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World Cocktail Day 2022

A Selection of Our Favourite Cocktail Experiences

The historical origin of cocktails has long been debated, with many different countries claiming to have created the innovative tipples. Humankind has been drinking and mixing alcohol for over 10,000 years – there’s even evidence to be found in Homer’s Iliad – but records suggest that the first cocktails as we know them actually originated in India as locals mixed arrack spirit with water, sugar, citrus and a myriad of spices for a tasty treat.

Nowadays, the long list of cocktail favourites continue to grow and are a go-to drink of choice for many an alcohol enthusiast, whether they’re out for drinks with friends, celebrating a special occasion or simply seeing in the weekend. So, with World Cocktail Day fast approaching in May, why not enjoy a mouth-watering mojito or an immaculately made martini at a tantalising cocktail experience?

Whatever the occasion, a cocktail masterclass is the perfect excuse to get adventurous, learn new skills or simply relax and have fun in an immersive environment. After all, mixology is not just a case of mixing drinks but a complex, creative and theatrical art form focused on serving up exciting concoctions for us all to sip and enjoy.

What is World Cocktail Day?

On Friday 13th May 2022, drinkers across the globe will be raising a glass to celebrate World Cocktail Day. And while Friday the 13th may be spooky for some, for the discerning drinker in May it marks the 216th anniversary of The Balance and Columbian Repository newspaper's seminal definition of the cocktail as "a stimulating liquor composed of spirits of any kind – sugar, water and bitters" in 1806.

From cocktail-making competitions to limited edition mixers and social media campaigns, where the world’s best mixologists teach us all how to make a variety of signature specials, the 13th May is now observed by mixology fans across the globe as World Cocktail Day in honour of the anniversary of this pioneering terminology.

What are the benefits of cocktail lessons?

Cocktail masterclasses are perfect for anyone looking to hone their bar skills, learn more about mixology and the wider drinks industry or simply enjoy a tipple with a twist.

With expert guidance on hand, cocktail lessons are a chance to delve deeper into the art of mixology and learn from the best in the business. Take away newfound knowledge to make bar quality cocktails at home and develop the taste buds to detect scintillating flavours.

Aside from becoming a cocktail connoisseur, masterclasses can also be a great way to develop confidence, meet like-minded people and offer a unique date night with a difference!

Where can I do cocktail making classes?

Where can I do cocktail making classes?

As a wise person once said, the greatest adventures happen after cocktails – but with cocktail-making masterclasses, the adventures begin on arrival! Across the UK, there are a huge variety of delicious, daring and decadent cocktail classes, including fancy soirées a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace to gin-making masterclasses in Devon and lessons in liquor mixing in Leeds. From north to south, finding the perfect cocktail-making class couldn’t be easier and our incredible collection of cocktail-making experiences are sure to be just the tonic for an unforgettable evening.
In the vicinity of Buckingham Palace, award-winning Director of Bars at The Rubens at the Palace, Silviu Stan, plays host at this immersive cocktail masterclass. Sip on a glass of Champagne upon arrival and snack on delicious canapés in the stunning surrounds of The New York Bar before mastering mixology and discovering how to make the perfect cocktail under expert tutelage. An ideal gift for anyone with an adventurous palate or for drinks lovers looking to learn more, this indulgent experience serves up mouth-watering beverages, as well as a whole host of technical tips for how to become a cocktail connoisseur.
World Cocktail Day Shake things up in the glorious North of England and mix three experimental concoctions with this cocktail masterclass at Liquor Studio in Leeds. Focused on the production, creation and innovation of bespoke products and experiences, the team at Liquor Studio have combined their love of gin with learning and laughter to create one of the best cocktail-making classes on the market. Throughout this 90-minute class, create tasty tipples from a purpose-built cocktail station in the Blending Room, picking up expert mixology tips along the way from seasoned professionals.
Away from the city, why not enjoy cocktails for two at The Folly? Perfect for a drinks date, a catch up with a close friend or as a treat for a special occasion, delight in two delectable cocktails of choice each, while soaking up the stunning natural vistas by the banks of the River Thames. With an After Eight inspired cocktail, a Banoffee Pie Martini and a classic White Russian on offer, the cocktails take centre stage in this gorgeous setting. An amazing experience to make cherished memories for any cocktail lover.
If gin is the tipple of choice, this exciting gin-making experience in Torquay is sure to whet the appetite. Learn all about the origins of this renowned spirit, the wonders of botanicals and the all-important distillation process at this fabulous Devonshire gin school, as the class gets to grips with using a traditional copper pot still to make gin. During the interactive experience, enjoy two cocktails or G&Ts and leave with a bespoke 500ml bottle of gin to enjoy at home as a charming reminder of this exciting class. Never has going to school sounded so appealing.

