Mixology Classes
Overview
In these Level 1 classes I show you the same techniques that I use when developing custom cocktails professionally. We explore a variety of different classic cocktail structures to demystify the process of understanding the language of cocktails. As always, when we get to round three you'll have an opportunity to create a custom cocktail using your new lifelong skills!
Each unique class explores different recipes, spirits, and flavors so that you can build your home bar incrementally and have the know-how to use every bottle.
Both in-person and virtual classes are available. Scroll down to see the current list of classes.
Pre-prohibition
Cocktail Class
Learn two of the most iconic cocktail structures of all time, both featured in the first cocktail book ever printed back in 1862: The Tom Collins and Old Fashioned. As we mix, sip, deconstruct and reconstruct, you'll see why time and time bartenders all over the world return to these recipes for inspiration and proportions. Once you understand the language of these two very different cocktail structures, you'll be able to customize them in countless ways at home to any flavor profile or dinner theme.
Post-prohibition
Cocktail Class
Prohibition, followed by WWII, decimated a thriving bar culture in the United States. Then in the 1940's, the Moscow Mule and Margarita hit the scene and have been staples ever since. We'll explore why these two cocktails have stood the test of time and how we can adapt them to modern palates, adjust their components and also discuss how to make a TRULY "Skinny Margarita".
Whiskey Cocktail Class 1
In this class we explore America's spirit, bourbon, while mixing and sipping two very different cocktails: the Mint Julep and the Whiskey Sour! We discuss the various techniques involved making these two drinks ("It's just muddling, how tough can it be?") and also look at the polarizing topic of using egg whites in cocktails and how to incorporate them properly in any sour variation you want! (Don't worry, using egg white is optional in this class!)
Gin Cocktail Class 1
Ah, gin. So delicious and so often misunderstood. Did you know that there are different styles of gin? Most of us are familiar with the London Dry Style (Tanqueray, Beefeater, etc.) but there is so much more and each of them has it's own voice! Here, we chat about magic cocktail proportions, what to expect from the different styles of gin, and how you might want to use them at your house. We explore the endless versatility of the Bee's Knees and the ultra-refreshing Eastside while using both Old Tom gin and another gin of your choice!
Caribbean/Tiki
Cocktail Class 1
Let's travel to the Caribbean together where the r(h)um and how it is consumed is as unique as each island and town. These tropical drinks have been adulterated over the years to be overly sweetened using high-fructose corn syrup, blenders, and even artificial colors. That's not what these drinks were originally about! Caribbean and Tiki cocktails, when prepared correctly, are an immediate escape to nostalgic beaches and warm daydreams. Here, we're going to island-hop from Cuba (the Daiquiri) to Jamaica (Jamaican Rum Punch) to explore how these two cocktails and styles of rum are so different! Ready to set sail?
Caribbean/Tiki
Cocktail Class 2
So many more port towns, islands, and r(h)ums to explore! On this journey we start in Martinique to try French rhum agricole and sip the alluring Ti' Punch before jetting down to Trinidad to master the balance of a Queen's Park Swizzle. These two entirely different cocktail recipes and spirits illustrate two very different ends of the flavor profile spectrum and broaden your horizons to what r(h)um cocktails should taste like!
Brunch Cocktail Class
Forget breakfast, brunch is the most important meal! What better way to gather and set the tone for a long relaxing day of living life on your terms? In this class, we cover just two of of my favorite brunch cocktails: the French 75 and the Agua de Valencia. These two drinks are a refreshing break from the usual brunch go-to cocktails and allow a lot of opportunity to personalize your drink!
Agave Cocktail Class 1
Let's explore the wonderful world of agave by taking a look at tequila and mezcal! I get A LOT of questions about these so here's a class where we can learn and taste what differentiates these beautiful Mexican spirits. We'll be looking at two sunny-weather cocktails to cool you off as the weather gets warmer: the Paloma and Mexican Firing Squad! As always, you'll learn how to best customize these awesome cocktails to your preferred balance and flavors!