Chef John Besh at Tales of the Cocktail. Photo: www.talesofthecocktail.com

Conceived in 2003, Tales of the Cocktail is a festival celebrating cocktails, cuisine and culture held annually in New Orleans, Louisiana. The event has grown over the years to attract big names from the cocktail community, including award-winning bartenders, mixologists and chefs, along with brands ranging from mainstream giants to artisan distillers.

The 2010 Tales of the Cocktail festival will be held July 21 – 25 at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans.  The five-day event offers seminars, tastings, demonstrations, competitions, parties and more, all dedicated to the history and artistry of making drinks.  Those able to descend upon New Orleans to partake in the festivities can drink their weight in booze while honing their cocktail knowledge.  From traditional New Orleans cocktails like the Sazerac and Vieux Carre to innovative drinks created especially for the festival, participants won’t go thirsty as they experience a city steeped in cocktail culture.

Visitors who can pull themselves away from the Tales of the Cocktail tasting rooms can experience all that New Orleans has to offer, including the historic French Quarter, abundant nightlife, award-winning restaurants, informative tours and a booming arts scene.  And if you’re feeling lucky, try recouping your bar tab at one of New Orleans’ casinos.

2010 Tales of the Cocktail
July 21 – 25
New Orleans, Louisiana
www.talesofthecocktail.com

For flights to New Orleans.