Professional mixology training came directly to Nairobi hospitality enthusiasts when Gilbey’s Gin reimagined Geco Café as ‘The Gin Room’ for an exclusive masterclass in collaboration with Rusty Nail Bar.
The hands-on skills development session brought together a curated mix of Gilbey’s influencers, cocktail enthusiasts, and consumers selected from Gilbey’s Instagram community.
Expert mixologists from Rusty Nail Bar guided participants through professional bartending techniques and cocktail-making fundamentals, delivering practical skills applicable in Nairobi’s growing hospitality sector.
The training demonstrated real mixology craft while providing opportunities to master techniques used in the city’s vibrant cocktail scene.
Each cocktail represented a unique expression of flavor and connection: The Roxy – a bold, playful mix of Gilbey’s Dry Gin with Raspberry Pink Peppercorn Syrup and Lemon Juice, perfect for sparking vibrant energy.
The Gold Standard – a sophisticated floral twist featuring Gilbey’s Dry Gin, Elderflower-Thyme Shrub, Passion Juice, Lemon Juice, and Club Soda, ideal for elegant connections.
Uncle Tommy – a rich, fruity blend of Gilbey’s Dry Gin, Simple Syrup, Lemon Juice, and Crème de Cassis, crafted for deeper, intimate moments.
The evening included a spirited cocktail competition, with winners taking home exclusive Gilbey’s merchandise. Participants gained practical skills applicable to hospitality careers, elevated home entertaining, and understanding of professional mixology techniques within Nairobi’s cocktail culture.
“The Gin Room experience was a celebration of Gilbey’s versatility and mixability,” said Gilbey’s senior brand manager Zipporah Ndung’u. “As a brand, Gilbey’s is all about championing ‘Real Moments’ that bring people together.
This event created the perfect space for experimentation, learning, and appreciating the beauty of gin. Collaborating with Rusty Nail allowed us to engage with our community in a fun, interactive setting and inspire them to stir, shake, and sip in a more vibrant, expressive way.”
The masterclass demonstrated Gilbey’s commitment to skills development within Nairobi’s hospitality community, with participants gaining practical mixology techniques that enhance both professional capabilities and personal entertaining skills.
“We look forward to hosting more of these experiences to build meaningful connections with our consumers and remain true to our vision of unlocking the magic of everyday Real Moments,” concluded Ndung’u.
