The Cocktail Academy

Episode Summary: Welcome to the Cocktail Academy podcast! In this episode, host Damian Cole demystifies the essential tools every home bartender needs to make delicious, consistent cocktails. From shakers to strainers, Damian covers the basics and shares pro tips to help you craft perfect drinks for any occasion.Key Topics Covered:Introduction to Bar ToolsImportance of having the right tools for consistency.Avoiding unnecessary gadgets for home bartending.The Mighty Cocktail ShakerTypes of shakers: Boston, Cobbler, and Parisian.Recommendations for versatility and durability.DIY alternatives for shakers.Measuring Your IngredientsThe importance of accurate measurements.Different types of jiggers and measuring cups.Strainers for PrecisionHawthorne strainer and its uses.The necessity of a fine strainer for double straining.Mixing Glasses and Bar SpoonsBenefits of using a mixing glass.Choosing the right bar spoon for stirring.Juicing Tools for Fresh CitrusDifferent types of juicers and presses.Importance of using fresh citrus juice.Additional Essential ToolsMuddlers for incorporating fresh fruit.Bar knives and peelers for garnishes.Squeezy bottles for prepped juices and syrups.Kitchen scales for making consistent syrups.Wrapping UpEncouragement to leave reviews and feedback.Follow Damian on social media for more tips and tutorials.Resources Mentioned:link to blog post (updated soon)Connect with Us:Instagram:Facebook:TikTok: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary:Join host Damian Cole on a captivating journey to the historic Crumlin Road Jail, now home to McConnell’s Irish Whiskey Distillery. In this episode, Damian sits down with Graeme Miller, Master Distiller and Head of Supply at McConnell’s, to explore the fascinating transformation of this iconic location into a premier whiskey distillery. Discover the rich history of McConnell’s Irish Whiskey, the intricate distillation process, and savor a guided tasting of their renowned whiskey expressions. Episode Highlights: Introduction to McConnell’s Distillery:         •      Graeme Miller discusses the remarkable transformation of Crumlin Road Jail into the state-of-the-art McConnell’s Distillery.        •      The historical significance of the location and its impact on the brand. Graeme Miller’s Journey:         •      Graeme shares his career path from studying food technology to becoming a master distiller.        •      Insights into his experiences at Diageo, Captain Morgan’s, and Echlinville before joining McConnell’s. Distillation Process at McConnell’s:         •      A detailed overview of the whiskey-making process, from malted barley to the final distillation.        •      The significance of sourcing quality ingredients and the role of local suppliers.        •      Innovations and sustainability practices in the distillation process. The McConnell’s Brand:         •      The legacy of Eleanor McConnell and the historic milestones of the McConnell’s brand.        •      The rebirth of McConnell’s Irish Whiskey and its position in the contemporary market. Guided Tasting Experience:         •      Graeme leads a tasting of three McConnell’s expressions: the Five-Year Blend, Sherry Cask, and the exclusive 20-Year-Old Single Malt.        •      Tasting notes, flavor profiles, and ideal cocktail pairings for each expression. Future of McConnell’s Whiskey:         •      Exciting upcoming releases and special cask projects.        •      McConnell’s vision for the future and the evolution of the Irish whiskey market.  Stay Connected:         •      Follow McConnell’s on their website mcconnellsirishwhiskey.com.        •      Engage with McConnell’s on social media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow The Cocktail Academy on Social MediaInstagram:TikTok: Facebook:Check out our website: www.thecocktailacademy.com Episode Summary:In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Sean Muldoon, a renowned figure in the cocktail industry. Starting as a humble bartender in Belfast, Sean's story is one of passion, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. He discusses his early days amidst the Troubles, his love for music, and his determination to become the best. Sean's path led him to London, New York and everywhere in between, he even started his own training company, and garnered multiple awards for his cocktail creations.Sean provides an inside look at the creation and success of the Merchant Hotel's award-winning cocktail bar in Belfast and the pivotal transition to The Dead Rabbit in New York. The conversation also touches on the opening of Hazel & Apple in Charleston, South Carolina, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. Sean shares his future plans, including a return to Ireland and his admiration for the bar Boadas in Barcelona.Key Takeaways:Early Beginnings: Sean Muldoon began his cocktail journey in Belfast, driven by a passion to escape the Troubles and excel in bartending.Influences and Learning: Inspired by figures like Morgan Watson, Sean traveled to London to hone his craft, eventually starting his own training company and winning multiple awards.Merchant Hotel: Building the award-winning Merchant Hotel cocktail bar in Belfast was a significant milestone, earning international recognition.The Dead Rabbit: The transition to The Dead Rabbit marked a new chapter, with the bar achieving fame for its unique concept and talented team, including key partner Jack McGarry.Hazel & Apple: Opening Hazel & Apple in Charleston faced challenges, including scaling down the original concept and handling landlord issues, but remained a community-focused endeavor.Resilience and Future Plans: Sean's experiences have instilled resilience and determination, with future plans to return to Ireland and open a pub, and a strong admiration for Boadas in Barcelona.About the Host:Damian Cole is a hospitality industry veteran and the founder of The Cocktail Academy. Damian specializes in developing innovative drinks programs, providing top-notch training, and delivering captivating public speaking engagements. Known for his cocktail and spirit masterclasses, Damian shares his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm with audiences, making him a distinguished figure in the world of mixology. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.