Crafting the Perfect Sip: Melissa Mooney’s Artisanal Cocktails at Heirloom in Midway

Long after the last guest has left, and the doors have closed for the day at Heirloom in Midway, Kentucky, you’ll find Melissa Mooney behind the bar, the soft hum of evening stillness broken only by the rhythmic shake of a cocktail shaker.

This is her sanctuary—a place where she breathes life into liquid, testing flavors and balancing ingredients with the precision of a craftsman and the heart of an artist.

In a world where sugary drinks and cheap ingredients dominate, Melissa stands as a true cocktail craftswoman. She’s someone who appreciates the integrity of sophisticated techniques, the kind of bartender who isn’t satisfied until every pour, every garnish, elevates not just the drink—but the experience itself.

Midnight Moonflower

Melissa’s approach is nothing short of poetic. Take the Midnight Moonflower, for instance—a cocktail that feels like a nocturnal whisper, perfect for those who savor their evening with a touch of mystery. A marriage of St. Germain and Crème de Violette, this drink balances floral notes with the tartness of freshly squeezed lime juice, all brought together with a sparkling top of champagne. It’s the kind of drink you can imagine sipping under the stars, lost in thought, as the effervescence carries your worries away.

Hibiscus Basil Lemonade

But Melissa doesn’t just stop at the ethereal. Her Hibiscus Basil Lemonade is a vibrant reminder that simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing depth. The homemade hibiscus-basil simple syrup infuses Wheatley vodka with a garden-fresh zest, while the lemon juice ties it all together with a refreshing, yet refined, bite. It’s a drink that manages to feel both grounding and invigorating, perfect for those warm Kentucky afternoons when you want to taste the season in your glass.

(Check out the video below to watch Melissa Mooney craft two of her most popular cocktails live on Live From Chevy Chase with the KYTasteBuds Team

Pineapple Dream

Then there’s the Pineapple Dream, a cocktail that could easily become a timless signature favorite at Heirloom. Crafted with Casamigos Blanco, fresh pineapple puree, and Cointreau, it’s a tropical escape in a glass. But Melissa, ever the detail-oriented artisan, takes it a step further—topping the drink with a homemade pineapple whipped cream and a rim of Tajín, turning a simple cocktail into a complex experience. It’s this attention to detail that sets her apart. She knows that it’s not just about the taste—it’s about the texture, the presentation, the way a drink feels as you bring it to your lips.

Domaine De Indigo

Her Domaine De Indigo is another testament to her mastery. Made with Empress Gin and Domaine de Canton, it carries the delicate balance of ginger and lemon, with just a splash of simple syrup to round out the flavors. Garnished with a skeleton leaf, it’s a drink that looks as stunning as it tastes—a visual and sensory delight that encapsulates Melissa’s commitment to the art of cocktail-making and discovering truly unique ingredients. If you came for an Instagrammable showstopper--- this is the cocktail you were meant to find.

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What sets Melissa apart is her refusal to compromise. In an industry that often leans on shortcuts and cheap thrills, she remains a purist at heart, dedicated to delivering drinks that are as thoughtful as they are delicious. Each cocktail is a journey—one that Melissa takes seriously, ensuring that every sip leaves a lasting impression.

So the next time you find yourself at Heirloom, take a moment to appreciate what’s in your glass. It’s more than just a cocktail—it’s a labor of love from a woman who’s never stopped chasing perfection, long after the last guest has gone home.

Experience Melissa’s Mastery at Heirloom in Midway, KY

Visit Heirloom in Midway to taste the carefully curated cocktails Melissa Mooney has crafted to elevate your evening. Each drink is a testament to her dedication, passion, and artistry—something you won’t find just anywhere.

125 E Main St,Midway, KY 40347(859) 846-5565

Tuesday-Saturday

11 am-2 pm Lunch

5 pm-9 pm Dinner

Sunday & Monday

Closed

You can also follow Melissa's Cocktail Curation Journey via her personal social media account

https://www.instagram.com/mix_with_me_ky