It’s a good thing the drinkers of the world don’t have to keep up with all the different types of gin or the sleights of hand that distinguish Manhattans from Algonquians. That’s the bartender’s job, thankfully, since measuring and muddling and mixing requires constant education (and, happily, plenty of sampling). That in mind, Craft Cocktails Texas-Dallas Cocktail Week offers plenty of opportunities to bone up on cocktail trends. From Thursday, June 14 through Sunday, June 17, both experienced and budding mixologists can network with vendors and attend seminars covering topics such as building flavor into drinks, the rebirth of punch and the history of gin. The conference kicks off Thursday night at the Stoneleigh Hotel, 2927 Maple Avenue, from 8 p.m. until midnight with live music on the patio from Ricki Derek and an array of cocktails to sample. Tickets are $150 each, or $275 for a four-day pass. Visit craftcocktails.com to learn more.
June 14-17, 2012