Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler

During the winter season 2024, The Library by The Macallan was reintroduced, an intimate lounge where whisky artistry and timeless luxury converged. This sophisticated retreat offered an immersive exploration into the heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation of one of the world’s most iconic single malt Scotch whisky brands.

A Journey Through Colour

At the heart of The Library was A Journey Through Colour, a tribute to The Macallan’s mastery of whisky-making, transforming clear new-make spirit into a spectrum of amber hues. Guests experienced this evolution through expertly crafted cocktails and whisky expressions, each telling a story that reflected more than 200 years of tradition.

Signature cocktails included:

Curiously Clear - A luminous creation with The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old, lime zest, allspice berry, clove, almond, and toffee.

Acorns & Glasshouses - A refreshing, carbonated mix featuring The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old, Verjus Blanc, lemon oil, and a house-made ginger blend.

Obsidian in Time - A luxurious blend of The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old, macadamia, tonka bean, espresso honey, and sherry foam.

Each drink reflected the influence of exceptional sherry-seasoned oak casks the single greatest contributor to The Macallan’s aromas, flavours, and signature natural colour, from light oaks to deep mahoganies.

The Whisky Selection

For enthusiasts, The Library offered one of the most extensive selections of The Macallan in Canada. Notable highlights included:

The Macallan Sherry Oak 30 Years Old

The Macallan Rare Cask

The Macallan M Collection Flight

These distinguished options allowed guests to savor the artistry of one of Scotland’s finest whisky producers.

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Brand Specialist, The Macallan.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler

The Library by The Macallan redefined Whistler’s cocktail scene with a luxurious showcase of whisky-inspired mixology. This intimate seasonal pop-up space invited guests to explore a menu thoughtfully crafted around The Macallan’s most celebrated expressions.

Cocktail highlights included the Old Fashioned De La Frontera, a rich tribute to The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old, and Cloud Atlas, a whimsical interpretation of the same. The Double Cask 12 Years Old inspired Between Pages and Toasted Tales, offering unique perspectives on its depth and complexity. For guests seeking non-alcoholic options, A Plot Without Proof delivered a sophisticated, zero-proof experience.

This project celebrated the artistry of whisky through innovative cocktails, leaving a lasting impression on Whistler’s mixology landscape.

November 2023 to April 2024

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Brand Specialist, The Macallan.

The Manor Bar
Rosewood Miramar Beach

The Manor Bar offered a sophisticated and literary-inspired cocktail experience with Chronicles of Cocktails, a collection of libations celebrating women in literature. Each cocktail featured innovative flavors and garnishes inspired by the locations, characters, and sentiments of celebrated literary masterpieces. Guests were invited to embark on a journey through the pages of iconic stories, one exquisite cocktail at a time.

Highlights from the Cocktail Creations

Under the creative direction of Nils, the cocktail program at The Manor Bar delivered exceptional craftsmanship and storytelling through its libations. Highlights included:

My Friend Anna - Inspired by the glamour and glitz of high society depicted in My Friend Anna, this effervescent cocktail brought together Champagne, whisky, tequila, and strawberry for a luxurious and indulgent experience. Each detail, from the mug symbolizing Anna’s duplicitous identity to the edible cloud evoking her elaborate schemes, was meticulously designed to reflect the life of opulence Anna yearned for.

Save Me the Waltz - A refined take on the Vesper Martini, this cocktail paid homage to Zelda Fitzgerald’s only novel and her extravagant, spirited life. Featuring Olive Oil Washed Ketel One Vodka, Tanqueray No. 10 Gin, Flowers Chardonnay, Oso de Oro Dry Vermouth, and Elderflower Liqueur, it captured the elegance and excess of the Jazz Age with dry, fresh, and crisp notes.

Little Women - This sweet and full-bodied take on an Old Fashioned honored the four March sisters of Little Women, blending Angel’s Envy Bourbon, Cacao Liqueur, Citrus Distillate, and Peach Bitters. Each element reflected the unique qualities of Louisa May Alcott’s timeless characters in a heartwarming and nostalgic manner.

The New Wilderness - Inspired by Diane Cook’s dystopian novel, this dry, herbal cocktail blended Monkey 47 Gin, Cardamom-Infused St. Germain, Dolin Blanc, Verjus Blanc, Port Wine, Angostura Bitters, and Green Chartreuse Mist. With smooth and sweet botanical notes, the drink transported guests to a preserved and untamed wilderness state, embodying themes of climate change and the bond between mother and child.

