Merry Christmas from All of Us at Empire Mixology

As the year draws to a close and the holiday season fills the air with warmth, celebration, and togetherness, all of us at Empire Mixology want to take a moment to wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Whether you’re celebrating at home with family, behind the bar with regulars, or mixing festive cocktails with friends, we hope this season brings you joy, comfort, and a moment to reflect on the year’s successes, both big and small.

Gratitude for Our Community

This year, we have been humbled and inspired by the incredible growth of our global mixology community. From first-time students to Master Mixologists, you continue to raise the bar and redefine what it means to be part of this craft.

Your creativity, dedication, and passion have made Empire Mixology what it is today. For that, we are truly grateful.

 
 

A Season for Celebration

We encourage you to take this time to enjoy the simple pleasures of the season:

  • Sharing a handcrafted cocktail with someone you care about

  • Savoring the sparkle of a Champagne toast

  • Reflecting on your mixology journey, and dreaming about where it will take you next

And if you find yourself mixing something magical, be sure to tag us or share your creations with The Empire Society. We love seeing how our community celebrates in style.

Looking Ahead to a Bright New Year

2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Empire Mixology. With expert certifications, monthly competitions, expanded resources in The Empire Society, and even more global cocktail coverage, we’re just getting started.

We can’t wait to continue growing, learning, and raising our glasses together in the new year.

Happy Holidays, and Cheers from Empire Mixology

Thank you for being part of our community. We raise our glass to you this holiday season, and we look forward to serving you even more inspiration, education, and celebration in the year ahead.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
— The Empire Mixology Team

New Year, New Destinations: Cocktail-Fueled Travel Ideas for 2026

As the calendar turns and a new year begins, there's no better time to plan your next great escape, especially one that involves exceptional cocktails, vibrant bar culture, and a deeper appreciation for the craft of mixology around the world.

Whether you are a seasoned bartender seeking inspiration or an enthusiast planning your next spirited getaway, 2026 is full of opportunities to explore new places through the lens of what is being poured, shaken, and stirred.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana — Where Classic Cocktails Are Born

 
 

New Orleans remains one of the most iconic cocktail cities in the world. The birthplace of the Sazerac, the Ramos Gin Fizz, and the Vieux Carré is the perfect destination for anyone who appreciates history with their highball.

Explore:

  • The French Quarter’s legendary bars like Carousel Bar and Napoleon House

  • Modern cocktail lounges redefining Southern hospitality

  • The Museum of the American Cocktail for an educational experience

Travel Tip: Visit during the spring before the summer heat peaks, and pair your trip with a live jazz night and a whiskey tasting flight.

2. Oaxaca, Mexico — For the Agave Spirit Adventurer

 
 

If tequila and mezcal are your passion, Oaxaca is a must. This region is the soul of artisanal mezcal production, offering immersive distillery tours, agave tastings, and incredible regional cuisine to match.

Explore:

  • Palenques where mezcal is still made by hand

  • The Mezcaloteca, a curated tasting room experience

  • Local markets filled with citrus, herbs, and spices to inspire new pairings

Travel Tip: Book a guided mezcal tour to better understand production methods, terroir, and ancestral traditions.

3. Cape Town, South Africa — A Hidden Gem for Wine and Spirits

 
 

Cape Town is rising fast as a global destination for wine, gin, and cocktail creativity. It offers a breathtaking mix of natural beauty and sophisticated drinking culture.

Explore:

  • Innovative cocktail bars using local botanicals and infusions

  • The Cape Winelands, only an hour away from the city

  • Rooftop bars with panoramic views of Table Mountain

Travel Tip: South Africa’s summer runs from December through March — making it ideal for a January or February getaway.

4. Tokyo, Japan — Precision, Perfection, and Philosophy

 
 

Tokyo’s cocktail scene is unlike anywhere else. Deeply rooted in technique and hospitality, bartending here is a form of artistry. From elegant hotel bars to tiny hidden gems, every drink feels like a ceremony.

Explore:

  • Ginza’s legendary high-end bars for flawless classics

  • Experimental cocktail dens in Shibuya and Shinjuku

  • Local Japanese whiskies, rare shochus, and yuzu-infused creations

Travel Tip: Respect the formality. In Tokyo, the way you enjoy a drink matters just as much as what is in the glass.

5. New York City, New York — The Center of the Cocktail World

 
 

You cannot go wrong starting your year in New York. With new bar openings every month, rotating seasonal menus, and some of the most talented bartenders in the industry, NYC continues to be a global trendsetter.

Explore:

  • Speakeasies and hidden cocktail lounges

  • Tasting menus and elevated bar programs in Michelin-star restaurants

  • Industry events, pop-ups, and mixology workshops throughout the city

Travel Tip: January is an ideal time for smaller crowds and new winter cocktail menus at many top venues.

Raise a Glass to the Year Ahead

Traveling for cocktails is about more than just what is in the glass. It is about discovering new flavors, cultures, and communities that deepen your understanding of mixology. Whether you stay local or cross oceans this year, take the time to savor something new.

Planning a cocktail-inspired journey in 2026?
Expand your knowledge before you go. Explore expert certifications at UMixology.com, or join The Empire Society for access to exclusive travel tips, global bar guides, and mixology tools.

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Introducing The Empire Society: A New Era of Mixology Begins

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Empire Mixology proudly announces the launch of The Empire Society, an exclusive members-only platform designed for cocktail professionals, certified alumni, and passionate enthusiasts. This is more than a membership, it is a community for continuous education, expert-level tools, and direct engagement with the evolving world of mixology. The Society is live now, with full features rolling out by November 1.

The Empire Society also introduces a dynamic new tradition: monthly cocktail competitions and a structured awards program that recognizes creativity, technique, and innovation within the mixology field.

What Is The Empire Society?

The Empire Society is the official private membership community of Empire Mixology and UMixology.com. It was created to support learners beyond certification, offering curated tools, advanced content, and a supportive network of like-minded individuals. Whether you are a certified expert, a current student, or a working bartender seeking inspiration, The Empire Society is your next step.

Membership Benefits

While early members can join now, full platform features will be available by November 1. Here's what to expect:

  • Exclusive Tools and Downloads
    Members gain access to a professional library of downloadable bar tools, recipe templates, tasting worksheets, and service planning resources. All materials are custom-branded and updated regularly.

  • Advanced Educational Content
    Explore in-depth articles, seasonal mixology guides, and specialty resources not available in standard courses. Perfect for refining theory and expanding your skill set.

  • First Access to Certifications and Courses
    Members receive early enrollment opportunities and special pricing on new programs. Be the first to explore new certifications as they launch.

  • Monthly Competitions and Cocktail Challenges
    Each month, The Empire Society hosts themed mixology competitions. Members are invited to submit original cocktails based on specific prompts. Winners receive digital badges, featured recognition, and exclusive prize packages.

  • The Empire Awards Program
    Members earn points and progress toward official recognition titles such as Top Innovator, Seasonal Standout, and Master of Technique. Awards are based on course participation, competition performance, and community engagement.

  • Private Member Community
    Join an engaged network of certified professionals, bar program leaders, and cocktail creators. Exchange knowledge, share ideas, and connect with others who are equally dedicated to the craft.

Who Should Join

  • Everyone is welcome.
    Whether you are just starting your journey or have years of experience behind the bar, The Empire Society is designed for anyone serious about mixology.

  • Empire Rated Certified Mixologists: individuals who have completed the first three certification tiers at UMixology.com receive free lifetime access to The Empire Society as part of their credentialed status.

For all other members, the Society is available for just $5 per month, offering exceptional value for the tools, recognition, and education provided.

Join Today at www.EmpireMixology.com

The Empire Society is now live. For only five dollars a month, you can access a world of professional resources, monthly competitions, educational tools, and a network of driven individuals who share your passion for mixology.

Visit The Empire Society to sign up and become part of the next chapter in cocktail education and culture.

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Empire Mixology Launches Expert Cognac & Brandy and Sparkling Wine & Champagne Certifications

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Empire Mixology is proud to announce the release of its ninth and tenth expert-level certification programs: the Expert Cognac & Brandy Certification and the Expert Sparkling Wine & Champagne Certification. These two distinct, in-depth courses are now available exclusively through UMixology.com, further expanding the Empire Mixology curriculum for serious spirits and wine professionals.

With this milestone, Empire Mixology now offers ten expert certifications, each designed to provide a deep dive into a specific category of spirits, wine, or advanced mixology.

 
 

Expert Cognac & Brandy Certification: Old World Elegance, Modern Expertise

This program explores the rich world of aged grape distillates, from the chalky soils of Cognac to the high-altitude vineyards of South America. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of:

  • The history and classification of Cognac, Armagnac, and global brandies

  • Grape varietals and their role in distillate character

  • Regional regulations and geographic indications

  • Distillation methods, aging techniques, and blending philosophies

  • The influence of terroir and barrel maturation

  • Cultural significance and modern market trends

This certification is essential for anyone seeking to speak fluently about brandy-based spirits, whether in the tasting room, behind the bar, or in the classroom.

