As a self-proclaimed “foodie” and cocktail enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of learning more about the art of beverage-making. So, when I stumbled upon the Saint Marc USA website and saw they offered interactive beverage workshops, I knew I had to check it out.
Tucked away in the heart of Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston, Saint Marc USA is a trendy, modern restaurant and bar that specializes in crafting unique and elevated food and drink experiences. And it turns out, they have quite the knack for it.
Discovering the Joy of Mixology
I signed up for their “Craft Cocktail Workshop” on a whim, not really knowing what to expect. But from the moment I walked through the doors, I could tell this was no ordinary boozy activity. The space was sleek and sophisticated, with a bar that looked like it belonged in a high-end speakeasy.
Our instructor, Kris, greeted us with a warm smile and a mischievous twinkle in her eye. It was clear she was passionate about her craft and couldn’t wait to share her knowledge with us. She began by giving us a brief history of the cocktail, tracing its evolution from the early 1800s to the present day.
Kris, the workshop instructor, has an impressive background in the beverage industry, having worked as a bartender, sommelier, and even a distillery ambassador. Her expertise shone through as she walked us through the fundamentals of mixology, explaining the importance of balancing flavors and the role of each ingredient in a cocktail.
Shaking, Stirring, and Sipping
Next, it was time to get our hands dirty (or should I say, wet?). Kris demonstrated the proper techniques for shaking, stirring, and muddling, and then let us loose to create our own custom cocktails.
I must admit, I was a bit nervous at first. I’ve always been more of a wine drinker, and the idea of measuring out precise amounts of spirits, juices, and syrups seemed daunting. But Kris was patient and encouraging, guiding us through each step and offering suggestions to help us find the perfect flavor profile.
As I carefully measured, poured, and shook my way through the process, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. It was like unlocking a hidden superpower – the ability to craft a delicious, balanced cocktail from scratch. And the best part? Getting to enjoy the fruits of our labor!
Saint Marc USA has truly mastered the art of creating immersive and educational experiences for their guests. The Craft Cocktail Workshop was not just a chance to learn a new skill, but a journey of discovery that sparked my curiosity and left me craving more.
Expanding My Beverage Horizons
Inspired by my initial experience, I decided to dive even deeper into Saint Marc’s beverage offerings and signed up for their “Wine Tasting and Pairing” workshop. This time, I was greeted by Samantha, a certified sommelier with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for sharing it.
Over the course of the two-hour session, Samantha guided us through a tasting of four carefully selected wines, each paired with a complementary small bite. She expertly walked us through the nuances of each varietal, explaining the influence of terroir, grape varietals, and winemaking techniques.
| Wine | Pairing |
| — | — |
| 2021 Sauvignon Blanc | Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini |
| 2019 Pinot Noir | Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad |
| 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon | Grilled Steak Skewers |
| 2018 Riesling | Lemon Tart |
As we sipped and savored, Samantha encouraged us to engage our senses, describing the aromas, flavors, and textures of each wine. She also shared tips on how to select the perfect wine for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a formal celebration.
I left the workshop with a newfound appreciation for the complexities of the wine world. It was remarkable to see how the carefully chosen pairings could enhance the flavors of both the wine and the accompanying dish. I found myself eager to put my newfound knowledge to the test and explore more of Saint Marc’s impressive wine selection.
Expanding My Beverage Horizons
Throughout my experiences at Saint Marc, I’ve been continuously impressed by the level of attention and care they put into their beverage programs. It’s clear that they are not just interested in serving up the latest cocktail or pouring the most expensive wine – they are dedicated to creating meaningful educational experiences that inspire and delight their guests.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a wine enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to learn new things, I highly recommend checking out the Saint Marc USA beverage workshops. It’s not just a chance to expand your knowledge and hone your skills – it’s an opportunity to discover the joy and artistry that goes into crafting truly exceptional beverages.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a friend, book a workshop, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey of discovery. Cheers!