At this training event organised by BAR NEWS, the budding Barkeeper not only learned what to put in the shaker for the great classics, but also where the cocktails get their name from and, of course, how they taste.
But before the participants picked up the shaker to mix their first cocktails, Felix Haag, lecturer and owner of Felix Bar, introduced them to the absolute basics of bar work. After all, a good mise en place also includes being able to name all the mixing utensils, aids and glasses.
The small learning groups and the lecturers with many years of bar experience guarantee rapid learning success.
Even if not every bar in Switzerland necessarily needs cocktail barrels, dinner jacket guns or foam siphons, it is still good to know what options are open to you behind the bar.
Theory and practice
With Bruno Hunkeler, long-time bar manager at the Resort Ragaz, the budding Barkeeper learned about the different categories of spirits. But what is a spirit in the first place and how and from what is alcohol produced?
Understanding vermouth, cognac and whisky requires a little introduction to the fermentation, distillation and storage of distillates.
Afterwards, the participants tasted the spirits and learned about their origin and the correct way to serve them. On the second day of the course, there was also a small gin & tonic tasting.
During the practical part of the course, the programme included stirring, shaking, blending, straining and decorating mixed drinks. At the beginning, it was about mixing the classic cocktails according to the recipe.
On the second day of the course, the creativity of the aspiring mixologists was challenged. They were given the task of creating their own cocktail recipe.
The BAR NEWS ACADEMY offers a unique introduction to the world of Barkeeper and cocktails.
Whether twist or novelty, short or long drink - the participants had complete freedom with their creations. Finally, the drink had to be premixed in front of the jury consisting of the other participants.
They evaluated the taste and appearance of the cocktails, but also the mixing technique and the names of the drinks. After the award ceremony, all participants were able to receive their diplomas for successful participation in the BAR-NEWS ACADEMY cocktail and bar course.