Expert Sparkling Wine & Champagne Certification: Precision in Every Bubble

Champagne may be the world’s most iconic sparkling wine, but it’s only the beginning. This program explores the breadth of traditional and modern sparkling wine production from across the globe, including:

  • The méthode traditionnelle, tank method, ancestral method, and hybrid techniques

  • Key regions including Champagne, Franciacorta, Cava, Sekt, California, and beyond

  • The science of bubbles: pressure, bottle fermentation, and disgorgement

  • Grape varieties and their role in texture and flavor

  • Global classification systems and labeling terminology

  • The evolution of sparkling wine culture and celebratory symbolism

Perfect for sommeliers, educators, wine professionals, or curious enthusiasts, this course delivers a refined understanding of one of the most technical and expressive wine styles in the world.

What This Milestone Means

With the release of these two new certifications, Empire Mixology’s Expert Track now includes the following ten disciplines:

  1. Whiskey

  2. Gin

  3. Tequila & Mezcal

  4. Vodka

  5. Rum

  6. Wine

  7. Beer

  8. Liqueurs

  9. Cognac & Brandy

  10. Sparkling Wine & Champagne

Each program consists of fully online modules, designed to build expert-level theoretical understanding. Learners can complete them on their own schedule and receive digital certification upon passing.

Now Accepting Enrollment

Enrollment for both new expert certifications is open now at UMixology.com. Whether you're a bartender, sommelier, hospitality professional, or dedicated enthusiast, these programs are built to deepen your expertise and elevate your career.

Join The Empire Society to gain access to exclusive resources, tasting templates, service tools, and professional downloads that complement your certification journey.

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Bartending in Tourist Towns: Cape Cod’s Seasonal Shifts

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Cape Cod is known for its windswept beaches, quaint harbors, and iconic summer vibes, but for bartenders, it’s more than just a picturesque destination. It’s a seasonal battleground of shifting menus, changing clientele, and the unique challenge of crafting memorable cocktails for a crowd that disappears when the leaves fall.

For cocktail enthusiasts, understanding how the rhythm of a coastal town like Cape Cod influences bartending can offer deeper insight into the craft, and maybe even inspire your next travel itinerary.

The High Season: Sun, Speed, and Signature Drinks

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Cape Cod becomes a magnet for tourists. Restaurants and bars stretch their hours, local populations swell, and the demand for drinks skyrockets. Bartenders work at full tilt, sometimes mixing hundreds of cocktails a night.

What Sells in Summer?

  • Refreshing and fast: Think vodka lemonades, Cape Codders, mojitos, and spritzes.

  • Local twists: Drinks featuring cranberry juice, Massachusetts-made spirits, and fresh herbs thrive.

  • Frozen cocktails: Blenders run non-stop, churning out frozen daiquiris, piña coladas, and slushie-style specials.

  • Crush culture: Borrowed from Maryland, the “crush” has caught on — fresh-squeezed juice cocktails served over crushed ice, ideal for beach bars.

In summer, the name of the game is speed without sacrificing style. Bartenders rely heavily on batching, pre-garnishing, and well-organized stations to keep up with the demand.

Off-Season: Slowing Down, Leveling Up

Come late September, the crowds begin to thin, and Cape Cod gradually transitions into a quieter, locals-focused environment. For bartenders, this means more time to engage, experiment, and get creative with their craft.

What Changes?

  • More complex cocktails: With less pressure to move quickly, bartenders can introduce spirit-forward drinks and stirred classics like Old Fashioneds or Boulevardiers.

  • Seasonal ingredients: Apple cider, maple syrup, clove, and nutmeg become staples in fall menus.

  • Education-focused service: Locals are often more interested in what they’re drinking and why. Bartenders can explain house infusions, rare spirits, or cocktail history in a way that’s not always possible during peak season.

In the off-season, bartenders have a chance to refine their technique, test new recipes, and connect with their core community.

Working in a Tourist Town: What Bartenders Need to Know

Cape Cod is a prime example of a location where seasonality defines the job. Here are a few lessons that apply to any cocktail professional working in a vacation destination:

  • Adaptability is key: Summer bartending is about stamina and speed. Off-season is about creativity and customer connection.

  • Prep smarter, not harder: Batching cocktails and pre-cutting garnishes can save hours when the bar is packed.