The Experience

Surrounded by wood-paneled walls, novel-filled bookshelves, vintage seating, and an eclectic art collection, the handsome library-inspired bar, The Manor Bar, was a moody, secluded, and lively space where cocktails celebrated literary works, featuring iconic characters, diverse authors, and notable anecdotes. This ambiance complemented the Chronicles of Cocktails Volume II, elevating each drink to a sensory and storytelling masterpiece.

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Director of Bars, Rosewood Miramar Beach.

The Georgia Bar
Rosewood Hotel Georgia

From its debut, The Georgia Bar transformed the heart of Rosewood Hotel Georgia into a modern classic gathering space, blending timeless sophistication with contemporary cocktail artistry. This project introduced an elevated cocktail menu alongside whisky tastings and curated small bites, creating an inviting ambiance with dark wood paneling, a marble-topped bar, and a signature palette of copper and forest green. Live musical performances on select evenings added to its charm.

The cocktail menu was a journey through history, with each creation drawing inspiration from the hotel’s rich heritage.

Highlights included:

Patricia - A spirit-forward mix of Tanqueray No. Ten Gin, Dill-Lillet Blanc, Dry Vermouth, and Lemon Tincture, honoring the Patricia Room, a space dedicated to HRH Edward, Prince of Wales, upon the hotel’s opening.

Mr. Hospitality - Basil Hayden Bourbon, Maple, Cardamom, Amaretto, and Cacao Bitters, a nod to J.A. Weldon, the hotel’s founding manager celebrated for his hospitality.

Hotel Georgia - A reimagining of the hotel’s signature 1950s cocktail, featuring Tanqueray Gin, Orgeat, Lemon, Orange Blossom Water, Egg White, and Nutmeg Dust.

Newsman’s Club - A vibrant mix of Casamigos Reposado, Chartreuse Verte, Falernum, Lime, and Roasted Sesame, paying homage to the hotel’s renowned private member’s club.

The Herrick - Belvedere Vodka, Pinot Grigio, Pear, Makrut Lime Leaf, Earl Grey Tea, Verjus, and Barrel-Aged Vanilla Bitters, a tribute to Fred Herrick’s decades of dedicated service as the hotel’s shoe shiner.

R.T.G. - A luxurious blend of The Macallan Double Cask 12 Year Old, Sweet Vermouth, Tonka Bean, Tarragon Honey, and Angostura, honoring architect Robert T. Garrow, who designed the original hotel.

This project captured the essence of Vancouver’s rich cocktail culture and timeless hospitality, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s luxury bar scene.

The Manor Bar Co-Author Series
Rosewood Miramar Beach

The Manor Bar at Rosewood Miramar Beach, an intimate and sophisticated haven for handcrafted cocktails, presented the Co-Author Cocktail Series in celebration of women in literature and spirits. For this initiative Nils invited some of North America’s most renowned female spirits professionals to collaborate and showcase their exceptional talents. Each guest bartender contributed signature cocktails from their respective establishments, alongside exclusive creations developed in partnership with Nils.

The Manor Bar’s literary-inspired menu by Nils provided the perfect canvas for this series, offering guests an immersive experience complemented by a candlelit, wood-paneled ambiance. Recognized by Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards as one of the Best Hotel Bars in the U.S. West in 2022, The Manor Bar further cemented its reputation as a premier destination for cocktail artistry with this innovative program.

Notable Collaborators:

Christina Veira
Co-owner of Toronto’s acclaimed Bar Mordecai, Christina is celebrated for her contributions to the global bar industry. Honored as the ROKU Industry Icon at the inaugural North America 50Best in 2022, Christina also developed the STAVE school for beverage certifications and hospitality training.

Alba Huerta
Award-winning bartender and author, Alba is the owner of Julep in Houston, which earned the 2022 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program. Alba’s expertise in crafting unique cocktails and her passion for bilingual education in the spirits world make her an industry trailblazer.

Julie Reiner
Co-owner of the renowned Clover Club in Brooklyn, Julie is a celebrated author and a judge on Netflix’s Drink Masters. In 2022, she received the Helen David Lifetime Achievement Award at Tales of the Cocktail, honoring her enduring impact on the cocktail industry.

A Collaborative Celebration

Each guest brought their unique vision to The Manor Bar, highlighting cocktails that paid homage to classic literature and the series theme of shared creativity. Signature drinks like Christina Veira’s innovative creations, Alba Huerta’s elegant Southern-inspired mixes, and Julie Reiner’s refined classics offered guests an unparalleled cocktail journey.

This remarkable project, executed by Nils Schabert in his position as Director of Bars, Rosewood Miramar Beach showcased the intersection of talent, craftsmanship, and storytelling, solidifying The Manor Bar as a destination where cocktails meet culture.

A collaboration by Nils Schabert in his role as Director of Bars, Rosewood Miramar Beach.

AMA Sushi
Rosewood Miramar Beach

Celebrating the Edomae tradition of showcasing sushi in its purest form, AMA Sushi at Rosewood Miramar Beach provides a refined culinary experience inspired by Japan’s free-diving legacy. Recognized for the third consecutive year by the 2024 MICHELIN GUIDE and designated as a committed SmartCatch restaurant, AMA Sushi offered guests two distinct dining experiences.

The first was an omakase tasting at the sushi bar, where trust and spontaneity between chefs and diners took center stage. The second was a prix fixe and à la carte menu served in the main dining room, allowing diners to embark on a self-guided exploration of traditional Japanese flavors with thoughtful support from the culinary team.

The Cocktail Program

Under the direction of Nils Schabert, the beverage program at AMA Sushi elevated the dining experience with an extensive selection of Japanese whiskies, wine, sake, and innovative cocktails. Nils curated a collection of over thirty Japanese whisky varieties, alongside a creative cocktail menu designed to harmonize with AMA’s culinary offerings.

Signature cocktails included:

Hinode – Presented Tokyo Kaikan style, this cocktail featured mezcal joven, pineapple liqueur, acidified dry vermouth, black lemon bitters, sparkling sake, and kinome, served over a king cube in a coupe glass.

Tsumiki – A delicate creation based on coconut-infused sake, delivering a refreshing, innovative twist on traditional flavors.

For guests seeking non-alcoholic options, AMA Sushi also offered a selection of zero-proof beverages, such as:

Kaizen – A carbonated cold brew genmaicha paired with pandan lime reduction and strawberry, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional cocktails.

The Experience

AMA Sushi combined exceptional cuisine with an elevated beverage program to create a dining experience that was both immersive and memorable. Through its focus on the Edomae tradition, carefully curated drink pairings, and dedication to sustainable practices, AMA Sushi exemplified Rosewood Miramar Beach’s commitment to excellence in dining and hospitality.

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Director of Bars, Rosewood Miramar Beach.

The Beach Bar
Rosewood Miramar Beach

Nestled along the golden shores of Montecito, The Beach Bar at Rosewood Miramar Beach became an iconic seaside retreat, blending casual coastal charm with refined elegance.

This project redefined beachfront luxury, offering a curated cocktail program inspired by the rhythm of the ocean and the vibrant colors of Southern California sunsets. Guests were welcomed into an open-air oasis featuring breezy whitewashed wood, nautical accents, and a panoramic view of the Pacific.

The cocktail menu was a celebration of the coast, with each creation highlighting fresh, local ingredients and subtle nods to California’s diverse culinary culture. A selection of light, coastal-inspired bites perfectly paired with the vibrant drinks, enhancing the relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Whether enjoying a sundowner by the firepit or savoring the soft glow of twilight from the bar, The Beach Bar offered an unforgettable escape—a true embodiment of barefoot luxury at Rosewood Miramar Beach.

Canned Cocktail Program
Rosewood Miramar Beach

Whether lounging poolside at the Cabana Pool or soaking up the sun along the pristine shores of Miramar Beach, the handcrafted Canned Cocktail Program delivers the perfect refreshment for carefree summer days. Inspired by timeless classics yet reimagined with a modern twist, each cocktail is a vibrant blend of quality ingredients, innovation, and coastal charm.

Thoughtfully crafted to complement the breezy California lifestyle, these canned creations are light, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant—tailor-made for moments spent basking under the sun, toes in the sand, or reclining in a private cabana.

From the smoky intrigue of mezcal to the bright sweetness of summer fruits, each sip offers a taste of the unexpected, ensuring every cocktail feels as memorable as the setting itself:

Bonfire at Banana Bay - Mezcal, Banana Liqueur, Dry Vermouth, Citric Acid – a smoky, tropical escape.

Sneaky Flamingo - Rosé Wine, Rosé Vermouth, Strawberry | a fresh and fruity ode to summer’s elegance.

When Honey Met Passion - Gin, Honey, Passionfruit, Lemon | a bright, floral balance of sweetness and zest.

What-A-Melon - Tequila, Watermelon, Lemongrass, Lime | a refreshing blend with a hint of citrusy vibrancy.

Feeling Peachy - Peach, Passionfruit, Prosecco | effervescent and lively, perfect for a celebratory toast.

