Whatever the mood and whatever the season, cocktails are trendy – and at the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas, students will learn all they need to know with their Bar Porter Class and Bar Apprentice Class.
The Bar Porter Class lasts a total of 30 hours where, during that span, students will learn about bar products, bar terminology, cleaning and sanitizing and proper chemical usage. As for the Bar Apprentice Class, it lasts a total of 45 hours, during which time students learn about work forms, handling cash, basic drinks, customer service and bartender interaction. Both courses include ServSafe instruction and certification while both require students to read and write effectively in English in addition to having a Health Card and Alcohol Awareness Card. Students must also be a minimum of 21 years of age to apply.
So, for starters, why not take a look at some of the more popular mixed drinks? If you’re used to drinking Bloody Marys, then why not give the Cosmopolitan a try? Or if Daiquiris are second nature to you, how about changing things up with an Irish Coffee? There are so many options out there – and you will get acquainted with them at the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas – but here are five of our favorites to try.
1) Pisco Sour
If you are a fan of sour drinks, there are plenty of popular drinks to choose from. The Margarita, the Daiquiri and the Whiskey Sour are all great choices, but why not give the Pisco Sour a look – or, better yet, a taste? If you’re a fan of unaged brandy, then this is definitely the drink for you. Plus, the addition of an egg white gives the Pisco Sour an indistinguishable charm, making it a creamy and luscious choice.
2) Planter’s Punch
It’s a name that rolls right off the tongue but even better, it’s a beautiful drink for warm weather. Dark rum mixed with some lemon, lime, grenadine and simple syrup, and you have yourself a tasty summertime beverage to cool you down. Set yourself up with a Planter’s Punch and enjoy your day.
3) Mai Tai
Perhaps this is most appropriate for a luau-themed party but nevertheless, the Mai Tai is one delicious drink. That is, of course, if you’re able to find a bar that knows how to make it properly as it is known to be a rare find. But, if and when you do, you will find the search to have been worthwhile. Known to be one of the most regal refreshments in the exotic-drink universe, the Mai Tai is made with Jamaican rum, imported French orgeat, Dutch curacao and fresh-squeezed lime juice. If and when you find a bar that makes a great Mai Tai, make it your next hangout spot. You’ll be glad you did.
4) Mint Julep
A long-standing Southern tradition, the Mint Julep is a wonderful drink when made correctly. Served in large numbers at the iconic Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep can be made to perfection if you, first and foremost, use a good, strong bourbon. You then need soft hands to properly muddle your mint. From there, add some crushed ice and your Mint Julep is ready to go.
5) Last Word
This drink has quite the history, and it all started in Motor City. Arising in Detroit during Prohibition, the Last Word fell into obscurity for decades until Seattle’s Murray Stenson rediscovered it. The Last Word is a complex drink, but one that surely will make a gin lover out of anyone.
So, if you feel that you have a passion for making these drinks or perhaps some of your own, then give the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas a look, where you will learn everything you need to know with their Bar Porter Class and Bar Apprentice Class. It’s the first step to becoming the world-class bartender you strive to be.
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