Masters of mixology class at Larkspur in Vail

Stirred or shaken? How do I stock my bar? What are the best cocktails for a crowd? How do I create a cocktail? How should I choose ingredients? What’s the right garnish? How do I decide which glass to use? These are common questions bartenders hear, and the reason Larkspur’s Wine University devotes one class each summer to mixology. The restaurant’s third annual masters of mixology seminar will be held on Thursday at 6 p.m.

The masters include Larkspur bartenders Josh Stevenson and Chris David, Avondale bar manager Brian Harker and special guests from Diageo Reserve Spirits. The classroom segment begins at 6 p.m. followed by tasting on Larkspur’s patio at 6:30 p.m. Diageo representatives will set up stations for tasting its top-of-the-line tequilas, rums and vodkas, including Cuervo, Oronoco and Ketel One. Each of the bartenders will create special cocktails using these spirits. Chef Armando will prepare savory appetizers to sample while tasting the cocktails.

“The mixology class has been popular each of the past two summers,” said Wine Director Kevin Furtad. “We’ll have a very interactive event this year thanks to the help from the Diageo team. We’re excited to have several experts here to teach the fine art of cocktails.”

The bartenders have been preparing for the event with new libations built around the Diageo spirits and using fresh herbs and Colorado produce in their creations. Attendees can look forward to refreshing beverages, many made with the herbs grown right outside Larkspur’s kitchen door. A sneak preview of the cocktails: Platino Peach Punch, Hibiscus Orange Crush and Nine Nineteen.

The cocktail seminar and tasting is $40 per person. Space is limited; reservations may be made by calling 970-754-8050.