Cocktail Foundations
A six-part cocktail class series led by Mitch
Cocktail Foundations is a six-part cocktail class series hosted by The Writer’s Room and held at Rood. Each class focuses on a classic cocktail style, breaking down the build, balance, and technique that make it work.
You’ll make two cocktails in every class - a classic version and a modern take, while learning how small changes in ingredients or method can completely transform a drink. The goal isn’t just to follow a recipe, but to understand how cocktails are built so you can confidently make (and tweak) them at home.
Classes are hands-on, relaxed, and intentionally small. Light bites are included, and all tools and equipment are provided.
Attend one class or follow the series - either way, you’ll leave with a better understanding of what’s in your glass.
Class schedule:
03.09 Old Fashioned
04.13 Martini
05.11 Manhattan
06.08 Negroni
07.13 Sour
08.10 Spritz + Highball
PRO TIP: After you click “REGISTER” and fill out your form, the class will go into your cart (located in the upper right-hand corner of the page). Click your cart and proceed with checking out to complete the sign-up.
Monday, April 13
7pm
📍 Rood, 17001 Madison Ave. Lakewood
This hands-on class focuses on the Martini build, exploring how just a few core components (spirit, vermouth, and dilution) can be manipulated to create an incredible range of styles and expressions. We’ll begin with a classic Martini to understand the structure at its most precise, then build a modern interpretation that shows how subtle, intentional changes in ratios, technique, and seasoning can completely transform the drink.
Each guest will:
Make four cocktails during class (two to sip on, two to enjoy at home)
Two classic Martini
Two modernized versions
Learn the fundamentals of the Martini build, including spirit selection, sweetness, dilution, and balance
Work with professional cocktail tools and equipment provided during class
Enjoy light bites provided by Rood
Capacity is limited.
Monday, May 11th
7pm
📍 Rood, 17001 Madison Ave. Lakewood
This hands-on class focuses on the Manhattan build, exploring how a few core components, spirit, vermouth, and bitters, work together to create a wide range of styles and expressions. We’ll begin with a classic Manhattan to understand the structure at its most balanced and precise, then build a modernized version that shows how thoughtful changes in ratio, vermouth selection, and technique can completely transform the drink.
Each guest will:
Make four cocktails during class (two to sip on, two to enjoy at home)
Two classic Manhattans
Two modernized versions
Learn the fundamentals of the Manhattan build, including spirit selection, sweetness, dilution, and balance
Work with professional cocktail tools and equipment provided during class
Enjoy light bites provided by Rood
Capacity is limited.
Monday, June 8th
7pm
📍 Rood, 17001 Madison Ave. Lakewood
This hands-on class focuses on the Negroni build, exploring how equal parts spirit, bitter liqueur, and fortified wine create a cocktail that is bold, balanced, and endlessly adaptable. We’ll start with a classic Negroni to understand the structure at its most straightforward, then build a modernized version that shows how subtle changes in spirit choice, bitterness, and balance can completely transform the drink.
Each guest will:
Make four cocktails during class (two to sip on, two to enjoy at home)
Two classic Negronis
Two modernized versions
Learn the fundamentals of the Negroni build, including spirit selection, sweetness, dilution, and balance
Work with professional cocktail tools and equipment provided during class
Enjoy light bites provided by Rood
Capacity is limited.
Monday, July 13th
7pm
📍 Rood, 17001 Madison Ave. Lakewood
This hands-on class focuses on the Sour build, exploring how spirit, citrus, and sweetness work together to create balance, texture, and range. We’ll begin with a classic sour to understand the structure at its most fundamental, then build a modernized version that shows how adjustments to acid, sweetness, and technique can dramatically change the final drink.
Each guest will:
Make four cocktails during class (two to sip on, two to enjoy at home)
Two classic Sours
Two modernized versions
Learn the fundamentals of the Sour build, including spirit selection, sweetness, dilution, and balance
Work with professional cocktail tools and equipment provided during class
Enjoy light bites provided by Rood
Capacity is limited.
Monday, August 10th
7pm
📍 Rood, 17001 Madison Ave. Lakewood
This hands-on class focuses on the Spritz and Highball builds, exploring how length, effervescence, and balance turn simple ingredients into bright, refreshing cocktails. We’ll begin with classic preparations to understand the structure at its most straightforward, then build modernized versions that show how changes in spirit, bitterness, sweetness, and carbonation can completely transform the drink.
Each guest will:
Make four cocktails during class (two to sip on, two to enjoy at home)
Two classic Hightball or Spritz
Two modernized versions
Learn the fundamentals of the Highball / Spritz build, including spirit selection, sweetness, dilution, and balance
Work with professional cocktail tools and equipment provided during class
Enjoy light bites provided by Rood
Capacity is limited.
