So Long 2011, and Thanks for All the Fish!

Harvard & Stone NYE 2011

It’s time to start stretching those livers, Los Angeles! Craft cocktail destinations across the city are welcoming the new year with masquerade parties, multi-course dinners, and spirited trips around the world and back in time to the 1920s.

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Thirsty in NOLA: Tales of the Cocktail 2011

The last time I was in New Orleans, it was many years before Katrina, when my girlfriend and I stayed at her best friend’s house in the Garden District and we spent two weeks eating and drinking our way through the Big Easy. Now, after far too long a gap between visits, I’m heading back to New Orleans to join thousands of other attendees at the 2011 Tales of the Cocktail!

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2011 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards Nominees Announced

Employees Only bar

The nominees for the 2011 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards have been announced, and once again the Los Angeles cocktail banner is being carried by The Varnish (nominated for Best American Cocktail Bar) and its co-owner, Eric Alperin (American Bartender of the Year). New York’s Employees Only leads the field this year with nominations for Best American Cocktail Bar, World’s Best Drink Selection, and World’s Best Cocktail Bar.

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The Art of the Blend: Cognac and Cocktails at The Varnish

Angelenos learned about cognac and its role in cocktail culture during a Cognac Cocktail Class at The Varnish, presented by Liquor.com and hosted by Varnish co-owner Eric Alperin and GM Chris Bostick. During the sold out two-hour session, attendees were educated about the luxury spirit, tasted expressions from the premium Pierre Ferrand line, and learned how to make four cognac cocktails.

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February 24: The Varnish Two Year Anniversary

Never one to announce itself, The Varnish is quietly celebrating its Two Year Anniversary on Thursday, February 24th. Eric Alperin and Marcos Tello will be behind the bar, and guests can start the celebration with a complimentary glass of punch.

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