Other Chicago-area libation classes range from cocktail how-to’s to beer tastings.
Sangria 101
Mixologist Arunas Bruzas of Eivissa will show the proper technique for crafting a classic sangria, as well as how he tweaks the cocktail into the restaurant’s specialty variations such as the vi-negre (red sangria with cinnamon, vanilla and orange juice) and nabiu (white sangria with acai berry, blackberries, red grapes and an energy shot). The class will also feature passed appetizers. 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Eivissa, 1531 N. Wells St.; 312-654-9500. $25.
McAuslan beer
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Quebec-based McAuslan Brewing president Peter McAuslan and brewmaster Ellen Bounsall will overview their brewery’s offerings. They’ll also pour samples of St-Ambroise Pale Ale, St-Ambroise Apricot Wheat Ale, The Great St-Ambroise Pumpkin Ale and St-Ambroise Oatmeal Stout. 6 p.m. Aug. 18 at Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St.; 312-666-6775. Free.
French liqueurs
The latest in Brasserie JO’s “Summer Spirits Class” series will features beverage director Erin Phillips highlighting several different French liqueurs. The class will also feature a cocktail tasting and passed appetizers. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 18 at Brasserie JO, 59 W. Hubbard St.; 312-595-0800. $1.01
Martini class
Mixologists Christopher Bagnall and Frank Chen will teach participants how to make specialty martinis featuring exotic ingredients such as lychees and pomegranates. All participants will receive a $20 gift certificate for use on their next visit. The class also will feature martini samples and hors d’oeuvres. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 19 at Chens Chinese and Sushi, 3506 N. Clark St.; 773-549-9100. $10.
Margaritas 101
Carnivale mixologist Victor Beheza will discuss the margarita’s history while also showing participants how to create both a classic and seasonal margarita. The class will also feature appetizers. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 19 at Carnivale, 702 W. Fulton St.; 312-850-5005. $25.
Local beers
Louis Glunz Beer Inc. representative Sally Selwan will discuss and pour beers from Midwestern breweries such as Arcadia, Founders and Three Floyds. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 20 at The House of Glunz, 1206 N. Wells St., 312-642-3000. $25.
Light and summer brews
Erik Withers, a Whole Foods beverage specialist, will overview and pour witbiers, lambics and some summer seasonal beers that he considers ideal for warm summer evenings. 6 p.m. Aug. 25 at Whole Foods South Loop, 1101 S. Canal St.; 312-435-4600. Free.
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