  • Design your menu by the month: Successful bars evolve their offerings with the calendar. Summer = citrus and speed. Fall = depth and spice.

  • Inventory management is critical: Ordering and stocking must reflect the surge of summer and the slowdown of fall.

  • Build relationships: Locals often become your most loyal supporters. They’re the ones who keep the bar alive when the tourists are gone.

A Bartender’s Travel Tip: Learn by the Coastline

If you’re a mixologist on the move, consider spending a summer season in Cape Cod, or simply visiting to observe how the region’s bars adjust to seasonal shifts. The lessons you’ll take away go far beyond drink recipes. You’ll see firsthand how setting, audience, and time of year all shape what’s in the glass.

And if you’re just stopping by for a drink? Ask your bartender what they’re excited about now that the tourists are gone. You might get something special that never makes the summer menu.

Ready to master your mixology game before you travel?
Explore expert-level certifications and cocktail resources at UMixology.com or become a member of The Empire Society for exclusive access to recipes, travel tips, and mixology guides.

Empire Mixology Announces Strategic Collaboration with Bar Necessities Co.

Empire Mixology is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Bar Necessities Co., a brand that has swiftly risen to prominence as the new standard in premium dried garnishes. This collaboration marks a shared commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and creativity in the world of mixology.

 
 

As the cocktail culture continues to evolve, the importance of presentation has become just as essential as flavor. Enter Bar Necessities Co.; a company revolutionizing the garnish game with their expertly dehydrated citrus wheels, botanical accents, and elegant fruit embellishments. Their garnishes are not only visually striking but also carefully preserved to maintain aroma, texture, and vibrancy, making them ideal for both professional bartenders and at-home enthusiasts.

"Bar Necessities Co. understands that a garnish isn’t just decoration — it’s the final note in a cocktail’s composition," said Anthony Sgroi, Founder and Lead Mixologist at Empire Mixology. "Their products are consistent, beautiful, and refined. We couldn’t think of a better partner to help bring our cocktail creations to life."

The collaboration will include:

  • Signature cocktail releases featuring curated garnish pairings

  • Exclusive mixology content and educational guides

  • Featured recipes showcasing the harmony between flavor and finish

Together, Empire Mixology and Bar Necessities Co. aim to raise the standard of home and professional bartending by making premium presentation more accessible, stylish, and sustainable.

Stay tuned for more details, exclusive releases, and content that bridges the art and science of a perfectly finished cocktail. This is more than a partnership, it's a movement toward excellence in every pour.

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Old Fashioned, Two Ways: Classic Elegance Meets Wisconsin Charm

Few cocktails have stood the test of time like the Old Fashioned. Revered as one of the earliest known cocktails, its simplicity and elegance have made it a staple in cocktail bars around the world. But head to Wisconsin, and you’ll quickly discover a bold reinterpretation that transforms the Old Fashioned into something entirely its own; sweeter, fruitier, and distinctly regional.

So, what’s the difference between a Classic Old Fashioned and a Wisconsin Old Fashioned? The answer lies in tradition, taste, and a splash of soda.

The Classic Old Fashioned: Spirit-Forward Sophistication

The classic version of the Old Fashioned traces its roots back to the early 1800s. It’s revered not just for its longevity, but for its elegant restraint. Designed to highlight the base spirit — traditionally bourbon or rye — this cocktail embraces minimalism with purpose.

Classic Recipe Overview

  • Base Spirit: Bourbon or rye whiskey

  • Sweetener: Sugar cube or simple syrup

  • Bitters: Angostura bitters

  • Garnish: Orange twist

  • Preparation: Stirred with ice, served over a large cube in a rocks glass

This version is all about balance — a subtle sweetness, aromatic bitterness, and a spirit-forward profile. It’s clean, confident, and ideal for those who want to savor the complexity of the whiskey itself.

The Wisconsin Old Fashioned: A Supper Club Staple

Now travel north to Wisconsin, and you’ll find a very different take. This version emerged as a staple of the state’s supper club culture — a place where the community gathered for prime rib, old-school charm, and brandy-based cocktails.

Yes, brandy. The Wisconsin Old Fashioned replaces whiskey with Korbel brandy, adds muddled orange slices and maraschino cherries, and tops the drink with soda; typically 7UP, Squirt, or cola depending on your style.

