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 Paper Plane — a modern classic combining bourbon, Aperol, Amaro, and fresh lemon. Built around a delicate balance of sweet, bitter, citrusy, and rich flavours, this equal-parts cocktail is a perfect introduction to the art of balancing contrasting ingredients. Guests will explore how the warmth and depth of bourbon interact with the bright bitterness of Aperol, the herbal complexity of Amaro, and the acidity of fresh lemon, while learning the techniques behind shaking, dilution, and achieving the perfect balance.

The Gimlet — a timeless cocktail bringing together gin, genever, lime cordial, and fresh lime. This variation highlights the relationship between the botanical character of gin and genever and the vibrant acidity and sweetness of lime. Participants will discover how subtle changes in ingredients and proportions can transform a classic, while exploring techniques such as shaking, dilution, and achieving the right balance between sweetness and acidity.

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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