Mind Your Own Coconut, Wilson - Tequila, Curacao, Habanero, Honey, Lime, Coconut | a playful combination of spice, sweetness, and creamy smoothness.

Designed for easy indulgence, the Canned Cocktail Program brings sophistication to laid-back afternoons, offering the ultimate way to sip and savor the relaxed luxury of Rosewood Miramar Beach.

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Brand Specialist, The Macallan.

Notch8
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

In the heart of Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Notch8 Bar has long stood as a beacon of innovation and sophistication, seamlessly blending the city’s storied past with modern cocktail artistry. The creation of This Is Tomorrow marked a defining moment in its evolution, a cocktail that drew inspiration from the groundbreaking Pop Art movement while celebrating the creative spirit of the 1956 This Is Tomorrow exhibition.

Served in a Campbell’s Soup-inspired can, the presentation was a bold homage to Andy Warhol’s iconic Tomato Cans and Marilyn Diptych, bridging art and mixology. The vessel and label echoed Pop Art’s vibrant, playful reinterpretation of everyday objects, while the cocktail itself embodied balance and refinement.

Infused with delicate Bella Coola Punch Tea, Tanqueray Gin provided a floral sweetness, complemented by the crisp citrus notes of Lillet Blanc and tangy lime juice. Elderflower liqueur added a gentle aroma, while white cranberry offered a touch of tartness. Peychaud's Bitters delivered an aromatic spice, creating a symphony of flavors—refreshing, lush, and elegantly layered.

Garnished with whimsical blue cotton candy and a milk paper cracker, the cocktail transcended traditional boundaries, merging taste with visual artistry. These playful, contrasting elements evoked the essence of Pop Art’s challenge to convention, inviting guests to reconsider the intersection of food, art, and culture.

This Is Tomorrow was more than a drink; it was a narrative—a reflection of the art world’s daring spirit and Notch8’s commitment to redefining the cocktail experience. A perfect blend of nostalgia and modernity, it encapsulated the vibrancy and creativity at the core of Notch8’s identity.

Elevating Excellence: Fairmont Mountain Region
Western Canada

In the heart of Canada’s Rockies, Nils redefined bar and beverage excellence across Fairmont’s Mountain Region, overseeing Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. Tasked with reopening all bars post-pandemic, he introduced innovative concepts, elevated menus, and set a new standard for beverage programs that reflected the region’s heritage and grandeur.

At Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Schabert launched the renowned Fairview Bar & Restaurant, introducing Fairview Gin, a signature spirit inspired by the serene elegance of Lake Louise, and Untamed, the property’s bespoke whisky. He further expanded the guest experience by opening the Ice Bar, a stunning seasonal venue that embraced the region’s winter beauty.

At Fairmont Banff Springs, Schabert spearheaded the opening of the celebrated Rundle Bar, a standout destination recognized for its world-class design and progressive cocktail program.

Schabert also introduced the Regional Bottled Cocktail Program, a collection of signature creations that encapsulated the essence of Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper.

Through visionary leadership and dedication to quality, Schabert elevated the beverage offerings across Fairmont’s Mountain Region, delivering a legacy of innovation, craftsmanship, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Regional Manager of Bars & Mixologist, Fairmont Western Mountain Region.

Untamed Signature Whisky
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Crafted amidst the untamed beauty of the Canadian Rockies, Untamed Signature Whisky is a bold and unique expression of place, made exclusively for Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The brainchild of Nils Schabert, who conceptualized the project from inception to completion—including the partnership, barrel selection, and design—this exceptional rye whisky is the result of collaboration with Banff’s renowned Park Distillery.

Aged within the pristine environment of Banff National Park, Untamed is the only whisky of its kind, embodying the rugged spirit and natural grandeur of the region. Schabert meticulously tasted and selected his preferred barrels before carefully blending and diluting the whisky with pure glacier water sourced from six glaciers in the Rocky Mountains. As the water flows down the Bow River, past Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and into Banff, it gains a distinct minerality that adds clarity and authenticity to the final spirit.

On the nose, Untamed reveals layers of candied orange rind, dark chocolate, and black pepper, complemented by delicate notes of overripe plum. The palate delivers a beautifully balanced complexity, with cinnamon spice, wildflower honey, and hints of green fennel and crabapple. The finish lingers long after the last sip, evoking leather, tobacco leaf, and the subtle warmth of choke cherry mulled wine.

From its carefully curated concept to its thoughtful design, every detail of Untamed reflects Schabert’s vision to create a whisky that mirrors the iconic landscape of Lake Louise. Available exclusively at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, this signature whisky is an invitation to experience the essence of the Rockies—refined, bold, and untamed.

