The Cocktail Academy

In this episode of the Cocktail Academy Podcast, Damian welcomes the inspiring Emily Doherty, winner of World Class Ireland 2023, and newly appointed cocktail bar manager at the Merchant Hotel in Belfast. Emily takes us through her remarkable journey from starting as a waitress at 16 to representing Ireland on the global stage in Shanghai. With insights into her challenges, triumphs, and a peek be...

🍸 Welcome to another flavorful episode of the Cocktail Academy Podcast! Host Damian Cole dives into one of the most exciting trends shaking up the cocktail scene: savory cocktails. Forget the sugary, citrus-forward classics—this is all about bold umami, salty surprises, and earthy delights. From mushrooms and miso to parmesan and seaweed, bartenders are breaking new ground. What You’ll Learn in T...

In this episode, Damian sits down with legendary bartender, author, and educator Jim Meehan to explore his latest book, The Bartender's Pantry . Known for his groundbreaking work at PDT and for authoring the Meehan's Bartender Manual , Jim returns with a fresh perspective, focusing on the often-overlooked but essential ingredients behind the bar: the non-alcoholic elements. Episode Highlights: Jim...

In this episode, Damian sits down with Sean Finter, hospitality industry veteran and founder of Barmetrix, to dive deep into what it takes to create truly exceptional bar and restaurant experiences. Sean shares his journey from washing dishes at a truck stop to running a $32 million hospitality group, all while learning the invaluable lessons that drive his passion for service and hospitality. Tun...

In this episode Damian sits down with Lucas Assis, a passionate bartender, content creator, and educator known for his advocacy for transparency in agave spirits. Lucas shares his bartending journey, from his start in the industry to his rise as a trusted voice on social media, and his love for tequila and mezcal. This conversation dives deep into the agave industry, debunking myths, discussing th...

In this week’s episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast , Damian takes us on a deep dive into one of the most essential ingredients in cocktail making: citrus. From lemons and limes to oranges and grapefruit, citrus plays a critical role in creating balance, adding freshness, and enhancing flavor. Damian covers everything you need to know about how to choose, store, juice, and maximize the potentia...

Damian Cole chats with Camper English, the cocktail world's renowned ice expert and author of Doctors and Distillers and The Ice Book . Tune in for a deep dive into the science behind clear ice, its role in elevating cocktails, and how you can make it at home using the game-changing method of directional freezing. Camper and Damian explore the myths and tips surrounding ice, like why boiling water...

In this episode of Cocktail Academy, Damian is joined by none other than Kaitlyn Stewart, the brains and talent behind Likeable Cocktails and a former Diageo World Class Champion. Kaitlyn shares her 20-year bartending journey, from humble beginnings in Canada to creating viral cocktail content online. This episode dives deep into her experiences, from winning world-class competitions to teaching t...

In this episode, we dive deep into the revolutionary freezing techniques that have placed Iain McPherson, aka Mr. Panda, at the forefront of cocktail innovation. Known for pushing the boundaries of flavor, Iain discusses how his groundbreaking methods like "Switching," "Dry Freezing," and "Sous pression" are transforming the cocktail industry. Learn how freezing can enhance texture, intensify flav...

In this episode of the Cocktail Academy Podcast , Damian Cole interviews Mark Ward , the founder of Regal Rogue , one of Australia’s leading vermouth brands . Mark takes us through his fascinating journey from working in nightclubs and corporate London to creating his own vermouth brand in Australia. He shares the challenges and successes of launching Regal Rogue as the first Australian vermouth i...

In this episode of the Cocktail Academy Podcast , Damian Cole chats with Dave Mulligan , the visionary behind Bar 1661 and an advocate for the revival of Poitín , Ireland's native spirit. Dave shares his journey in the hospitality industry, from his early days in Dublin to becoming a key player in modernising Irish cocktail culture. He discusses his passion for Poitín , the challenges of running a...

In this episode of the Cocktail Academy Podcast , Damian Cole interviews Chris Leavitt , the man behind the successful Not Just a Bartender social media brand. Chris shares his journey from being a bartender in Pennsylvania to becoming a full-time content creator known for his cocktail videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram . Chris opens up about his early struggles in pharmaceutical sales...

In this episode, Damian Cole interviews the charismatic and adventurous Danil Nevsky , the founder of The Indie Bartender . Danil shares his incredible journey from his early days working at weddings in Aberdeen to becoming a prominent figure in the global cocktail community. With stories of extreme bartending, skydiving while making cocktails, and his experiences across various countries, Danil p...

