Local cocktail king and expat Dez O’Connell’s on a mission to showcase and make the most of the local firewater, pálinka, by adding a perhaps surprising twist. At the recently launched Pálinka Shake Up Party series, he’ll be shaking and blending the best of the Magyar high-proofer into a range of top-notch cocktails, all in the aid of a fine few drams and a good time. We caught up with Dez to find out more about the events, and how he’ll be mixing up the fruity fiend.
What pálinkas will you be showcasing?
Tarpa pálinkas from the village of Tarpa, right out East, only 7kms from the Ukrainian border. They produce a wide selection, but for the cocktails I’ll be using the Szatmári Plum, the Szabolcsi Apple, the Apricot, Willams Pear, Cherry and Royal Tokaji Aszú grape varieties.
Have you observed a growing interest in the use of pálinka in cocktails here?
We have showcased our cocktails all over Hungary, and the response has been extremely positive. I have seen a few bartenders mixing with pálinka, but it’s still not that common.
Have you noticed and do you expect to see a growing interest in pálinka outside of Hungary?
If I’ve got anything to do with it, then yes! We are in talks with some spirits specialist wholesalers in the UK, and in Italy and Germany there is already a small market. Generally though, compared to Grappa and Eau-de-vie (which have some similarities to pálinka), there is hardly any exporting going on.
What kinds of cocktails can people expect on the night?
Well made, fresh drinks that express the pálinka fruits and make them accessible for non-pálinka drinkers!
And what kind of crowd do you expect?
Good people who appreciate a good drink. A significant ex-pat crowd and foodies.
Will people be able to have a go at making the cocktails themselves on the night?
Not really, but you never know! If the mood fits…
It’ll be on a Friday – can we expect a party atmosphere, and is there any live music lined up?
No live music I’m afraid… a party atmosphere yes, but more lounge bar than Coyote Ugly…
And what kind of atmosphere can we expect from the venue?
The Aqua Bar at the Marriott is stylish without being imposing or pretentious. It’s in a great location on the river, with great views. On the night, I’m the host as well as the bartender and I hope everyone feels like they’re being brought to the bar to chat, taste and meet new folks.
„Palinka Shake Up!”
Aqua Bar at the Marriott Hotel, Budapest
Friday 27th November – 19.00 to midnight.
Showcasing the versatility of Tarpa Palinka and regularly bringing together good people who appreciate a good drink.
All Palinka cocktails 1680 Ft. Complimentary Tarpa Palinka tasting.
Bar food and other drinks available.
The Aqua Bar – Marriott Hotel
1052 Budapest, Apaczai Csere Janos utca 4.
Tel.: +36.1.486.5000
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/budhu-budapest-marriott-hotel/