Indulgence encouraged

As Finland’s 2024 cocktail bartender of the year, Hämäläinen crafts indulgent drinking experiences designed to soothe the mind and lift the spirit.

“Our drinks are good for the soul,” he says with a smile, when asked about their wellness credentials. “And of course, if someone prefers less sugar, we’ll make that happen.”

At Wintergarden, recovery means flavourful moments of pause, whether alone or in good company. The cocktail menu pairs drinks with curated bites, or ‘sapas’, small, shareable plates made for lingering conversations with friends.

Uplifting or calming drinks to match the moment

Hämäläinen stands by Hotel St. George’s recovery philosophy, in which indulgence isn’t just allowed but actively encouraged. On his days off, he likes to recharge through sport, time with family, and the occasional well-earned drink. “There’s nothing wrong with a cold beer now and then,” he says.

At work, he tunes into both the guest’s mood and the moment. “Sometimes recovery calls for something refreshing, other times something grounding,” he explains. “Long coffee-based cocktails, like an Espresso Martini, energise the body and mind. Jasmine or green tea with fresh herbs makes for a light, feel-good sip.”

For a calming effect, he favours classic short pours savoured slowly. “An Old Fashioned, a Negroni, or a Dry Martini are your timeless night caps.”

Relaxation without the alcohol

Wintergarden’s cocktail menu gives just as much attention to alcohol-free mocktails as it does to traditional drinks. Zero-percent variations are available for several cocktails on the list.

“These days, around two or three out of every ten guests go for something without alcohol,” Hämäläinen notes. “Our mocktails draw flavour from berries, fruits, and herbs, and instead of citrus, we use an acid blend for brightness.”

Hämäläinen’s signature creation, 5olution, uses the same acids that give lemon and lime their tang, dramatically reducing food waste by eliminating the need for juiced fruit.

Social connections by design

Wintergarden is also a natural space for restorative social encounters. Hämäläinen sees the cocktail bar as equally suited to intimate chats and cheerful gatherings.

“If you’re after a quiet moment, you can settle into one of the Nooks along the edges. They radiate a real sense of calm,” he says.

Closer to the bar and under the glass roof, especially on weekends, the mood is more vibrant, complete with DJ sets and a laid-back buzz. Hämäläinen draws energy from the social rhythm of his work: “I get to meet incredible people every single day.”

Nominated for bartender of the year in the 2025 PRO Gala, Hämäläinen has spent nearly a decade behind the bar. Yet his passion only deepens. “The best part of being a bar manager?” he says. “Everything. You never run out of new flavours to explore, and there’s always more to learn.”