AI ‘bartender’ brings personalised cocktail recipes direct to your phone
A new ChatGPT-powered mixologist is offering consumers bespoke cocktail recommendations via text or online chat, combining professional bartender expertise and AI technology.
Weber Ranch 1902 Vodka has launched “Tex,” a virtual bartender that blends human mixology skills with artificial intelligence. The service delivers personalised cocktail advice through SMS or online chat, with recipes created by bartenders across the US.
Tex is designed to be interactive and unscripted, offering different responses each time. Users can text #AskTex to 1-940-400-1902, access the tool via a web link, or visit the brand’s website.
“While most companies and brands use AI simply for automated customer service ‘chat,’ we’re doing something very different,” said Lee Applbaum, President and COO of Round 2 Spirits. “AI is replacing search… Tex delivers on that in an entertaining way, while also staying true to our respect and appreciation for the professional bartender’s craft.”
Applbaum also noted that future developments could see Tex ordering ingredients for home delivery or making bar and restaurant reservations.
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Real-world functionality
Tex can generate recipes from a photo of ingredients in a fridge or pantry, point users to a nearby retailer or bar, suggest batch quantities for events, find alternative ingredients, or even create personalised cocktail names.
Over 70% of Tex’s system is powered by ChatGPT, with the remainder built using other technologies. The tool learns from each interaction, becoming more personalised over time.
“Most bots just talk. Ours thinks,” said James Penfold, co-founder and experience director at Cyphr, which worked with the Weber Ranch team on Tex’s development. “The more you interact, the more personalised your experience becomes – just like talking to your favourite bartender who remembers your favourite drink.”
Tech-led brand approach
Weber Ranch 1902 Vodka, distilled from 100% Blue Weber Agave, has positioned itself as a technology-forward brand since launching last year. The company previously worked on tech-driven marketing for Patrón Tequila, including early adoption of Oculus, augmented reality, and Amazon Alexa.
“We’re setting new standards for how brands engage with consumers, recognising that innovation in our industry must extend well beyond the bottle,” said Applbaum.
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