Day THREE: Mayfair March!

Oct8

Welcome one and all to the recap of the third day of London Cocktail Week 2015! Wield a red or white wristband and enjoy the discounts/events that LCW has to offer!

This year the Hoodooist will be bringing you #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo, a daily review of each day of London Cocktail Week ’15.

Today we look at October 7^th: Where the Hoodooist and friends tackled Mayfair and Marylebone!

The Original Sin

4PM:

The Sheraton Park Lane Hotel’s Smith and Whistle is a relaxed hotel joint with a distinct love for Irish whiskey, and Jameson’s in particular.

Besides their Caskmate’s cocktail, they were even hosting a raffle to win a bottle before going home! But their Original Sin is not to be a missed. A beautiful crimson cocktail topped with a spicy stout foam. The first sip through the foam brings out flavours of warm spices from cinnamon, nutmeg and star anise – until you get to the cocktail of Jameson’s Caskmates whiskey, red wine reduction, and more of that homemade spiced syrup.

Expect to find an immediate hit of light warm spices (enhanced by the burning cinnamon garnish), the wine reduction’s dark fruits and raspberry, finally ending with the Caskmate’s Madeira, fresh and honeyed fruit, and vanilla. A beautiful cocktail – even the Hoodooist didn’t mind its sweetness.

Smith and Whistle raised the bar high before continuing on!

The Sakura Highball

5.30PM:

The ROKA Mayfair kept up the standard so far with the long Sakura Highball. Nikka From the Barrel whisky met Cocchi’s Barolo Chinato vermouth, Sakura cherry blossom tincture, topped off with a plum soda.

The nose is bittersweet and tempting, the first sip immediately brings out the Nikka’s fruit, winter spices and toffee along with the plum soda, before quickly setting onto a long wave of the Barolo Chinato’s orange peel, cloves and dried fruits with the bitter kick, ending on a bed of cherry blossom.

With excellent service and chat from the bartenders, beautiful surrounds, and bar snacks that are devoured in moments, this is an excellent highball drink, highly recommended.

The Amor y Amargo

6.30PM:

Into the winding side streets that lead us into the busy lane housing Cartizze, which seems more at home in a hotel than the lane that houses it, the Amor y Amargo is served at the table. Being rather busy, it took its time, the sweet drink caused a little debate.

Amaretto liqueur, Cynar, apricot liqueur, vanilla sugar, lemon, topped with prosecco. Some enjoyed the drink, the Hoodooist couldn’t taste much over the amaretto, lemon and a hint of apricot. It seemed to lack dimension, and blurred into a one-trick drink. Of course, if this is one’s style, a sweet tooth might enjoy it.

When a friend at the table ordered a second, they were informed that only the first drink is subject to the LCW 5 pound offer. Something *no other bar so far in the history of the 5 years of cocktail week* has inflicted on wristband wearers.

The Sesame Street

7PM:

Next door, the Cartizze’s sister bar, Mews of Mayfair, offered the Sesame Street: Glenmorangie 10yr infused with apricots, sesame oil, topped with egg white and sesame seeds.

A major improvement from next door, the spicy nose is refreshing, the palate is instantly hit with sesame, followed by vanilla and bold fruits of the whisky, retreating once again into sesame and ending with bright apricots.

An enjoyable drink and a huge improvement, with multifaceted flavours, though a friend retorted, “I keep thinking of chicken yakitori.”

The Golden Shuffle

8PM:

Recently opened dinner and shisha bar, Noir W1, next door to Selfridges, serving up the Golden Shuffle: Courvoisier Exclusif cognac, yuzu juice, lemon, cocoa nib infused white truffle honey, egg white and black walnut bitters.

Tastes like a regular Sidecar.

Somewhat detectable honey.

The Absolutly Dirty

10PM:

After a bite and some key lime pie in Marylebone, Hoodooist and co. find themselves at an old haunt that once had a long and beautifully complex menu.

Purl offered up the Absolutely Dirty for LCW: Absolut Elyx vodka, sherry (fino, perhaps?), capers and black olive bitters.

Only approach if Dirty Martini fan. After the first kick the face with black olives, you will feel a sharp slice of the sherry, followed immediately after by the black olives and a hint of caper.

The Hoodooist, a major fan of the bone-dry gin Martini, not so much a fan of this. At least didn’t enjoy the wincing with each sip.

As aforementioned: Only approach if Dirty Martini fan.

Midnight:

The Hoodooist remembers there are at least three more days to go, and has a lie down.

With a really high standard set up by the Smith and Whistle, and Roka, and a fun twist at Mews of Mayfair, the Mayfair March was a day of high highs, and low lows. Some, like the Cartizze and Purl, have targeted very specific audience palates that the reader must consider.

