Tales of the Cocktail 2015

Citrus is an integral component to well balanced cocktails and is arguably the most volatile of cocktail ingredients. Citrus oils, on the other hand, have an unusually long shelf life. And not just citrus oils but oils from various fruits and herbs retain aroma and flavor when extracted properly. These oils in combination with a variety of naturally derived acids, like citric and subsidiary sodium citrate, along with sugar and water can mock a citrus component in a cocktail but retain the integrity of its natural flavor. At varying degrees, these components can create Citrates that have a similar pH and brix level to citrus or Elixirs that have added water and sugar content and can be utilized in bottled or two step cocktails. During the seminar, attendees will learn various techniques for extracting oils from citrus, herbs, spices and various fruits and how to convert those extracted oils into citrates and elixirs. Cocktail Citrates and Elixirs can transform citrus based draft cocktails, punches and bottled cocktails and remove the volatility of fresh citrus. During this seminar, attendees will also learn practical information about how to keg and bottle cocktails. An information booklet will be given to all attendees that will include Cocktail Citrate and Elixir recipes and formulas, equipment, techniques, cocktail recipes and ideas for further experimentation. Also during the seminar, attendees will taste Citrate and Elixir based cocktails and a number of citrates on their own.