A Spirited Welcome

As soon as I stepped off the ferry and into the warm embrace of Cataño, I knew I was in for a treat. The salty breeze from the ocean, a familiar companion from my surfing days, greeted me as I made my way to Casa BACARDÍ. The promise of a mixology class, where I could learn the art of crafting iconic cocktails, was too tempting to resist.

The experience kicked off with a welcome cocktail at the Pavilion, a shaded oasis that offered a stunning view of Old San Juan across the water. The Pavilion was open to the breezes, and I could feel the island’s rhythm in the air. It was the perfect setting to begin this spirited adventure.

Shaking Things Up with Violeta

Our guide for the day was Violeta, a vibrant and energetic mixologist who made the art of cocktail-making seem as effortless as catching a wave. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she had a knack for making everyone feel at ease. With a well-equipped bar set up for each participant, we were ready to dive into the world of mixology.

We crafted two full-size cocktails under Violeta’s expert guidance. The process was fun and light-hearted, with plenty of laughter and camaraderie among the group. As someone who appreciates the finer things in life, I was thrilled to learn the stories behind these iconic drinks. The class wasn’t overly serious, but it was informative enough to satisfy my curiosity.

A Taste of the Exclusive

After the class, we were treated to a tasting of a high-end rum, a rare delight that isn’t available anywhere else in the world. It was a smooth, rich experience that lingered on the palate, much like the memories of a perfect wave. We also received a token for a cocktail at the Pavilion bar, but with two cocktails already in hand, I decided to pass it on to a fellow adventurer.

The day wrapped up with a brief tram tour that offered a glimpse into the history of Bacardí. While it was a nice touch, I found myself more captivated by the present moment—the sun setting over the water, the laughter of new friends, and the lingering taste of rum on my lips. As I made my way back to the ferry, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the chance to experience the magic of Casa BACARDÍ. Mixology Fun