Stanley Tucci’s unexpected second act in the world of drinks began during the early lockdown of 2020 when he went viral for preparing a Negroni in a video. The success of the video led to a newfound focus on food and drink, culminating in best-selling cookbooks and award-winning food series. Tucci’s partnership with Tanqueray No. TEN has now taken a new direction with the announcement of exclusive residencies across top bars in London, including The Connaught Bar in Mayfair where Tucci’s favorite bartender, Ago Perrone, is Director of Mixology.
The collaboration between Tucci and Tanqueray No. TEN aims to highlight the importance of hospitality in all settings, whether it be in homes, hotels, or bars. The Tastemakers of Tanqueray No. TEN, including Perrone, Giulia Cuccurullo from The Artesian, and Yoann and Keila from Satan’s Whiskers, will all contribute to the partnership over the coming months. Tucci and Perrone debuted the “TENacious” cocktail, a blend of Tucci’s signature drink and a classic martini, personalized to cater to individual tastes.
Tucci’s love for cocktails stems from his upbringing, where his family would always have cocktails during holidays and gatherings. His fondness for martinis grew as he frequented a bar in New York after graduating from university, sparking a romanticized vision of the 30s, 40s, and 50s cocktail culture depicted in old movies. This passion for cocktails led Tucci to become proficient in making them on TV and ultimately partnering with Tanqueray No. TEN, a moment he had been waiting for his entire life.
Tucci and Perrone’s connection goes beyond their shared Italian heritage; they both believe in the importance of creating welcoming environments in any setting. Tucci acknowledges the performative aspect of bartending and how it mirrors the connections and performances encountered in his first career in theater and film. Despite his disbelief that his career has shifted towards the world of drinks, Tucci’s enthusiasm for cocktails and the opportunity to collaborate with Tanqueray No. TEN remains unwavering.
As Tucci reflects on his unexpected journey into the drinks world, he recognizes the influence his family’s cocktail culture had on him and how it shaped his love for martinis. His collaboration with Tanqueray No. TEN has opened up new opportunities for him to share his passion for mixology with others and connect with like-minded individuals in the industry. Tucci’s “second act” has not only revitalized his career but also allowed him to delve into a world that has always held a special place in his heart.
