Charleston: Sip History In a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class

Enjoy the captivating history of Charleston’s speakeasies with the "Sip History In a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class." This engaging 2-hour experience transports participants back to the Prohibition era, where they’ll hone their mixology skills and craft unique cocktails under the guidance of expert instructors. Nestled in a wheelchair-accessible speakeasy, the class promises an unforgettable journey through the city’s rich past, blending storytelling, hands-on cocktail making, and the savoring of three carefully curated libations paired with delightful snacks. Prepare to be enthralled as you uncover the secrets that once thrived behind Charleston’s hidden doors.

Key Points

• Immerse in Charleston’s prohibition history through a 2-hour cocktail class at a speakeasy with engaging storytelling and the opportunity to craft your own cocktail.
• Enjoy three craft cocktails and snacks while learning essential mixology techniques like muddling and shaking from skilled instructors.
• Experience a unique blend of history and cocktail-making in a wheelchair-accessible, English-speaking venue with high ratings from previous guests.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
• Suitable for participants 21 and older, with lunch recommended prior to the class and non-alcoholic options available.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

According to the information provided, the Charleston: Sip History In a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class is a 2-hour activity that takes place in an English-speaking, wheelchair-accessible setting.

The experience is priced at $95.25 per person, a 25% discount from the original price of $127.00. This activity isn’t suitable for individuals under the age of 21.

Highlights of the experience include immersing in prohibition history while making cocktails, learning mixology in an authentic speakeasy setting, enjoying 3 craft cocktails and snacks, and making one’s own cocktail at the end of the session.

Experience Highlights

The Charleston: Sip History In a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class immerses participants in the rich history of prohibition while teaching the art of mixology.

Attendees learn mixology skills in an authentic speakeasy setting, enjoying 3 craft cocktails and snacks during the 2-hour class.

The interactive and educational experience combines history and entertainment, allowing participants to make their own cocktail at the end of the session.

With high ratings from previous guests who describe the class as a highlight of their trip, this unique blend of mixology and storytelling provides an engaging and memorable activity in Charleston.

Booking Information

How does one book this Charleston speakeasy cocktail class?

Booking is flexible, as the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, paying later.

To check availability, they’ll need to review the starting times. With convenient booking options, guests can easily secure their spot in this unique historical and mixology experience.

Meeting Point and Requirements

To attend the Charleston speakeasy cocktail class, guests will need to head to Alchemix, a speakeasy located on the corner with a doorbell.

Participants will need to bring a valid ID card, as the event isn’t suitable for those under the age of 21.

It’s recommended to have lunch before the activity, as non-alcoholic options are available but the focus is on enjoying craft cocktails during the 2-hour experience.

The class is wheelchair accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all guests.

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Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly, guests have praised the Charleston speakeasy cocktail class, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 14 reviews.

Participants have described the experience as a "great" one for couples and groups, with engaging instructors Sky and Tommy who even remembered guests’ names.

The unique blend of history and cocktail-making was a highlight, with reviewers stating it was both fun and educational.

History of Charleston’s Speakeasies

What’s the history behind Charleston’s speakeasies?

During the Prohibition era in the United States from 1920 to 1933, many secret bars and clubs, known as speakeasies, operated discreetly throughout Charleston.

These establishments often had discreet entrances, secret passwords, and elaborate hiding spots to avoid detection by law enforcement.

Some key features of Charleston’s speakeasies included:

1. Hidden doors disguised as telephone booths or fake storefronts.
2. Soundproofed walls to muffle the sounds of live music and revelry.
3. Coded signals, such as specific knocks or flashing lights, to alert patrons of police presence.
4. Elaborate underground tunnels connecting speakeasies to escape routes.

This rich history of Charleston’s speakeasies sets the stage for the immersive cocktail class experience.

Mixology Techniques Learned

The Charleston speakeasy cocktail class not only immerses participants in the rich history of these illicit establishments, but also provides hands-on training in essential mixology techniques.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors, attendees learn how to properly measure and mix ingredients, create balanced flavors, and employ techniques like muddling and shaking.

They also discover the art of garnishing, an important aspect of crafting visually appealing cocktails.

Crafting the Perfect Cocktail

One of the highlights of the Charleston speakeasy cocktail class is the opportunity for participants to craft their own custom cocktail.

After learning about the history and mixology techniques, attendees get to showcase their newfound skills by creating a personalized drink.

The process involves:

1. Selecting from a variety of premium spirits, juices, and garnishes.
2. Experimenting with different flavor combinations to achieve the desired taste profile.
3. Precisely measuring and mixing the ingredients using proper technique.
4. Garnishing the cocktail with flair to enhance the visual appeal.

The instructors provide guidance and feedback throughout, ensuring each participant leaves with a one-of-a-kind cocktail that reflects their personal preferences and the lessons learned during the class.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Health and Safety Protocols in Place?

This activity follows health and safety protocols. Participants must present a valid ID and are required to be over 21 years old. Non-alcoholic options are available. The speakeasy is wheelchair accessible.

Can the Class Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The class can accommodate dietary restrictions and offers non-alcoholic drink options. Participants should inform the instructors of any special needs when booking the experience to ensure their requirements are met during the session.

Is There a Dress Code for the Speakeasy Experience?

There is no specific dress code for the speakeasy experience. Guests can wear casual, comfortable attire, though dressing up is encouraged to fit the prohibition-era theme and atmosphere of the event.

How Much Is the Gratuity for the Instructors?

The gratuity for the instructors is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, it’s common for participants to tip the instructors, usually around 15-20% of the total cost of the experience, to show appreciation for their guidance and service.

Can Participants Take Photos During the Class?

Participants can generally take photos during the cocktail-making class. However, they’re advised to check with the instructors first, as photography may be restricted in certain areas of the speakeasy to preserve the authentic 1920s ambiance.

Recap

Sipping cocktails in Charleston’s historic speakeasies offers a unique glimpse into the city’s prohibition past. Guests learn essential mixology skills while crafting their own signature drink, all while immersed in the captivating tales of Charleston’s secret watering holes. This engaging experience combines hands-on cocktail making, flavorful pairings, and insightful storytelling for an unforgettable journey through the city’s rich history.

You can check if your dates are available here: