A Journey Through Sugarcane Fields

As the sun began its descent, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, my husband and I found ourselves at the Foursquare Rum Distillery in Four Roads. The air was thick with the sweet scent of sugarcane, and the anticipation of a new adventure. We were about to embark on a private mixology class with Shane, a local expert whose reputation for crafting exquisite cocktails preceded him.

Our journey began with a tour of the sugarcane plantation, where Shane shared the fascinating process of transforming sugarcane into the rich, golden rum that Barbados is famous for. His passion for mixology was evident as he spoke, his eyes lighting up with every detail. It was more than just a lesson in rum-making; it was an immersion into the heart of Barbadian culture.

Crafting Cocktails with a Twist

With the tour complete, we made our way to the Copper Still bar, a cozy nook that felt like a hidden gem. Shane’s enthusiasm was infectious as he guided us through the creation of three distinct cocktails. Each drink was a masterpiece, a blend of local flavors and innovative techniques.

We started with a twist on the traditional Barbadian rum punch, a vibrant concoction that danced on our taste buds. Shane’s instructions were clear and easy to follow, making the process enjoyable and engaging. As we mixed and shook our cocktails, he shared tips on how to add our own personal flair to each drink, encouraging us to experiment and explore.

The highlight for me was the Corn ‘n’ Oil, a cocktail made with falernum, a local sugarcane liqueur. The combination of flavors was both bold and harmonious, a testament to Shane’s expertise. As we sipped our creations, we were treated to local snacks like tamarind balls and guava cheese, each bite complementing the drinks perfectly.

A Toast to New Experiences

As the class drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experience. Shane’s passion and knowledge had transformed a simple cocktail class into a memorable journey through the flavors and history of Barbados. It was a reminder of the power of travel to connect us with new cultures and deepen our bonds with those we love.

As we walked hand in hand back to our hotel, the taste of rum lingering on our lips, I knew this was an adventure we would cherish forever. The Private Mixology Class had not only taught us the art of cocktail-making but had also enriched our understanding of the island’s vibrant spirit. It was a perfect blend of romance, adventure, and discovery, and I couldn’t wait to share it with all of you.