As one of the world’s leading bartenders, Salvatore Calabrese is an award-winning global powerhouse – a consultant for select brands, a sought-after judge for worldwide competitions, and former President of the United Kingdom Bartenders’ Guild. His best-selling books and barware products exemplify the quality, talent, and experience he brings to the industry. Salvatore began developing his passion for combining flavors at an early age, during his time working in a bar in Maiori village on Italy’s Amalfi Coast.

He moved to London and found himself at Duke’s Hotel, where he developed a niche market for rare and aged cognacs, beginning a concept he dubbed Liquid History.

Do check out his video on making the world’s most expensive cocktail at The Playboy Club in Mayfair from 40ml of 1788 Clos de Griffier Vieux Cognac, 20ml of 1770 Kummel Liqueur, 20ml of 1860 Dubb Orange Curacao.

Salvatore Calabrese making the most expensive cocktail at the Playboy Club in Mayfair

Inspired by the great classic cocktails, Salvatore’s skills as a mixologist soon prompted the name by which he is affectionately known today – The Maestro. As befitting such a title, his experiments with new liqueurs, old and new spirits, and fresh juices have resulted in exotic cocktails that have become modern classics in their own right. Known for his flair, style, and presence, Salvatore is also responsible for the world’s most expensive cocktail, mixed at The Playboy Club in Mayfair and worth £5,500 per glass. Salvatore’s Legacy is also the world’s oldest cocktail, containing rare liqueurs with a combined age of 730 years. The legacy, like the man himself, is something a bit special.

Salvatore Calabrese is the bestselling author of 10 books and a past president of the UK Bartenders' Guild. He has received the Tales of the Cocktail Helen David Lifetime Achievement Award and the Imbibe Industry Legend Award.