Las Vegas Weekly

April 13, 2009 · 3:32 PM

BarMagic takes cocktail culture on the road

By Xania Woodman

Come worship at the glass of "Modern Mixologist" Tony Abou-Ganim.

Boy, Vegas must have really needed a good drink! In just under two months, since BarMagic of Las Vegas introduced Social Mixology Tuesdays at the Artisan, Vegas’ first ever dedicated mixology event has amassed a sizeable and enviably devoted following.

So when the Social Mixology habitués started asking favors, BMLV’s Tobin Ellis and John Hogan bent their ears.

“Later!” cried the industry folk; most bartenders, beverage reps and chefs were weekly sliding in just before the event’s midnight wrap-up. More industry-friendly hours were called for. In response, Social Mixology last week kicked-off its new hours of 9 p.m.-3 a.m.

And secondly, once beverage-savvy proprietors and managers saw for themselves the hand-cracked ice and the lovingly—almost tenderly—prepared all-fresh program of cocktails, they next cried, “We want it!”

Therefore, it was with much pride that Hogan and Ellis yesterday informally and today formally announced that they will indeed be taking their show on the road to cocktailian hangouts city-wide.

The Social Mixology Tour begins tomorrow, Tuesday, April 14 at the Red Room Saloon (3101 W. Sahara Avenue) with a guest appearance by legendary mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim AKA “The Modern Mixologist,” who will be manning the customized Leblon Cachaça Caipirinha bar from 10 p.m. to midnight. There, Tony will create fresh, signature Caipirinhas for guests using a pantry of seasonal fruits, exotic spices and savory herbs.

Two things that will remain intact throughout the exciting changes are BMLV’s reputation for great cocktails made with fine artisan spirits, and the commitment to showcasing a new spirit each month, thanks to partner Wirtz Beverage Company. Throughout April, experience Brazil’s own Leblon Cachaca Tuesday nights from 9 p.m.-3 a.m. And as demonstrated by this week’s historic surprise guest-tender, you simply never know who might be exercising their creative genius in the makings of your humble Caipirinha …

To find out all about Social Mixology including future events, locations, and spirits visit www.barmagic.com and sign up for the “BarMagic Buzz” newsletter.

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