Episode Description: Welcome to another flavorful episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast, hosted by Damian Cole. In this episode, we dive deep into the sweet world of syrups, an essential component for crafting perfect cocktails. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or a professional mixologist, learning to make your own syrups can elevate your drink game to new heights.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Syrups in Cocktails:
• Importance of syrups in balancing and enhancing flavors.
• Different types of syrups: simple syrup, rich syrup, flavored syrups.
• Simple Syrup:
• Definition and basic recipe (1:1 ratio of sugar to water).
• Tips for choosing the right type of sugar (white, brown, muscovado, turbinado).
• Methods of preparation: cold water vs. warm water techniques.
• Storage tips and shelf life.
• Rich Syrup:
• Recipe and uses (2:1 ratio of sugar to water).
• Best practices for making and using rich syrup in cocktails like Old Fashioned.
• Honey and Agave Syrup:
• Simplifying honey and agave for better mixing.
• Recipe (2:1 ratio of honey/agave to water).
• Ideal cocktails for these syrups, like Tommy's Margarita.
• Flavored Syrups:
• Herbal Syrups: Techniques for mint, basil, and woody herbs like rosemary.
• Fruit Syrups: Methods for making strawberry, raspberry, and pineapple syrups.
• Sugar and leave method.
• Mash and macerate method.
• Spiced Syrups: Creating cinnamon and ginger syrups for warm, spicy notes in cocktails.
• Infusions: Making vanilla and chili syrups without heat.
• Storage and Preservation:
• Sterilising bottles for longer shelf life.
• Adding vodka or citric acid to extend freshness.

Key Takeaways:

• Making your own syrups at home is cost-effective, customisable, and enhances the freshness of your cocktails.
• Experiment with different sugars and ingredients to create unique flavor profiles.
• Proper storage and preservation techniques can extend the life of your syrups, ensuring they're always ready for your next cocktail creation.

Next Week: Tune in next week for an exciting interview with Julio Bermejo, the global ambassador for tequila in North America and creator of the iconic Tommy's Margarita. Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business!

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• Follow us on Instagram: WeLoveCocktails
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• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover next!

Tags: #CocktailRecipes #Syrups #CocktailSyrups #DIYCocktails #Mixology #CocktailAcademy #SimpleSyrup #RichSyrup #FlavoredSyrups #CocktailTips #DamienCole

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Episode Overview:

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Cocktail Academy podcast! Today, we are thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the legendary Dale DeGroff, also known as King Cocktail. Dale is a pioneer in the modern bartending scene and the man behind the resurgence of craft cocktails. Get ready to dive deep into the world of cocktails, bartending, and the rich history that shapes it all.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Dale DeGroff: Discover how Dale became a central figure in the cocktail world, from his early days in New York to his significant influence on modern bartending.
• Journey to Bartending: Dale shares his fascinating story, including his university days, early jobs, and the serendipitous path that led him behind the bar.
• The New York Bar Scene: Insights into the vibrant bar culture of New York City in the late 20th century and how it shaped Dale's career.
• Crafting the Cocktail Renaissance: Learn about the creation of iconic cocktails, the revival of classic recipes, and the introduction of fresh ingredients that changed the bartending game.
• Madonna and the Cosmopolitan: The story behind the Cosmopolitan's rise to fame and its association with pop icon Madonna.
• Tips for Aspiring Bartenders: Dale provides invaluable advice for home bartenders and those looking to break into the industry, emphasising the importance of mastering the basics and understanding cocktail families.
• Innovative Cocktail Techniques: Discussion on molecular gastronomy, batching, and other advanced bartending techniques that Dale has embraced and promoted.
• Personal Reflections: Dale's favourite drinks, memorable moments, and his views on the evolving cocktail landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of understanding the basics of cocktails and building on that foundation.
• The role of fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation in creating outstanding cocktails.
• The significance of the bartender's role in hospitality and the customer experience.
• Stories and anecdotes from Dale's illustrious career that offer both inspiration and practical wisdom.

Social Media Links:

• Follow Dale DeGroff on Instagram:
• Explore Dale’s spirits: DeGroff Spirits

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Cocktail Academy podcast for more episodes featuring the biggest names in the world of cocktails. Share this episode with your friends and leave us a review to let us know what you think!

