Mixology Spirit: Madison Taylor
We’re always inspired by the charm of Essex, Connecticut—and it’s even better when we have an excuse to visit. So, when the opportunity came up to interview Madison Taylor of Surfridge Brewery, we jumped at the chance to hit the road. Nestled in the historic Witch Hazel Works property near the scenic Connecticut River and steps from downtown Essex, the brewery is a hidden gem. Madison welcomed us with her signature creativity, sharing stories of her bartending journey and passion for crafting delicious cocktails. She even treated us to her inventive creation, “The B6 Juicer,” featuring our platinum-medal-winning Agave Spirits. Dive into the full interview below to discover Madison’s unique path, fresh insights, and her philosophy on inviting greatness, fulfillment, and success into life.
Batchers: It’s nice to meet you, Madison. Can you please introduce yourself to our audience and let everyone know what your role is at Surfridge Brewing Company?
Madison: Hello, my name is Madison Taylor and I am the manager and team leader behind the bar at Surfridge Brewery. My role includes, but is not limited to, curating our seasonal cocktail menus, fostering great relationships and rapport with our guests, and leading a great team. Our team runs like a well-oiled machine because we’re all focused on respect, communicating effectively, and honoring a deep appreciation of our craft.
Batchers: For those not familiar with Surfridge Brewing Co., please tell our audience a little bit about it and what makes it unique.
Madison: If you’ve never been to Surfridge Brewery, you’re missing out! Surfridge is known for a relaxed atmosphere that embodies a blend of East coast and West coast esthetics. Tucked away in Building Number Three at Witch Hazel Works and walking distance from the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, we have a distinctive vibe. From craft beer, wood fired pizza, and delicious craft cocktails, we have something for everyone. We’ve built a reputation as a family-friendly destination that is casual and comfortable, with an elevated menu anyone can enjoy.
Batchers: What inspired you to become a bartender? How long have you been working behind the bar?
Madison: Like many of my fellow industry mates, I kind of fell into the craft by accident. Back in my early days, I started working in a pizza house as a server/host and grew into increasing roles of responsibility across different kinds of establishments, from a high-end smokehouse to an Irish dive to a nightlife hotspot. I’ve been working behind the bar for over 17 years. It’s crazy to thing about that…I guess I’ve been around a minute!
Batchers: Do you have a particular approach or method when it comes to creating your own cocktail recipes?
Madison: My approach to creating cocktails could be described as “all over the place.” Often, my cocktails are the result of a random thought that triggers a moment of inspiration. On other occasions, I might forage for ideas in the kitchen—the Mecca of fresh ingredients and the heart of possibilities!
Batchers: What is something unique about you that folks might not realize without knowing you well?
Madison: Oh, this one is fun for me. For starters, I am sober…the sober bartender. I think this always surprises people. Yes, it’s possible to create well-balanced cocktails as a sober mixologist and love what you do. There is no difference in my day-to-day approach to creating drinks as I’ve nailed down the fundamentals of a great craft cocktail. If anything, my methods have changed for the better. I am more focused on method—making unique, adventurous mocktails that can be transformed into a cocktail, if so desired. I love the challenge of crafting tasty beverages that are delicious before and after the addition of a spirit. I also have a fantastic team of professionals who help with tasting and fine tuning to help me achieve the perfect balance of ingredients.
Batchers: Got a fun story about a really hard night behind the bar?
Madison: Thinking back over the last 17 years, one day really stands out: Father’s Day 2024. That day, the town of Essex lost power about five minutes before we opened for our big Father’s Day event. As you might imagine, the day quickly unraveled into utter chaos. When the doors opened and guests flooded in, we realized we would have to come up with a plan B—and fast. I remember watching some of the staff crumbling under the pressure while the rest of us carried on. Sprinkled in between all the chaos were moments of laughter and a resigned acceptance that “it is what it is, so let’s make the best of it.” I suppose some of us are meant for this industry and moments like that one really solidified it for me.
Batchers: When you’re not working at Surfridge, what do you like to do for fun?
Madison: When I am not behind the bar, my love and passion is jujitsu. I share this special interest with my seven-year-old son, who is also a practitioner of jujitsu. There’s a special connection that we share through this resilience-building art. Jujitsu keeps me young in my mind and humble in my heart. The challenge is mental, physical and spiritual. Nothing humbles you faster than getting crushed on the mat time and time again until you learn skills to survive and change the narrative. It’s much like life in that way. The pursuit of knowledge and embracing change often lead to new a pathway, a new chapter — a process that repeats as change is inevitable, making adaption essential.
Batchers: What is your favorite Litchfield Distillery spirit to build cocktails with (and why)?
Madison: My all time favorite Litchfield Distillery spirit is their Barrel-Finished Gin. Early on in my bartending career, I did not have a proper appreciation of gin and the spectrum of flavor that is so vast across the category. Litchfield’s fabulous Barrel-Finished Gin has been my primary tool for turning non-gin drinkers into gin appreciators. With its light, herbal body and sweetness, it has the ability to change someone’s mind about gin. It has been the spirit behind my top creations. It’s a spirit for those who may be weary of gin but curious of delicious possibilities.
Batchers: What does The Spirit of Hard Work® mean to you?
Madison: Any true work of greatness is always backed by an intense passion and love of “that thing.” To embody The Spirit of Hard Work passion must be be overwhelming in nature—a driving force. The result? Something beautiful will be born. To work hard is to just work hard. To work hard with passion and spirit is to invite greatness, fulfillment, and success. This has always been my way of thinking…always follow the passion and The Spirit of Hard Work will come naturally.
Madison’s featured cocktail, “The B6 Juicer,” is a masterclass in balance. Every bartender aspires to harmonize flavors, and Madison nails it with this recipe. It’s smooth and easy-drinking, yet each sip bursts with complexity. The Agave Spirits bring signature peppery, earthy notes, while lime juice adds bright citrus acidity. Carrot juice lends a subtle sweetness, and the ginger syrup, jalapeño liqueur, and chile rim create a bold, evolving spicy finish. We loved it and think it’s the perfect cocktail to enjoy this fall—and well beyond!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Litchfield Distillery Agave Syrup
- 0.75 oz Ancho Chili Syrup
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 0.75 oz Carrot Juice
- 0.25 oz Ginger Syrup
- 1 Bar Spoon Fruitful Smoked Jalapeño Liqueur
- Rim: Salt, Togarashi, Sugar
Method: Add all ingredients in a shaker (except rim ingredients), and shake. Strain over fresh ice into rimmed collins glass. Garnish with shaved carrot peel.
To learn more about Surfridge Brewing Co., visit their website and connect with them on Facebook or Instagram. The brewery is located at 6 Main Street, Building 3 in Centerbrook, CT. To contact, please call (860)-662-4038.
****
About Mixology Spirit:
Mixology Spirit is a Litchfield Distillery blog series dedicated to sharing the stories of creative and passionate mixologists who embody The Spirit Of Hard Work®. Think you got what it takes to be featured? Drop us a line at info@litchfielddistillery.com.
©2024 Litchfield Distillery. Photography & Editing Credits: Tony Vengrove
Don’t forget to follow Litchfield Distillery on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
RELATED POSTS: