When our founder and owner Karen Hoskin hosted the Denver launch of Valentia, she included a stop at American Elm for a rum education event. She’s a big fan of Bar Manager Jesse Torres, and has also been impressed by the number of female bartenders. (Believe it or not, that can still be rare!) In this Bartender feature we get to meet the female bartenders of American Elm:

Jordan Hutchison

Years bartending: 5 total, 2 years craft

On Craft Bartending: 

The intention behind craft bartending is really quite beautiful. When I was in my early 20s and didn't fully understand the complexity of craft cocktails, I was thrown off by the time it took to prepare some of the cocktails because I didn't fully understand what went into making them. Craft bartending really is full of so much thought and creativity and allows you to not only enjoy the taste of the drink, but to enjoy the entire experience of it.

What sets our bar program apart: 

Our leader, Jesse Torres. My level of knowledge and my experience has grown so much in just five months and that's in large part to him. The intention he's placed within our bar program, in my opinion, makes it the best bar program in Denver. Not only that, he pours so much of himself into training and equipping his bar staff, not only for the benefit of the restaurant, but to allow us to better our craft as well. 

When it comes to craft cocktails I wish more people knew: 

Again, INTENTION. I wish more people knew the intention behind each craft cocktail. These aren't thrown together drinks that are quick and taste mediocre. Every ingredient is thought out, down to the garnish. The syrups made in house, the juices juiced fresh daily, crushed ice vs cubes, the glassware used for serving, it's all been thought through because that was the intention. To elevate the palette and the experience, to submerge you in the experience. 

A book I can’t put down and a true obsession: 

Any book by Anne Bishop has me turning the pages faster than my eyes can keep up. My true obsession though is my puppy, Hazel. She's the love of my life. 

Megan Juntunen

Years Bartending: 3

On Craft Bartending:

It is a great fusion of front and back of house, with the opportunity to provide excellent hospitality in a task-oriented environment. I love the creative outlet it provides, the constant opportunity for knowledge and growth, and the rich community of others who love it.

What sets our bar program apart:

We have a wonderful range of spirits, particularly in the cane and agave categories, which provides the opportunity to introduce guests to new things, as well as to continue our personal education. Our team is close-knit and passionate, and they make every day at work a pleasure. With our location and clientele, we also have the unique setting of providing high-quality and unique craft cocktails in a laid-back neighborhood bar environment.

When it comes to craft cocktails I wish more people knew:

First of all, that all distilled spirits are gluten free. But mainly that it shouldn't be a lofty or pretentious category of drinks; any good bartender is here to make great cocktails accessible, and to connect with the guest to find something that perfectly fits what they're looking for, whether familiar or adventurous.


Most Memorable Cocktail Experience
Being a baby server in the industry and going to a local whiskey bar in my hometown. It sparked the passion I have for spirits and hospitality, and set a foundation in my education.

Album I’ve been playing on repeat:

Phantoms by Marianas Trench. Since their show in Denver last year, it's been a constant part of my musical rotation.

Kelcie Phinney

Years Bartending: About 5

From Wisconsin to American Elm:
I have mostly worked in pubs and sports bars back home in Wisconsin, but now I have gotten the exciting opportunity to branch out and develop new skills and knowledge at American Elm! I learn something new every day at the Elm and get the chance to work with so many of the best spirits, ingredients, and dedicated bartenders I could ever ask for!.

What sets our bar program apart:

The time and effort that has been put into creating the vast bar menu at the Elm has something for each and every cocktail lover out there! On the off chance that a cocktail isn’t catching someone’s eye, we have the tools to create a cocktail to their liking on the spot.

When it comes to craft cocktails I wish more people knew:
How fun they are to create! They take time and knowledge to execute correctly, but it’s like a science to create something that is to the liking of your particular guest every time. 

A book I can’t put down and music I’ve been playing on repeat: I really enjoy poetry books and the one I’ve been reading lately is The Sun and Her Flowers by Rupi Kuar. An artist I have not been able to stop listening to lately is Chelsea Cutler, her melodic music really resonates with me!

A Recipe Using Montanya Rum

Spicy Daiquri:

1oz Montanya Rum
1 oz Real McCoy
3yr Rum (sub for any)
3/4 oz fresh lime juice
Just over half an oz of Cane Syrup
2 drops Saline.

For spice add 3-4 dashes of Montanya Pineapple Habanero bitters. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled coupe, and garnish with a sexy lime wheel!