Keywords:

Cocktail Academy podcast, Dale DeGroff, King Cocktail, craft cocktails, modern bartending, cocktail history, bartending tips, Cosmopolitan cocktail, New York bar scene, cocktail recipes, mixology techniques, home bartending, cocktail enthusiasts, legendary bartenders.

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Episode Summary: In this episode of The Cocktail Academy, Damian explores the art of batching cocktails, a perfect technique for summer barbecues, parties, and gatherings. Damian delves into the history, benefits, and practical tips for batching cocktails, ensuring you can enjoy your event without being tied to the bar. Featuring the classic Bramble cocktail, this episode provides a step-by-step guide on how to batch cocktails efficiently, from choosing the right recipes to scaling, diluting, and garnishing for a flawless presentation.

· Omission: when adding the dilution and you have calculated the % of water to add, make sure you multiply that by whatever factor you are using. We used 14 in the worked example in the episode….. sorry I forgot to mention that.

Highlights:

• Introduction to Batching Cocktails: Understanding the concept and historical roots of batching.
• Featured Cocktail - The Bramble: Recipe and tips for making this classic gin-based cocktail.
• Benefits of Batching Cocktails: Time-saving, consistency, waste reduction, and enhanced hospitality.
• Techniques and Tips for Successful Batching: Choosing suitable cocktails, scaling recipes, managing citrus, and adding dilution.
• Advanced Batching Tips: Handling bitters, adjusting sweetness, creative garnishing, and recommended resources for further reading.
• Join the Batching Movement: Share your batching experiences on social media and connect with us for more tips and recipes.

Key Takeaways:

• Time-Saving and Convenience: Batching cocktails allows you to prepare in advance and enjoy your party.
• Consistency and Quality: Ensure every cocktail tastes perfect with precise measurements and techniques.
• Creative Presentation: Enhance your batch cocktails with beautiful garnishes and thoughtful presentation.

Resources Mentioned:

• Superjuice expert, Kevin Kos: https://www.kevinkos.com
• Recommended Book: "Batched and Bottled: Cocktails to Make Ahead" by Max and Noel Venning.
• Social Media:
• Instagram:
• TikTok:
• Facebook

The Cocktail Academy Site

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Host Damian Cole chats with Jack McGarry, the co-founder and managing director of The Dead Rabbit in New York City. From his humble beginnings in West Belfast to becoming the International Bartender of the Year, Jack shares his incredible journey and the philosophy behind creating one of the world's most celebrated cocktail bars. Discover the secrets behind The Dead Rabbit's unique blend of Irish pub culture and high-end cocktails, and learn about Jack's plans for the future.

Highlights:

• Early Beginnings: Jack discusses his start in the cocktail world, working at the Hunting Lodge in West Belfast.
• Journey to the Merchant Hotel: The transition from local pubs to high-end cocktail bars, and the significance of working at the Merchant Hotel.
• Creating The Dead Rabbit: The inspiration behind The Dead Rabbit, combining Irish pub culture with world-class cocktails.
• Awards and Recognition: How The Dead Rabbit became an award-winning bar, including its designation as the world's best bar.
• Irish Whiskey Focus: Jack's commitment to promoting Irish whiskey and its current market state.
• Future Plans: Upcoming expansions of The Dead Rabbit, including new locations and innovative concepts like McGarry's.
• Advice for Aspiring Bartenders: Tips on making quality cocktails at home, the importance of fundamentals, and recommended cocktail books.
• Favorite Cocktail Stories: Jack shares iconic moments from his career, including making the world's most expensive Mai Tai.
• Quickfire Questions: Fun and insightful rapid-fire questions about Jack's preferences and pet peeves in the cocktail world.

