Shows
The BuildoutClemente BarWhy would one of the most celebrated restaurants in the world — Eleven Madison Park — open a cocktail bar? Turns out the answer isn’t “because they can.”In this episode, Adam sits down with EMP Beverage Director Sebastian Tollius to unpack the story behind Clemente Bar: how it came to life, what it means to build a bar through a three–Michelin-star lens, and the standards that carry over from the dining room to the glass. They also get into the relationship Tollius developed with Chef Daniel Humm — and how that partnership ultimately made the bar possible.
2026-01-2152 min
Drinks At Work with Sam BygraveSebastian Tollius talks Clemente Bar, Eleven Madison Park, Maybe Cocktail FestivalSam Bygrave speaks with Sebastian Tollius, the beverage director New York’s Clemente Bar and Eleven Madison Park. We discuss the evolution of cocktail culture, the importance of creating unique bar experiences, and the collaborative nature of crafting cocktails that pair beautifully with food. Sebastian shares insights into his journey from Boston to New York, the challenges of maintaining high standards in a fine dining environment, and the significance of community in the bartending world — as well as what makes a great bar and what he looks for in a bartender.
2025-04-0225 min
VinePair PodcastThe Murky Etiquette of Bringing BottlesWith the holiday season upon us, one of the more sticky bits of drinks-related etiquette is coming once again to the forefront for many - should you bring a bottle (or more) to a gathering, and most of all, should you expect the host(s) to open that bottle with you there? Adam, Joanna, and Zach share their own perspectives and experiences with this fraught scenario. Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review VinePair on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your episodes, and send any questions, comments, critiques, or suggestions to podcast@vinepair.com. Thanks for...
2024-11-2831 min
Beyond the PlateBeyond the Drink: Sebastian Tollius on crafting cocktails that harmonize with a plant-based menuFor our Beyond the Drink season finale, we sit down with Sebastian Tollius, a globally renowned beverage director known for crafting exceptional hospitality and cocktail experiences. From his work at Eleven Madison Park and Clemente Bar in New York City, Sebastian shares his innovative approach to his beverage programs. He discusses the artistry of pairing flavors with gin, his dedication to reducing waste, and his commitment to sourcing responsibly. Beyond the bar, Sebastian discusses his impactful work with Rethink Food and their support of underserved communities. He also opens up about his passion for mentoring young bartenders, helping them...
2024-11-2033 min
The BuildoutThe (Re)ManhattanSebastian Tollius, beverage director of New York's Eleven Madison Park, joins us today to re-examine one of the world's most iconic cocktails: the Manhattan. More than 100 episodes have passed since we first covered this drink, and on this go-round, we're diving into both bourbon and rye recipes, modern interpretations, dubious histories, cocktail carts, and much, much more. Listen on, or read below, to learn Sebastian's Manhattan recipe(s) — and don't forget to like, review, and subscribe!Rye Manhattan Recipe Ingredients Angostura Bitters: 4 dashes (precision dasher) or 2 dashes in regular bottle2 ½ ounces Michter’s rye...
2024-04-041h 02