By: Felicia Bridwell, True Story Storyteller
For Michael and Keyanna, cocktail mixing isn’t just about spirits—it’s about storytelling, connection, and community. “We introduced ourselves to the working world through the service industry,” they share, “and learned countless life skills and lessons that have carried us to where we are today.” Their journey began with a desire for financial independence but quickly evolved into a passion for the art of bartending and the vibrant culture it fosters.
Their love for whiskey was a natural evolution. “As you mature in the bar scene, you start to develop a more refined palate,” they explain. “You go from vodka cherry sours to lemon drop martinis, then skinny margaritas, filthy martinis, old fashioneds—and then one day, it’s just whiskey straight.” That depth and versatility of whiskey inspired their latest cocktail class, centered around the timeless Whiskey Sour.
Why the Whiskey Sour?
Each month, Michael and Keyanna host cocktail classes themed around national bar holidays. “This month’s holiday was the Whiskey Sour,” they say, “and what better way to celebrate the delicious cocktail than hosting a class with True Story Whiskey?” Their twist on the classic recipe is rooted in years of experience and a deep understanding of flavor balance.
Bourbon plays a starring role in their version of the Whiskey Sour. “It creates a smooth, almost sweet finish,” they note. “Lemon and bourbon have been paired together since the 1860s—it’s one of the most classic combinations.” The addition of egg white adds a velvety texture, making each sip “a cloudy, smooth dream.”
Flavorful Twists & Thoughtful Techniques
To elevate the experience, guests can choose from homemade cinnamon, orange, or brown sugar old fashioned-style infusions. “These flavors complement bourbon very well and can be mixed and matched to create a delicious cocktail,” Michael and Keyanna explain.
Their preparation technique is just as refined. “Start by adding whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white into a shaker,” they instruct. “Shake first with ice, then dry shake without ice to build the froth. Strain into a glass over fresh ice and garnish with a cherry or angostura bitters.”
Mixing, Mingling, and Mastery
Their cocktail classes are more than demonstrations—they’re interactive celebrations. “We’re natural-born entertainers,” they say. “We’ll be demonstrating our craft while engaging guests personally.” The class includes tastings of True Story Bourbon and Finished Rye, a mini contest for the best cocktail, and prizes for the winners.
Michael and Keyanna aren’t stopping at the Whiskey Sour. “We love bourbon and will always continue to have fun with it,” they affirm. Next on their radar? An Old Fashioned class. “They’re simple and delicious but must be made with the correct technique and ratios.”
Final Cheers
“This Whiskey Sour class is just one of many,” they conclude. “It’s aiding in the foundation of our personal brand growth and our relationship with other brands and bartenders alike. We have big plans for our future and are so happy to have this class with True Story Whiskeys to showcase the brand as well as our talents in mixology!”
Michael & Keyanna represent Keys Bar in Austin, TX.