Key Takeaways:

1. Commitment to Quality: Jack emphasizes the importance of using quality ingredients, precise measurements, and proper techniques to create exceptional cocktails.
2. Understanding Tradition: He advocates for a strong foundation in traditional cocktail knowledge before innovating and creating new drinks.
3. Irish Whiskey Advocacy: Jack's dedication to promoting and educating people about Irish whiskey is evident throughout the episode.
4. Innovative Concepts: The Dead Rabbit's blend of Irish pub culture and high-end cocktails sets it apart, and upcoming projects promise to continue this trend.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Dead Rabbit: Website
• Recommended Books:
• "Spirits and Cocktails" by Dave Broom
• "Imbibe!" by David Wondrich
• "Punch" by David Wondrich
• "The PDT Cocktail Book" by Jim Meehan
• "The Bar Book" by Jeffrey Morgenthaler

Connect with Jack McGarry:

• Instagram: @jackmcgarry1
• LinkedIn: Jack McGarry

Follow The Cocktail Academy:

• Instagram
• Tiktok
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Featured Cocktail of the Week: The Sunflower

• Created by Sammy Ross of Milk and Honey fame.
• Recipe:
• 20ml (3/4 oz) London Dry Gin
• 20ml (3/4 oz) Cointreau
• 20ml (3/4 oz) Elderflower Liqueur (e.g., Saint Germain)
• 20ml (3/4 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice
• Optional: Absinthe rinse for added complexity.
• Shaking and serving tips: Chill your glass, shake ingredients with ice, strain into a coupe glass, garnish with a twist of lemon or orange.

Setting Up Your Home Bar

• Start with what you like: Choose spirits based on your preferences to avoid unnecessary purchases.
• Keep it simple: Fewer bottles mean less confusion and cost.

Essential Spirits

1. Gin

• Versatile for cocktails like Clover Club, Sunflower, Gin Martini.
• Start with a gin you already like or try a new one for variety.

1. Vodka

• Neutral spirit, good for cocktails like East 8 Hold Up.
• Choose a decent quality vodka; no need to splurge.

1. Rum

• Diverse flavours from different regions (Cuban, Jamaican, etc.).
• Great for Daiquiris, Mai Tais, Mojitos.

1. Tequila

• Growing in popularity, essential for Margaritas, Palomas, and more.
• Choose a good quality tequila to start.

1. Whiskey

• Wide variety (Bourbon, Rye, Irish, Scotch).
• Perfect for Manhattans, Bee's Knees, Tipperary.

1. Brandy

• Commonly used for classic cocktails like the Sidecar and Jack Rose.
• Start with a good Cognac or apple brandy.

Essential Liqueurs

• Orange Liqueur: Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or Curacao for Margaritas, Sidecars, Cosmopolitans.
• Elderflower Liqueur: Adds a unique flavour to many cocktails, versatile.
• Coffee Liqueur: Trending choice like Mr. Black for espresso martinis and other coffee-based drinks.

Vermouth and Amaro

• Vermouth: Essential for martinis and Manhattans. Keep it in the fridge to extend its life.
• Amaro: Adds complexity to drinks like Negronis and Aperol Spritz.

Bitters

• Non-Potable Bitters: Angostura, aromatic bitters for depth and complexity in cocktails.
• Potable Bitters: Like Campari and Aperol, great for various modern cocktails.

Final Tips

• Start simple: Begin with a few essential spirits and liqueurs.
• Gradually expand your collection based on your growing preferences and cocktail experiments.
• Keep vermouth in the fridge and consider buying smaller bottles to avoid waste.

Closing Remarks

• Follow the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review please

• Home bar essentials
• Must-have spirits for home bar
• Best liqueurs for cocktails
• Cocktail recipes for beginners
• How to set up a home bar
• Essential cocktail ingredients
• Best gin for cocktails
• Classic cocktail recipes

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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 Tools

• Importance of having the right tools for consistency.
• Avoiding unnecessary gadgets for home bartending.

The Mighty Cocktail Shaker

• Types of shakers: Boston, Cobbler, and Parisian.
• Recommendations for versatility and durability.
• DIY alternatives for shakers.

Measuring Your Ingredients

• The importance of accurate measurements.
• Different types of jiggers and measuring cups.

Strainers for Precision

• Hawthorne strainer and its uses.
• The necessity of a fine strainer for double straining.

Mixing Glasses and Bar Spoons

• Benefits of using a mixing glass.
• Choosing the right bar spoon for stirring.

Juicing Tools for Fresh Citrus

• Different types of juicers and presses.
• Importance of using fresh citrus juice.

Additional Essential Tools

• Muddlers for incorporating fresh fruit.
• Bar knives and peelers for garnishes.
• Squeezy bottles for prepped juices and syrups.
• Kitchen scales for making consistent syrups.

Wrapping Up

• Encouragement 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:

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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).

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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.

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