The Cocktail Academy

In this episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast, host Damian Cole sits down with Erick Castro — bartender, bar owner, and creator of the acclaimed Bartender at Large podcast — for a wide-ranging conversation that spans decades of hospitality, creative evolution, and the fundamentals of great bartending.From scrubbing dishes as a teenager to launching industry-leading bars like Raised by Wolves and Gilly's, Erick shares his origin story, the pivotal moments that shaped his cocktail education, and why bartending is more demanding (and rewarding) than ever before.This episode covers:Erick’s journey from beer-slinging nightclubs to craft cocktail institutionsThe early books and mentors that fueled his obsession with cocktailsWhy learning the classics is still the most important skill for new bartendersThe rise of isolated acids, slushy machines, and the role of flavor depthHow Bartender at Large became one of the world’s most loved cocktail podcastsCollaboration, creativity, and why hospitality must compete with smartphonesThe importance of hobbies and real-world inspiration in avoiding burnoutWhether you're a bartender, a bar owner, or a cocktail enthusiast, this episode is packed with advice, humor, and practical wisdom from one of the most respected voices in the industry.🔗 Connect with Erick: Instagram: @hungrybartender Podcast: Bartender at Large 🔗 Connect with Damian: Instagram: @welovecocktails TikTok: @welovecocktailsx Website: thecocktailacademy🎙️ Subscribe, review, and share with a friend who’s serious about drinks, craft, and community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Damian takes us on a nostalgic, neon-lit journey through the "Dark Ages of Cocktails"—a period spanning from the 1970s to the early 2000s when bright colors, sweet mixers, and questionable balance ruled the bar.You'll hear:🍹 What made this era the "Dark Ages" — and why cocktail historians like David Wondrich and Dale DeGroff were not fans.🍒 The rise (and fall) of drinks like the Midori Sour, Sex on the Beach, Appletini, and Tequila Sunrise.🧊 How frozen drinks and slush machines became cocktail villains—and how they’re being redeemed today.🔬 Why precision, balance, and proper technique matter—even for drinks served in hurricane glasses with plastic monkeys.📚 Callouts to legends like Dale DeGroff, Audrey Saunders, Gaz Regan, and Dave Arnold (of Liquid Intelligence fame).Damian also shares personal insights from when he first started mixing drinks during the tail end of this sugar-drenched era, and how the craft cocktail movement slowly clawed its way back to balance and brilliance.Featured topics include:Cocktail trends from the '70s to early 2000sSweet vs. balanced drinksHow slush machines got a bad rapCocktail reconstruction: Making the Amaretto Sour, Midori Sour, and others actually taste goodScientific cocktail batching and freezing tipsModern classics and how to respect your cocktail rootsFollow us for more cocktail history, technique, and drinks culture:📸 Instagram: @welovecocktails🎵 TikTok: @welovecocktailsx📘 Facebook: WeLoveCocktailsx📝 Subscribe, rate, and review – Let us know:💥 What’s the worst cocktail you've ever had?💡 Which forgotten drink deserves a comeback? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Cocktail Academy Podcast, host Damian Cole takes us on a sun-soaked journey through the sparkling history and modern-day popularity of the Spritz — with a spotlight on the iconic Aperol Spritz. Fresh off a trip to Lanzarote, Damian reflects on how this low-ABV classic became a go-to drink for sunny afternoons and stylish sipping.🧡 In this episode, we cover:The 19th-century Austro-Hungarian origins of the spritz traditionHow Aperol Spritz went from working-class ritual to global sensationThe branding brilliance behind Campari Group’s takeover of AperolThe modern spritz family: Select, Campari, Hugo, Chinar & moreThe rise of low- and no-alcohol spritz variationsEasy tips for building a perfect spritz at home (glassware, garnishes & more)Why the spritz is more than a cocktail — it’s a lifestyle💬 Whether you're a seasoned bartender or home mixologist, you'll find tons of inspiration to stir up your own twist on this refreshing Italian classic.