If you’re ready to brush up on your cocktail-making techniques or eager to glean mad skills from expert bartenders, try taking a mixology class offered at one of Scottsdale’s resorts. Learn to shake, stir, blend and muddle with the pros who will share insider tips along with a few industry secrets. Cheers!
Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows
Sign up for “Raise Your Glass,” an interactive class where guests learn how to make seasonal craft cocktails at Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen. Choose your favorite spirit and the resort’s savvy bartenders will walk you through the steps to achieving the perfect cocktail, whether simple like a salty margarita or more complex like a mezcal-laced grapefruit and grenadine refresher.
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
Let skilled mixologists reveal the tricks of the trade at Onyx Bar & Lounge, where participants will learn to craft captivating cocktails using fresh, local ingredients and premium spirits while nibbling on tasty small bites. Gather your friends (up to six people) for the one-hour class, choose classic (think Manhattan) or signature cocktails, such as Berried Alive with citron vodka, and let the fun begin!
Royal Palms Resort & Spa
Belly up to the Royal Palms Mix Up Bar and learn to make two signature cocktails, including the popular Lavender Lady, a bewitching blend of vodka, local honey and lemon, or an Orange Grove, a citrus-forward mix of jalapeño-infused tequila. The 30-minute class includes a sampling of beverages and take-home recipe cards. Non-alcohol cocktail options are also available from the Ritual Zero Proof Cocktail list.
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa
Jade Bar’s dramatic Camelback Mountain perch sets the stage for a private 90-minute interactive mixology class tailored around guests’ favorite spirits or theme. Master the art of making tropical/tiki cocktails or focus on bubbly drinks with sparkling wine and champagne. Try your hand at bourbon/whiskey drinks that incorporate the smoky cocktail trend or mix up a mescal masterpiece. The afternoon class includes three craft cocktails per guest and take-home recipes.
Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Villas
Once a month, Scottsdale Plaza Resort holds a hands-on mixology class in one of the hotel’s verdant outdoor spaces, weather permitting, and indoors when the mercury rises. Experienced bartenders will teach guests how to “sip and stir” two cocktails in a relaxed, informal setting. Possible cocktails include Paradise Paloma, Mint Julep and Guava Margarita. Bolster your drink-mixing skills, enjoy some snacks and impress your friends when hosting your next party. Everybody wins!
Marilyn is a freelance writer and longtime Scottsdale resident who has a stack of unread books on her nightstand, sings in the car and prefers sunsets to sunrises. Marilyn’s Faves: Old Town Farmers’ Market, Pilates at Studio Allonge, wine and bruschetta at Postino Highland.
