The art of crafting cocktails extends beyond the bar; it has morphed into a captivating fusion of chemistry and creativity akin to a scientific laboratory. As the cocktail revolution gains momentum, pioneers like Iain McPherson, the mastermind behind Edinburgh’s renowned bar, Panda and Sons, are redefining mixology with innovative techniques that elevate flavors to extraordinary levels. Through endless experimentation within the confines of their so-called “Brain Melting Society,” a basement laboratory immersed in chill, McPherson and his team unveil groundbreaking methods that make heads turn in the mixology community.
Since its inception in 2013, Panda and Sons has secured its spot as a beacon of creativity and excellence within the bustling speakeasy scene. The bar’s recent recognition as the 30th establishment in the esteemed World’s 50 Best Bars awards for 2024 marks yet another milestone in its ascendant trajectory. What makes this year even more special for McPherson is receiving the prestigious Altos Bartender’s Bartender of the Year award—an honor that signifies not just individual excellence, but the synergy and teamwork that thrive within the establishment. McPherson’s reflection on this accolade underscores a vital truth in the hospitality industry: success is a collective achievement. “It’s less about me and more about the talent and dedication of my team,” he expressed, highlighting the collaborative spirit that breathes life into each cocktail.
In a dramatic leap forward, Panda and Sons introduced its latest cocktail menu, titled “Transcend,” exemplifying five years of meticulous research conducted in their lab. This menu showcases an impressive array of 16 cocktails partitioned into four distinct chapters: Switching, Sous Pression, Freeze Drying, and Cryo-Concentration. Each segment delves into innovative freezing techniques that either enrich or manipulate the flavors within various spirits. The creation of “Switching,” for instance, stands out as McPherson pioneers the extraction of water from a spirit, substituting it with alternate flavors—an ingenious method inspired during his exploration of Eisbock beer in 2019.
Recognizing the nuance of frozen elements in flavor composition prompted McPherson to broaden his understanding of cryogenic science, ultimately leading him to enroll in specialized courses at esteemed institutions such as the University of Reading and Bologna’s Carpigiani Gelato University. These experiences have cemented his approach to mixology, where the pursuit of scientific knowledge meets artistic expression. “Understanding the mechanics behind freezing has allowed me to manipulate flavor extraction in unprecedented ways,” said McPherson, illustrating the intricacies of his craft.
Transitioning through the chapters of the Transcend menu, each technique offers a fresh lens on enhancing drink profiles. “Sous Pression,” an avant-garde process reminiscent of sous vide, utilizes subzero temperatures to achieve superior flavor infusion. On the other hand, “Freeze Drying” serves as a sophisticated partner to traditional dehydration methods, reintroducing dried ingredients while preserving their quintessence. Meanwhile, “Cryo-Concentration” accurately exemplifies how removing frozen water from a mixture intensifies flavors, letting essential elements shine through—acids, salts, and sugars are honed into a striking balance.
These methods have generated enthusiasm not only locally but also globally, as McPherson actively disseminates his knowledge via master classes and bar takeovers around the world. His humility and astonishment at the rapid adoption of these techniques signify a growing acceptance of scientific methodologies in mixology. “It’s gratifying to see bartenders embrace these concepts; they represent an evolution in our craft,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and development.
As the bar community watches with anticipation, the team at Panda and Sons is already considering how to evolve the Transcend menu further, hinting at potential additions that might include ice cream-inspired cocktails. The doors remain open for exploration, and the excitement lies in what lies ahead. With a commitment to blending tradition with trail-blazing techniques, McPherson and his adept team are not just crafting cocktails—they are forging a new path in the annals of mixology, one frozen creation at a time.