Sign in
Arts
Education
VinePair
Want to take your bartending skills to the next level? Join VinePair managing editor Tim McKirdy for a weekly deep-dive into classic cocktails with America’s best bartenders. Cocktail College looks beyond the recipe and explores every aspect of mixology from ingredients and ice to shaking techniques, garnishes, and glassware — elevating your Martinis, Mai Tais, and everything in between. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Sex on the Beach
More than just an evocative name, the Sex on the Beach is brimming with ‘80s and ‘90s nostalgia, and arrives topped with a fun (if questionable) backstory. Leading us on a vibrant trip down memory lane is Houston’s Alba Huerta, owner of the James Beard Award winning Julep. Listen on to discover Huerta’s Sex on the Beach recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Alba Huerta’s Sex on the Beach Recipe Ingredients - ¾ ounce Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom - ¾ ounce vodka - 1 ounce fresh lemon juice - ¾ ounce cranberry juice - ½ ounce crème de pêche - ½ ounce orange juice - ¼ ounce simple syrup - Garnish: dehydrated lemon wheel Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. 2. Shake until well chilled. 3. Strain into a Double Old Fashioned glass filled with ice. 4. Garnish with dehydrated lemon wheel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
56:3805/01/2023
The Irish Coffee
While simple in composition, the Irish Coffee is a bonafide cocktail and deserves to be treated like one. Helping us do so today is Jillian Vose, former bar manager and beverage director of the Dead Rabbit, and co-owner of Charleston’s soon-to-open Hazel and Apple. Listen on to learn everything you need to know about the Irish Coffee from one of the world’s leading experts on the drink — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! The Dead Rabbit and Jillian Vose’s Irish Coffee Recipe Ingredients - 1 ounce Irish whiskey - 3 ¼ ounces drip coffee - ¾ ounce rich Demerara simple syrup (2:1) - 1 ounce freshly whipped cream Directions 1. Add whiskey, warm coffee, and simple syrup to a warm, 6-ounce coffee glass. 2. Top with whipped cream. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:03:3229/12/2022
The Sherry Cobbler
While the Sherry Cobbler taps into the modern trend of lower-ABV cocktails, it’s safe to say that its golden era remains a distant memory. This drink was, as startender Harry Johnson noted in 1888, “without doubt the most popular beverage in the country.” Still, there remains much to enjoy and explore here, including the Sherry Cobbler’s role in inspiring themed bars across the Atlantic and spreading the practice of drinking through a straw. Melissa Brooke, bar director at New York’s PS, joins us to today to unpack all of this and more. Listen on to learn her Sherry Cobbler recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Melissa Brooke’s Sherry Cobbler Recipe Ingredients - ½ ounce simple syrup - 3 orange slices - 2 ounces Lustau Amontillado sherry - Garnish: fresh berries Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Hard shake until well chilled. 3. Strain into a chilled highball or snifter glass. 4. Top with crushed ice. 5. Garnish with fresh berries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:07:1822/12/2022
The Boulevardier
Calling all Prohibition-era, Parisian socialites: it’s time — we’re talking Boulevardiers today. And we’re doing so with the magnificent Amanda Gunderson, the LA-based CEO and co-founder of the nonprofit Another Round Another Rally. Listen on to discover everything you need to know about The Boulevardier and to learn Amanda’s recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Amanda Gunderson’s Boulevardier Recipe Ingredients - 1 bar spoon Green Chartreuse - ¾ ounce sweet vermouth, such as Carpano Antica Formula - 1 ounce Campari - 1 ½ ounces bonded bourbon, such as Old Tub - Garnish: orange peel Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until chilled. 3. Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. 4. Garnish with a flamed orange peel and rest on the side of the glass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:00:1215/12/2022
The Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a boozy meal in a glass; a vehicle for a range of elaborate and occasionally wacky garnishes; and a hangover cure, if only by means of placebo. In today’s episode, we sit down with Eric “ET” Tecosky, an LA-based former bartender, founder, and owner of Dirty Sue Premium Olive Juice, and national brand ambassador of Jack Daniel’s. Listen on to discover everything you need to know about the Bloody Mary and learn ET’s recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! ET’s Bloody Mary Recipe Ingredients - ½ ounce ET’s spice mix (recipe follows) - 3 ½ ounces tomato juice - 1 ½ ounces vodka- Lemon juice, to taste Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a pint glass with ice. 2. Roll shake between that and a separate glass of sufficient size until chilled. 3. Pour Bloody Mary and ice into a chilled Collins glass or goblet. 4. Garnish with a celery stalk, lemon wedge, a few olives, bacon, and pickled vegetables of your choice. ET’s Spice Mix Ingredients- 6 ounces Dirty Sue Premium Olive Juice - 4 flat teaspoons black pepper - 3 flat teaspoons celery salt - 3 flat teaspoons Lawry’s Seasoned Salt - 6 flat teaspoons prepared horseradish - 3 ounces Worcestershire sauce - ½ ounce Tabasco Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:22:4408/12/2022
The Martini (re-run)
Are we in the midst of a bonafide Martini renaissance? What are the limits for garnishes, riffs, and ingredients? And when does a Martini cease to be a Martini? These are all questions we should keep top of mind as we revisit one of the earliest recordings of Cocktail College: The Martini, with John Clark-Ginnetti, owner of 116 Crown in New Haven. Tune in — or read below — to learn how to make John’s Martini, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe!John Clark-Ginnetti's MartiniIngredients3 parts Plymouth Gin2 parts Boissière Dry VermouthGarnish: Lemon peelDirectionsAdd all ingredients to a mixing glass.Add ice and stir until chilled.Strain into a chilled Martini glass.Garnish with a lemon peel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:5001/12/2022
The American Trilogy
On this Thanksgiving Thursday, we show appreciation for the American Trilogy, a distinctly American riff on the Old Fashioned. We’re joined by returning friend of the show Richie Boccato, the drink’s co-creator and owner of New York’s Dutch Kills bar and Hundredweight Ice company. Listen on to learn the story behind the American Trilogy and to learn Boccato’s recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Richie Boccato’s American Triology Recipe Ingredients - 1 ounce applejack, such as Laird’s Bottled in Bond - 1 ounce rye whiskey, such as Michter’s - 1 cube Demerara sugar - 2 dashes orange bitters (1:1 mix of Fee Brothers and Regans’) - 1 splash soda water Directions 1. Add sugar cube to a chilled Old Fashioned glass and saturate with bitters and a splash of soda water. 2. Crush cube using a muddler and work to form a rough paste. 3. Add applejack, rye, and a large, single cube of ice. Stir gently, 15 times to incorporate the sugar paste. 4. Garnish with an orange twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:07:1424/11/2022
The Tipperary
Cocktail College takes a trip to Ireland this week as we’re joined by Jack McGarry, owner of the Dead Rabbit. He’s here to discuss a rare Irish whiskey classic cocktail, the Tipperary, and to dive into the history of the category in general. Tune in to learn more. Listen on to discover McGarry’s Tipperary recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Jack McGarry’s Tipperary Recipe Ingredients - 1 ½ ounces Irish whiskey - 1 ½ ounces sweet vermouth - ½ ounce green chartreuse - 2 dashes absinthe - 2 dashes Angostura bitters Directions 1. Add two dashes of Angostura bitters, two dashes of absinthe, green chartreuse, sweet vermouth, and Irish whiskey into a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until chilled. 3. Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. 4. Garnish with a lemon twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:19:2717/11/2022
The Hurricane
Hold the neutral grain alcohol and powder mix, today we’re exploring how to properly make The Hurricane. Teaching us how to do so is New Orleans native and returning friend of the show, Neal Bodenheimer. Listen on to discover Bodenheimer’s Hurricane recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Kirk Estopinal’s Hurricane Recipe (as told by Neal Bodenheimer) Ingredients - 1 ½ ounces white rum, such as Don Q - ½ ounce aged rum, such as Appleton 12 - ¾ ounce fassinola (or homemade Hurricane syrup) - ¾ fresh lime juice Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. 2. Shake until well chilled. 3. Strain into a chilled Hurricane glass filled with crushed ice. 4. Garnish with a cocktail umbrella. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:19:0610/11/2022
The Harvard
Don’t call it a Cognac Manhattan: On today’s episode, we explore The Harvard with the esteemed bartender and author Thad Vogler, who’s also the founder of San Francisco’s Bar Agricole, and a leading craft spirits authority. Listen on to discover Vogler’s Harvard recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Thad Vogler’s Harvard Recipe Ingredients - 1 ½ ounces Cognac, such as Cognac Dudognon- 1 ½ ounces Italian sweet vermouth, such as Bordiga Rosso- 1 barspoon Maraschino liqueur- 1 barspoon gum syrup- 3 dashes aromatic bitters, such as Angostura Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until well chilled. 3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with an orange twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:10:1203/11/2022
The Champs Élysées
We’re heading to the 8th Arrondissment for today’s cocktail, The Champs Élysées, and we’re exploring it with Wilmer Nolasco, head bartender at Leroy’s in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. More than just another use for that bottle of green Chartreuse, this is a bold yet refreshing four-ingredient shaken classic. Listen on to discover Nolasco’s Champs Élysées recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Wilmer Nolasco’s Champs Élysées Recipe Ingredients - 1 ½ ounces Cognac, such as Cognac Park VS - ½ ounce green Chartreuse - ½ ounce fresh lemon juice - ⅓ ounce rich demerara simple syrup (2:1) - 2 dashes Angostura bitters Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Shake until well chilled. 3. Double strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:00:3427/10/2022
The Dark 'N' Stormy
We're taking a field trip today at Cocktail College, as we head to the beach to discuss the Dark 'N' Stormy with the pirate himself, Brian Miller. The key to perfecting this drink? Put aside that can of ginger beer (unless it's Old Jamaica) and pull out the juice extractor. Want to learn more? Listen on to discover Miller's Dark 'N' Stormy recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Brian Miller’s Rum & Ginger Highball (Inspired by the Classic Dark 'N' Stormy)Ingredients 2 ounces Gosling's rum (or 1 ounce Appleton 12 and 1 ounce El Dorado 15)3/4 ounce lime juice1 ounce ginger syrup1/4 ounce Cruzan Black Strap rum 1/4 ounce Hamilton 151 Overproof rum1 dash of Angostura bitters1 ounce club sodaDirections Combine rum, lime juice, ginger syrup, blackstrap molasses, Hamilton 151, and bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice.Shake until chilled.Strain into a chilled highball glass with ice.Top with club soda.Optional: garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel and candied ginger. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
54:3220/10/2022
The Dirty Martini
There’s no denying that interest in the Martini has spiked in recent times — driven in large part by the mass appeal of vodka-laced Dirty Martinis. Gin purists may stick up their noses but a drink this popular is worthy of close examination. Under the microscope of today’s guest, Simon Sebbah, beverage director of New York’s Grand Tour Hospitality, this study leads us into the field of customizing brine, vermouth, and even olives. Listen on to discover Sebbah’s Dirty Martini recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Simon Sebbah’s Dirty Martini Recipe Ingredients - 2 ½ ounces freezer-cold gin or vodka - ¼ - ½ ounce salt-adjusted dry vermouth (3 parts water to 1 part brine, salt adjusted to taste) - Garnish: 1 olive Directions 1. Freezer-cold spirit and vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir (briefly) until cold then strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. 3. Garnish with one olive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
56:0813/10/2022
El Presidente
In today’s episode, we explore El Presidente, a Cuban-born, stirred, rum-based classic. Teaching class is Orlando Franklin, the bar director at Brooklyn’s Night Moves who cut his teeth at Maison Premiere and Blind Barber. Listen on to discover Franklin’s El Presidente recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Orlando Franklin’s El Presidente Recipe Ingredients 1 ½ ounce Cuban rum, such as Havana Club 3 1 ounce Dolin Vermouth de Chambery Dry ½ ounce Cointreau ¼ ounce pomegranate molasses 3 drops orange blossom water Directions Combine ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and stir until chilled. Strain into chilled Nick & Nora glass. Garnish with an orange twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
56:5806/10/2022
The Mint Julep
If you’re reserving your mint sprigs and pewter cups solely for the first Saturday of May, you are missing a trick. The Mint Julep is a refreshing whiskey cocktail, worthy of attention throughout the year and deserving of a full Cocktail College exploration. We’re joined today by the Phoenix-based award-winning mixologist and author Kim Haasarud to do just that. Listen on to discover Haasarud’s Mint Julep recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Bonus: VinePair has partnered with Remy Martin to host the annual Remy Martin Bartender Talent Academy Cocktail Competition. Submit your own riff on the classic cocktail, the Sidecar, by Friday, Sep 30, to win a trip to France on top of cash prizes. Head to vinepair.com/remy-martin-bta-cocktail-competition-2022 to get all the details and submit your entry. Kim Haasarud’s Mint Julep Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces bourbon - 10-15 fresh mint leaves - ½ ounce simple syrup - Powdered sugar - Garnish: 3-5 mint sprigs Directions 1. Combine bourbon, mint leaves, and simple syrup in a pewter Julep cup and fill the glass halfway with crushed ice. 2. Use a swizzle stick to mix ingredients together and muddle. After a minute of mixing, repeat the process, adding more ice until the glass is ¾ full. 3. Top with more crushed ice to form a mound on top of the glass. 4. Garnish with 3-5 fresh mint sprigs and a dusting of powdered sugar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
58:5629/09/2022
El Diablo
Josue Gonzalez joins us for today's episode to discuss El Diablo, a classic tequila highball that sees the spirit mixed with lime, crème de cassis, and either ginger ale or ginger beer. Josue has more than a decade of experience in the industry, during which time he’s built up a clear passion for hospitality. These days, you’ll find him as a partner at Unfiltered Hospitality and occasionally working behind The Sylvester Bar, in Miami. Listen on (or read below) to discover Josue's El Diablo recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Bonus: VinePair has partnered with Remy Martin to host the annual Remy Martin Bartender Talent Academy Cocktail Competition. Submit your own riff on the classic cocktail, the Sidecar, by Friday, Sep 30, to win a trip to France on top of cash prizes. Head to vinepair.com/remy-martin-bta-cocktail-competition-2022 to get all the details and submit your entry. Josue Gonzalez’s El Diablo Recipe Ingredients ¾ ounce fresh lime juice 1 ¼ ounce blanco tequila ½ ounce crème de cassis 3 ounces ginger beer Garnish: lime wheel, candied ginger, and a Filthy cherry to garnish Directions Combine lime juice, crème de cassis, and tequila in a cocktail shaker with two ice cubes. (optional: substitute creme de cassis with strawberry syrup for a sweeter flavor) Shake until cold and strain into a highball glass. Top up with ginger beer and crushed ice. Garnish with a lime wheel, candied ginger, and skewered Filthy cherry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:10:1222/09/2022
Episode 50 Special: Etiquette
He's back! It's our first ever guest, Eric Alperin, and he rejoins us today to mark a special occasion by discussing one of his favorite topics: etiquette. How exactly does that relate to cocktails and bartending? Listen on to learn more — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:10:4215/09/2022
The Whiskey Highball
In this week's episode of Cocktail College, Tim explores the Whiskey Highball with Iain Griffiths from New York's Hidden Leaf, Midnight Cafe, and Midnight Theatre. In its simplest form, this drink can be something as basic as a splash of Scotch, some fizzy water, and a few cubes of ice. Or, if you’re taking it to extreme levels, the Whiskey Highball can present a study in such topics as temperature, pouring skills, carbonation, and nucleation points. Listen on to discover Iain’s Whiskey Highball techniques — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe!Iain Griffiths' Whiskey Highball Recipe Ingredients 2 ounces whiskey Club soda, such as Fever-Tree, to top Spear Ice Directions In a chilled highball glass, add whiskey, then ice, and then club soda. Garnish with a lemon twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:13:3408/09/2022
The Corpse Reviver No. 2
Harrison Snow from New York’s Lullaby joins us today to explore the evocatively named, historic hangover remedy, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 . We discuss the perfect proportions for this classically equal parts concoction and learn the different takeaways from sampling this cocktail with over 100 different gins. Listen on to discover Snow’s Corpse Reviver No. 2 recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Harrison Snow’s Corpse Reviver No. 2 Recipe - ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice - ⅜ ounce Tempus Fugit Kina L’Aero d’Or - ⅜ ounce Cocchi Americano - ⅜ ounce Cointreau - ¾ ounce London Dry Gin, such as Tanqueray - 3 drops saline solution (4 parts water / 1 part salt) - 2 dashes Absinthe, such as Vieux Pontarlier Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until cold. 2. Strain into chilled Nick & Nora glass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
56:2801/09/2022
The Lemon Drop
We have Harrison Ginsberg from New York’s Crown Shy on the show today, leading us on a sweet exploration of the Lemon Drop. Over the course of the episode, we explore the wild world of shots, bars that opt for plants because they can’t afford furniture, and the nuances of vodka — they exist! Listen on to discover Ginsberg’s Lemon Drop recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Harrison Ginsberg’s Lemon Drop Recipe - 1 ounce fresh lemon juice - ¼ ounce simple syrup (2:1) - ¾ ounce Cointreau - 2 ounces vodka Directions 1. Prep a Martini glass with a sugared rim and place in the freezer. 2. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until cold. 3. Strain into chilled Martini glass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:00:0625/08/2022
Techniques: Dilution
Joey Smith, bar director at New York’s Chez Zou, tells us everything we need to know about the precise science of dilution. Listen on the learn why it’s so important in cocktails and how to avoid over- and under-diluting drinks — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
50:3418/08/2022
The Last Word
Today’s deep-dive on a democratic, shaken classic sees us joined by Portland, Oregon-based bartender, beverage director, author, and editor Jim Meehan. He brings 25 years of experience and some of the most eloquent language we’ve enjoyed yet to this exploration of the Last Word. Listen on (or read below) to learn Meehan’s Last Word recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe!Jim Meehan’s Last Word Recipe - 3/4 ounce gin, such as Tanqueray or Perry’s Tot Navy Strength - 3/4 ounce Green Chartreuse - 3/4 ounce Luxardo Marschino liqueur - 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with Kold-Draft ice. 2. Shake until well chilled. 3. Strain into a Nick & Nora glass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:1211/08/2022
The Negroni
It’s a big week for Cocktail College as we close in on the 50th episode milestone. Not only are we finally getting down to covering the Negroni, today we are joined by Portland, Oregon based Jeffrey Morgenthaler, formerly of Clyde Common and now of Pacific Standard. Listen on (or read below) to learn Morgenthaler’s Negroni recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe!Jeffrey Morgenthaler’s Negroni Recipe - 1 ounce Beefeater gin - 1 ounce Cinzano Rosso - 1 ounce Campari Garnish: Orange twist or wedge Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a chilled rocks glass with ice. 2. Stir until chilled. 3. Garnish with an orange twist or wedge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
59:4404/08/2022
The Clover Club
Who could be more perfect to explore the visually stunning, fruity, and fresh Clover Club than Julie Reiner? A New York City bartending dynamo, Reiner just happens to own a bar with the same name of today’s drink and boasts decades of experience in the industry. Listen on or read below to discover her Clover Club recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Julie Reiner’s Clover Club Recipe Ingredients - 1 1/2 ounces gin, such as Plymouth, Bombay Dry, or Japanese - 1/2 ounce dry vermouth, such as Dolin - 1/2 ounce lemon juice - 1/2 ounce raspberry syrup (recipe below) - 1/4 ounce egg white Garnish: 1 fresh raspberry Directions 1. Add all raspberry syrup, lemon juice, dry vermouth, gin, and then, finally, egg white to a cocktail shaker and shake without ice. 2. Add ice and shake until chilled. 3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a fresh raspberry on a pick. Raspberry Syrup Recipe Ingredients - 1/2 cup fresh raspberries - 1 cup fine sugar - 1/2 cup water Directions Macerate raspberries and sugar until the mixture becomes thick and goopy. Add water and allow to sit over night so the sugar dissolves. Strain out solids using a fine strainer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
44:2928/07/2022
The Bramble
Today we are joined by the inimitable Jared Brown, founder of Sipsmith gin, to discuss the Bramble, a modern classic created by his friend and contemporary Dick Bradsell. Listen on or read below to discover Brown’s Bramble recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Jared Brown’s Bramble Recipe Ingredients - 50 milliliters London dry gin - 25 milliliters lemon - 10 milliliters simple syrup - 20 milliliters crème de mûre Garnish: - blackberries - powder sugarDirections 1. Combine gin, lemon, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice.2. Shake until cold and strain into a double Old Fashioned glass filled with crushed ice. 3. Top up with more crushed ice and top with crème de mûre, ideally pouring around the edges of the glass. 4. Garnish with two blackberries and a dusting of powder sugar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:08:1921/07/2022
The 50/50 Martini
Industry legend Dale Degroff joins us today for a wide-ranging exploration of the 50/50 Martini. We discuss the evolution of this cocktail over the course of the last 150 years, and examine the evolution of the spirits category at large. Listen on or read below to discover Degroff’s 50/50 Martini recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Dale Degroff’s 50/50 Martini Recipe Ingredients - 1 ½ ounce Old Tom Gin or Old Duff Genever - 1 ounce Cocchi Vermouth di Torino - ½ ounce Dolin Dry vermouth - 1 dash Dale Degroff’s Aromatic Bitters Garnish: orange twist (optional) Preparation 1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until well chilled and strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. 3. Garnish with an optional orange twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:01:0614/07/2022
The Scofflaw
Exploring the history of the Scofflaw cocktail not only leads to a deep dive on ingredients such as grenadine, but also delves into the unexpected origins of the word. Sharing this wonderful tale with us today is Kansas City’s Jill Cockson, owner of Drastic Measures, Swordfish Tom’s, Chartreuse Saloon, and Anna’s Place (Omaha). Listen on or read below to discover Cockson’s Scofflaw recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Jill Cockson’s Scofflaw Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces rye whiskey, such as Rittenhouse - ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice - ¾ ounce grenadine, homemade or high quality - ¾ ounces dry vermouth, such as Dolin Blanc Garnish: orange twist Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Shake until cold and double strain into a chilled Coupe glass. 3. Express an orange twist over the cocktail and drop in the drink as a garnish. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
56:3807/07/2022
Techniques: Highbrow Hacks for Lowbrow Drinks
In this techniques episode, friend of the show Jack Schramm returns with a host of hacks to bring simple cocktails up to high-class bartender standards. Listen on to learn everything you need to know about carbonation, acid adjusting, liquor temperature, and a cheeky little technique known as "the sink" — and don’t forget to subscribe! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:12:2230/06/2022
The White Lady
Today’s is an intriguing tale involving a daisy, a 1920s American socialite (reputedly), two Harrys, and one Hardy (for good measure). The cocktail is the White Lady, and leading us on our exploration is VinePair’s very own Emily Arseneau. Listen on or read below to discover Arseneau’s White Lady recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Emily Arseneau’s White Lady Recipe Ingredients - ½ bar spoon simple syrup - 1 ounce fresh lemon juice - 1 ounce Cointreau - 2 ounces London Dry Gin, such as Beefeater or Tanqueray Garnish: lemon disc (optional) Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Shake until cold and strain into a chilled Coupe glass. 3. Garnish with and optional lemon disc or express and discard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
54:3223/06/2022
The Benton’s Old Fashioned
In this episode, we’re joined by Jeff Bell, owner of New York’s PDT, to discuss the allure of speakeasies, the genesis of “fat-washing” spirits, and the iconic modern classic that ties both topics together: The Benton’s Old Fashioned. Listen on (or read below) to discover Bell’s Benton’s Old Fashioned recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! The Benton’s Old Fashioned Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces bacon-infused Four Roses bourbon - ¼ ounce maple syrup, such as Deep Mountain Maple - 2 dashes Angostura bitters Garnish: orange twist Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until cold and strain into a chilled rocks glass with a large, clear cube of ice. 3. Garnish with a small orange twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:02:4216/06/2022
Ti' Punch
Today, we're revisiting that tried and true trinity of rum, lime, and sugar but the outcome may be far from familiar for some. Simple to make yet complex in profile, the drink is the Ti' Punch, and our teacher today is Christian Favier of Charleston's The Ordinary. Listen on (or read below) to discover Favier's Ti' Punch recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Christian Favier’s Ti' Punch Recipe Ingredients - 1 quarter-sized dollop of cane syrup - 1 lime coin - 2 ounces Rhum Agricole, such as Neisson Blanc Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a rocks glass. 2. Mix using a swizzle stick. 3. Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
50:5809/06/2022
The Cosmopolitan
In the midst of what some people (namely host Tim McKirdy) are describing as a “Cosmopolissance,” we sit down with the drink’s inventor Toby Cecchini to discuss how he developed the cocktail, its changing status over time, and — of course — how to perfect its preparation. Listen on (or read below) to discover Cecchini’s Cosmopolitan recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Toby Cecchini’s Cosmopolitan Recipe Ingredients - 1 ½ ounces Absolut Citron - ¾ ounce Cointreau - ¾ ounce fresh lime juice - ¾ ounce Ocean Spray Cranberry Garnish: lemon twist Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Shake until cold and strain into a chilled Coupe glass. 3. Garnish with lemon twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
56:0802/06/2022
The Whiskey Sour
The base spirit is whiskey, the flavor profile is sour, and it’s called the Whiskey Sour. Of course, there’s so much more to learn about this cocktail than those two factors, and today we’re doing so under the guidance of the venerable H. Joseph Ehrmann. Listen on (or read below) to discover Ehrmann’s Whiskey Sour recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! H. Joseph Ehrmann’s Whiskey Sour Recipe Ingredients - 1 ounce fresh lemon juice - ¾ ounce simple syrup (1:1) - 2 ounces 100 proof rye whiskey or high rye bourbon - ¾ ounce egg white - Garnish: 1 Maraschino cherry Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker without ice and dry shake. 2. Shake until well incorporated. 3. Add ice and shake until chilled. 4. Strain into a chilled rocks glass without ice. Garnish with a Maraschino cherry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:00:3426/05/2022
The Rob Roy
In an exploration of the world’s most famous Scotch whisky cocktail — The Rob Roy — Adam Montgomerie, a Scottish native and bar manager at Hawksmoor New York, takes us on a whisky, sweet vermouth, and bitters deep dive. Listen on (or read below) to discover Montgomerie’s Rob Roy recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Adam Montgomerie’s Rob Roy Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces single malt Scotch, such as Clynelish 14 Year Old - 1 ounce sweet vermouth, such as Martini Rosso - 2 dashes Angostura bitters Garnish: 1 brandied cherry Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until cold and strain into a chilled Nick and Nora glass. 3. Garnish with cherry. (Optional: express and discard a lemon or orange twist.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
50:5119/05/2022
The Caipirinha
We’re exploring Brazil’s most iconic cocktail today — the Caipirinha — with Gui Jaroschy, the Miami-based co-founder of Unfiltered Hospitality. Jaroschy shares invaluable advice on perfecting this drink, and gives us a masterclass on the dying art of muddling. Listen on (or read below) to discover Jaroschy’s Caipirinha recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Gui Jaroschy’s Caipirinha Recipe Ingredients - 1 whole lime - 3 teaspoons granulated sugar - 2 ounces unaged cachaça, such as Novo Fogo Directions 1. Cut the lime into 8 equal pieces. 2. Add 6 of those pieces to an Old Fashioned glass. 3. Add sugar and muddle until all ingredients have combined. 4. Fill glass with ice and top with cachaça. 5. Seal using the small half of a Boston shaker tin and shake until chilled. 6. Dump into the same Old Fashioned glass, top with extra ice if required, and serve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:04:2012/05/2022
The Vieux Carré
One of multiple iconic New Orleans cocktails, the Vieux Carré pays particular homage to the city and its inhabitants via its ingredients. Familiarizing us, today, with this somewhat overlooked classic is Mimi Burnham, a New York based bartender, consultant, and drinks educator with decades of experience in the industry. Listen on (or read below) to discover Burnham’s Vieux Carré recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Mimi Burnham’s Vieux Carré Recipe Ingredients - ¾ ounce 100 proof rye whiskey - ¾ ounce Cognac - ¾ ounce sweet vermouth - ⅓ ounce Benedictine - 4 dashes Peychaud's bitters - 2 dashes Angostura bitters Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until ice cold and strain into a chilled double rocks glass filled with fresh ice, ideally one large cube. 3. Garnish with an expressed lemon or orange peel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:06:5405/05/2022
The Espresso Martini
In today's episode of Cocktail College, we tackle the decidedly trending Espresso Martini with Lauren Paylor. Have you ever questioned whether vodka is, indeed, the best base spirit for this drink, or whether to add espresso, cold brew, or coffee liqueur to the mix? Paylor has the answers. Listen on (or read below) to discover Paylor’s Espresso Martini recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Lauren Paylor’s Espresso Martini Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces vodka, such as Ketel One - 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur, such as Mr Black - 1/2 ounce of simple syrup Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Shake until cold and double strain into a chilled coupe glass. 3. Garnish with three chocolate-coated coffee beans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
38:5828/04/2022
Techniques: Non-Alcoholic Cocktails
In the second installment of our "techniques" episodes, we sit down with Derek Brown, author of Mindful Mixology, to learn how to craft better non-alcoholic cocktails — a style of drinks that deserves our attention more than ever before. Listen on to learn about Brown's unique approach to NA drinks — and don't forget to subscribe! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
51:2621/04/2022
The Vesper
