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22 2TWENTYTWO-2

Our story · Toby & Catherine

It began with a drink for Catherine.

A Martini in America. Years of experimenting in France. And a drink that became entirely hers.

In conversation with Toby Forman

Toby and Catherine together in Verona
Toby and Catherine in Verona.

At this hotel, we asked for a Cynar Spritz we’d recently enjoyed in Malta. The bartender smiled and produced a bottle from under the counter. We laughed—it felt as though you had to be in the know to ask.

01 · The beginning

Where did your interest in cocktails begin?

On a business trip to the US in 2010, Catherine and I were introduced to Martinis. I wasn’t particularly keen on mine, but she loved hers. Back in France, I began experimenting with vodkas, gins, vermouths and different proportions, trying to find a balance she would enjoy.

That process is what drew me in: understanding what happens when you bring flavours, tastes and textures together, then trying again.

Two Marseillans garnished with olives on the Forman family tray
Two Marseillans on our family tray. Catherine’s drink, ready to share.

02 · Catherine’s drink

Seven or eight years to develop one drink?

It took roughly seven or eight years to arrive at the Marseillan. It’s basically a reverse Vesper, but the particular vodka, gin and vermouth mattered just as much as the ratios. Finding that balance took time.

It became Catherine’s drink, balanced for her palate. The pleasure was in making something for her, and learning along the way.

“Most of all I love making drinks for someone.”

Toby Forman

03 · A person in mind

What do you enjoy most about making cocktails?

The person I’m making them for gives me somewhere to start. When my father-in-law stayed with us, he liked the app but still asked me to suggest drinks. I knew he enjoyed Cognac, whisky and ginger, so I started there, then introduced bitters and herbal liqueurs.

I made him a Mistaken Negroni after telling him about the first one we tried overlooking the Arena in Verona. He loved it. Sharing the memory became part of sharing the drink.

04 · From paper to platform

When did that become TwentyTwo-2?

I used to make paper cocktail menus for Christmas and family parties. Choosing the drinks was fun; discovering I didn’t have an ingredient was less so.

I built the original TwentyTwo-2 to bring that preparation together. Before a gathering, I check my inventory, choose familiar favourites and a few other drinks, then get the ingredients, garnishes and fresh citrus ready.

It grew into a labour of love. I want to offer a good experience without spending the evening rushing around.

Our Christmas cocktail menu, with the Marseillan among the drinks offered to family and friends
One of our family Christmas menus.
Take a closer look ↗

“I want to enjoy the occasion and enjoy being the host.”

Toby Forman

05 · A date to remember

And where does the name come from?

22 February is the day Catherine and I met. It felt right for something so personal, rooted in bringing people together. Catherine’s ideas and insight have helped shape TwentyTwo-2 too.

It began with a drink for her. What I want to share is that same care for whoever you’re welcoming, whether it’s friends at home or guests at your bar.