09/15/2026
Whelp, it’s Malört Day at the Bird and you sure as s**t better believe that we’re not gonna let the day pass without giving our numero uno Malört peddler a big fat shout out. For those of you who don’t know
Vinnie Vinnie Tweten he’s the guy that makes sure that you don’t leave our doors without a little ‘Lert in yer belly and a sticker on your shirt. He’s also the madman behind the Vincenzo, which is easily one of the best damn cocktails to ever come out of the Bird.
We asked him some questions about stuff, and this is what he had to say:
Who/what inspires your cocktail creativity?
Vinnie: I’m inspired by music, at all times there is a song playing in my head (usually by Sade) so approaching a cocktail for me tends to come from trying to take how that song makes me feel and share it with people.
You can only work with one spirit for the rest of your life – who’s your fighter?
Vinnie: MALÖRT!! No but really, RUM! Maybe a little on the nose working in a tiki bar, but I feel it’s the most versatile spirit. There’s so many different types of rum and you can achieve so many different flavors that can truly satisfy any palate.
What’s the small, cocktail-related hill that you’re willing to die on?
Vinnie: Malört is good. You are just weak.
What’s your go-to shifter?
Vinnie: Spaghett! It’s a tiny little refreshing treat that makes life feel worth living.
What Starbird menu cocktail do you think everyone should try?
Vinnie: Sea Dog, it really checks all the boxes and hits all the senses so well. Equally tart, refreshing, a hint of sweet, and plenty boozy that keeps you coming back for more. Topped with a bouquet of mint and burnt cinnamon stick, the aromatic combination is crazy good.
What does your ideal day off look like?
Vinnie: Sleeping in, putting on a record, making breakfast, and cuddling with my sweetheart cats on the couch. Afternoon, I’d drum for a while, maybe go for a long walk with my partner by the river, then get some Thaikota or Sol Ave and eat at home with a movie or whatever show we’re watching. A quick stop at Harold’s or a pour of Drambuie on a big ice rock would be a perfect little nightcap with whatever jazz record I’m hyper-fixating on.