🎧 Listen now, mix yourself a spritz, and get ready for aperitivo hour — wherever you are.🌐 Follow Damian & The Cocktail Academy:📸 Instagram: @welovecocktails 🎥 TikTok: @welovecocktailsx Facebook: @welovecocktailsx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Cocktail Academy, host Damian sits down with Laura Bonner, founder of The Muff Liquor Company, for a deep dive into how a Donegal girl with a bold dream turned her family roots (and potatoes!) into a premium international spirits brand.Laura shares the very real ups and downs of building a business—from an idea sparked by her grandfather’s poitin to launching a spirits range that's now taking the U.S. by storm. You’ll hear the unfiltered story behind the cheeky brand name, the fight to be taken seriously, and how she landed global investors like Russell Crowe and Ed Sheeran.Whether you're into Irish spirits, brand-building, or just a sucker for a great origin story, this one is packed with lessons, laughs, and serious hustle.🥃 WHAT WE COVER:🥔 Why Laura swapped law books for potatoes🚀 The 12-year journey from idea to first bottle🏭 Building a brand (before building a distillery)🔥 The power of persistence and ignoring the naysayers🍸 Why her gin isn’t juniper-heavy (and that’s the point)🥃 Creating one of Ireland’s few peated whiskeys—and why it’s flying in the U.S.🤝 How a shot of hustle landed her celebrity investors📦 What cocktails and COVID taught her about consumer connection🌍 Her mission to bring four Irish spirits to all 50 U.S. states🔗 CONNECT WITH LAURA / THE MUFF LIQUOR COMPANY:Website: muffliquorcompany.comInstagram: @muffliquorcompany🎙️ FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE:If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’d appreciate a behind-the-scenes look at one of Ireland’s boldest spirits brands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Cocktail Academy Podcast, Damian is joined by none other than Jillian Vose — bartender, creator, and the brains behind Outwalker Irish Whiskey. From scooping ice cream in Cape Cod to shaking cocktails in New York’s most iconic bars, Jillian shares the journey that led her from high-volume service to high-level spirits innovation.They dive into her early hospitality days in Arizona, her time at legendary venues like Maison Premiere, Clover Club, Death & Co., and The Dead Rabbit, and how she honed her craft through fine dining, education, and creative collaboration. Jillian also opens up about the development process behind Outwalker — from cask choices to proof levels — and what it really takes to create a whiskey blend with intention and identity.Whether you're a bar manager, a cocktail nerd, or just love a good story over a good drink, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and a few f-bombs (all lovingly delivered).What You’ll Learn:Jillian’s career path from Cape Cod to New York CityThe role of education in mastering spirits and cocktailsHow Death & Co. shaped her creative processThe inspiration behind Outwalker Whiskey — and why 44.5% ABV was the magic numberLessons in collaboration, guest experience, and staying grounded in hospitalityFeatured Guest: 👩‍🍳 Jillian Vose — Bartender, creative force, and co-founder of Outwalker Irish WhiskeyFollow Jillian: 📷 @jillianvoseSupport the Podcast: If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with your cocktail crew. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Damian sits down with Freddie Andreasson, founder of El Gallo Altanero, one of Mexico’s most talked-about agave-focused cocktail bars. From a small town in Sweden to the heart of Guadalajara, Freddie’s journey is anything but typical — and his passion for independent agave spirits is infectious.In this wide-ranging and honest conversation, we dive into:🔹 Freddie’s early days in hospitality — from dive bars in Australia to barista bootcamp in Melbourne 🔹 The surprising origins of El Gallo Altanero and its mission to champion independent tequila producers 🔹 Building a cocktail bar in Mexico without cocktail experience — and why it worked 🔹 The bar’s no-compromise ethos on branding, culture, and integrity 🔹 Thoughts on guest shifts, brand partnerships, and why storytelling matters 🔹 The evolution (and gentrification) of tequila — and where the industry is heading 🔹 Why terroir, tradition, and human connection matter in agave spirits 🔹 Freddie’s candid reflections on burnout, solitude, and finding purpose through serviceWhether you're into tequila, mezcal, or the business of bars, this is an inspiring, laugh-out-loud, and seriously insightful listen.