I’m the type of person who thrives on doing different things. I’m constantly on the lookout for interesting, unique and interactive events and things to do around town. When browsing the events taking place in Wichita, a mixology class at Exploration Place came up.
The description listed was:
Join Master Mixologist Nelson Escalante as he teaches about the nuances of liquors and mixed drinks. Loaded with essential-to-know topics such as barware, tools and mixing tips, this class will provide a fun and relaxing environment to roll up your sleeves and become the mixologist. Impress your friends and family at your next gathering with one of the five drinks you’ll learn. Class includes a bartending tool set that you will be able to take home with you. Mixed drinks and charcuterie will be enjoyed by all. Limited to 30 participants aged 21 plus.
Prices for the mixology class was $35. I thought it was the perfect outing for a date night and purchased a spot for two online. On the night of the class, it was a sold out group of 30 people. The class was held in one of the event areas towards the back of Exploration Place.
Everything needed for the mixology class was placed at the tables waiting for our thirst for knowledge…… alcohol.
We started off learning the basics of a bartending kit and what was used for what and why certain drinks where shaken while others were stirred. It’s always fun to learn the reasoning behind why things are done a certain way.
For the next of hours, we listened to Nelson cover as many topics as he could in a two-hour span on mixology, what he’s learned during his career, and answered literally every question thrown his way. Nelson is a fraternity brother of mine from our crazy college days, so I already knew the class would be a blast. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and has helped many bartenders in Wichita. You’re in good hands if you attend a future class. He can even help you set your phone up with Uber if needed.
It wasn’t all just talking and asking questions, we were able to get hands on. There were five holiday-themed cocktails that Nelson walked us through and had us make on our own.
I’m incredibly slow in the kitchen, and was the same way making drinks. I was so focused on grabbing the right mixers, reading what I was doing, double-checking the work and then mixing everything properly. Sidenote: I still made the drinks wrong, as I overpoured everything. Was it on purpose? I’m not telling.
But what’s funny is I was so slow, the guy sitting next to us even made a joking comment to me about it.
I have to say, this was such a fun evening. So many others in the class shared the same sentiment after it was all over. I was told the plan is to hold another mixology class at Exploration Place in the future.
To find out when that is, be sure to check out the events page on their website.
Something cool in Wichita we should check out? To nominate your business or event to be considered for a review, please email us with your information. We are always open to suggestions.
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