Chronicle Editor
THE illustrious Liquid Chef, Mixologist Extraordinaire James Mparutsa makes a return to Bulawayo to intrigue the city with his extraordinary (just like he calls himself) cocktails.
James rose to fame in Bulawayo particularly during the 62nd edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair held last year when he stunned many with different types of cocktails.
In essence, James’ skills were a hit, as he proved to be one of the fair’s major attractions.
James opened my eyes or rather introduced me to different types of liquor and methods of making them fun. And we have kept in close touch since then.
He did, of course, visit the city, when he was part of the African Distillers Corporation entourage to launch the new look Gold Blend Black towards the end of 2022.
He returns again for this year’s edition of the ZITF and promises a whole new cocktail menu, which he will impart to those who register for lessons.
“I will arrive in Bulawayo on Friday 21 April (yesterday). I will be hosting a series of workshops on the art of mixology, which I have termed the Cocktail Masterclass.
I will announce the venue on my social media pages for those that are interested. I will be available for the classes from the day of my arrival until Sunday, where I will have cocktails on special from lunch till late,” said James
Thereafter James said he will be ready for the ZITF, where he promised a mega display of his craft.
I will be having Master classes every second hour. If you are interested in joining any of the classes you must visit our stand and register for a time suited to you,” he said.
James said he will only take an intricate number of people as the craft was quite complex.
“. . . the classes are limited to about 20 people. However, there is an opportunity for others to watch the proceedings.
I will also be introducing some new cocktails including a Pushkin Vojito, Iced Gin Tea, Zambezi Gin Panaché, and many more.”
Not to brag or make you readers and cocktail fanatics jealous I will be with James half the time, well, mostly in the evenings. This will also be my chance to sharpen my mixing dexterity.
“In the evenings I will be out and about popular spots in Bulawayo in the company of my good friend Peter,” said James.
So, for this week, I leave the rest to your imagination with just a few images of what will be on offer.
Ready your taste buds and make sure you don’t overdrink and ruin your palate.
There are cocktails galore during the trade fair.
Be sure to attend a few or learn a couple of skills and maybe just one day you might be asked to mix a few drinks.
If you have an establishment and think your drink has what it takes to be profiled, send an email to [email protected] or WhatsApp at 0772337433.
REMEMBER alcohol is not for sale to persons under the age of 18 and let’s not forget to drink responsibly.
Online Reporter