🎧 Tune in now on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.tequila podcast, agave spirits, El Gallo Altanero, Guadalajara bar scene, Freddie Andersson, tequila bar Mexico, independent tequila brands, guest shifts, bartending career, cocktail podcast, mezcal education, agave culture, Mexican spirits, cocktail bar stories, hospitality podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast, we're diving into the world of cocktail garnishes — from essential citrus twists to outrageous tiki showstoppers! Whether you’re a home bartender or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with tips to elevate your drink presentation and flavor.What You'll Learn:🍋 The Basics of Cocktail Garnishes: Why they matter and how they enhance flavor, aroma, and presentation.🌿 Essential Garnishes for Your Bar: Including citrus twists, herbs, and creative options.🔥 Show-Stopping Garnishes: Learn about flaming peels, whipped cream, and even quirky touches like plastic dinosaurs!💡 Pro Tips for Home Bartenders: From perfecting your citrus twists to preserving fresh herbs.🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don't let wilted herbs, dried-out citrus, or garnish overload ruin your masterpiece.Featured Tips & Tricks:✅ How to master the perfect citrus twist✅ The secret to a flawless salt rim (hint: keep it outside the glass!)✅ Why a plastic dinosaur might just be your best garnish yetWhether you prefer minimalist elegance or tiki-inspired flair, this episode will help you add a professional touch to your cocktails. 🥂🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!💬 What’s the wildest cocktail garnish you’ve ever seen? Tag us @WeLoveCocktails on Instagram and TikTok!#CocktailAcademy #GarnishGoals #Mixology101 #DrinkLikeAPro #CocktailTips #HomeBartender #GarnishGame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast, we’re breaking down one of the most fundamental questions in mixology: When should you shake, and when should you stir? Whether you're making a classic Martini, a refreshing Daiquiri, or a velvety Manhattan, getting this technique right can make or break your cocktail.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The science behind shaking and stirring – why they matter ✅ When to shake (hint: citrus, dairy, and eggs are involved!) ✅ When to stir (keep it silky and smooth for spirit-forward drinks) ✅ How dilution, aeration, and temperature impact flavor & texture ✅ The biggest mistakes people make when mixing cocktails (and how to avoid them!) ✅ Ice matters! Learn why not all ice is created equal ✅ The truth about James Bond’s Vesper Martini – why he got it wrong 🍸🤫 ✅ Pro tips on mastering the perfect shake and stir techniques📖 Essential Resources Mentioned: 📚 Liquid Intelligence by Dave Arnold 📚 The Bar Book by Jeffrey MorgenthalerSo whether you're a home bartender looking to elevate your cocktail game or a seasoned pro refining your technique, this episode has everything you need to master the art of mixing drinks like a pro.👉 Listen now, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!💬 Join the Conversation: Got a cocktail question? Want to show off your perfect shaken or stirred creation? Tag us on Instagram @WeLoveCocktails and let us know! 