As Director of Food & Beverage at Bishop’s Lodge, I love searching for new ways of expressing the unique character of this iconic place while preserving its incredible history. This holiday season, the new Black Walnut Horchata does both.

Life can throw some curveballs, but there’s one constant that I always look forward to, and that’s vacationing with my eight best girlfriends from college every other year. It’s a tradition that’s become sacrosanct. It keeps us grounded and connected to what’s most important in life—spending time with loved ones. The choice of destination has changed over the years from big, energetic cities with buzzy dining scenes in our first few reunions, to relaxed beach getaways for melting the stress right off as our lives got busier.

Imagine breathing in the intense aroma of bitter dark chocolate, spices, nuts, and chilis. It’s a heady mix, intoxicating in its richness and complexity. But it’s not a chocolate bar or truffle that’s before you, but a drinking elixir served in a small blue-and-white cup that’s been hand-painted in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Settled more than 150 years ago, Bishop’s Lodge is steeped in history and a profound sense of place. As its General Manager, I take special pride in our team’s sensitive restoration and preservation efforts. Authenticity infuses our entire approach, and one extraordinary tribute—both to the diverse native communities that have long made New Mexico their home, as well as to Santa Fe’s deep artistic roots—can be found in our Dining Room. Taking pride of place are four newly restored oil paintings by Warren E. Rollins of Puebloan life from the 1920s.

I’ve created custom ceramics under the Whiskey and Clay line for restaurants in Marfa, Texas to Beverly Hills. But SkyFire at Bishop’s Lodge is the first restaurant in Santa Fe for which I’ve crafted unique pieces. Drawn to Santa Fe by its vibrant arts scene, proximity to nature, and slower pace of life, I moved here a few years ago—so it’s a huge honor to already be a part of such a treasured Santa Fe landmark. (Local friends have shared stories of horseback riding and cherished family holidays at the Lodge, and I hope to create my own memories, too, when it reopens.)