Hey Up-and-Coming Bartenders! Apply to Become a Cocktail Apprentice Red Coat at Tales of the Cocktail

Posted on: Jan. 06, 2023 | | By: TOTC Staff

The application period for up-and-coming bartenders to apply for the TOTCF Cocktail Apprentice Program is now open from January 4 – February 5, 2023.

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) is pleased to announce the opening of the 2023 Cocktail Apprentice Program (CAP) Red Coat application period from January 4-February 5, 2023. As an exclusive mentorship program designed for up-and-coming bartenders, TOTCF will welcome 40 new Apprentices to join the 2023 CAP Red Coat class to learn alongside some of the industry’s biggest names during this year’s Tales of the Cocktail conference, which is taking place in New Orleans from July 23-28, 2022.  

Founded in 2008, the TOTCF Cocktail Apprentice Program has hosted more than 475 Apprentices who have gained valuable experience working and managing large-scale, high-volume events during the annual TOTC conference. As a CAP Red Coat, the first year in the program includes working with a CAP Grey Coat mentor to prep and execute cocktails and tastings presented during seminars as well as Foundation hosted events, including the Spirited Awards ceremony, and other headlining events taking place at TOTC’s 2023 host venue, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans.

In order to qualify as a Red Coat, applicants must be:

  • industry professionals (bartenders, bar managers, barbacks, brand ambassadors, educators, distillers, and more)
  • at least 21 years old
  • live anywhere in the world and have a valid VISA

Accepted applicants into the program are responsible for their own flights to and from New Orleans, and TOTCF will provide lodging accommodations, meals, and access to events and ancillary networking opportunities. 

Interested applicants are invited to learn more about the program and fill out the CAP Red Coat application via the TOTCF website. The 2023 CAP Red Coat class will be announced in May 2023. 

For more information about Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, visit the TOTCF website


Testimonials from CAP Alums:

“Participating as a CAP shows my employers and any future employers that I choose dedicate my time providing my service and skill set to an international program that motivates and educates anyone and everyone who chooses to benefit from the program. It also highlights that I have pride and take my craft seriously and use it to mentor and be mentored which can translate well in the workplace.”

— Nigal Vann, 2022 CAP Grey Coat, Chicago, IL

“The CAP program opened my eyes to the world of possibility in our industry. Coming from a smaller market, I was able to learn from my peers in larger cities and well known establishments, and bring that knowledge back to my hometown. It instilled a level of confidence in me and my work, gave me a network and community to turn to for advice, and essentially helped shape the professional I am today. I have lifelong friends, incredible mentors, and a community that welcomes my individuality.”
— Kaleena Goldsworthy-Warnock, 2022 Black Coat, Chattanooga, TN


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