Lauded as a sort of Einstein of mixology, Tony Conigliaro was named 2009 International Bartender of the Year at the New Orleans industry event Tales of the Cocktail. His sought-out 69 Colebrooke Row garnered a nomination for World’s Best Cocktail Bar the following year (he opened the place after working at such sleek establishments as London’s Shochu Lounge and Isola). Blogosphere sensation Todd Selby documented Conigliaro’s science-minded approach for NOWNESS and interviewed him for his signature questionnaire (reproduced above), which includes a blueprint for the rum-driven naval-themed cocktail. Conigliaro is also prepping a new venture at London’s forthcoming Zetter Townhouse, due to open in April 2011.
 
Master at Arms

• 50 ml dark rum
• 20 ml port reduction
• 5 ml grenadine

1.    In a shaker place rock ice, then pour in rum, port reduction and grenadine.
2.    Stir and then strain into small coupette.
3.    To garnish, wrap the stem of the glass with fine string and secure with a sailor's knot.

A handwritten questionnaire is The Selby's signature. To ask him questions of your own, visit our Facebook page here.