Mixology classes are offered monthly. From the Grill Room at Windsor Court's Facebook page.
In New Orleans, we take our libations very seriously. It doesn’t matter if it’s mimosas at brunch, a glass of wine with dinner, or catching up with friends over a few Hurricanes: beer, wine, and liquor are all staples of the New Orleans lifestyle.
We are all wannabe mixologists. We all have our signature drink. Some of us have more than one. We scour the city trying to find our favorite beer, that oh-so-smooth bourbon, or, in my case, the perfect French 75. Our conversations are almost completely dominated by talk of food and drink, and if we’re not talking about it, we are most certainly imbibing.
The Polo Lounge at the Windsor Court Hotel understands this about New Orleans, and that is why they have been offering monthly mixology classes for all of us wannabes out here. I have been to quite a few of these classes and I have to say that they are fantastic. These classes are not only a fun way get together and drink with like-minded cocktail lovers, they are also a great way to learn the history of your favorite drinks and even the proper way to prepare and drink them.
Each class is different. There have been classes focused on whiskey, the history of absinthe, and even how to taste different types of wine. What I love best about these classes is that they are just plain fun! There is no pretentiousness. The bartender, sommelier, and sometimes special guests are there to guide you through it, but it’s all about how you feel about the drink. You say you smell or taste pencil shavings in the wine? Well, you just may be right! You say the $20 whiskey tastes better than the $100 whiskey? That’s all good, too. The classes teach you that drinking is all about personal interpretation. And they are just plain fun.
If I have whetted your appetite at all, you should definitely check these classes out. All are welcome (all of legal drinking age, of course). In addition to locals, I have met people in town for conferences, weddings, and even a bartender that drove from Mississippi, just to attend.
The classes are $25 and RSVP is required. The next one, in December, is all about champagnes and sparkling wines. This sounds like a perfect time to test out a few before that New Year’s Eve party you’re planning on throwing.
And after the New Year, there will be plenty of other classes to come.
Just think how worldly and interesting you’ll sound when you can explain to your friends the differences between Cognac and Armagnac!
Polo Club Lounge at the Windsor Court
300 Gravier Street
Call 504-522-1994 for reservations
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