At Nectandra, every element of the dining experience is carefully curated to enhance the flavors on your plate. While chefs craft exquisite dishes, the beverages served alongside them — or by themselves to accent a moment — are equally important. A well-made cocktail doesn’t just accompany a meal or a moment; it elevates it, underlining flavors, creating contrasts, and deepening the sensory experience.
At the heart of Nectandra's drink experience is Mauricio, an on-staff mixologist whose passion for the art of the beverage transforms each sip into something extraordinary. Armed with creativity, fresh ingredients, and a deep understanding of balance and flavor, Mauricio is dedicated to crafting the perfect cocktail for your perfect moment.
Mauricio didn’t just stumble into mixology—he discovered it through a deep-seated passion for the craft. His journey began while working in a restaurant, where he was captivated by the world of cocktails. This fascination (and a knowledgeable mentor), led him to delve into mixology, refining his skills, and continuously pushing himself to learn more.
For Mauricio, mixology is more than just creating drinks. It’s about understanding the people he serves, hearing what they need, and crafting a drink that suits their tastes and enhances their dining experience.
Mixology is both an art and a science, requiring precision, creativity, and an intuitive understanding of flavors. A master mixologist must possess:
Flavor Mastery: Knowing how to balance sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami elements perfectly.
Ingredient Knowledge: Selecting and pairing spirits, liqueurs, bitters, fresh produce, herbs, and spices to create innovative cocktails.
Menu Expertise & Food Pairing: Crafting drinks that enhance the flavors of specific dishes, creating a seamless dining experience.
Creativity & Innovation: Thinking outside the box to create unique, memorable drinks with bold experimentation.
Precision & Technique: Mastering classic and advanced techniques, from shaking and stirring to infusions and molecular mixology.
Adaptability & Trend Awareness: Staying ahead of industry trends while adjusting to customer preferences and seasonal influences.
Passion & Dedication: A genuine love for the craft, a commitment to excellence, and a drive to create unforgettable moments.
Mauricio believes that being a great mixologist starts with having the right tools, ingredients, and expertise. However, true mastery comes from the ability to listen, understand, and craft drinks that speak to each guest's desires.
Whether it’s a classic cocktail with a local twist or a completely customized creation, Mauricio relishes the opportunity to surprise guests with unexpected flavors and introduce them to the essence of Monteverde through his drinks.
At Nectandra Restaurant, every cocktail is infused with the essence of Costa Rica. The selection of ingredients reflects the region's natural bounty, featuring:
Fresh tropical fruits like pineapple and grapefruit
Exotic flavors such as saffron and violet cream
Locally crafted spirits and liqueurs, ensuring a truly authentic experience
Some of the standout cocktails on the menu include:
The Jungle – A fresh fruit-forward drink that embodies the vibrancy of the rainforest.
The Ocotea Special – A delightful blend of fresh watermelon and violet cream, offering a floral and refreshing twist.
The Espresso Martini – A rich and bold cocktail made with fresh local coffee beans, perfect for coffee lovers.
Each drink is thoughtfully crafted, and recommended based on the seasons and the preferences of guests. For example, on cooler Monteverde days, guests may prefer a stronger, more robust cocktail, while warmer days call for something light and refreshing. This level of attentiveness and customization is just one area where a masterful mixologist can set themselves apart.
Speaking with Mauricio, it’s clear that his approach to mixology is about more than just making great drinks. It’s about creating meaningful moments, sharing his knowledge, and helping guests discover the flavors of Costa Rica in a way they’ll never forget. Whether it’s a morning coffee, an evening cocktail, or a perfectly paired glass of wine, Mauricio ensures that every beverage enhances the experience at Nectandra.
“It’s not an obligation—it’s a passion. It’s about listening, understanding, and
delivering something truly special, from the first sip to the last.”