2026 Summer Cocktail Camp Interview with a Mixologist: Aubrey Mansene from Society Swan
By Asonta Benetti
PHOENIX magazine’s 2026 Summer Cocktail Camp series takes a swanky detour at Scottsdale Fashion Square this weekend. On Sunday, July 26, campers will convene at Society Swan to learn all about the beverage program at Sam Fox’s “American brasserie.” In keeping with the restaurant’s mandate, the cocktail reflect French traditions with some Uankee flair added to the mix. We rendez-vous’d with beverage director Aubrey Mansene for a Q&A aperitif.
Can you share some details about the cocktail program at Society Swan?
It takes familiar classics and elevates them with thoughtful techniques, high-quality ingredients and a little bit of personality. You’ll find everything from stirred martinis to playful originals, all designed to feel timeless while still offering something unexpected. It’s refined without being intimidating, and every drink is meant to complement the energy and elegance of the restaurant.
We want to know about you! Give us your story.
Professionally, I grew up in the restaurant industry, bartended through college and later worked in New York City’s cocktail scene, where I developed a passion for creating drinks that introduce guests to something unexpected. Personally, I’m a husband, father, backyard pitmaster, landscaping enthusiast and The U’s biggest college football fan.
It might be hard to choose, we know, but do you have a favorite cocktail on the menu?
The Fancy Cowboy Attire is my favorite cocktail on the menu because peanut mole has no business being this good in a cocktail, yet here we are. The ingredient list raises eyebrows, but the first sip answers all your questions.
We are slogging through the heat – what’s the first drink you reach for on a summer’s day?
First things first – a club soda neat, no fruit, preferably Topo Chico in a glass bottle. Once I’m hydrated, I’ll reach for the coldest Modelo in the cooler, with tequila on the side to keep it company.
What should guests expect if they’re coming to Society Swan for Cocktail Camp?
Cocktails, conversation and an inside look at our program. We’ll be featuring the S.S. Skinny, Dirty Martini, Southern Sophisticate and Ciao Brooklyn while sharing the inspiration behind each drink, the techniques that bring them to life and what makes each one a Society Swan favorite.
