Tales of the Cocktail 2015

The polite and well behaved rarely make history; often, it takes a strong personality to leave a lasting impression. In this lively session, a panel of modern-day rabble-rousers, led by Ambassador and Gin authority Rachel Ford, will weigh in on the outspoken philosophies of three early cocktail authors.

What do Bernard DeVoto, Charles H. Baker Jr., and David A. Embury all have in common? They are among the early tastemakers; three outspoken voices of cocktail history. By asserting their strong opinions, these three left a legacy and influenced generations of bartenders and consumers.

Prior to the days of the Internet and social media, information spread via the published written word. Those with the loudest voices were not only those with the largest platform, but often those with the strongest opinions.

Bernard DeVoto (The Hour, A Cocktail Manifesto) found the only two acceptable drinks to be Whiskey and Gin Martinis, loathed Rum, and completely writes off cocktails (all slop in his opinion).

Charles H. Baker Jr. (Jigger, Beaker, & Glass, Drinking Around the World) traveled the world in search of cocktails, recording the best practices of what he learned from all corners of the globe. For decades, his written word would dictate the “best practices” of many.

David A. Embury (The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks) possessed a highly discerning palate, demanded a dry cocktail, and stated an open distaste for citrus.

Today, Sean Kenyon, Erick Castro, Ivy Mix and Kyle Ford are among the outspoken voices of modern cocktail culture. With a book, multiple bar programs, a vast vintage cocktail book library, and a more than a few strongly-worded tweets and Facebook posts under their collective belts, you can trust this group to speak their minds.

After an in-depth exploration of the authors of the past, Rachel Ford will lead the outspoken and knowledgeable panel through a discussion of bold assertions and a lively debate is sure to ensue. Hear the spirited panel answer such questions as: Are you a DeVoto? A Baker? An Embry? Where do you stand on cocktail culture and modern technique? What opinions will define your legacy?