
The United States Bartenders’ Guild Rhode Island (USBG RI) chapter hosted an educational event for local bartenders at Diego’s in Newport on January 31. Sponsored by Espolon Tequila, Aperol, Cynar, Egan’s Irish Whiskey and The Perfect Purée of Napa Valley, the event was part of Newport Wellness Week, an annual celebration encouraging members of the Newport community to focus on leading healthier lives. Guests sipped featured cocktails and enjoyed food from Diego’s while learning how to balance the demands of a busy career in the hospitality industry. Jonathan Pogash, President and Owner, The Cocktail Guru, led the session. Megan Pogash, Owner, Your Feng Shui Guru, discussed methods of feng shui in the home and bar for energy and success. Kirsten “Kitty” Amann, Marketing & Business Development Guru, The Cocktail Guru, led the group on an exploration of yoga and meditation practice. Guests also included presenters from Newport Wellness & Recovery and Matt’s Local Pharmacy. Jonathan Pogash said the USBG RI plans to host more wellness-focused events in the near future, noting, “We’re so used to taking care of people, [being] in the hospitality industry, that we often forget to take care of ourselves.”
- Kirsten “Kitty” Amann, Marketing & Business Development Guru, The Cocktail Guru; Megan Pogash, Owner, Your Feng Shui Guru; and Jonathan Pogash, Owner, The Cocktail Guru. Topics included a range of wellnesses concepts.
- Trade guests were treated to cocktails and merchandise from sponsors Cynar and Aperol.
- Cocktails featured spirits from event sponsors Egan’s Irish Whiskey and Espolon Tequila.
- Featured cocktails included The Dream (Cycle), a low ABV blend of Aperol, Perfect Purée Mandarin Tangerine and Perfect Purée Coconut; the Hot Yoga cocktail featuring Egan’s Irish Whiskey, Angostura Orange Bitters, hibiscus and cinnamon; and the Car(rot) for Yourself cocktail, a blend of Espolon Tequila Blanco, Perfect Purée Sweet Ginger, carrot juice and Armando Bitters.
- Cocktail making with The Perfect Purée.