Old Fashioned Cocktail Class at General Horseplay in Key West

Nestled in the heart of Key West, General Horseplay offers a unique opportunity to dive into the rich history and preparation of the iconic Old Fashioned cocktail. This 90-minute class promises an immersive experience, where participants can expect to craft three distinct versions of the classic while learning from expert bartenders. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or simply curious to explore the origins of this timeless libation, the Old Fashioned Cocktail Class at General Horseplay provides an engaging and educational journey through the world of mixology. But what secrets lie within the history of this beloved drink? Read on to uncover the fascinating story behind the Old Fashioned.

Key Points

• Immersive 90-minute cocktail-making experience focused on teaching three versions of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail at General Horseplay in Key West, Florida.
• Hands-on exploration of the Old Fashioned’s origins, history, and evolution, with tastings of different base spirits used in the cocktail.
• Suitable for both seasoned mixology enthusiasts and curious newcomers, with an engaging format combining practical techniques and historical context.
• Includes all alcoholic beverages, bartender guidance, and recommendations for nearby bars for further cocktail exploration.
• Convenient meeting location in front of General Horseplay, with easy accessibility and transportation options in the lively Key West neighborhood.

Location and Focus

The Old Fashioned Cocktail Class takes place at General Horseplay, a bar located at 423 Caroline St in Key West, Florida. This 90-minute experience focuses on teaching participants how to make three versions of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail.

Throughout the class, guests will explore the history of this timeless drink, which dates back to the 1700s. The class is ideal for adults seeking an immersive cocktail-making experience, with the opportunity to sample different spirits and learn from the bar’s knowledgeable instructors.

Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply looking to expand your mixology skills, this class promises an engaging and educational journey into the world of the Old Fashioned.

Class Activities and Inclusions

During the Old Fashioned Cocktail Class, participants can expect to engage in a variety of hands-on activities and tastings.

They’ll start with a spirits tasting, sampling three different base spirits commonly used in the Old Fashioned. Following the tasting, attendees will then learn to craft three distinct versions of the classic cocktail, putting their newfound knowledge into practice.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable bartender will provide recommendations on local watering holes where guests can continue exploring the art of mixology.

The class includes all alcoholic beverages, ensuring participants can fully enjoy the cocktail-making journey.

With a focus on both the historical and practical aspects of the Old Fashioned, this class offers an engaging and educational experience for adults seeking to expand their cocktail-making skills.

Cocktail History and Origins

Although the exact origins of the Old Fashioned cocktail remain hazy, historians trace its roots back to the early 1800s in Louisville, Kentucky.

The drink’s name itself is thought to derive from the ‘old fashioned’ way of preparing cocktails, which involved muddling sugar, bitters, and a spirit over ice. This classic technique was a departure from the more elaborate mixed drinks popular at the time.

Over the decades, the Old Fashioned evolved, with variations incorporating different spirits and garnishes.

Today, it remains a beloved cocktail that showcases the simple yet sophisticated art of mixology, with its balance of sweet, bitter, and botanical flavors.

Ideal Audience and Experience

The Old Fashioned cocktail class at General Horseplay caters to adults seeking an immersive, hands-on experience in mixology, allowing them to explore the rich history and classic techniques behind this iconic drink.

Over the course of the 2-hour session, you will make three distinct versions of the Old Fashioned, tasting various spirits and learning how small variations in ingredients and preparation can dramatically alter the final cocktail.

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or simply curious about the art of mixology, this class provides an engaging and educational opportunity to deepen your appreciation for one of the most beloved libations in the world.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Participants will meet the instructor in front of General Horseplay, the venue hosting the Old Fashioned cocktail class, located at 423 Caroline St in Key West, Florida. The class begins promptly at 1:00 PM and returns to the same meeting point upon conclusion.

The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.

Guests can expect a hands-on, immersive session where they’ll make three variations of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. The class also includes a tasting of three different spirits to help participants develop their palates and explore the history of this iconic libation dating back to the 1700s.

At the end, the instructor provides recommendations for local watering holes to continue the cocktail experience.

Booking Information and Policies

Guests can receive confirmation of their booking immediately upon completing their purchase.

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience, and pricing for the Old Fashioned cocktail class starts at $80.00 with a lowest price guarantee.

The booking process is straightforward and transparent, providing guests with the necessary information to plan their visit.

Attendees can expect the following:

• Instant booking confirmation

• Flexible cancellation policy

• Competitive pricing with lowest price guarantee

• Seamless experience from booking to class attendance

The booking information and policies ensure a hassle-free experience for those interested in the Old Fashioned cocktail class at General Horseplay in Key West.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customers have left a combined total of 12 reviews for the Old Fashioned cocktail class, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5. The feedback has been largely positive, with guests praising the informative classes, engaging instructors, and enjoyable experiences. However, a few negative comments mention short-notice cancellations and a lack of communication regarding minimum attendance requirements.

Positive Feedback	Negative Feedback
Informative classes	Cancellations with short notice
Engaging instructors	Lack of communication about minimum attendance
Enjoyable experiences	–

Getting to General Horseplay

One can conveniently reach General Horseplay, the venue for the Old Fashioned cocktail class, located at 423 Caroline St in Key West, Florida. The meeting point for the class is right in front of the hotel, making it easy to find.

Participants can arrive at the location via various transportation options:

• Driving and parking in the nearby public lots or garages
• Taking a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft
• Using the local bus system or trolley
• Walking, as the venue is situated in the heart of the lively Key West neighborhood

The class ends back at the meeting point, ensuring a seamless start and finish to the immersive cocktail-making experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Glassware Are Used in the Class?

The class uses the classic glassware associated with the Old Fashioned cocktail – a short, wide-rimmed glass known as a rocks glass or old-fashioned glass. This allows participants to properly mix and enjoy the traditional drink.

Can the Class Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, the class can accommodate dietary restrictions. The instructor is happy to work with guests who have special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free requirements, to ensure they have an enjoyable and inclusive experience.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Class?

There are no strict dress code requirements for the cocktail class. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable, casual attire. The focus is on the cocktail-making experience, not formal attire.

How Many Participants Are Typically in Each Class?

The class typically has around 10-15 participants, though the exact number may vary. The size allows for a personalized experience where the instructor can provide individual attention and ensure each participant has an enjoyable and educational cocktail-making session.

Is There an Option to Purchase the Ingredients Used in the Class?

The cocktail class does offer an option to purchase the ingredients used during the session. Participants can buy the spirits, bitters, and other mixers to recreate the Old Fashioned cocktails at home after the class.

Recap

The Old Fashioned Cocktail Class at General Horseplay in Key West provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and art of mixology.

Participants will craft three versions of the classic Old Fashioned while learning from expert bartenders and enjoying a lively, engaging atmosphere.

Whether a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this class promises an immersive and educational experience in the heart of the Florida Keys.