Mamba Lab, nestled within Mamba Negra, one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in Medellín, Colombia, is redefining the cocktail landscape by showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity through its immersive cocktail experiences. This unique laboratory blends high-tech machinery with artistic mixology, aiming to elevate Colombian spirits and ingredients on a global scale.
The Mamba Lab, filled with vibrant colors and innovative equipment, hosts a groundbreaking eight-course cocktail tasting menu that debuted during the Medellín Cocktail Week. Here, everything from the spirits to garnishes is derived entirely from Colombia, highlighting local brands such as Selva Gin and Ron Carbón.
Founder Juan David Zapata emphasizes Colombia’s potential in the mixology arena, stating, "Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world, and that gives us a lot to work with when it comes to ingredients." Each mini cocktail is inspired by different minerals from various regions of Colombia, showcasing the country’s diverse landscape and rich heritage in spirits, even those that have been historically underrated.
Zapata’s innovative menu features items like a locally made vermouth and cocktails utilizing unique ingredients such as a distillate from the ají ojo de pez pepper and wine made from purple yams. The transformation of Mamba Negra into a laboratory took around nine months, underlining the dedication to creating a unique culinary experience.
Zapata’s personal journey from his roots in Medellín’s Comuna 13, a neighborhood once known for its dangers, to leading significant cocktail projects showcases both resilience and pride. His company, Juniper Drinks, exports Colombian spirits globally, while his salsa bar, Quema Que Quema, has also become a nightlife staple.
As Mamba Lab approaches its one-year anniversary, it prepares to unveil a new menu inspired by Colombia’s flowers during the upcoming Medellín Cocktail Week, which will feature guest bartenders from some of the world’s top bars. The event represents more than just showcasing new cocktails; it’s an affirmation of Colombia’s place on the international cocktail stage.
Zapata believes that with experiences like Mamba Lab, Colombia has nothing to envy from other global cocktail capitals, underscoring the pride in Colombian innovation and culture.