Cocktails have been a favourite tipple for quite a while; more specifically since the 1800’s (and we can see why.) Legend has it that the world’s first cocktail was invented by apothecary owner Antoine Peychaud in New Orleans in which he decided to name the cocktail after the drink’s main ingredient: Sazerac French brandy. Rich in history, the “alcoholic drink consisting of a spirit or spirits mixed with other ingredients, such as fruit juice or cream” is one that’s mixed its way through variations upon variations over time. The shakers and stirrers out there might even be aware that before the invention of bitters, cocktails were known as “slings,” which comes from the German word “schlingen,” meaning to swallow quickly.

The years of swing, glitz and glamour 1920’s jazz era spun the cocktail into a light of their own, with the likes of the French 75 and Sidecar that are still on cocktail menus around the world. Fast forward to today and the “coolest” drink on the menu has the perception of somewhat complication, with effort for different elements to be churned and flown in the air before a sip can be taken. The real story? Simple. A cocktail is realistically made from three components; the base spirit, such as gin, vodka, whisky or rum; the modifier, such as egg white, cream, fruit juice or syrup to give flavour and smoothness; and a garnish, such as fruit or herbs. Here at the Bay Bar, we’re rather passionate about cocktails, so much so that we offer guests a way into the world of our favourite beverage with our fun masterclasses. Starting of course with a welcoming cocktail, our resident mixologist takes the lead in showcasing how to make three Fistral classics, before handing over the reins to the ever-wondering novice to muddle, shake and mix. Throughout the lesson, a Cosmopolitan, Mojito and Rose Garden take shape before the all-important taste test is taken out.

NEED to KNOW
Aspiring mixologists can book a cocktail making masterclass for £29pp or make a night of it by adding on a three-course meal at Dune Restaurant with a “cocktail making and dine package” for £54pp. Book online here or call 01637 852221.