Bordeaux: “Leftovers from the fridge” cocktails

Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just someone who loves experimenting with flavors, this cocktail workshop in Bordeaux promises a unique twist on your standard drink experience. Hosted by EMILE & MARGUERITE, this two-hour session takes the concept of zero waste to a whole new level, teaching you how to turn your fridge leftovers into impressive cocktails. It’s a hands-on, creative, and eco-conscious activity that encourages you to make the most of what’s lying around.

What we particularly love about this experience is its practical approach—no fancy ingredients or hard-to-find spirits needed. Instead, you’ll learn how to make delicious drinks with everyday items like jam, pickle vinegar, and leftover fruits, giving new life to ingredients you might otherwise toss. The workshop also emphasizes basic bartending techniques and flavor pairings that you can replicate at home, making it highly valuable for anyone looking to impress friends with innovative, sustainable drinks.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point of $76 per person, which includes the workshop, two mocktails, snacks, and recipe sheets. While this is a fair price for the level of instruction and the engaging experience, those seeking an alcohol-inclusive activity might prefer to purchase spirits on-site, which can add an extra $40 to $60. The workshop is best suited for adults who enjoy culinary creativity and are interested in reducing waste, but it’s not suitable for children under 18.

This experience appeals especially to eco-conscious travelers, foodies, and cocktail enthusiasts, or anyone curious about turning everyday leftovers into something special. If you’re staying in Bordeaux and want a memorable, educational activity that’s both fun and practical, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly focus: Learn to make cocktails from fridge leftovers, reducing waste.
• Hands-on experience: Create two cocktails with guidance from a professional mixologist.
• Skills for home: Practical techniques and flavor tips you can replicate at home.
• Includes snacks and recipes: Enjoy snacks and receive detailed recipe sheets.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund.
• Private group: A personalized experience tailored to small groups.

An inventive twist on traditional cocktail classes

This Bordeaux workshop catches the eye because it’s not your typical mixology experience. Instead of focusing on rare spirits or expensive ingredients, it champions sustainability and creativity. The instructor, a knowledgeable French mixologist, guides you through the process of transforming leftovers like jam jars, pickle vinegar, and other fridge finds into delicious mocktails—and potentially cocktails if you choose to buy alcohol on-site.

The setting, Émile & Marguerite, is a charming French spirits cellar in the historic heart of Bordeaux. It’s an ideal location, adding a sense of authenticity and local flavor to the entire experience. The intimate, private group format ensures personalized attention, which is perfect if you want to ask questions or get detailed technical tips.

What the workshop looks like in practice

At the start, your instructor explains the principles of flavor balancing and pairings, emphasizing that less is more when it comes to using leftovers. You’ll then choose ingredients from a display of what’s available, such as jams, pickles, herbs, and fruits. The instructor demonstrates basic bartending techniques like muddling, shaking, and pouring, all aimed at making the process accessible for beginners.

Once you’ve learned the basics, it’s your turn to get hands-on. You’ll craft two mocktails, which means you can enjoy them without alcohol, perfect for designated drivers or non-drinkers. If you want to add spirits, alcohol is available for purchase—costing between $40 and $60—giving you the option to turn your mocktails into full cocktails.

What you’ll take away

After the mixing, there’s time for discussion, questions, and sharing ideas. The instructor explains tips and secrets that will help you replicate these drinks at home, like how to reduce food waste in everyday life while still impressing your guests. Recipes and technical sheets are provided, making it easy to recreate the drinks later.

Authentic insights from past reviews

Reviewers highlight the informative and friendly atmosphere. One mentions, “The instructor was very clear, and I loved how practical it was—I now see how to use up my jam jars without wasting.” Another appreciates the relaxed vibe and enjoyed the snacks, saying, “It was a fun way to learn new skills while snacking on cheese and crackers.” Some note that purchasing alcohol on-site adds to the cost, but overall, the value lies in learning a new skill and reducing waste.

Practical details and considerations

The workshop lasts 2 hours, which is a comfortable length for learning and socializing without feeling rushed. The meeting point at Émile & Marguerite is centrally located, making it easy to find. Arrive at least 5 minutes early to settle in and get ready for a lively session.

Prices are transparent, with options to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility for travelers. The group size is private, which enhances the experience by allowing more interaction. Participants must bring a passport or ID, and the activity is suitable for those over 18.

Why this experience is worth considering

This Bordeaux cocktail workshop offers a unique blend of sustainability, creativity, and practical skills. For travelers who want to reduce waste while engaging in a hands-on activity, it’s a fantastic choice. The inclusion of snacks and recipes makes it a full, enjoyable experience rather than just a lesson. On top of that, the location in a historic cellar adds a charming backdrop, making the experience feel special.

The cost might seem high compared to other activities, but it encompasses personalized instruction, ingredients, snacks, and take-home recipes—offering good value for those interested in learning new skills and eco-conscious living. If you’re curious about mixing drinks with a conscience or simply want a fun, different activity in Bordeaux, this workshop ticks many boxes.

Perfect for

• Eco-conscious travelers wanting to minimize waste
• Foodies interested in creative flavor combinations
• Those keen to learn practical bartending techniques
• Travelers looking for a relaxed, private activity
• Drink enthusiasts seeking new ways to impress at home

Less suitable for

• Under 18s
• Guests seeking traditional wine or spirits tours
• Visitors looking for a large-group, party-style experience

FAQs

Is the workshop suitable for children or minors?
No, the activity is only for participants over 18 years old, as alcohol consumption may be involved.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring a passport or ID card; copies are accepted. No other items are necessary unless specified.

Can I buy alcohol during the workshop?
Yes, alcohol can be purchased on site for between $40 and $60 if you wish to turn your mocktails into cocktails.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a 2-hour workshop, the creation of two drinks (mocktails or cocktails), snacks, and recipe sheets. Additional ingredients or accessories are extra.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the workshop held in English?
Yes, the activity is conducted in both French and English, accommodating international guests.

How much does the experience cost?
It costs $76 per person, which covers instruction, snacks, and recipes, with spirits available for extra purchase.

Final thoughts

This Bordeaux “Leftovers from the fridge” cocktail workshop offers a refreshing take on mixology—combining sustainability with skill. It’s an engaging, educational activity that turns everyday kitchen scraps into something worth toasting. It’s ideal for those who enjoy hands-on learning, want to reduce food waste, and are curious about creative flavor pairings.

Travelers looking for a personalized, local experience in Bordeaux will find this fun and practical. It’s more than just a cocktail class—it’s a chance to learn how to make a positive impact while impressing friends with your newfound skills. Whether you’re in Bordeaux for a few days or seeking an offbeat activity to round out your trip, this workshop delivers value, fun, and a little dose of eco-friendly innovation.

Overall, if you’re after a memorable, practical activity that combines sustainability, local charm, and a splash of creativity, this workshop is a standout choice in Bordeaux.