School's in Session

Is it any wonder that mankind stands open-mouthed before the bartender, considering the mysteries and marvels of an art that borders on magic?
Tom Bullock, The Ideal Bartender, 1917
 
Waxlight's Summer Cocktail Class…a subject I was willing to study on a sultry, summer afternoon. 
 
I've been collecting cocktail books and recipes for years but this was an opportunity to listen and learn from a legendary bar director,  And then, of course, there was the tasting part.   I registered, paid my class fee, and arrived at Waxlight Bar a Vin early. Tony Rials, our master instructor, provided detailed directions for our distinctive cocktails.  Needless to say, every student came to class prepared, pen and paper at the ready, eager to learn. However as a visual storyteller, I took notes on my camera, using only available light.. 
 
Tony instructed us on proper bar set-up, techniques and ingredients required, as well as the subtle nuances necessary to prepare the perfect cocktail.  We all had the opportunity to practice measuring, cracking, shaking and stirring, and...tasting. It was hard not to excel.

The afternoon passed too quickly but the instruction resonated.  I can’t wait for next semester.
 
To view a brief video of the class, visit @kckratt on IG.