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Regional Manager of Bars & Mixologist, Fairmont Western Mountain Region.

Signature Bottled Cocktails
Fairmont Western Mountain Region Properties

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper, Fairmont’s Western Mountain Region offers more than just stunning vistas and legendary service—it now offers a way to take those cherished memories home. Introducing the Signature Bottled Cocktail Collection, a trio of bespoke creations crafted to encapsulate the essence of each iconic property: Fairmont Banff Springs, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

Nils: “I envisioned these signature cocktails as an extension of the Fairmont experience. Each bottle tells a story, blending flavors inspired by the region’s natural beauty and the timeless elegance of the resorts. Perfect for savoring at home or sharing with loved ones, these cocktails are as memorable as the settings they represent.”

Iconic Peak
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Inspired by the transformative beauty of Lake Louise, this cocktail mirrors the warm hues of sunset over the mountains. A rich and balanced creation, it features whisky, tawny port, lemon juice, Campari, honey water, and Fairview Bitters. The full-bodied texture of port and honey is elevated by the fresh acidity of lemon and the herbal complexity of bitters, delivering a drink as captivating as the lake itself.

Emerald Glow
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
A tribute to Jasper’s emerald lakes, this cocktail embodies freshness and elegance. Vodka, cucumber-infused vermouth, Chartreuse Verte, and lime juice come together in a crisp and vibrant blend. The cucumber lends a clean, refreshing texture, while the herbal sweetness of Chartreuse adds depth, evoking the serene beauty of the region.

Wildflower
Fairmont Banff Springs
A modern interpretation of a classic Negroni, Wildflower captures the timeless yet contemporary spirit of the Banff Springs. Infused with butterfly pea flower, Rundle Bar Gin creates a stunning visual and smooth foundation, complemented by elderflower liqueur, Lillet Blanc, and plum bitters. The result is a floral and subtly sweet cocktail that lingers, much like the grandeur of its castle-like surroundings.

Available individually or as a collection, these signature bottled cocktails are ready to elevate any occasion. Guests can purchase them at select lounges and dining outlets across the three resorts or enjoy them through In-Room Dining. With each sip, these cocktails invite you to relive the magic of Fairmont’s mountain retreats—anytime, anywhere.

Executed by Nils Schabert in his role as Regional Manager of Bars & Mixologist, Fairmont Western Mountain Region.

This Must Be The Place
Sydney, Australia

During his time as a bartender at This Must Be The Place, Nils honed his craft in one of Sydney’s most acclaimed drinking destinations. Renowned for its innovative approach to contemporary cocktails, the bar became a pivotal stop in Nils’ journey to redefining the art of mixology.

This Must Be The Place embraced a philosophy of modernity and sustainability, serving seasonal spritzes and cocktails crafted with organic, foraged, and homegrown ingredients. This ethos of innovation and quality aligned perfectly with Nils’ growing passion for creativity and sustainability in beverage design.

In this relaxed yet sophisticated space, Nils refined his ability to create memorable guest experiences, working with a carefully curated selection of natural wines, small producers, and an award-winning wine list. He also gained a deeper appreciation for pairing drinks with artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and premium bar snacks, learning to deliver a cohesive culinary and beverage journey.

The time Nils spent at This Must Be The Place was not only an opportunity to immerse himself in the artistry of contemporary drinking but also a significant step in shaping his skills and perspective.

PS40
Sydney, Australia

Nestled in the heart of Sydney, PS40 is celebrated for its dynamic approach to cocktails, its role as the birthplace of PS Sodas—handcrafted, small-batch sodas—and its reputation as a collaborative hub for creativity and experimentation.

At PS40, Nils thrived in an environment where innovation was key, gaining hands-on experience in crafting unique soda and spirit pairings and specialized cocktails. The bar’s philosophy of a “nose-to-tail” approach, emphasizing sustainability and in-house creations, resonated deeply with Nils and helped shape his understanding of resourceful and thoughtful mixology.

With its high-energy atmosphere and emphasis on exceptional service, PS40 challenged Nils to master the art of balancing efficiency with creativity in a fast-paced, high-volume setting. Whether working with seasonal flavors on tap, crafting bespoke drinks, or engaging with the bar’s vibrant community of cocktail enthusiasts, Nils honed his skills in delivering extraordinary guest experiences.

This experience laid the groundwork for Nils’ ability to conceptualize and execute ambitious beverage programs, fueling his path to becoming a visionary beverage consultant in the luxury hospitality industry.