Cocktail Masterclass at Ökēn

Experience the Art of Mixology

A unique Cocktail Masterclass hosted at Ökēn, the innovative cocktail bar nestled within TheMerode.

During this exclusive masterclass, guests will step behind the scenes to discover Ökēn’s approach to contemporary mixology through a hands-on and immersive experience. Led by Ökēn Manager Jonathan Verbois, the workshop will introduce participants to the foundations of cocktail craftsmanship, flavour balance, and the essential techniques behind some of the most iconic cocktails in the world.

For this special edition, participants will learn how to craft two distinctive classics that showcase very different styles of mixology:

The Penicillin — a modern classic combining smoky whisky, honey, fresh lime, and ginger. This cocktail offers a fascinating balance between the deep, smoky character of whisky, the natural sweetness of honey, the brightness of lime, and the warming spice of ginger. Guests will explore how contrasting flavours can be layered to create a cocktail that is both bold and refreshing, while learning the techniques behind shaking, dilution, and achieving the right balance between sweetness, acidity, and spice.

The Hanky Panky — an elegant and aromatic classic built around gin, red vermouth, and Fernet-Branca. Created in the early 20th century, this sophisticated stirred cocktail showcases the complexity that can emerge from just a few carefully balanced ingredients. Participants will discover how the botanical character of gin meets the richness of vermouth and the distinctive bitter, herbal notes of Fernet-Branca, while exploring the importance of stirring, dilution, temperature, and aromatic balance.

Throughout the session, Jonathan Verbois will share professional insights, practical tips, and mixology techniques, allowing participants to better understand cocktail structure, flavour pairing, dilution, and presentation — while recreating these drinks themselves behind the bar.

Whether you are a cocktail enthusiast or simply curious to discover the craft behind classic mixology, this convivial and interactive experience promises an inspiring introduction to the art of cocktail making at Ökēn.

speaker

He initially pursued studies in Translation (English/Spanish) before completing a degree in Multilingual Communication, which he finished at the beginning of the pandemic. Around that time, he joined a cocktail bar in Saint-Gilles, almost by chance. Having already spent four years working in the horeca sector as a student and with a strong passion for cooking, he quickly discovered that mixology shared many of the elements he loved in the kitchen — creativity, balance of flavors, and craftsmanship. After a year behind the bar, he decided to deepen his expertise and spent another year training in Toronto, immersing himself in a more advanced cocktail scene. Back in Brussels, he managed the very bar where he had first learned the craft for six months — alongside Jan — before joining the adventure of Ökēn, where he now contributes to a project driven by creativity and innovation in mixology.

Cocktail Masterclass at Ökēn

Jonathan Verbois

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Cocktail Masterclass at Ökēn

Jonathan Verbois

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