As we gear up for Carnival Season, knowing how to prepare for all the parties is as important as having your spot on the parade route. When it comes to cocktails, it’s hard to mix or create quality cocktails while juggling Popeyes in hand, keeping an eye on the kids, and watching out for beads bee-lined for your head. Enter Punch. The answer to all your batching needs so all you need to do is pour for your guests or yourself and enjoy.

Oh, Martinis. How I love thee. Never has a cocktail been more of a sign of style, sophistication and preference as the martini. It has evolved with times, some good, some bad, but ever-changing to fit the preferences of the culture at the time. We’re not talking about the Pom-tinis, Apple-tinis, or even Espresso Martinis of the 90’s. We’re talking the stout, gin (or yes, even vodka) forward martinis that have come full circle and are stylish again. This class will be a bit different, but you’re guaranteed to learn more than you expect.

Oh, Martinis. How I love thee. Never has a cocktail been more of a sign of style, sophistication and preference as the martini. It has evolved with times, some good, some bad, but ever-changing to fit the preferences of the culture at the time. We’re not talking about the Pom-tinis, Apple-tinis, or even Espresso Martinis of the 90’s. We’re talking the stout, gin (or yes, even vodka) forward martinis that have come full circle and are stylish again. This class will be a bit different, but you’re guaranteed to learn more than you expect.

Tea is literally the most popular beverage on the planet after only water. My love for tea goes deep. It can remind me of my mother, slowing down, and exploring the world all at once. It can be delicate, bold, floral, savory, fruity, beguiling, and just warm your soul. Better yet, many pair beautifully with spirits. Join us to explore how you can incorporate tea into your cocktails and how it even has a historical relevance in the pre-cocktail world. Pinkies up, not required.

Here we go again. Let’s get back into Gin. There are SO many points in the early cocktail history that relate to gin. Whether legally or illegally, it was an important part of our drinking habits. Care to find out why? Between culture clashes, colonization, and boosting morale, Gin shaped a good chunk of the world today. Let’s raise a glass and learn a few cocktails that we can make at home to celebrate this wonderful spirit.

Bring on the orgeat, passionfruit, swizzle sticks, Don’s Mix #2, cinnamon, and rum. Maybe even some gin or brandy. It’s hot out and we’re going to imbibe appropriately. Tropical style. Wash and press your favorite tropical shirt and let’s get our shakers ready to mix some of the most complex and balanced cocktails we can find. These are just plain fun.

Yet again, Tequila shows the most growth in the American market than any other spirit. The love is still strong with this spirit. Let’s peak, again, at who’s making the right moves in the industry and what we can make with this gorgeous spirit. This is a fan favorite and not to be missed. We will see both new and old cocktails and even why some brands are worth paying attention to. Salud!

Just as with books, painting, or music, one should know the classics in depth before they feel they can break the rules and get creative with their own proverbial paintbrush. I love this series. We will explore a new set of classic cocktails that defined a generation of bartending and give you some recipes that you can both recreate and get creative with at home. It might even give you a new favorite to order at the bar. See you there!