The Flavourist: Surrounded by Alcohol, Powered by Control — Julian Short

In this episode, we sit down with Julian Short — The Flavourist, a two-time World Class champion and one of South Africa’s most respected bartenders. Known for his ability to build emotion through flavour, Julian talks openly about the craft, the discipline behind great cocktails, and the realities of working in an environment shaped by alcohol, pressure, and performance.We explore how he maintains control in a field where excess is always within reach, how he protects his mental health, and what it really takes to stay creative without losing balance. From the philosophy of flavour to the human cost of the service industry, this conversation goes beyond bartending and into the mindset required to endure and evolve.A thoughtful, grounded look at the life of a modern flavourist, and the discipline that keeps him steady.