Bordeaux: “Leftovers from the fridge” cocktails

Bordeaux: “Leftovers from the fridge” cocktails — a playful, eco-conscious way to learn bartending

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Bordeaux that combines creativity, sustainability, and a dash of fun, this cocktail workshop promises just that. We haven’t personally taken this class, but from what we’ve gathered, it’s a great way to mix up your skills while making the most of what’s already in your fridge. Whether you’re a home bartender or just curious about flavor pairings, this experience could be a neat addition to your Bordeaux itinerary.

What we really like about this workshop is its focus on anti-waste principles and learning basic bartending techniques — two skills that are useful whether you’re entertaining friends or just want to impress at your next dinner party. Plus, it’s a chance to get a little inventive in a relaxed setting. The only thing to keep in mind? It’s a two-hour, private group experience, so it’s a fairly intimate session with a set agenda, which might not appeal if you’re after a large, bustling class or a quick taste of Bordeaux’s wine scene.

This is best suited for adventurous foodies, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone eager to make cocktails with a creative twist. If you’re after classic Bordeaux wine tastings or bustling bar scenes, this might not be your best fit — but if you want an original, hands-on experience that’s different from the usual, you’ll probably enjoy it.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly focus on reducing food waste through cocktail ingredients
• Learn flavor pairings and basic bartending skills
• Two-hour private workshop with hands-on cocktail making
• Includes snacks and discussion time to enjoy your creations
• Cost includes recipes and technical sheets for future use
• Optional alcohol purchase on site if you want to turn mocktails into cocktails

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the “Leftovers from the fridge” Cocktail Workshop

This experience is designed for those who enjoy being a little inventive in the kitchen or bar. Hosted at Émile & Marguerite, a traditional French spirits cellar in Bordeaux’s historic center, the workshop runs for roughly two hours. The focus is on making cocktails from ingredients you might normally discard or overlook — think jam, pickle vinegar, or other odds and ends sitting in your fridge. It’s a playful way to challenge the idea that only fresh, high-end ingredients make good cocktails.

The format is very much about learning by doing. A knowledgeable mixologist guides you through techniques — such as balancing flavors, muddling, shaking, and garnishing — with an emphasis on secrets you can use at home. You’ll create two mocktails during the session, which you can later transform into alcoholic drinks if you opt to purchase spirits on site. The inclusion of snacks and discussion time makes it a relaxed environment to chat about sustainability, flavor science, or just share your own kitchen experiments.

The workshop’s highlights

Participants often appreciate the anti-waste theme, seeing it as a practical way to reduce food waste at home. For example, one review notes, “It’s a good reminder that you can make interesting drinks with things you already have in your fridge.” The chance to learn about flavor combinations is another big plus — understanding how sweet, sour, bitter, and umami work together helps make more balanced drinks.

While the workshop covers basic bartending techniques, it’s accessible enough for beginners but also offers some tips for those with more experience. The mixologist shares secrets that can elevate your home bar game, making it a useful skill for impressing guests or just having fun experimenting.

The experience environment

Since it’s a private group, the atmosphere feels intimate and friendly. The location, in a historic cellar, adds a charming backdrop to the workshop, and the fact that snacks are included makes it more than just a cocktail lesson — it’s a bit of a social gathering, perfect for small groups or couples.

Price and value

At $76 per person, the price reflects the personalized attention, the recipes, and the experience of making two cocktails from leftovers. Considering you get technical sheets, snacks, and a chance to ask questions, many might find this an enjoyable, value-for-money activity — especially if you’re into eco-friendly practices or creative mixology.

Additional costs are optional — spirits can be purchased for between $40-$60, and accessories or extra ingredients are available for extra cash. This flexibility allows you to customize your experience, whether you want a full cocktail or just enjoy mocktails.

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Breaking down the itinerary

The workshop kicks off with a brief introduction, where the host explains the philosophy behind waste-reduction and the importance of flavor harmony. Then, you move on to selecting ingredients from the fridge, which often sparks conversation — some reviews mention how fun it is to look at what’s available and brainstorm ideas.

The instructor then guides you through mixing techniques, emphasizing how to balance flavors using simple methods. Expect to learn how to bring out the best in ingredients like jam or vinegar, transforming them into flavorful bases for your drinks.

Once your cocktails are ready, you’ll have time to taste and discuss your creations. This part is crucial: you get to ask questions, swap tips, and learn what worked or what could be improved. The session wraps up with the recipes and technical sheets, so you can try these drinks at home.

What makes this experience stand out?

The focus on sustainability and creative resourcefulness is what makes this class special. It’s not just about mixing drinks; it’s about rethinking what’s in your fridge and turning leftovers into something fun and delicious. Several reviews praise the instructor’s expertise and the relaxed vibe — “The mixologist was friendly, knowledgeable, and made everything easy to follow.”

Possible downsides

Since the session is only two hours and centers around leftovers, it might not suit those expecting a traditional cocktail class or a wide variety of spirits. Also, children under 18 are not permitted, which is worth noting if you’re traveling as a family or with teenagers interested in mixology.

On top of that, the cost of alcohol and accessories is additional, which could add up if you decide to buy spirits or special tools.

Who should consider this experience?

This workshop is perfect for eco-conscious travelers, home bartenders, or anyone who enjoys a creative challenge. If you love trying new flavor combinations or want to learn practical skills you can use back home, you’ll find value here. It also suits small groups or couples looking for a relaxed, interactive activity in Bordeaux.

If your goal is to indulge in Bordeaux’s wine scene or take part in traditional tastings, this might be a quieter, more niche experience. But if you’re up for making something memorable out of leftovers and learning how to impress with minimal ingredients, this class hits the right spot.

FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for beginners?
Yes, the workshop covers basic bartending techniques and is designed to be accessible for all skill levels. The instructor will guide you through each step.

Can I turn mocktails into alcoholic cocktails?
Absolutely. Alcohol can be purchased on site if you want to add spirits to your drinks later.

What ingredients will I need?
The workshop uses leftovers from your fridge, so ingredients vary. Think jam, vinegar, herbs, or other common kitchen items.

How long is the workshop?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including making two cocktails and discussion time.

Is the experience private?
Yes, it’s hosted for private groups, making it a personalized experience.

What is the location?
It takes place at Émile & Marguerite, a French spirits cellar in Bordeaux’s historic center.

Are snacks included?
Yes, small snacks are provided alongside your drinks.

How much does alcohol cost on site?
Alcohol can be purchased for between $40 and $60, depending on your preferences.

Can I buy accessories or extra ingredients?
Yes, accessories and ingredients can be purchased for $10-$30 and $2-$50 respectively.

Is this activity family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 18, primarily because of alcohol consumption and adult themes.

In summary, this Bordeaux cocktail workshop offers a refreshing twist on mixology, emphasizing sustainability, creativity, and practical skills. It’s best suited for those who enjoy hands-on experiences and are open to experimenting with what they have on hand. The intimate setting and expert guidance make it a memorable, value-for-money activity — ideal if you’re in Bordeaux and want a break from the usual wine tastings, with a focus on fun and eco-awareness.

You can check availability for your dates here: