Art plus rum equals a good time at Brix Distillers

You may be wondering, what is this Brix place?

I had been to Brix once before, on a quiet weekday afternoon, so I had an idea that I was on to a good thing trying a class here, in this case the very first Brix and Brushes (there are lots of firsts at Brix – the distillery is relatively new and is regularly trialling new drinks and new experiences. It has a strong sense of freshness and creativity). On my first visit I sampled a rum and beer offering (a successful collaboration with Bay Road Brewing) and was left with a taste for more of what’s on offer.

This time I knew a bit of what to expect: innovative drinks and a cosy atmosphere. What I didn’t know was just how passionate Brix is about its alcoholic offerings, nor how committed it is to showcasing its venue in different ways. There’s not only art classes but also live music, distillery tours and cocktail masterclasses, amongst other things.

So, what goes down at an evening of art and fine spirits?

The first thing I found was a friendly welcome from the artist, Barbara, and the bar staff. In quick time I was handed a refreshing ginger ale spritz, the latter taking its place next to paint brushes, pencils and other art paraphernalia, the cleansing spritz calming my nerves: could I actually paint something? The last time I had painted in earnest was my year 9 art class, and that was a few years and many drinks ago.

Like a blank canvas slowly transformed, the linear temporary art space at Brix was filled with a full gathering of fellow artists and drinkers: a mix of singles, couples – including honeymooners – and small groups, all a bit coy about their art skills but up for the challenge. 

What better way to calm the nerves than a cocktail, and there was a doozy of a drink provided in the entry fee at Brix and Brushes. Creativity is not confined to watercolours and one of the highlights of the night was watching Tom demonstrate and explain the art of the Zombie, a cocktail that hails from 1930s New Orleans. All I remember is that there are lashings of many suitable spirits and some citrus, and more, I think. And that it tasted very good. And that it paired well with the brie and the prosciutto. You’ll need to ask Tom for further details. You’ll discover that he has a passion for cocktails and distilling – evident all around. This is a place for creativity and passion. 

With the evening fully underway my artistic inhibitions thankfully fell away, thanks mainly to the hospitality and generous offerings (the Zombie was preceded and followed by a Ruby grapefruit spritz – in a jug). The art class was informative and it was great to see what other art-drinkers were doing – to imbibe the conviviality of the evening.

By the end of the night I had temporarily forgotten about the world’s woes. This was meditation by art and alcohol – escapism and good value.      

Would I recommend Brix and Brushes?

Absolutely, yes. If you need some carbs and protein to keep yourself from falling under the table or drawing your artwork upside down, I would suggest that you preload not with alcohol but rather with a light meal. An antipasto plate is provided but this event is all about the art and the drinks. For the rest of the evening you can simply relax and be looked after. 

I stepped out into the night clutching my artwork (back to front so that no one could see it) and headed home with a spring in my step and the desire to try another offering at Brix (both the alcoholic variety and the next creative offering). 

My next visit to Brix? I’m thinking music: Friday night tunes or reggae and rum. I can’t wait. 

More information:

Brix Distillers
350 Bourke Street
Surry Hills NSW 2010

Book Brix Distillery Bar and Kitchen here

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