Mixology “Barrel & Glass” Class at the Ledges – September 2026
Updated: Sep 27
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
About The Ledges
Website: https://www.theledges.com/
Address: 32 Castle Down Dr, Huntsville, AL 35802
Phone Number: 256.883.0860
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
Old Fashioned Evenings: Three Ways to Fall in Love with a Classic
Written by Nancy Fae for His, Hers & the Good Life
Introduction
There’s something about a clear September evening that sets the tone for a perfect night at The Ledges. No rain, no humidity — just that gentle early-fall breeze that makes you feel like the universe is giving you a wink. Jeff and I walked into the main ballroom already buzzing with excitement, partly because the team had the room beautifully prepared, and partly because we’d learned the day before that the theme was Old Fashioneds. If there’s one cocktail that speaks Jeff’s language, it’s an Old Fashioned — especially the kind you can spin, twist, and reinterpret a dozen different ways.
And with Joey leading the class? We knew we were in for a treat.
About the Event
A classic, three ways.
The Ledges’ September Barrel & Glass class invited members to explore one of the most iconic cocktails ever created — the Old Fashioned — through three distinctive interpretations. This guided demonstration took us beyond the traditional pour and into a trio of expressions that showcased just how versatile this timeless drink can be:
Coffee Old Fashioned Rich, aromatic, and beautifully balanced
Cherry Old Fashioned Bold and complex with layers of cherry, spice, and rye
Pecan Pie Old Fashioned Warm and indulgent with notes of pecan, chocolate, and walnut
It was an evening of craftsmanship, conversation, and three exceptional Old Fashioneds — all wrapped in the warm hospitality The Ledges is known for. Space was limited, reservations required, and the experience delivered exactly what it promised: an interactive, educational, and thoroughly enjoyable night at the Club.
The Table Setting The Room The Front Table with Bottles The Front Table with Bottles
How the Evening Unfolded
Joey welcomed us with his signature mix of charm and expertise, starting with a bit of history. Old Fashioneds weren’t always called Old Fashioneds — they were simply “cocktails.” Over time, patrons began asking for the drink made “the old fashioned way,” and the name stuck. It’s the kind of detail that makes you appreciate the drink even more.
For each cocktail, Joey demonstrated the build at the front table, then circled the room to pour the spirits and help each of us craft our own. The pairings were thoughtful, the pacing perfect, and the flavors… well, let’s get into those.
Joey Demonstrating to the Class Joey Demonstrating to the Class Joey Demonstrating to the Class Joey Demonstrating to the Class Joey Demonstrating to the Class
Paired with Wagyu with Shiseido Pepper Jus
Joey used Maker’s Mark bourbon, Drambuie for a honeyed Scotch twist, Borghetti Espresso Liqueur, and — in place of the coffee bitters that didn’t arrive — DeKuyper Crème de Cacao. The result was rich, aromatic, and unexpectedly decadent.
Jeff:
This was my favorite of the night. I’m not usually a Drambuie fan, but this cocktail changed my mind. The cacao bitters gave it a chocolate-mocha vibe that worked beautifully. Number one drink of the evening.
Nancy Fae:
I assumed I’d want mine sweeter, so I asked Joey to adjust the ratios. But before he returned, I tasted the original version — and it was already delicious. When he came back with Trader Vic’s Macadamia Nut Liqueur, I couldn’t say no. A splash added a velvety sweetness that made an already great drink greater. Drambuie went straight onto our Total Wine list.
Coffee Old Fashioned Paired with Wagyu with Shiseido Pepper Jus
Paired with Blue Cheese & Pear Croquettes
Joey built this one with Elijah Craig Rye, Carpano Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth, Trader Vic’s Macadamia Nut Liqueur, Fee Brothers Molasses Bitters, and Bitter Queens Thai Spice Bitters.
Jeff:
My second favorite. I love a heavy cherry note, and this delivered. The Thai spice bitters were the standout — just a touch of heat at the end, nothing overwhelming, but enough to give a peppery finish that lingered nicely.
Nancy Fae:
I expected complexity, but I was intimidated by the Thai Spice Bitters. To my surprise, the drink was layered, balanced, and delicious. True to form, I asked Joey to top mine off with a little more Macadamia Nut Liqueur. Perfect.
Cherry Old Fashioned Paired with Blue Cheese & Pear Croquettes
Paired with Pecan-Encrusted Pork Chops
This indulgent interpretation featured Bulleit Bourbon, DeKuyper Crème de Cacao, Fernet Branca, Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters, Angostura Bitters, and Joey’s house-made Pecan Pie Amaro.
Jeff:
My third favorite. It was good, but I didn’t get much pecan flavor. Some ingredients were unfamiliar to me — Fernet Branca, Pecan Pie Amaro — so maybe that played into it. I wouldn’t order it at a bar, but I’d drink it if handed to me.
Nancy Fae:
I found it beautifully layered and didn’t feel the need to sweeten it. I didn’t look for pecan notes; I just enjoyed the blend. Fernet Branca intrigued me, but I’m not sure it’s making our shopping list.
Pecan Pie Old Fashioned Paired with Pecan-Encrusted Pork Chops
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
His Take (Jeff)
Overall, the night was a hit. Joey always brings history, technique, and fun to these classes. Old Fashioneds are right up my alley, and I love how many variations you can create. This class opened up even more possibilities. Our table mates were great company — we talked daily bourbons, laughed, compared notes, and enjoyed the evening. That’s what these events are about: meeting new people and having a great time.
Her Take (Nancy Fae)
I agree — the night was wonderful. Every moment felt special. If I had one note, I would have loved a sweet pairing for the last cocktail, but perhaps Chef felt the drink was already sweet enough. Fair point. We also had a great time meeting Diana K, David K, Thad H, Christy H, and David H. Sharing conversation with new friends is part of the magic of these events.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
Closing in the His, Hers & the Good Life Style
His (Jeff)
Give me an Old Fashioned and a room full of good people, and I’m set. This class reminded me why I love these events — the creativity, the flavors, and the chance to try things I wouldn’t normally order.
Her (Nancy Fae)
Three Old Fashioneds, perfect pairings, and a night filled with laughter and learning. September at The Ledges delivered exactly what my Good Life heart needed.
The Good Life
Great cocktails, great company, and a Club that knows how to turn an evening into an experience. That’s the Good Life — one sip, one story, one shared moment at a time.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
Disclaimer: Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age. Life’s Rants promotes the responsible and legal enjoyment of premium cigars and alcohol by individuals of legal age. We do not endorse or encourage smoking or drinking among minors.
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