While doing some internet research on the history of cocktails, I came across this organization—the Museum of the American Cocktail, or MOTAC for short.

The founders of the organization all share one essential ingredient—the love of cocktail mixology. Because of their enthusiasm, they have created an organization and museum that provides “ongoing research, professional and consumer mixology education.”

As a local New Orleanian, the most intriguing part of the organization is its nod to the “Crescent City.” The website states, the organization “seeks to celebrate a true American cultural icon, the American Cocktail. Having roots in New Orleans, the American cocktail has influenced music, theater, art, film and politics around the world during its two-centry-old history.” I can’t think of a better way to say it myself. And for those of you from New Orleans, or those of you who have visited New Orleans, I would think you might agree.

MOTAC has exhibits in both New York and Las Vegas that showcase an expansive collection of “rare spirits, books, Prohibition-era literature and music, vintage cocktail shakers, glassware, tools, gadgets” and all sorts of other cocktail memorabilia and photographs. While I have never had the chance to view one of these exhibits, I will definitely plan for a visit the next time I am in New York or Las Vegas and suggest you do the same!

In the meantime, you can learn more about MOTAC by visiting: www.museumoftheamericancocktail.org

Filed Under: Culinary History