Wisconsin Recipe Overview

  • Base Spirit: Brandy (usually Korbel)

  • Sweetener: Sugar cube, muddled with fruit

  • Bitters: Angostura bitters

  • Fruit: Muddled orange and cherry, with additional garnish

  • Topper: Your choice of soda

  • Preparation: Built in-glass, muddled and topped

Common Variations

  • Sweet: Topped with 7UP or Sprite

  • Sour: Topped with Squirt or sour mix

  • Press: Half soda, half 7UP

  • Cola: Topped with Coca-Cola or Pepsi

  • Soda: Topped only with club soda

The result is a cocktail that’s festive, fruity, and unmistakably Midwestern — less about spirit-forward sipping and more about flavor, tradition, and good company.

Which One Should You Try?

Try the Classic if you enjoy spirit-forward cocktails, appreciate nuance in whiskey, or want to experience one of the most foundational drinks in mixology history.

Try the Wisconsin if you’re craving something more relaxed, sweeter, and full of regional character — or if you just want to know what people in the Midwest have been sipping for generations.

Both versions are valid. Both are beloved. And both are worth mastering.

Ready to craft them both like a pro?
Join The Empire Society for exclusive recipes, regional cocktail guides, and advanced mixology techniques, or explore our full course offerings at UMixology.com.

Raise your glass, whether it’s topped with soda or not.

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Elevate Your Craft: Explore Mixology Certifications at UMixology.com

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Whether you’re a passionate cocktail enthusiast or an industry professional seeking to refine your skills, Empire Mixology offers a comprehensive certification path through UMixology.com. With a curriculum designed by top-tier mixologists and educators, these self-paced, online programs provide in-depth training across the entire spectrum of mixology and spirits.

From foundational knowledge to mastery-level expertise, each certification is crafted to elevate your understanding, technique, and confidence behind the bar.

Why Choose Empire Mixology Certifications?

  • Self-paced and 100% online: Learn on your schedule, from anywhere in the world.

  • Structured curriculum: Courses are thoughtfully divided into clear, progressive modules.

  • Expert-level instruction: Designed by professionals for serious learners.

  • Certification upon completion: Ideal for résumes, bar programs, or personal mastery.

These aren’t surface-level classes. Every course digs deep into history, science, culture, and innovation, with no fluff, no gimmicks, and no hands-on requirements. It's serious mixology, made accessible.

Available Certification Tracks

Empire Mixology offers a progressive certification path designed to take you from foundational knowledge to true mastery. Each level builds upon the last, guiding you through the complete journey of mixology education.

1. Basic Certification

A perfect starting point for cocktail enthusiasts and aspiring bartenders. This introductory course covers essential terminology, tools, spirits, and cocktail-building techniques. No prior experience required.

2. Apprentice Certification

The next step for those ready to expand their knowledge. This program dives deeper into other spirits, mixology history, and the beer, wine, and champagne categories, laying the groundwork for professional-level understanding.

3. Certified Mixologist

This certification delivers a full, advanced education in bartending theory and mixology principles. Ideal for those working behind the bar or building toward expert specialization. Topics include a wide range of cocktail recipes. The first two certifications lay the foundation; this one builds the know-how.

4. Expert Mixologist Certification

A prestigious program consisting of 10 specialized expert tracks, each focused on a specific category of spirits or mixology expertise. These in-depth courses are designed for professionals or serious enthusiasts looking to master:

  • Whiskey

  • Gin

  • Tequila & Mezcal

  • Vodka

  • Rum

  • Wine

  • Beer

  • Liqueurs

  • Champagne & Sparkling Wine

  • Cognacs & Brandy

Each track includes a full curriculum with detailed modules, industry insights, and a digital certification upon completion.

5. Master Mixologist Certification

The highest level of achievement offered by Empire Mixology. This capstone certification is reserved for those who complete all prior certifications and three expert certification curricula and wish to take their skills to the elite level. The Master Mixologist program focuses on leadership, advanced bar program design, innovation, aesthetics, entrepreneurship, and industry influence.

Who Should Enroll?

  • Home enthusiasts ready to build professional-grade knowledge

  • Aspiring bartenders and bar managers

  • Industry professionals seeking formal recognition of expertise

  • Hospitality educators and culinary instructors

  • Beverage brand ambassadors, marketers, and developers

Whether you're building a career or building a bar at home, these certifications will equip you with the confidence, clarity, and credibility to succeed.

Ready to Raise the Bar?

Explore the full curriculum, read detailed course outlines, and begin your certification journey today at UMixology.com. For exclusive access to resources, downloads, and continuing education, consider joining The Empire Society — our members-only community for dedicated professionals and passionate enthusiasts.

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