Maksim Abramov is the Head Bartender of Domashniy in Almaty. He makes us two cocktails, one with Gin and Lemon Cordial and the second with Vodka and Butterscotch Liquor.
Maksim introduce yourself
My name is Maksim Abramov. I’m a bartender at Domashniy Bar. I was born in Novosibirsk in 2000. While I was studying to become an engineer, I took a part-time job at a bar run by friends. That’s where I realised the bar industry was much more interesting and profound than just a summer gig. Later, when I moved to Kazakhstan and started working at Domashniy Bar, I met my current colleague Dmitry, and together we co-founded the project Weird Mixology at Domashniy, our cocktail menu is inspired by the contents of a regular fridge and the basic ingredients you’d find in any home.
The classic you want to show us
Cuppa Tea
40ml of Gin infused with Black Tea
50ml of Tea and Lemon Cordial
70ml of Soda Water
The bar you dream of
For my dream bar, I’d love to find a space that combines a touch of decay with historical character. It should be noisy and full of life, but with refined cocktails. I’d love to have a large collection of craft infusions and a variety of glassware. I’m especially into unique glassware — it doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should have a story behind it. For example, at Domashniy, we use glassware from Japanese second-hand shops, but it’s not always easy to find something interesting.
What do you do in your time off
I don’t have a lot of free time, but when I have some, I just enjoy spending it with my friends or watching some series at home.
The spirit you like the most
I think wine and soju are my favourite spirits to work with. I love creating drinks with wine-like profiles — they pair beautifully with aged spirits.
What makes a good cocktail
Any cocktail needs to have that wow moment — whether it comes from an unexpected flavour combination or a creative presentation.
What ingredient do you enjoy using in a cocktail
Cumin! Just 5 ml of vodka infused with cumin can add an amazing spicy note to a drink. For me, cumin is the new passionfruit.
The signature cocktail you want to show us
Falsy Yogurt
30ml of Vodka infused with Ryazhenka
30ml of Vodka infused with Black Currant
10ml of Butterscotch Liquor
10ml of Sugar Syrup
80ml of Fresh Cream (10% Fat)
Where do you think we need to go to interview another bartender
If you’re ever in Almaty, be sure to visit Atelier. And if you’re in Belgrade, I highly recommend visiting two places with great people and atmosphere: Null Social Lab and Beogradski Koktel Klub.