Considering that beverage sales in Las Vegas amount to billions annually, it's little wonder the city has become a magnet for seriously talented liquid maestros. We caught up with three leaders in the world of mixology, wine, and spirits who are shaping the beverage culture in the Mojave Desert: Bertha Gonzalez Nieves, CEO of Casa Dragones, who is developing the brand’s first tasting room outside its San Miguel de Allende home at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Luis “Lu” Lopez, master mixologist at Wakuda inside The Venetian Resort Las Vegas; and Carbone’s beloved sommelier Juan Cruz at ARIA Las Vegas. Here’s who they are and how they are redefining the scene.

Distilling it Down

With plans to open Casa Dragones’ first tasting room outside of San Miguel de Allende at Fontainebleau next year, CEO and co-founder Bertha González Nieves has become a regular in Las Vegas. The city’s vibrant cocktail scene aligns perfectly with her mission to elevate the appreciation of sipping tequilas. “Las Vegas is a one-of-a-kind destination with endless options for dining and drinks,” she shares. “Every visit brings something new and exciting!”

Casa Dragones focuses on small-batch tequilas while embracing innovative mixology. “All of our tequilas are made for sipping,” González Nieves explains, noting that their Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo expressions also shine in cocktails. Collaborating with top mixologists, she aims to create signature drinks that enhance culinary experiences. A standout is the Kado at Wynn’s Mizumi. This Mizunara Manhattan is a nuanced blend of Casa Dragones Reposado, Hibiki Harmony, Hakutsuru plum wine, rosé vermouth, and Madagascar vanilla. Guests can even enjoy Casa Dragones-infused ice cream at the Voltaire theater in The Venetian Resort Las Vegas.

González Nieves also has a deep personal connection to Las Vegas, recalling childhood family trips and her ongoing ventures in the city. “One of my favorite memories is a girls’ trip with my grandmother,” she shares, reflecting on how that experience fueled her love for Las Vegas. Her partnership with Fontainebleau signifies a new chapter for Casa Dragones. “This collaboration means a new adventure and the opportunity to present our craft in a unique way,” she says, looking forward to the immersive experience the Casa Dragones Tasting Room will offer. As she prepares for the launch, she invites everyone to explore Las Vegas’ diverse offerings. “Whether on the Strip or at local mixology lounges, we’re excited to connect with locals and visitors,” she says. With each cocktail and tasting, González Nieves is not just sharing a drink; she’s inviting everyone to celebrate flavor and craftsmanship.

Crafting Cocktails

In the world of Las Vegas mixology, few names resonate as powerfully as Luis "Lu" Lopez. With over a decade of experience, Lopez has become a pivotal figure in shaping the city’s cocktail culture, blending artistry and technique to create memorable experiences for patrons. From his early days as a lifeguard at The Venetian to overseeing the innovative cocktail program at Wakuda, Lopez's journey is as compelling as the drinks he crafts.

Luis “Lu” Lopez, master mixologist at Wakuda inside The Venetian

“I moved here in 1995 as a kid, but my real adventure began when I started bartending in 2017,” Lopez reflects. His passion for the craft ignited when he met legendary bartender and co-owner of Attaboy Sam Ross. “Before I met Sam, I was just trying to figure things out. He showed me how cocktails are a vehicle for connection.”

A pivotal moment occurred when he first connected with Ross, who shaped a trio of legendary bars at the Venetian: “That’s where my clarity began. Sam created a platform for me to express myself creatively.” His journey led him to San Diego during the pandemic, where he helped reimagine Noble Experiment and launch Youngblood, both venues redefining liquid landscape. “We opened a new speakeasy within a speakeasy, and it was named one of [North America’s 50 Best Bars by The World’s] 50 Best within two years.”

Now back in Las Vegas, Lopez leads the cocktail program at Wakuda, blending Japanese flavors with classic cocktails. “The complexity of sake and Japanese spirits opens up a whole new world for cocktails,” he says. Personalization is key to his approach: “I want to ask the right questions to find out what guests enjoy.”

A Passion for Pairing

Juan Cruz, sommelier at ARIAAmidst the vibrant dining scene of Las Vegas, Carbone at ARIA Resort & Casino has guests clamoring for tables months in advance. Those successful in securing a booking will meet one of the city’s top sommeliers, Juan Cruz, whose passion for wine rivals the cult-like fanaticism for the restaurant’s iconic rigatoni.

Cruz's journey began at Wynn Las Vegas, where he was mentored by then-lead sommelier Jason Wade at SW Steakhouse. “He challenged me to get certified,” Cruz recalls. “That was the turning point for me.” Transitioning to Carbone was a leap into a high-energy environment. “I didn’t know what I was walking into,” Cruz admits. “Now, we collaborate closely to introduce new producers and exciting wines,” he explains.

Cruz takes pride in recommending standout selections, including a remarkable Brunello di Montalcino from a female winemaker, which he describes as “the most exciting Brunello currently being made.” His commitment to quality is evident, emphasizing organic viticulture and the grape’s purest expression.

For guests exploring the extensive wine list, Cruz suggests options across various price points. “For under $200, the Gulfi 2014 Nero d'Avola is a fantastic value,” he notes. For a more generous budget, he recommends the 2019 La Morra by Voerzio, a stunning Nebbiolo. “And if you want to splurge, we have a Chateauneuf De Pape by Paul Jaboulet—just one bottle left!”

For guests exploring the extensive wine list, Cruz suggests options across various price points. “For under $200, the Gulfi 2014 Nero d'Avola is a fantastic value,” he notes. For a more generous budget, he recommends the 2019 La Morra by Voerzio, a stunning Nebbiolo. “And if you want to splurge, we have a Chateauneuf De Pape by Paul Jaboulet—just one bottle left!”

Cruz recognizes the challenge of catering to a diverse clientele. “We get people from all walks of life,” he explains, ensuring that the wine list features affordable options alongside unique selections for those ready to indulge. Guiding diners through their choices is a joy for Cruz. “I try to gauge what they enjoy and what they’re having for dinner,” he says, focusing on the perfect pairing to enhance the dining experience. He loves heading to Lamaii on an off night for solid Thai and their well-developed Riesling program, as well as Restaurant Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand, which boasts one of the city’s best lists.