Meet our friend Marili, better known on Instagram as @spirited_marilita, and learn more about her reputation for using edible flowers and herbs in her cocktails.

Name:
Marili Hellmund

Location:
New York

Go-To Cocktail:
Margarita (I love tequila/Mezcal cocktails!)

Instagram:
@spirited_marilita

Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you first get into mixology? Who/what/where taught you what you know?

It all started years ago when I went to a restaurant in NYC and ordered their signature cocktail “Blue Fin.” I asked the bartender to show me how to make it and as he prepared the cocktail we talked about cocktails and bartending. I immediately bought a cocktail shaker and started making cocktails for family and friends. In order to expand my repertoire, I began researching cocktail recipes and started experimenting with different ingredients. My home bar slowly took shape as I acquired tools, spirits, and bitters. In order to broaden my knowledge and learn proper techniques, I took a several mixology classes at Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in NYC. 

About two years ago my family convinced me to open an Instagram account to share cocktail recipes and Spirited Marilita was born. I am an avid supporter of local farms and distilleries. I love to garden so I have an abundant source of herbs and edible flowers to pick for my cocktails. This is very important to me because I like to use fresh ingredients in my cocktails. I also love to infuse spirits and make syrups and juices.

What are you excited about in the world of mixology right now?

There are a lot of new trends and exciting things happening in the world of mixology. There is a profusion of complex cocktails using infusions and unexpected ingredients. There are a lot of new products and spirits used in cocktails to delight the senses. There is a trend to create visually impacting cocktails with the use of unusual garnishes and glassware. I love glasses and will find any excuse to acquire new ones (I am known for my glassware collection). I believe that cocktail presentation is as important as the ingredients. Cocktails should be crafted with care and attention to detail with quality ingredients and a beautiful presentation.  For me a cocktail is a journey in a glass that will take you to unexpected places, delight the senses, and create wonderful memories.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

Inspiration is everywhere! A new spirit or mixer, an interesting fruit or vegetable at the supermarket, local distilleries, books, and industry trends. A major source of inspiration comes from my fellow mixologists, local bars, and my followers.  I am very fortunate to be part of this amazing community where I have found kindred spirits who are passionate about their craft and who love to share ideas, recipes, techniques, and tips. Through #drinkstagram I have met the most wonderful group of people many of whom have become very good friends. I can’t begin to describe the joy I feel when my followers add a comment, save a recipe, and reshake a cocktail.

What is one recipe that you created on your own that you’re really proud of?

I love to forage edible flowers (I am well known around my street for asking my neighbors permission to clip flowering fronds). In the Spring you can see me walking around with my clippers and a basket. For this cocktail I used magnolias which are beautiful and are known to lower anxiety and stress (who knew). They are sweet, floral and a fantastic addition to a cocktail.

La Magnolia

  • 2 oz. Reposado Tequila
  • 1/2 oz. Cointreau
  • 1/2 oz. Freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 oz. Magnolia syrup

Shake all the ingredients in a shaker with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with magnolia petals. 

Magnolia Syrup 1 cup of petals (2 cups for stronger syrup), 1 cup water, and 1 cup sugar, Rinse petals set aside. In a saucepan bring water to a boil; add petals and sugar. Simmer at very low heat for about 20 minutes. Fine strain into a glass jar with a lid and refrigerate.