Introducing "The Cocktail Academy" with your host Damian Cole, a seasoned veteran of the hospitality industry. Join Damian and his expert guests on a spirited journey through the world of cocktails, spirits, and all things booze-related.
Whether you're a home cocktail enthusiast or aspiring bartender, this podcast is your go-to source for practical tips and insider knowledge, served straight up with no nonsense. From mastering classic cocktail recipes to exploring the latest trends in mixology, "The Cocktail Academy" has everything you need to shake, stir, and sip like a pro. Tune in for candid conversations, industry insights, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Introducing "The Cocktail Academy" with your host Damian Cole, a seasoned veteran of the hospitality industry. Join Damian and his expert guests on a spirited journey through the world of cocktails, spirits, and all things booze-related.
Whether you're a home cocktail enthusiast or aspiring bartender, this podcast is your go-to source for practical tips and insider knowledge, served straight up with no nonsense. From mastering classic cocktail recipes to exploring the latest trends in mixology, "The Cocktail Academy" has everything you need to shake, stir, and sip like a pro. Tune in for candid conversations, industry insights, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Damian is joined by Mandy Naglich, an Advanced Cicerone®, certified taster, drinks writer, and author of How to Taste. Mandy’s journey into the world of flavor started with homebrewing, where she won a gold medal at the National Homebrew Competition in 2016, and led her into the deep study of sensory science, fermentation, and tasting.
In this episode, Mandy shares:
Mandy’s passion shines through as she shows how taste is not just biology—it’s memory, context, and practice. Whether you’re a bartender, a drinks enthusiast, or just curious about why things taste the way they do, this episode will give you tools to taste with more clarity, confidence, and joy.
👉 Follow Mandy: @drinkswithmandy
📖 Her book: How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life
🎙️ Lock-In Sessions
Want more? Each episode continues in The Cocktail Academy Lock-In—exclusive, industry-focused conversations for bartenders, operators, and serious drinks fans. You can listen to Mandy’s Lock-In session and all previous extras for FREE at thecocktailacademy.com.
📩 Connect with Damian
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.