In April, the United Way Miami Wine & Food Festival experienced record-breaking ticket sales and sold out events. To meet popular demand, the festival launched a series of year-round wine and food events – all for a good cause. 60 Second Cocktails with Bacardi is the kick-off event marking the expansion, and all proceeds benefited United Way of Miami-Dade’s work in education, financial stability and health.

On June 16, guests brushed up on their bartending skills and learned how to make delicious cocktails, with help from Bacardi mixologist and Miami-native, Gabe Urrutia who is an expert in the cocktail trend of molecular mixology. He taught guests how to make a balanced cocktail from a blend of unique ingredients in just 60 seconds.

A Bacardi Bar cocktail reception followed where guests enjoyed cocktails, appetizers, music, a special gift and exclusive entry to the private Emilio Bacardi Company Museum, not open to the general public. The museum showcases historical photos and memorabilia dating back to the 1860s, a recount of the company’s evolution, how Bacardi adopted its world famous “Bat” trademark, and much more.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011