new to try. Although I have to admit that I’m still adjusting to the fact that venues close at 2 AM. I have to remember to go out earlier now.
Photo Courtesy of supperclub LA
What is your favorite drink in LA?
The Spare Room has a Don Julio 1942 that comes with mango and spice sangrita. Sangrita is the ultimate companion for tequila and this is one of my favorites.
And I always like to try something new with any spirit, especially tequila.
Describe your perfect night on the town.
The night starts with dinner at SLS with friends and celebrities, smoking a 1926 Padron cigar and sipping Jose Cuervo de la Familia with an orange peel and splash of Grand Marinier.
From there we take a town car to the Writers Room for a cocktail. And then, I want to dance. I love to dance and even have my own special dance called the K-Down. I’d head to Beachers Madhouse to show it off. Order a bottle of 1942 and have an Oompa Loompa bring it to the table. Everyone will be smiling.
I will end up in the hills somewhere at a private party for a night tap. And then go home with a cab because when you go out for a night like that, you go out responsibly.
Writer’s Room – Photo Courtesy of LA Times
What not-yet-opened spot are you looking forward to seeing?
Whatever the Houston’s are planning to do with Jane’s House.
Another spot that I am also looking forward to trying is Black Market Liquor.
What nightlife trends are you noticing?
A lot of bars and lounges are moving away from bottle service and serving more punches. Spare room is doing it, as is La Descarga. You get a bottle and have it infused with a flavorful ingredient for the same price; it’s a better deal and experience for the consumer.
Bars are also becoming more and more adventurous in their garnishes using flavors like rosemary and cilantro. People are more inclined to try new things, even with classic cocktails.
Spiked Punch Bowl – Photo Courtesy of Thirsty in LA
Where should Night Tap run the next deal?
I’d love to see a Night Tap pool party event. You could bring a little bit of Vegas to Hollywood. Have a cabana experience with cocktails crafted pool side. Each cabana will craft cocktails from a different spirit. Ice pop margaritas should be involved…
