From the shaken to the stirred and everything in-between — this May, the country's world-class mixology scene will be celebrated in a very big way at a brand-new month-long drinks festival. The inaugural Australian Cocktail Month is set to kick off Saturday, May 1, descending on venues across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide with a diverse lineup of crafty collaborations and exclusive concoctions.

Here in Melbourne, 18 venues will help the event make its grand debut, including local favourites Nick & Nora's, The Everleigh, Black Pearl, Heartbreaker and Lover. They'll spend the month whipping up creative-charged festival cocktails (and mocktails) using drops from both local brands — think: Melbourne Gin Company, Brix Distillers, Mr Black and Starward — and international labels like Diplomatico Rum, Naked Grouse Whisky and Fords Gin.

To get among the best of it, grab a $20 Australian Cocktail Month ticket and enjoy full access to all of the participating venues' cocktail creations. Alcoholic drinks will be priced at $14 a pop, with low-alcohol and booze-free options clocking in at $10.

The Everleigh, Gareth Sobey

Top image: Nick & Nora's, Brook James.