Learn About Liquor at These Boozy Classes, Courses and Workshops

by Jennifer Waldera in Roundups

Sure, part of the reason we go out to drink is so that we don’t have to shake and stir at home in our own kitchens. However, plenty of places around Baltimore are bringing together learning and liquor so that you can whip up some crafty cocktails of your own at home. Here are some of our favorite upcoming events that perfectly marry education and libations.

Hersh’s

This favorite Fed Hill pizza place just got even more popular. Through April, Hersh’s is hosting cocktail classes with the co-owner of DC’s Room 11 and author of “The Punch Bowl: 75 Recipes Spanning Four Centuries of Wanton Revelry,” Dan Searing. At each class, attendees get the opportunity to learn and try three to five cocktails and nosh on small bites. Creative drinks, savory appetizers and the opportunity to learn from a man who literally wrote the book on cocktails for only $45? We’ll drink to that. For tickets to any of the classes, call 443-438-4948 or email steph@hershspizza.com. (1843-45 Light St.; 443-438-4948)

Upcoming classes:
February 5, 7 PM: The Cocktails of Carnival the World Over
March 12, 7 PM: Historic New York Cocktails
April 16, 7 PM: Punch!!

Rye

In the heart of Fell’s Point, this cozy bar on Broadway creates classic cocktails as well as those with a twist. One Sunday a month, from 4–5 PM, those interested in learning the craft of cocktail creation can pop in for a seasonally-themed session featuring three beverages and some history, all for $40. While mid-February’s New Orleans-themed class is already full, keep an eye on their webpage or e-mail mixologyclass@gmail.com for info about future classes. (807 S Broadway; 443-438-3296)

Of Love and Regret

You might already know this lowkey corner bar in Brewer’s Hill as the spot to sip Stillwater Artisanal Ales or innovative seasonal cocktails, but it’s also the place to pop in once a month for their “Libation Education” series. Classes are themed and can focus on beer, wine or liquor, so participants may learn about anything from barrel aging beer to a topic as interestingly esoteric as a previous monastic themed night which “examine[d] the traditions and products created by monasteries across the globe.” For dates and themes, call 410-327-0760. (1028 S Conkling St.; 410-327-0760)

Johnny’s
Whiskey Wednesday at Johnny’s is the monthly event to attend for anyone looking to learn more about this particular liquor. For $25, try and learn about four different whiskies while snacking on some complimentary treats from Chef Kiko Wilson. Plus, a portion of the proceeds are donated to the Maryland SPCA, so you can feel good about your mid-week indulgence.

Upcoming Whiskey Wednesdays are listed as February 18, March 18 and April 15 (and is there anything better to do on tax day than throw back a little whiskey?). Other future dates can be found on the bar’s website. (4800 Roland Ave.; 410-773-0777)

Photo by Institute of Culinary Education