View All Cocktail Masterclass Experience Locations
Cocktail Making Masterclass for Two at Buddha-Bar in Knightsbridge

Cocktail Making Masterclass for Two at Buddha-Bar in Knightsbridge

This cocktail-making masterclass is all about innovation without bounds. Over two hours, experienced bartenders will craft classic cocktails in live demonstrations and uncover the tricks of the trade when it comes to mastering mixology. Armed with expert knowledge, whip up a delicious cocktail from the Buddha-Bar menu or let loose and experiment with something new and fresh to impress the party. The ideal experience for cocktail lovers looking to flex their creative skills and relax in the coolest of settings with an array of drinks to enjoy.

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The Chocolate Cocktail Club Entry for Two with Cocktails

The Chocolate Cocktail Club Entry for Two with Cocktails

For curious cocktail enthusiasts and chocoholics alike, look no further than The Chocolate Cocktail Club. Located in London's bustling Farringdon, this chocolate centric watering hole is the perfect spot for those with a sweet tooth. Enjoy the club’s signature cocktail, the Chocotini, on arrival and a second cocktail of choice each from the Chocolate Cocktail Club's extensive menu. From the Chocolate Orange and Caramel King to the Shamazing Strawberry and the Bananarama, this is the ultimate quirky experience for chocolate connoisseurs wanting to treat themselves or celebrate a special occasion with a tipsy twist.

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Mezcal Masterclass and Cocktails at MAP Maison for Two

Mezcal Masterclass and Cocktails at MAP Maison for Two

Searching for a cocktail-fuelled fiesta? Mezcal – a distilled spirit made from the agave plant commonly associated with tequila – is sure to bring the party. During this mezcal masterclass and cocktails experience, enjoy a signature cocktail on arrival and indulge in small tapas plates to share at this chic cocktail bar in Haggerston. Learn all about the history and development of the spirit before sampling three mezcal tastings and getting behind the bar to recreate a delicious drink from the masterclass cocktail menu! Leave with a bottled cocktail from the MAP Lab as a tasty reminder of this unforgettable experience.

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Gin Cocktail Masterclass and Three Cocktails with Canapes at The Athenaeum for Two

Gin Cocktail Masterclass and Three Cocktails with Canapés at The Athenaeum for Two

For a truly unmissable cocktail-making experience, head over to The Athenaeum in London’s Mayfair for a 90-minute masterclass for two. Discover the secrets of mixology and create a series of classic cocktails along with some new unique concoctions that are guaranteed to tantalise the senses. The session is hosted by the in-house mixologist who will share their industry secrets and tips for creating the perfect cocktail mix every time. Whether it’s learning how to mix the perfect dry martini or creating something brand new, the session provides participants with the knowledge needed to be able to select the right ingredients and quantities to ensure the flavours are complementary and results divine. Canapés will also be provided throughout the experience to provide a delicious accompaniment to the day. This cocktail-making masterclass would make a great gift for any cocktail-lover and a fantastic way to spend a day or evening out in London.

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