Ideally situated in the heart of the city, Bohanan's is the kind of place that sets the standard for fine dining. It’s an atmosphere steeped in old-world charm and impeccable service, famous for offering custom-cut prime aged beef and seafood that is flown in fresh daily. It is the perfect backdrop for a high-end cocktail experience, and the talent behind the bar matches the quality on the plate. That brings us to the man shaking things up for this year's Tour: Brett Varley.

Brett brings a refreshing, down-to-earth vibe to the high-end atmosphere. Originally from the coast of Galveston, Brett practically grew up in the hospitality industry. Like many of the greats, he initially jumped behind the bar just to pay the bills, but clearly, the craft stuck.

When he isn’t crafting cocktails at one of San Antonio’s premier steakhouses, Brett is a busy guy. He’s a husband and a father to a three-year-old, plus he’s wrangling a pack of three dogs at home. If you catch him on a rare day off, he’s likely hitting the golf course or hunting down a plate of cheese enchiladas. He recently took a trip to Charleston just for the food scene, but when it’s time to actually unwind, he keeps it simple with a gin and soda with a touch of lime. His long-term plan? Retiring peacefully in the Texas Hill Country.

But let’s talk about the cocktail. Brett’s entry for the Tour is called All The Kinsman, and it is a delightful departure from the norm. He blends Kinsman Rakia with rich heavy cream and a homemade brown sugar simple syrup kissed with vanilla. The result is a texture that is velvety without being excessive, offering deep notes of caramel and just a hint of vanilla. It’s served over ice in a rocks glass, making it feel a bit more approachable than the traditional up presentation. The pièce de résistance is the garnish: butter cake cookie crumbles sprinkled right on top. It adds a crunchy, buttery finish that makes each sip feel like a decadent holiday treat.

Make your way downtown before the ball drops on New Year’s Eve to experience this one-of-a-kind creation yourself. Whether you’re stopping in for a full steak dinner or just looking for a nightcap that tastes like the holidays in a glass, pull up a chair at Bohanan’s and ask Brett for the All The Kinsman. See you there!