Winston Greene shakes up some fizzy, frothy, bubbly, uplifting cocktails with New Mexico’s iconic International Balloon Fiesta in mind. Celebrate the blue skies and open horizons of autumn with his blue-sky happy hour strategies.
Winston Greene and Tonic Santa Fe
Winston Greene, owner of Tonic Santa Fe, has an unwavering love for all things handmade. From his early days in bustling kitchens to his journey into bartending, he has stayed captivated by the craft of making cocktails and the value of slowing down.
Moreover, cocktails—with their careful balance of flavors and textures—have become his canvas. At Tonic, he brings artistry to every detail: the food, the atmosphere, and, of course, the drinks. As a result, creating something special that rises above the ordinary has become his guiding principle.
The Spirit of the Bar
Beyond the drinks themselves, Winston cherishes the unique magic of bartending. He sees the bar as a place unlike any other in American life. Here, strangers relax, share stories, and build connections. In fact, the clink of glasses often becomes the backdrop for new friendships and lasting bonds.
Because of this, it felt natural to turn to Winston for inspiration tied to the International Balloon Fiesta. What better way to honor the event than with cocktails that mirror the joy and lift of the balloons themselves?
Cocktails That Celebrate the International Balloon Fiesta
The Dawnstar
A refreshing mix of mint, strawberry leaf, dry sherry, bitter tonic, and aquavit. Its bright flavors with a touch of bitterness surprise and delight the palate.
Harris & Lewis
A playful blend of pineapple, guava, falernum, coriander, and scotch. The mix feels like palm trees and bagpipes coming together in one adventurous sip.
The Zorzal
A bold twist on the Paloma. Anejo tequila, milk oolong, grapefruit, red bitter, and soda deliver explosive flavor while balancing tradition with modern flair.
Army & Navy
A gin sour lifted by homemade roasted-almond orgeat. Fresh lemon, Indian gin, and cardamom bitters add depth and a seasonal twist.
The Myrna Loy
A light, elegant favorite made with vodka, passion fruit juice, cranberry syrup, and sparkling wine. Simple, fruity, and timeless.
Ultimately, Winston’s creations remind us that cocktails can both celebrate tradition and capture a sense of wonder. So, sip, savor, and let these inspired drinks lift you into the joy of the Balloon Fiesta skies.
Recipes by Winston Greene
Story by Gabe Gomez
Photography by Tira Howard
Styling by Alex Hanna
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