🍹#CocktailAcademy #ShakenOrStirred #Mixology101 #CocktailTechniques #BartenderTips #CocktailScience #Drinkstagram #HomeBartender Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast, we're taking a deep dive into one of the most essential yet often overlooked ingredients in cocktails – bitters. From the history of bitters to their role in cocktails today, we explore everything you need to know to master the art of balancing flavors in your drinks.What You'll Learn in This Episode:🍸 The History of Bitters:How bitters started as medicinal tonics used by ancient civilizationsThe role of bitters in the first-ever cocktail definition (1806)How prohibition nearly wiped them out & the bitters revival of the 2000s🍹 What Are Bitters & How Do They Work?The difference between cocktail bitters (non-potable) and Amari (potable bitters)Why bitters are the salt & pepper of the cocktail worldThe science behind how bitters balance flavors & add complexity🔬 Types of Cocktail Bitters & When to Use Them:Aromatic Bitters (Angostura, Peychaud’s) – perfect for Old Fashioneds & ManhattansCitrus Bitters (Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon) – brightens up Daiquiris & MargaritasSpiced & Herbal Bitters (Tiki, Ginger, Allspice) – adds warmth to rum & whiskey drinksChocolate & Nutty Bitters (Mole, Coffee, Hazelnut) – great for Espresso Martinis & SoursSavory Bitters (Celery, Olive, Umami) – ideal for Gin & Tonics or Bloody Marys🥃 How to Use Bitters in Cocktails:How a single dash can transform a drinkThe right way to taste bitters (Hint: think Home Alone’s aftershave scene!)Why bitters work as a seasoning for cocktails, not just a garnish🔥 Famous Cocktails That Rely on Bitters:Old Fashioned – The OG bitters-based drinkManhattan – A classic that needs the right balance of bittersSazerac – Wouldn’t be the same without Peychaud’sTrinidad Sour – A wild cocktail where bitters are the main ingredient! (Yes, really!)🛠 Making Your Own Bitters at Home:What ingredients you need (alcohol base, bittering agents, botanicals)The simple infusion method to create custom flavorsWhy DIY bitters can elevate your home bar (and save money!)Homework for this episode:✅ Try a Trinidad Sour and let us know if you love it or hate it!✅ Experiment with different bitters in an Old Fashioned – how does it change the drink?✅ Pick up a new bottle of bitters and add it to your collection!🎧 Listen now & join the conversation!🔗 Follow us on Instagram @WeLoveCocktails⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe & leave a review! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most iconic cocktails of all time – The Margarita. From its mysterious origins to its pop culture rise, we’re tracing the evolution of this tequila classic. We also break down the classic vs. modern variations, explore the spicy margarita phenomenon, and uncover the secret tips that take a margarita from good to unforgettable.Whether you're a Tommy’s Margarita purist or love a mezcal twist, this episode has something for every margarita fan. Plus, we give you the lowdown on salt rims, tequila selection, and essential techniques to master your margarita game at home.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ The mystery behind the Margarita’s origin – Who really invented it?✅ How tequila’s boom in the US helped shape the cocktail’s global success.✅ The rise of frozen margaritas – Game-changer or lazy bartending?✅ The spicy margarita takeover – The most popular riff in modern mixology.✅ Classic vs. Tommy’s Margarita – Are you team Cointreau or team Agave?✅ Margarita variations you need to try – Blood Orange, Mezcal, Watermelon & more!✅ Expert tips on tequila, citrus, salt rims, and unexpected margarita hacks.Cocktail Shoutouts & Mentions:🍹 Classic Margarita – Tequila, Cointreau, lime, salt rim. Perfection.🔥 Tommy’s Margarita – No orange liqueur, just agave syrup magic.🌶️ Spicy Margarita – The modern icon. Jalapeño infused tequila + heat.🥃 Toreador – The Margarita’s apricot-laced cousin.🍍 Beach Fire Margarita – A mezcal & tequila hybrid with smoky depth.Want to Level Up Your Margarita Game?📌 Follow Caitlin Stewart (@likablecocktails) for top-tier margarita riffs.📌 Listen back to our Julio Bermejo episode for Tommy’s Margarita history.📌 Try making your own salt or MSG solution for next-level flavor!Join the Conversation:What’s your ultimate margarita variation? Are you team Classic or Tommy’s?Drop your thoughts in the comments, DM us, or leave us a 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐📲 Follow us on:Instagram: @welovecocktailsTikTok: @welovecocktailsxFacebook: The Cocktail Academy🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available now on all podcast platforms!🥂 Here’s to the Margarita – a cocktail with a past as bold as its future! 🍋🔥 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.