Some Info About the Author

For those who are interested in knowing who is publishing this site, here is some information. First, my name is Darcy O'Neil and I have been bartending for just about 2.5 years. I originally studied chemistry for 4 years and worked in a research and development laboratory for six years. I've worked for a pharmacy and a pharmaceutical company and done computer related work. I came upon bartending, partly by chance, and have taken to it like a fish to water. Currently, I'm contributing to the Mixology: The Journal of the American Cocktail Issue 2, and a number of other sites. The next article in Mixologist (released in April 2006) will be about "Sour Mix", so when you see a copy, pick it up.

Here's a quick bio that I use for any articles I publish.

Darcy S. O'Neil was born in Sarnia, Ontario and spent many of those years living near the beach. A cold Canadian beach, but a beach none-the-less. After high school, the decision of a career choice was whittled down to chemistry or the culinary arts. With a little thought, chemistry was the choice. At the time, it seemed logical that laboratory skills were more transferable to the kitchen than cooking skills to the lab. Four years later, he received his diploma in chemistry.

After a six year stint working in a world class oil and gas research facility, the time for change arrived, via a downsizing notice. After a couple of false starts in the pharmaceutical and information technology worlds, the possibility of going to chef school returned. During a period of quite contemplation, and a few drinks, he was whacked with the epiphany stick and the marriage of chemistry and bartending dawned upon him.

With a little research into the world of mixology and a completely stocked home bar, that rivaled many bars, and irritated his wife with all the clutter, the fusion of science and art began. As he rifled through the classic drinks, to modern interpretations, and the occasional vile concoction, the chemistry skills started to refine the art. A whole new world of experimental flavors opened up in a way that satisfied his experimental curiosity and his culinary cravings. A bartender was born.

Currently, Darcy is employed as a bartender and introducing people to great cocktails. He can also be found writing about original cocktail creations and other bartender related topics at www.artofdrink.com.