7 things to do during London Cocktail Week
There are pop-ups, parties and tastings and it is an opportunity for anyone working in a pub or bar to gain inspiration and learn new skills.
Free entry for the trade:
There are complimentary wristbands for the drinks trade so we can all take advantage of the free events, seminars and masterclasses. Visit: www.londoncocktailweek.com/trade to register for your trade wristband.
Here is a round-up of some of our favourite events this week, but for more information visit: www.londoncocktailweek.com
Monday
The Last Great Malts
What: Join Dave Broom, Stephen Marshall and Ryan Chetiyawardana for a chance to be introduced to some of The Last Great Malts being launched by John Dewar and sons in the coming months. Bacardi brown-Forman will be showcasing the newly relaunched Aberfeldy, soon to be released Aultmore and fresh from the casks - Craigellachie.
Where: Seven Dials Club, 42 Earlham Street, London, WC2H 9LA
When: 3pm - 4pm
How: To register for any session email: bbfbtrainignteam @bacardi.com
Tuesday
Vestal Voyages ( world's first floating distillery )
What: Taking place on a 50 ft classic cruiser stern Liverpool canal boat – made in the dockyards of Gdansk Poland, guests are invited to take an evening canal ride with Mr. VV at the helm whilst sipping luxurious libations from the Vestal vintage collection. The Captain and his crew invite you to a leisurely cocktail-fuelled voyage along the Regents canal, Setting sail from Kings Cross and traveling through the longest tunnel on the canal network to emerge in leafy Islington, making cocktail discoveries all along the way.
Where: Vestal Voyages, Granary Sq , Kings X , London N1C
When: 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
How: White ‘trade’ wristbands are needed for attendance. For those lucky enough to work in bars and restaurants the Vestal Voyages will be free for you to come aboard from midday - 6 pm Mon - Fri for master classes on not only Vestal vodka but also other craft spirits producers.
Wednesday
The Spice is Right!
What: Mauritian Vanilla Spiced Rum, The Pink Pigeon, has gathered an esteemed array of Industry professionals who will be collaborating to give you a tangible insight into the facets of Spiced Rum and explain why this spirit is finally one to be reckoned with.
Where: Barrio Central, 6 Poland St, London, W1F 8PS
When: 1pm - 3pm
How: Free entry with white ‘trade’ wristbands
Thursday
The Role of American Craft Distillers in the Gin Rennaisance
What: Meet the producer of the famous Aviation Gin and FEW Spirits and discuss the role of American craft gin in the current gin rennaisance
Where: Merchant House, 13 Well Court, London EC4M 9DN
When: 7pm - 8pm
How: Email uryyb@zrepunagubhfrybaqba.pbz to book your place
Friday
Boutique RumFest
What: Returning to RumFest for its fifth consecutive year, The Boutique RumFest in association with the Cork Supply company welcomes a host of independent rum brands, importers and distilleries from across the globe.
Celebrating the newly emerged distilleries and offering a platform to showcase their products, it is an exclusive trade and press only event and has quickly become THE place to discover fresh and exciting rums before anybody else.
This year's event will also host for the first time a series of specialist rum forums that will lead discussions on 'So you want to import a rum brand?' hosted by The Cocktail Lovers and the hot topic debate on premiumisation within the category with 'What makes a rum premium?' hosted by rum aficionado and owner of the award winning Smuggler's Cove, Martin Cate.
Where: London’s ILEC Conference Centre, Earl’s Court, 47 Lillie Rd, London SW6 1UD
When: 3pm - 9pm
How: http://rumfest.co.uk/boutique-rumfest-registration-trade-only/
Saturday
Classic Cocktails with Alfred Cointreau
What: Join the legendary Alfred Cointreau as he explores the history of the classic cocktail, Cointreau and unveils “the dark side of Cointreau” - Cointreau Noir!
Who has never heard of a Margarita or tasted a Cosmopolitan, a Sidecar or a White Lady? These classic cocktails, all made with and even inspired by Cointreau, epitomise the power of the product and the brand that was named after it.
Since the creation of the Cointreau distillery in 1849, Alfred, the 6th generation and great-great-grandson of the creator Édouard Cointreau has been driven by the same passion and obsession for perfection and remains committed to the unique character of the legendary spirit. As Heritage Manager, and Global Brand Ambassador, Alfred will take you on the journey unveiling unique and interesting facts and stories about classic cocktails and why Cointreau has taken its place in the finest establishments all over the world.
You will have a chance hear unique facts from company archives Alfred has been exploring for a chance to further his innate understanding of the long and distinguished history behind his family name, the fascinating world of cocktails and the liqueurs and spirits used to create them. What’s more, Alfred will unveil a new addition to La Maison Cointreau and “the dark side of Cointreau” – Cointreau Noir!
Where: Bartenders Centre, Tristan Bate Theatre, 1A Tower St, Seven Dials, WC2H 9NP
When: 3pm - 4.30
How: £10, Get tickets here http://www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/127163
Sunday
The Reveal – A Night of Bäska Snaps
What: Bäska Snaps cordially invites the London cocktail trade to a Grand Salon with the Photographer, the Luchador and the Bäska Snaps. Dwam, Staff Photographer for SuicideGirls France will present a revealing black and white photo series inspired by Bäska Snaps.
Where: NOLA, 1st Floor, 68 Rivington Street, EC2A 3AY
When: 8pm - 1am
How: White trade wristbands at the ready & RSVP here http://baskasnaps.com/LCWRSVP/