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Karl Tessendorf

Writer

Karl is a talented writer and recipe developer with a passion for the history of food and drink. He produced and starred in a TV series about craft beer and BBQ culture. He’s also written two recipe books about cooking over fire, and he loves to eat, drink and be merry.

Favourite Cocktail: I’m a seasonal drinker so it’s always changing but you can’t go wrong with a Caipirinha or a Negroni. Lime is my favourite citrus and I love its fresh zing on a hot summer’s day. And a Negroni, well it’s a Negroni—so what more is there to say?

Best Mixer Tip: If you’re just starting out in the world of cocktails then my advice is to always keep it simple. There are so many classic cocktails that are easy to make with just a few ingredients. They’re iconic for a reason so before you buy a fancy smoke machine for infusing cocktails, delve into the classics. You won’t be disappointed.

Top cocktails Karl thinks you should make:

5 min Easy

Between the Sheets Cocktail

5 min Easy

Americano Cocktail Recipe

5 min Easy

Black Manhattan Recipe

5 min Medium

Boulevardier Cocktail Recipe

5 min Easy

Mudslide Cocktail Recipe

Karl's articles

Modern Happy Hour Hosting: How People Are Drinking Together in 2026

What happy hour looks like in 2026 Cocktail culture is always evolving, and with it, the rituals that surround it. Happy hour is a long-standing tradition, and for the most part, it comes with a set of rules. It usually takes place at a set time with a predictable lineup of drinks in a crowded […]

How to Adapt Negronis for Summer

What makes the Negroni so adaptable? When it comes to classic cocktail builds, the Negroni is the poster child. With equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it’s the perfect balance of big, bold, and bittersweet flavours. Because it relies on equal ratios, it’s easy to experiment with and adapt while keeping its soul. A summer Negroni takes this a step further while adding a touch of hot-weather flair. […]

Passion Fruit vs Guava Cocktails: Which Fruit Is Defining 2026?

Why fruit-forward cocktails are defining 2026 2026 is reaching cruising altitude, and in the drinks world, fruit-forward cocktails continue to soar. Passion fruit cocktails and guava cocktails have emerged as tasty favourites with unique skill sets. While they couldn’t be more different, both fruits deliver a sense of tropical escapism without crash landing into excess. They’re vibrant yet balanced and offer sharpness, acidity, softness, and texture without relying on syrupy sweetness. […]

The Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (Featuring Wild Turkey)

What is the Kentucky Bourbon Trail? For fans of liquid gold aged in charred new oak barrels, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is an essential pilgrimage. Stretching from Louisville to Lexington, it’s a collection of distillery experiences across the state that’s designed to showcase the best of bourbon. You’ll see how it’s made, what makes it so special, and why Kentucky still produces 95% of the world’s supply. […]

Winter Spritz Alternatives: Light & Bittersweet Cocktails for Colder Months

Why the spritz isn’t just for summer Spritzes may shine in summer, but that doesn’t mean they can’t add a little sparkle to any winter gathering. A well-thought-out cold-weather spritz, jazzed up with seasonal flavours, is every bit as satisfying as sitting in your favourite Aperol café at sunset. They add style and sass to any occasion, even if it’s just a casual Friday movie night. What makes the spritz […]

Traditional Tequila Cocktails You Should Know

What makes a tequila cocktail “traditional”? There are many tequila cocktail recipes, but only a handful can be considered “traditional.” We’re talking iconic shakes, pours, or mixes that transcend eras and cultural borders. The cocktails that have stood the test of time and helped define the cocktail landscape. From bars in Mexico to America and eventually the world, traditional tequila cocktails have become firm favourites on cocktail menus everywhere. Classic tequila drinks are […]