Just before COVID hit my sisters and I decided to take a celebratory sisters trip to New Orleans to celebrate our sister's graduation from law school. I was put in charge of finding fun activities for us that didn't break the bank. After a few searches I stumbled upon Drink Lab NOLA, an interactive mixology class hosted above Victory Lounge. As soon as I presented this fun option to my sisters they were excited to try it, so I booked our group and couldn't wait for our sisters trip to begin.
When we arrived we were greeted by a light lunch/snack (they didn't want us drinking without food in our stomachs) and a set up of individual stations with all the tools we'd need to create our mixed masterpieces. We were taught by the owner and founder of Drink Lab NOLA, Daniel Victory, a master mixologist who took the time to teach us about every drink we made.
We decided to attend the Classic New Orleans Cocktails class and made a Sazerac, Ramos Gin Fizz, and the original Hurricane with real passion fruit puree (how it should be made). I can't fully express how much fun we had during this class, or the amount of alcohol we consumed, but saying we had a great time would be an understatement. I still use the trick he taught us about limes.
Not only did we learn how to make these three iconic New Orleans staples, but we learned the history of spirits and the city. Personally, I don’t like rum, it always gives me a headache, but my Hurricane - made with three different rums, I must add - was one of the best drinks I’ve ever had. I also loved my Ramos Gin Fizz so much that I ordered it while traveling in another state. That was a huge mistake, it was completely wrong. I didn’t like my Sazerac but gave it to one of my sisters to finish. After completing the class feel free to head down to Victory Lounge for some more cocktails or small plates.
All in all I would suggest everyone take advantage of this fun and informative activity while you're in New Orleans. The whole Drink Lab staff were great, and I can't wait to bring the ladies of Girls Vacation Club to experience the fun on our New Orleans Girls Trip. Don't miss it!
Drink Lab NOLA is Black owned.