Tom Collins, old fashioned, margarita and more—everyone has a drink of choice. These signature cocktails provide the social lubrication to a night out with friends, date or office happy hour. But there’s something that feels different about a crafted cocktail. Drops of liquid smoke, the burnt end of a cinnamon stick or an infusion of freshly picked herbs can make the drink as memorable as the conversation. Like chefs and bakers, mixologists are devoted to their trade and the attention to detail makes each sip oh so right. We hopped behind the bar with Trstian Nunez and Blanca Aguirre at Mason Bar in Arroyo Grande for a closer look at the artistry.