Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/118161
Because the bar does little traditional advertising, this means introducing theme nights. Friday is Homage Cocktail night, when Soole takes a famous bar's menu and re-creates it with a local twist; Saturdays it's Experimental Mixology, with customers sampling cocktails based around a particular theme such as "Smoke" or "Chinatown"; other days are devoted to seminars featuring celebrity guests from the industry. Perhaps not surprisingly, since Soole took the helm business has increased significantly and Clive's has acquired a cult-like following. Meanwhile, Soole claims to be easing up on his workload, even if it's not obvious to the outside observer. He recently clocked 25 straight days behind bar, and an aching back and throbbing feet are constant companions. Yet despite the physical toll, Soole's passion for the work remains undiminished. He loves that he is always learning new things and is addicted to the performing aspect of the craft and the rush and clamour of the gin-soaked night. "I'm a lifer," he says, with a shrug and a grin. "I'll be doing this until I die." –Kerry Banks GET MOBILIZED One of the world's top mixologists, Shawn Soole hosts drop-in cocktail info sessions on Sunday evenings at Clive's Classic Lounge, as well as popular seminars with celebrity guest speakers. Chateau Victoria Hotel, Victoria. 250-361-5684. clivesclassic lounge.com; follow Soole on Twitter at @liquidrev ■ Serious trend watchers and neophytes alike can also explore the fast-changing world of liquid libations at Victoria's Art of the Cocktail festival, a fundraising event for the Victoria Film Festival. This year's edition features public workshops, bartender competitions, celebrity guests and a grand tasting event at the capital's Crystal Garden. October 1 to 3, 2011. artofthecocktail.ca ■ Shawn Soole concocts his Cold Night In — billed as "extraordinary" by New York Times Style Magazine: www.bcaa.com/soole-coldnight Shawn Soole whips up James Bond's fabled drink, the Vesper: www.bcaa.com/vesper Y BCAA Members save 5% off the lowest room rates at Victoria's Accent Inns and Mariott Hotels, 15% at its Westin Hotels & Resorts. Also, Members save 10% on regular, daily adult green fees at the Island's Olympic View and Arbutus Ridge golf courses; plus 20% on Hertz car rentals. Details on these and other Member savings at www.bcaa.com/savings WESTWORLD p22-27_Profile.indd 27 >> FA L L 2 0 1 1 27 8/17/11 12:17:15 PM