Cocktail Class - The Flowing Bowl

William Schmidt, known by his self-styled sobriquet “The Only William,” was one of the top bartenders of his day, a true celebrity bartender when such a phenomenon was relatively new. Schmidt rose to the top of his profession in Chicago in the 1870s, then moved to New York, where he worked until his death in 1904. Known for his impressive moustache, dapper dress  sense, and creativity in drink construction, he was often quoted and featured in newspapers of the day, and he published two cocktail books, the most famous of which is “The Flowing Bowl.” Festooned with a discursive, elaborate introduction that occupies only slightly less than half the pages of the book, it is nonetheless an impressive example of cocktail culture at the time.

In this class, Evan Christie will mix up recipes from “The Flowing Bowl,” and feature Schmidt’s impressive prose where it fits. Expect to taste cocktails that highlight the increasingly maximalist world of the 1890s yet also show the sophistication of a well-honed craft. Come experience the legendary hospitality of “The Only William” over a century later!

Must be 21+ to attend.

Host or Publisher Bridgeview Liquor