David Cunningham, bar manager at The Butchershop Bar & Grill, is sharing his trade secrets with STV Glasgow and has put together a month long series of cocktail recipes that will inspire you to be more creative when you’re entertaining.

David is an experienced cocktail conjurer, having worked at Arta and Citation in the Merchant City before establishing himself at the Butchershop after taking a HND in hospitality management.

Johnstone-born David says he always wanted to join the hospitality industry: "I was hooked as soon as I walked through the door. I loved the atmosphere and the customer interaction and being part of their night out.

"It’s one of the most people-centred industries and it also allows me to share my passion about cocktails to both staff and customers.

"I know I’ve done my job when I see an instant smile on the face of a customer who’s drinking a concoction I’ve made."

He first learned his trade by making a Kir Royal – which is Crème de Cassis topped with champagne – but thinks that the needs of customers have changed over the years: "I think customers are more experimental and are looking to gain more knowledge and understanding.

"I’ve found more people willing to try different drinks even though the spirits are not what they would usually have.

"Sure they still like to watch a bit of flair but there is a lot more interest in the drink products and their history nowadays."

The creativity and attention to detail is what David says attracted him to cocktail making: "It’s all about the finer details. Plenty of ice, clean and polished glassware, fresh fruits, the balance of flavours, the quantity of alcohol and beautiful garnishes are all important."

David has compiled four cocktails for STV Glasgow readers to try at home over the next four weeks and says that everyone should be able to give them a go and not be scared to try their own ideas: "The presentation of your drink should also be considered.

"But it’s also good to remember that the recipe is a guideline and dependant on your taste, so you can deviate from this. If you want to add more ingredients then just try it."

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