In this episode of the Cocktail Academy Podcast , Damian Cole takes a deep dive into one of the most beloved cocktail recipes in the world: the Bramble cocktail . Created in 1989 by the legendary Dick Bradsell , the Bramble has become a staple in bars and restaurants globally. Damian explores the history of this modern classic cocktail , shares the original recipe, and discusses his own variations...

In this captivating episode, Damian sits down with Barry Chandler , a prominent figure in the Irish whiskey industry and the founder of the Stories & Sips Whiskey Club . Barry shares his journey from the United States to becoming a globally recognized Irish whiskey expert . He discusses the growth of Irish whiskey , the significance of storytelling in whiskey culture , and the importance of bu...

Episode Description: Welcome to another exciting episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast! In this episode, host Damian Cohn dives into the world of "Equal Measure Cocktails," where simplicity meets sophistication. These cocktails are all about balance—using equal parts of each ingredient to create harmonious, easy-to-remember drinks that pack a punch. Tune in to learn the secrets behind these time...

Episode Description: Welcome to The Cocktail Academy Podcast! In this episode, Damian welcomes the legendary mixologist Lynnette Marrero. From her diamond status with airlines to her influential role in shaping the modern cocktail scene, Lynnette shares her incredible journey through the world of bartending. Tune in as we explore her experiences, inspirations, and her pioneering efforts to elevate...

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Cocktail Academy, Damian chats with Julio Bermejo, the North American Tequila Ambassador and the creator of Tommy’s Margarita. Julio shares his incredible journey from his family’s small Mexican restaurant to becoming a global tequila expert. Discover the secrets behind Tommy’s Margarita, learn about the intricacies of tequila production, and get insights in...

Episode Description: Welcome to another flavorful episode of The Cocktail Academy Podcast, hosted by Damian Cole. In this episode, we dive deep into the sweet world of syrups, an essential component for crafting perfect cocktails. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or a professional mixologist, learning to make your own syrups can elevate your drink game to new heights. Episode Highlights: Intro...

Episode Overview: Welcome to another exciting episode of the Cocktail Academy podcast! Today, we are thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the legendary Dale DeGroff, also known as King Cocktail. Dale is a pioneer in the modern bartending scene and the man behind the resurgence of craft cocktails. Get ready to dive deep into the world of cocktails, bartending, and the rich history that...

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Cocktail Academy, Damian explores the art of batching cocktails, a perfect technique for summer barbecues, parties, and gatherings. Damian delves into the history, benefits, and practical tips for batching cocktails, ensuring you can enjoy your event without being tied to the bar. Featuring the classic Bramble cocktail, this episode provides a step-by-step g...

Host Damian Cole chats with Jack McGarry, the co-founder and managing director of The Dead Rabbit in New York City. From his humble beginnings in West Belfast to becoming the International Bartender of the Year, Jack shares his incredible journey and the philosophy behind creating one of the world's most celebrated cocktail bars. Discover the secrets behind The Dead Rabbit's unique blend of Irish...

Follow us: Insta , Tiktok , Facebook Featured Cocktail of the Week: The Sunflower Created by Sammy Ross of Milk and Honey fame. Recipe: 20ml (3/4 oz) London Dry Gin 20ml (3/4 oz) Cointreau 20ml (3/4 oz) Elderflower Liqueur (e.g., Saint Germain) 20ml (3/4 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice Optional: Absinthe rinse for added complexity. Shaking and serving tips: Chill your glass, shake ingredients with ice, stra...

Episode Summary: Welcome to the Cocktail Academy podcast! In this episode, host Damian Cole demystifies the essential tools every home bartender needs to make delicious, consistent cocktails. From shakers to strainers, Damian covers the basics and shares pro tips to help you craft perfect drinks for any occasion. Key Topics Covered: Introduction to Bar Tools Importance of having the right tools fo...

Episode Summary: Join host Damian Cole on a captivating journey to the historic Crumlin Road Jail, now home to McConnell’s Irish Whiskey Distillery. In this episode, Damian sits down with Graeme Miller, Master Distiller and Head of Supply at McConnell’s, to explore the fascinating transformation of this iconic location into a premier whiskey distillery. Discover the rich history of McConnell’s Iri...