Stab first and let Zeus sort ’em out. That’s how the gladiators of old did it, but Angelo Larocchia takes a more subtle approach. The Caesars Palace bartender won the resort’s latest Cocktail Gladiators tournament, beating out some of the most experienced bartenders in Las Vegas with a nearly obsessive attention to detail for the flavor, feel and look of a cocktail.

“So I put Absolut Elyx in a circle and branched out,” said Larocchia, who shared the notes he used to prepare for the competition. “What am I dealing with? What are the actual minerals in the vodka that I’m using? What could actually complement that drink? What won’t complement this drink?”

Larocchia’s notes look a lot like a scientist’s work might, if you replaced chemical and mathematical symbols with spirits and mixers, with pages filled with branching charts, lists, a select few circled ideas to expand on later and crossed-out bits that didn’t quite make the cut.

The Philosopher’s Stone

The Philosopher’s Stone

But you can’t tend the bar with mixology theories and awards alone. The San Diego native is just as willing to talk shop as he is to talk about what you’ve got going on while you sip on your preferred cocktail.

“I’m a guy you can open up to and be friends with. I’m one to listen to you and help out in whatever way I can,” he said. “I’ve had people that have come to see me for weeks on end. It’s a really motivational thing.”

The Philosopher’s Stone

Larocchia’s winning beverage takes its name from that mythical, alchemical substance that could turn lead into gold or even grant immortality. The drink won’t make you live forever, but its golden hue pays homage to the name. It combines ABSOLUT.® Elyx vodka, pisco, vanilla syrup, lime juice and apple juice, yet it somehow tastes like the best cream soda you’ve ever had. Maybe there’s something magical at play after all? ­

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