Fall Cocktail Class at Hale Ka Hala
On a perfectly sunny October afternoon in Kohanaiki, members gathered in one of the newly released Hale Ka Hala homes to learn the art of mixology.
Guests arrived at a beautifully manicured entryway. Behind them sat an elegant silver travertine console table decorated with miniature home boxes wrapped in ribbon, a fun gift to uncover after the event.
The kitchen was set up as the classroom for the afternoon. Each guest had a mixology station preset with all the supplies needed for an exceptional culinary journey.
The dining room was set with platters of fall-themed appetizers, like kabocha pumpkin hummus topped with marshmallows, for light snacking throughout the class.
Guided by well-known bartender Tais Brawley, who has 25 years of experience, the class learned three different cocktail recipes. Each recipe was framed around a different fall theme, incorporating classic drinks with a tropical island twist.
Tais began her lesson by describing the techniques used for each cocktail. She then walked everyone through the process of mixing, pouring, measuring, shaking, and even using a nano foamer.
"We did a Fall for Me Sangria, which has a Caymus Cabernet base, allspice liqueur, elderflower liqueur, spices, fruits, and cranberry," said Tais. "Our second drink was the Diablo Margarita, which is a spin on the Devil's Margarita. The spin was passion fruit! It also had a Li Hing rim, so it looked a little more fun. The last drink was a Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini. We made a house-made pumpkin spice syrup for that."
After all guests successfully completed a drink, the group would say "cheers" and take a break to enjoy their cocktails and converse. During these breaks, guests often asked Tais questions about mixology and how to recreate some of their personal favorite drinks.
"I love to get members together, and they get to ask me questions about anything to do with bartending or cocktails. I give them ideas on how to expand what they normally drink into something familiar but new," said Tais.
The afternoon ended with guests roaming around the newly released home and admiring its architecture and interior decor. Every guest left with a celebratory spirit, a satisfied stomach, and a mixology set wrapped in the previously mentioned gift boxes.
With aloha and until next,
The Kohanaiki Edit
