In 2024, the Irish whiskey scene flourished, with new distilleries emerging and established ones innovating. Glen Melia, Sourcing Manager for The Single Malt Shop, immersed himself in this dynamic landscape, engaging with producers and sampling the latest offerings. Reflecting on the year, he shares three standout experiences that encapsulate the richness of Ireland’s whiskey heritage ..read more

Have you been to the small hotel with a wishing well and now a fabulous new bar helmed by today’s guest? I’m pretty certain that if Rogers and Hart had taken even one sip of any of the new cocktails, their famous song may have turned out very differently. If you are a Sinatra fan ..read more

This February (2024), The Coral Room, one of London’s prettiest bars, has created a new menu inspired by Richard Crosbie, the first Irishman to make a manned balloon flight. Mr Crosbie’s Great Aeronautic Adventure menu charts an imaginative course through history, geography, and flavour. On 19 January 1785, Richard Crosbie, dressed in a fur-lined silk robe ..read more

Nipperkin, the signature cocktail concept tucked away under Mayfair’s acclaimed NIJŪ, has launched a new micro-seasonal menu offering guests innovative ways to experience Japanese flavours while showcasing the best of hyperlocal ingredients. The ever evolving menu is designed to reflect the rhythm of the seasons, as inspired by the harvest cycle and produce found in each ..read more

This Cuban classic is a delightful mix of rum, vermouth, orange curaçao, and grenadine. Think of it as Cuba’s answer to the Manhattan, but with a tropical twist. It’s smooth, balanced, and just the right amount of zest. A Brief History of El Presidente The El Presidente cocktail emerged in Cuba during the early 20th ..read more

The Tuxedo cocktail is a sophisticated variation of the classic Martini, featuring the crispness of gin, the complexity of dry vermouth, and the intriguing depth of maraschino liqueur and absinthe. Its name evokes elegance and refinement, making it a fitting drink for those who appreciate a well-balanced, timeless cocktail. A Brief History of the Tuxedo ..read more

Launched in February 2023, ZLB23, the Kyoto-inspired speakeasy bar housed at The Leela Palace Bengaluru celebrates its 2nd anniversary of excellence with magnetic music, bar takeovers and curated cocktails throughout the month of February.  The award-winning bar is the first ever Indian hotel bar to feature in Asia’s 50 Best Bars. It’s  also the country’s only five-star luxury hotel speakeasy.  Hidden ..read more

Kwãnt Mayfair, the award-winning cocktail bar by Erik Lorincz (ex-head bartender at the American Bar, The Savoy Hotel and one of my former Lush Life guests), has partnered with iconic Japanese whisky brand Nikka to debut the bar’s intimate cocktail Omakase experience, has launched! Omakase, which translates to “I leave the details up to you ..read more

The Rusty Nail is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Known for its simplicity, elegance, and bold flavor, this whisky-based drink has become a staple in cocktail culture. Let’s delve into its fascinating history, key ingredients, necessary equipment, and how to make it at home. The History of the Rusty Nail ..read more

Woodland inspired and crafted using berries, botanicals and ingredients foraged from nature, there’s nothing quite like ‘Aelder’, ‘Amarosa’ and ‘Ana’. These deliciously different drinks are bursting with richness and intensity – each one skilfully crafted to capture and share the incredible flavours that nature has perfected. These three new liqueurs promise to be the most ..read more