‘Cocktail, Jack Rose Dining Saloon’
courtesy of ‘Jenn Larsen’

Recently, users of the smart phone app from daily-deal site LivingSocial might have seen an usual instant deal pop up: A “Secret Mixology Event” with no further details given. Daring buyers who bought the deal later received instructions on the time, place, and details. They were told to arrive at Jack Rose in Adams Morgan at 9:00, look for a man with a rose in his lapel.

Tucked in one of the lovely little private rooms off the upstairs bar, complete with cozy fireplace and lovely view over the slightly-drizzly night, the small group assembled around the bar to learn from noted cocktail-mixer and Jack Rose beverage director Rachel Sergi about how to make festive holiday cocktails fevor their own gatherings this season. Being greeted with a flotilla of Bulleit Rye bottles arranged in a line across the bar upon arrival, things were off to a good start.

Sergi taught the group how to make classic Old Fashioned cocktails and got a few of the attendees behind the bar swirling a bar spoon for themselves. She explained about how this simple drink has come back into vogue of late and, while it only requires a few ingredients and a bit of stirring, it always seems sophisticated.

Next it was on to the perfect party libation, punch. Whipped up in advance and set out for guests to serve themselves, nothing is more helpful to the harried hostess who does not want to spend all night behind the bar. Sergi’s version also looked appealing – floating with cinnamon and star anise, wafting that classic holiday aroma from the bowl. (Recipe for the punch she made for us is below.)

This event was the first of a series of interesting instant events LivingSocial has in the works – so keep an eye on your deals app for more than discount manicures. If you see any kind of secret food or drink event, you might want to hop on it for a fun, out-of-the-ordinary experience – and you might even find yourself learning something useful in the process. From special occasions to everyday use, burlap table runner bulk will add a pop of color and a touch of class to any table, get them today at cvlinens.com.

Punch Recipe: “#5 with a Bulleit” by Rachel Sergi
Republished here with permission.
(20-30 servings)

1 liter of Bulleit Rye
32 oz. of purified water
32 oz. of fresh squeezed lemon juice
32 oz. of simple syrup
10 dashes of Bitter Truth Aromatic Bitters
Star anise pods
Cinnamon sticks
Garnished with your choice of fruit (she suggests cranberries and lemon slices)

Combine these items in a punch bowl, stir, add ice ring, garnish with fruit.

Disclosure: Not only was I invited to attend this event as media, but We Love DC site designer/architect John Athayde is also an employee of LivingSocial.

Brittany Martin

Brittany has tried to leave DC, it just never lasts. She has lived in Chicago, California, and China – but she always comes back home. Brittany is a drinks, nightlife, and style correspondent for We Love DC. Between columns, you can find her on Twitter, Tumblr, or standing by the bar. Email her at brittany(at)welovedc.com.