We’re breaking all the Martini purists’ rules today, as we shake up some Vespers with Patrick Smith, the manager of bar openings for Union Square Hospitality Group. Listen on (or read below) to discover Smith’s Vesper recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Patrick Smith’s Vesper Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces gin, such as Beefeater - 1 ounce vodka, such as Belvedere - 1/2 ounce of Tempus Fugit Kina L'Aéro d'Or Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. 2. Stir until cold and strain into a chilled coupe glass. 3. Garnish with an expressed, manicured lemon twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
52:3414/04/2022
The Bee's Knees
Stepping away from the bar (and the bee hives) for a quick chat today, Caledonia Spirits’ Sam Nelis checks into Cocktail College to dive into the Bee’s Knees. We’ll study history, apiology, and sweet, shaken, sours. Listen on (or read below) to discover Nelis’ Bee’s Knees recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Sam Nelis’ Bee’s Knees Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces gin, such as Barr Hill - ¾ ounce honey syrup (2:1 honey to water by weight) - ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. 2. Shake until cold and double strain into a chilled coupe glass. 3. Garnish with an expressed lemon twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
42:2007/04/2022
The Grasshopper
Hopping into your feed today we have New York's Pamela Wiznitzer talking all about The Grasshopper — a cocktail she counts in her top-five drinks, and one she's made sure to always have a variation of on bar menus throughout her career. Listen on (or read below) to discover Wiznitzer's Grasshopper recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Pamela Wiznitzer’s Grasshopper Recipe Ingredients - ¼ ounce absinthe - ¾ ounce crème de menthe - 1 ounce crème de cacao - 1 ½ ounces heavy cream - 1 ounce gin, Cognac, or Irish whiskey - ½ pinch salt Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with three Kold-Draft ice cubes. 2. Shake until cold and strain into a cold coupe glass. 3. Garnish with a shaving of bitter chocolate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:04:1031/03/2022
The Jungle Bird
A curious concoction that brings Campari to the tiki sphere, the Jungle Bird has soared in popularity over the last decade. Richard Boccato, owner of New York’s Dutch Kills bar, explains how he first became acquainted with the drink, and shares his role in helping the cocktail find modern day fame. Listen on (or read below) to discover Boccato’s Jungle Bird recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Richard Boccato’s Jungle Bird Recipe Ingredients - ¾ ounce rich Demerara simple syrup (2:1 ratio) - ⅞ ounce fresh lime juice (scant 1 ounce) - 1 ¼ ounce fresh pineapple juice - ¾ ounce Campari - 1 ounce blackstrap rum, such as Cruzan - ½ ounce Demerara rum, such as El Dorado 12 - Pinch smoked sea salt Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with one cube of ice (roughly 1.75 x 2 inches in size). 2. Shake until cold and strain into a double Old Fashioned glass over one large cube of ice. 3. Garnish with your choice of pineapple wedge, orange, cocktail cherry, and/or pineapple fronds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:23:1624/03/2022
The Zombie
A boozy Tiki classic, the Zombie’s reputation has benefitted from ample helpings of marketing and mysticism. With a lengthy list of ingredients, it’s also a drink that can seem overwhelming when viewing the recipe at first glance. In today’s episode, spirits educator, author, and Tiki expert Shannon Mustipher breaks down those ingredients and teaches us how to master its preparation. Listen on (or read below) to discover Mustipher’s Zombie recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Shannon Mustipher’s Zombie Recipe Ingredients- 1 1⁄2 ounces aged rum - 1 1⁄2 ounces pot still Jamaican rum - 1 ounce 151-proof rum - 6 drops absinthe - 1⁄2 ounce falernum - 1 teaspoon grenadine - 1⁄2 ounce Don’s Mix - 3⁄4 ounce fresh lime juice - 1 dash of Angostura bitters Directions 1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with cubed ice. 2. Shake until cold and strain into a Collins glass or vessel of your choice over crushed ice. 3. Garnish with mint, a lime wedge, and an orange twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:02:1217/03/2022
Techniques: Acid Adjusting
The importance of technique is one of the major foundations of Cocktail College. So, in today’s episode, we’re going to focus on one aspect of bartending that’s grown in prominence and gained a lot of attention in recent years: acid adjusting. We do so with a master of that technique — and friend of the show — Jack Schramm. Listen on to learn everything you need to know about altering the acidity of fresh citrus and how to deploy those ingredients in cocktails — and don’t forget to subscribe! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
34:3610/03/2022
The Pornstar Martini
The Pornstar Martini seems custom designed to grab our attention, with its gaudy name, striking appearance, and dessert-inspired ingredients. And this drink is deserving of our attention — especially with other cocktails from a similar era now seeing a revival. In today’s episode, Pornstar Martini expert Laura Newman breaks down the cocktail in fine detail and offers multiple solutions for some of its trickier-to-obtain ingredients. Listen on (or read below) to discover Newman’s Pornstar Martini recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Laura Newman’s (Classic) Pornstar Martini Recipe Ingredients - 1 1⁄2 ounces vanilla vodka, such as Grey Goose La Vanille - 1⁄2 ounce passion fruit liqueur - 2 ounces passion fruit puree - 2 barspoons vanilla sugar - 2 ounces sparkling wine, ideally Champagne Garnish:- 1⁄2 fresh passion fruit Directions 1. Add all ingredients except sparkling wine to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. 2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled and aerated. 3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. 4. Garnish with fresh passion fruit and a demi tasse spoon. 5. Serve with sparkling wine sidecar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
