Syrup from Level of Grandeur. Photo by Ryan Baker.
Depending on the complexity and sophistication required, mixing cocktails can be a chore, even for bars and restaurants. Many of Houston’s best mixed drink shops have staff dedicated to making syrups and garnishes, so making cocktails (and serving customers) during business hours can go smoothly and quickly. For professional bartenders as well as cocktail lovers looking to enjoy great drinks at home, a little help goes a long way, and one way to do that is by outsourcing the making of syrups and garnishes. magnificent level is a Sugar Land-based company that specializes in these ingredients.
The company was founded by two siblings Chuan and Shan Liu. Chuan’s experience is in the business world, where she mainly focuses on sales and marketing. Shan has worked in the hospitality industry for nearly a decade, managing beverage projects in various locations such as weights and measures and the Sugar Refinery, a now-closed Sugar Land speakeasy. All syrups are gluten-free, alcohol-free, and will keep for up to 18 months after opening if refrigerated, according to the website.
Despite being a small business, Levels of Grandeur’s selection of delicious syrups is diverse and unique.we got Original Sampler Gift Set, Includes three 3 oz. Bottled, $25.The set comes with Cassia Caramel and Saffron Honey syrup, and a seasonal flavor (earl gray tea, under these circumstances). The cinnamon caramel note is the least pronounced of the three, but by no means weak. Burnt sugar adds bitterness, and cinnamon (Chinese cinnamon) brings a hint of spice. My personal favorite is Earl Grey. In contrast, it is brighter and expresses the unique hints of citrus and tea of the same name. The saffron honey is only slightly sweet, and the floral notes of both ingredients really shine.
Other syrup flavors available include Strawberry Pad Thai, Raspberry Mint, Cranberry Rosemary and blood orange. This Levels of Grandeur website Suggested cocktail recipes are provided for each syrup.At Houston Food Finder’s recent The Perfect 10 Gala, Bar Manager Jonathan Jones Houston Four Seasons has created a swamp water Cocktail with William Price Distilling’s Navy-Strength Gin (another local company), Green Chartreuse, lime juice and Level of Grandeur’s pineapple gum syrup.
In addition to the syrup selection, Levels of Grandeur also sells side dishes, including packets of dehydrated fruit, such as pineapple, blood oranges, lemons, and limes.
Making cocktail syrups of this quality is usually a cumbersome and time-consuming affair. With great quality and a unique assortment, Levels of Grandeur is a great choice if you’re looking to take your home bar to the next level, or save time at your professional bar.All products of Liu Brothers and Sisters can be found in Levels of Grandeur website.
