At Estes Public Relations, we like to say we work where others play. However, we always love to shake things up and spend a day in our clients’ worlds. Imagine our excitement when the EPR team was invited to join for a cocktail class with our client New Riff Distilling.
Located in Newport, Ky., New Riff Distilling is an independently-owned distillery that produces award-winning bourbon, rye, single malt whiskey and gin. The distillery went under a $3 million renovation in 2023, transforming its first-floor gift shop space and the third-floor event space where the distillery’s tasting and cocktail bar The Aquifer is located.
We joined New Riff Hospitality Manager Catherine Manabat and Aquifer Supervisor Scott Augsburger in The Aquifer as they led us through our own Mixology 101. From flavor combinations to proper cocktail equipment to aesthetic finishing touches, we learned about the foundation of mixology and the art of making a drink. The team got to put our bartending expertise to the test as we made and tried four delicious New Riff cocktails. As part of The Aquifer’s reopening, the New Riff team plans to offer cocktail classes to the public — a super fun outing for any group!
At EPR, we are all for experiences where we can grow our own skills and creativity while learning more about our clients and their respective industries. We gained understanding of New Riff’s inspiration and intentionality behind their cocktail menu that is reflective of their products and brand. We expanded our personal cocktail repertoire, as we became well-versed with ingredients and equipment we may not usually use in our home bars.
The cocktail class brought upon new thoughts that shaped our ideas for existing and future clients. Even with years of experience working with clients in the spirits industry, we were reminded that there is always more to learn. And if that means attending more cocktail classes, then sign us up!