Bringing Hands-On Cocktail Education to Napa for Spirits Enthusiasts
Napa, CA – April 4, 2025 – Napa Valley Wine Academy (NVWA), America’s leading provider of beverage education, is launching an exciting new chapter in spirits education with the Taste Coach Cocktail Class Series, debuting at The Bitter Bar in Napa. This hands-on series will offer a deep dive into classic cocktail techniques, bringing world-class spirits education to the heart of wine country.
The Taste Coach Cocktail Class Series is set to launch with its first event, Gin Edition, on May 8, 2025, at The Bitter Bar in Napa. This exciting new series is designed to give cocktail enthusiasts and home bartenders the knowledge and skills to craft essential cocktails with confidence. Each session will highlight a different spirit, diving into its unique characteristics, history, and best cocktail applications.
The inaugural class will be led by Brianna Darcy, Master Mixologist and Head Bartender at The Bitter Bar, who will guide attendees through the creation of five must-know gin cocktails. Participants will gain hands-on experience, expert mixology tips, and a deeper understanding of gin’s versatility behind the bar.
This ongoing series will continue throughout the year, featuring new spirit-focused themes, including whiskey, rum, tequila, and more. Each class will provide an immersive experience, equipping guests with foundational cocktail techniques, insider tricks, and classic recipes to take their home bartending skills to the next level.
Seats for the Gin Edition are limited to 14 guests, and tickets are priced at $99 per person. Attendees will walk away with five cocktail recipes, an in-depth understanding of the featured spirit, and the confidence to mix drinks like a pro.
“I’m excited to bring cocktails into Napa and create a space where both locals and visitors can unwind and explore mixology,” said Brianna Darcy. “Partnering with Napa Valley Wine Academy lets us offer a fun, hands-on way to elevate cocktail skills in Napa’s vibrant beverage scene. Napa is known for wine, but craft cocktails are gaining momentum,” added Mick Salyer, owner of The Bitter Bar and Zuzu. “This collaboration introduces more people to the art of mixology while providing a fun, social experience in downtown Napa. I’m very excited!”
Since 2023, NVWA has been at the forefront of spirits education, offering comprehensive programs that include the esteemed WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certifications, ranging from Level 1 to the advanced Level 3 Award in Spirits. This commitment to excellence has positioned NVWA as a leader in beverage education, catering to both enthusiasts and industry professionals.
“As the premier wine, spirits, and beverage education provider in the U.S., Napa Valley Wine Academy is committed to making spirits education both accessible and experiential,” said Christian Oggenfuss, CEO and Founder of Napa Valley Wine Academy . “The Taste Coach Cocktail Class Series is an exciting new way for enthusiasts and professionals alike to deepen their knowledge and refine their skills in a hands-on setting. By partnering with The Bitter Bar and industry experts like Brianna Darcy, we’re bringing world-class spirits education to life—one cocktail at a time. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your journey, this series will inspire confidence and creativity behind the bar .”
Event Details: TasteCoach™ Cocktail Class
Date: May 8, 2025
Time: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: The Bitter Bar, Napa, CA
Price: $99 per person Limited Seats: 14
Whether you’re a home bartender, spirits enthusiast, or industry professional, this class offers an opportunity to enhance your cocktail-making skills in a fun, interactive setting. With only 14 seats available, this intimate session will guide participants through crafting five essential gin-based cocktails. Grab a seat now! Sign up link here .
About Napa Valley Wine Academy
Napa Valley Wine Academy is the leading wine, spirits, and beverage education provider in the U.S., setting the industry standard with world-class certifications, expert-led masterclasses, and immersive, hands-on experiences. As the most awarded WSET wine school in the country, we are dedicated to making wine, beer, spirits, and sake education accessible, empowering, and engaging for both enthusiasts and professionals. Since our founding in 2011, we have educated and inspired more than 53,530 students, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to excel in the beverage industry.
At the core of NVWA’s philosophy is a dedication to making wine education accessible, engaging, and empowering. By fostering a community of passionate learners and leveraging the expertise of distinguished instructors—including Masters of Wine and Master Sommeliers—the academy ensures that each student receives a transformative educational experience.
About The Bitter Bar
Nestled in the heart of Napa, California, The Bitter Bar is a sophisticated cocktail lounge renowned for its expertly crafted beverages and inviting ambiance. Located at 823 Main Street, this hidden gem offers patrons a unique experience with its dark, alluring decor featuring fern and flora wallpaper, crystal chandeliers, and a polished wood bar. Guests can indulge in a curated selection of handcrafted cocktails; each prepared with precision and creativity by passionate bartenders.
The Bitter Bar is part of a vibrant “block party” collective on Main Street, which includes esteemed establishments such as ZuZu, La Taberna, and The Bitter Bar. This collective is the brainchild of proprietor Mick Salyer, whose extensive travels in Spain and deep appreciation for convivial food traditions have significantly influenced his Napa restaurant program