54:2003/03/2022
The Piña Colada
Rum blends, juicing pineapples, late 70’s pop music, and a special little something called “coco biz” — these are all on the menu in this week’s episode, which focuses on the Piña Colada. Leading our tropical escape is Ivy Mix, owner of Brooklyn’s Leyenda, author of Spirits of Latin America, and co-founder of the Speed Rack competition. Listen on (or read below) to discover Mix’s Piña Colada recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Ivy Mix’s Piña Colada Recipe Ingredients - 1 ounce Novo Fogo Cachaça - ¾ ounce Don Q rum - ¼ ounce El Dorado 3 Year Old - ¾ ounce fresh pineapple juice - 1 ounce “Coco Biz” (equal parts Coco Lopez and full fat coconut milk) - ½ ounce fresh lemon juice- 1 tsp simple syrup Garnish: - Freshly grated nutmeg - Pineapple frond - Jamaican dark rum float Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with one ice cube. 2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled and aerated. 3. Strain into a crushed-ice-filled collins glass. 4. Float a small amount of Jamaican dark rum on top and garnish with nutmeg and pineapple fronds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
38:2624/02/2022
The Long Island Iced Tea
Traditional Long Island Iced Teas break all the rules that have since defined the craft cocktailmovement. But that doesn’t mean that — when made to more exacting standards — we shoulddiscount its merits as a quality cocktail. In today’s episode, Porchlight beverage directorNicholas Bennett teaches us how to upgrade the LIIT. Listen on (or read below) to discoverBennett’s Long Island Iced Tea recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe!Nicholas Bennett’s Long Island Iced Tea Recipe Ingredients - 1⁄2 ounce vodka- 1⁄2 ounce London Dry gin- 1⁄2 ounce white rum- 1⁄2 ounce blanco tequila- 1⁄2 ounce Cointreau- 3⁄4 ounce fresh lemon juice- 1/2 ounce simple syrup- Coca Cola, to top- 4 dashes Angostura bittersDirections 1. Add vodka, gin, rum, tequila, Cointreau, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice to a cocktail shaker with ice.2. Shake until chilled.3. Strain into an ice-filled highball glass.4. Top with Coca Cola.5. Finish with 4 dashes Angostura bitters and garnish with an optional orange or lemon wedge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
43:5817/02/2022
The Paloma
Among the world’s most refreshing and flavorful two-ingredient highballs, the Paloma is a simple composition that combines just tequila and grapefruit soda. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be treated like a “proper” cocktail, nor that you can’t apply some of the most advanced mixology techniques to take the drink to the next level. In this week’s episode, Jack Schramm teaches us how to do just that. Listen on (or read below) to discover Schramms’s Paloma recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Jack Schramm’s Paloma Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces tequila, preferably Siete Leguas Blanco - 1 ounce fresh grapefruit juice - ¾ ounce fresh lime juice - ½ ounce simple syrup - 5 drops 20 percent saline solution - Club soda, to top Directions 1. Build all ingredients except soda in a shaking tin. 2. Fill with ice and shake until chilled. 3. Strain into an ice-filled highball glass. 4. Top with soda. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:03:5510/02/2022
The Sidecar
In today’s episode, we sit down with Joaquín Simó of New York’s Pouring Ribbons for a special Cognac tasting, all with the aim of exploring how bartenders select ingredients for specific cocktails and why. The cocktail in question is the Sidecar, and Joaquín shares a wealth of knowledge on how to make your version live up to the drink's rich heritage. Listen on (or read below) to discover Joaquín’s Sidecar recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Joaquín Simó’s Sidecar Recipe Ingredients - 2 ounces Cognac, preferably Pierre Ferrand 1840 - ¾ ounce Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao - ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice - 1 teaspoon rich demerara sugar syrup (2:1) - Garnish: lemon twist Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a shaker and fill with ice. 2. Shake until chilled. 3. Strain using a Hawthorne strainer into a chilled coupe glass. 4. Garnish with a lemon twist and serve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:17:1003/02/2022
The Pisco Sour
The Pisco Sour offers a velvet, refreshing intro to the stunningly complex world of Pisco. Lynnette Marrero leads us on an exploration of both spirit and drink in today’s episode, and shares her tips on how to master the iconic cocktail. Listen on (or read below) to discover Lynnette’s Pisco Sour recipe — and don’t forget to subscribe! Lynnette Marrero’s Pisco Sour Recipe Ingredients - 1 ounce cane simple syrup (2:1) - ½ ounce fresh lemon juice - ½ ounce fresh lime juice - 2 ounces pisco, ideally acholado or quebranta - 1 egg white - Garnish: Angostura bitters Directions 1. Add all ingredients (minus Angostura) to a Boston shaker and dry shake without ice until all ingredients are well incorporated. 2. Add ice and shake until chilled. 3. Strain half of the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass. Allow to settle for a moment, then slowly top with the rest of the drink. 4. Garnish with a few dashes of Angostura bitters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
53:2427/01/2022