SF Cocktail Week

It's down to the wire, but I just done got to let y'all know that San Francisco Cocktail Week is just around the corner. I made it to a few of the events last year, and had a damn fine time at each.

One of the things I'm particularly excited about is the USBG cocktail competition. I've been to a few similar events in the past, and they're a fun way to see a real breadth of drinks being made by the best bartenders around.

The thing I'm really digging for this year is the day of bar school classes that are going on around various parts of the city. All the classes look to be gangbusters, but there are a couple that I particularly wish I could attend.

Cane, grape & cactus -- I probably shouldn't admit this, but Latin spirits are a bit of a weakness in by booze knowledge. I know the basics, sure, but the intricacies of the wide selection of southern continental potables are far from my forte. While it's true that Duggan has been known to dress so snazzy as to cause severe bouts of vertigo, and Jordan will smash you with friendliness (tell him, "not in the face!") -- This is a great opportunity to learn from two of the most knowledgeable folks in the city.

Gentleman's Companion -- I've said many times that I believe Slanted Door is running one of the best cocktail programs that isn't talked about in San Francisco. The man behind that program is also the man behind the program at the recently opened second Charles Phan project Heavens Dog. Erik Atkins is that man, and on my first visit to "The Dog", his passion for the drinks from Charles H. Baker's book was infectious. To see one of the best bartenders, talking about one of his favorite drink manuals will be treat indeed. Also, if you ask him nicely, he may show you how he is able to turn ice blocks into any number of shapes using nothing but the power of his mind.

I'm biased to be sure, but any and all cocktail week events you can make, you should get your fine bodies to. You won't regret it.