| MEET THE MIXOLOGIST |

A cocktail alchemist , Mariena Mercer Boarini has been experimenting with molecular mixology since 2007 . She creates multi-sensory experiences complete with “ cham-feign ” foams , show-stopping edible garnishes and liquid nitrogen flourishes . Mercer Boarini , who has won a number of cocktail competitions , was named property mixologist for the Wynn Las Vegas resort in March 2021 .

What was your first job in the beverage or hospitality industry ? Tequila Goddess . Right after my 21st birthday , I was sent to the town of Tequila [ Mexico ] to study tequila in different distilleries . Upon my return to the states , I oversaw the largest tequila selection in Las Vegas , at the time . Tequila will always be my first love , and was certainly the impetus for my spirited career .

What is your favorite spirit to work with at the moment ? Aperitifs . I love the romance , the nuance of flavors and versatility .

What ’ s your current go-to cocktail or beverage ? I ’ m in a rather healthful part of my life , so iced matcha tea is my current staple . I like to throw in lemon verbena or mint with a splash of agave .

You ’ re known as a cocktail alchemist who creates cocktails that are multi-sensory experiences . What are some of the fun things you ’ ve done with drinks recently ? If Picasso had his “ blue ” period , I ’ m in my aromatic period . I ’ m obsessed with the way to manipulate the way we perceive flavor through aromatics . Eighty-percent of flavor is said to come from the olfactory receptors , which can be so overlooked in cocktail experiences .

For Overlook Lounge , Spirits & Aperitifs , our newest cocktail destination at Wynn , I designed a line of “ edible aperitif parfums ” inspired by different glamorous

locales : Milan , Amalfi , Morocco and Paris . Each parfum is misted from a vintage atomizer atop a spritz cocktail , giving it an aromatic identity and layering in flavors and creating a multi-sensory experience .

Any advice or tips for new bartenders or home mixologists who want to add some flair to their cocktails ? I love helping bartenders expand their line of syrups , beyond “ simple .” Adding in a jam , an herb or a medley of dried spices or teas can give such interesting flavors to a cocktail . It ’ s also the easiest thing , with the largest flavor ROI .

What ’ s it like to work at a resort in Las Vegas ? Every day is an adventure in Las Vegas . I adore working in resorts , as I get to meet the most fascinating guests every day that are looking to explore new cocktails and have exciting experiences . As an artist , you couldn ’ t ask for a better platform .

Would you share one of the most popular at Wynn ? The Aurora from Overlook lounge is such an exercise of beauty in simplicity , and it is super easy to replicate at home .

1 ½ oz . Aperol ½ oz . Giffard Passion fruit liqueur Top with 3 oz . Prosecco 1 oz . Soda

Build over ice in a balloon wine glass and stir . Garnish with passion fruit pearls and a grapefruit slice . ( Overlook Lounge adds a spritz of the Amalfi aperitif parfum , with hints of orange blossom , bergamot , grapefruit and sea water , over the top of the drink .)

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