EVENT PREVIEW: The 2013 Manhattan Cocktail Classic

[A double pour of a handcrafted cocktail at the Opening Night Gala. Photo Credit: Philip Anema Photography]

The 2013 Manhattan Cocktail Classic is almost here!  A five-day celebration spanning three boroughs, the festival will allow patrons to taste, learn about, and celebrate all things cocktail.

Things kick off on May 17 with a grand opening night black-tie Gala at the New York Public Library, with four floors filled with musical performances, food, and cocktails (obviously).  The following days up until the 21st are chock-full of everything from boozy brunches, bar crawls, bus tours, punch parties, and even a pig roast.  Highlights include a cocktail pairing dinner by Chef Eric Ripert of Le Bernardin fame, a mixology class at Brooklyn's Huckleberry Bar, and much more.  For the beverage industry professionals, there's also a three-day trade conference called the Industry Invitational.

Additionally, there will also be an event by our special friends at Dipsology, who have teamed up with St. George Spirits and Middle Branch to bring an interactive seminar and tasting to the mix.

Tickets went on sale this past Friday, March 15 - get your ticket here, these should be going fast!