Housed in a stunning building that was once a convent for Benedictine nuns, Liberty Bar is a true San Antonio gem. Living up to their slogan, "Serious food in the heart of Southtown," the bar and restaurant provide an atmosphere that is both historic and vibrantly modern, making it the perfect place to unwind and indulge.

There, you'll find bartender Gabriel Contreras, who is participating in the Kinsman Brandy Alexander Tour for his second year. When he's not behind the bar, Gabriel dreams of spending a year in Japan, drawn to its culture and deep respect for tradition. If he had a time machine, he'd set the dial for ancient Rome to witness the final years of Marcus Aurelius's reign, "right before it all goes to hell." And his go-to guilty pleasure? A P. Terry's burger loaded with bacon, cheese, and jalapeños. His choice for a fictional alter-ego is wonderfully telling: Dracula, "because all he wanted was to be left alone." It's this blend of respect for the classics, a touch of dark humor, and a wide-ranging taste in music that informs his bartending style.

This year Gabriel created the Blackberry Beret, a cocktail that’s as delicious as its name is clever. Forget the simple brandy, cream, and cacao of old. This drink is a symphony of complex flavors. It starts with a luscious, house-made honey blackberry cream, which is then perfectly balanced with the rich, dark fruit notes of Mathilde Cassis Liqueur, a classic creme de cacao, and an extra touch of honey for a smooth, sweet finish. The result is a velvety, decadent drink with a beautiful deep hue, garnished with a single, perfectly creamed blackberry. The initial taste is bright and jammy from the blackberry and cassis, which then melts into a luxurious chocolate and honeyed creaminess, all underpinned by the warm embrace of Kinsman Apricot Rakia.

Don't wait to try this magnificent creation. The Blackberry Beret is only available now through NYE, so head down to Liberty Bar, pull up a seat, and let Gabriel pour you a taste of pure purple magic!