Here in the Northern Virginia region, it isn’t very hard to find a really delicious drink. From Arlington to Prince William County, you are bound to find a mixologist concocting a creation from behind the bar of your favorite eatery. Yet, sometimes you just want to enjoy a beverage in the comfort of your own home.
Whether you are hosting an upcoming dinner party or simply don’t want to deal with crowds this summer, here’s where you can learn a thing or two about the art of mixology.
Very Belgian Gin Mixology Class
July 16, 8:30 p.m.
Home to Belgian cuisine, B Too is a chic restaurant located in the heart of Washington, DC. In addition to serving three meals a day, the eatery also hosts mixology classes throughout the year. This month, gain knowledge of three different types of gin-based cocktails using Gentenaar Gin. While you mix, sip and enjoy, bar bites prepared by chef Bart Vandaele will also be offered. // B Too: 1324 14th St. NW, Washington, DC; $55
Cookology
July 19, 7-9 p.m. & Aug. 10, noon-1:30 p.m.
This summer, the chefs at Cookology in Ballston Quarter are hosting two separate classes dedicated to the art of cocktail making. While this month, couples can create an entire meal with bourbon flavors, including bourbon-glazed salmon and bourbon-bread pudding, guests will also have the chance to indulge on loaded bloody marys in August. // Cookology Ballston Quarter: 4238 Wilson Blvd., Suite 3110, Arlington; $55-$85
The Conche: The Art of Cocktail Making with Master Mixologist
July 27, noon-2 p.m.
In just two hours, you’ll learn to stir, shake and muddle your way to three delicious summer cocktails, thanks to The Conche mixologist Samet Yuksekgonul. The evening will begin with a complimentary drink to get you started, and will continue with lessons on how to make daiquiris, martinis and old-fashioneds in both classic and modern forms. Plus, snacks will be provided. // The Conche: 1605 Village Market Blvd., SE, Suite J108, Leesburg; $75
Gin Mixology Class with Hendrick’s Gin Brand Ambassador Erik Anderson
Aug. 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Following 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry, mixologist Erik Anderson has landed at Betsy, an open-air rooftop located in Washington, DC. Since the entire concept is focused on gin, it seems fitting that Anderson will be teaching guests how to create three different gin-based drinks this August. While you learn the art of mixology, you can try out some of the establishment’s bar bites, too. // BETSY: 514 Eighth St. SE, Washington, DC; $55
EatWell DC
Dates and times vary
Composed of six restaurants in the DMV area, EatWell DC allows members of the community to sign up for private mixology and wine classes at each location. Simply request a date for three to 11 of your closest friends, and you’ll grasp how to combine local ingredients with tasty spirits to create drinks worth making again. Whether you are interested in a bachelor party at The Charles or want to host a couples event at Frenchy’s Natural, the staff at EatWell will meet your needs. // Locations vary; $65-$90 per person
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