Alright! That’s our recap of Day Three of London Cocktail Week 2015! I do hope it may have helped you one way or the other, dear readers, on our quest through the most magical week of the year.

Remember to check out Highball Hoodoo every morning of London Cocktail Week for more reviews of the LCW cocktail offerings, parties and events!

Get #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo each morning from 5th to 11th October!
*Tune in tomorrow for our coverage of Dalston and Whitechapel!*

Day TWO: Shoreditch Slam!

Oct7

Welcome one and all to the recap of the second day of London Cocktail Week 2015! Wield a red or white wristband and enjoy the discounts/events that LCW has to offer!

This year the Hoodooist will be bringing you #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo, a daily review of each day of London Cocktail Week ’15.

Today we look at October 6^th: Where the Hoodooist and friends tackled the Hoxton and the Shoreditch!

The Ember 75

6PM:

Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka Mr. Lyan, brought out innovative cocktail bar White Lyan a couple of years ago, using no fresh ingredients outside the bottled cocktails – the LCW offering is no different, with a flute half-filled with the mystery drink topped off with Franciacorta sparkling wine.

The Ember 75 is a twist on the classic French 75, with Monkey Shoulder whisky, lemon distillate, BBQ fruit distillate, mixed acid solution, and mineral water.

You’d be forgiven if that made little sense, unfortunately, our bartender was not at all helpful in attempting to explain it – what we gathered is that it’s smoke and fruit. Neither did our bartender seem clear on the process preparing the bottled drink, or at least didn’t want to explain it.

Anyway, the first half of the cocktail was a bit flat with the sweet wine (I say that because the sparkling wine was not sparkling, the fizz was not fizzing. Why? Do not ask us.), as time passed the Monkey Shoulder became increasingly prominent, and by the bottom half, flavours of dried fruit, apricot and light notes of peach opened up, with a layer of smoke.

London Cocktail Week Buffalo Trace Bourbon

The Fairground Sazerac; and the Don’t Mug Yourself

6.45PM:

We find ourselves back at the Buffalo Bourbon Empire pop up we reviewed earlier this week!

Of course, we reviewed the fab Don’t Mug Yourself in the previous article, so the Hoodooist went in for the Fairground Sazerac: Sazerac Rye Whiskey, Peychaud’s Bitters, sugar in a Herbsaint rinse with a large dollop of candyfloss in the tankard, and a small bit on the straw to drink through.

Now this is fun – to be fair, the Hoodooist is a major fan of the Sazerac as is, but the additional little bit of sweetness from the candyfloss doesn’t hurt, and injects a little bit of fun into and otherwise serious classic. The whiskey’s orange and warm spices is clear, the glass rinsed just right with Herbsaint – the candyfloss takes the edge off the finish with a bit of sugar. A fun quirky twist on an old loved classic.

London Cocktail Week Whisky Scotch Auchentoshan

The Auchie Ale

7.45PM:

The Translate Bar in Shoreditch retains it’s party atmosphere even this early in the evening – with the Auchentoshan and Ale workshop going on next door, Translate is knocking out 5 options for 5 pounds each: the Auchentoshan American Oak or Three Wood neat/on the rocks, a Glasgow Mule (with Ginger Ale), a Classic Sour, and their main offering for London Cocktail Week, the Auchie Ale.

The Auchie Ale brings together Auchentoshan American Oak, quince, lemon, simple syrup, topped off with Camden Pils in a handy mug and twist of lemon. Initially, the ale drowns out the flavour of this great whisky and the quince, but as it warms up about halfway through, both the nose and palate become clearer.

The toffee and chocolate nose begins to come through, the palate bursts into warmer flavours of chocolate, citrus, grain and oak, ending with a quince bite and the Camden Pils. Certainly a cocktail if you enjoy your ale.

The Auchentoshan Three Wood

The Hoodooist had more fun going straight for the Auchentoshan Three Wood – rested in Oloroso sherry, bourbon, and Pedro Ximinez sherry casks, this whisky is deep and rich, taking an almost rum like quality with strong espresso. Forest fruits, dark berries, glazed cherries, dark chocolate and treacle flood the palate. A beautiful dram.

The Creole Muse

9PM:

Back at an old favourite! NOLA did pretty well last LCW with Chris Dennis at the helm, and this year, the New Orleans legend Chris Hannah designed the Creole Muse for the NOLA’s own bartenders to prepare.

Havana Club 7 year rum, absinthe, agave, strawberry puree, lime creates a sweet and sour cocktail that begins with the lime, moving on to the strawberry’s sweetness for a long moment, before bringing out the toffee and coffee bean of the rum – ending with a strong absinthe knock.

Personally I’d add a lime peel to the rim to help neutralise the strongly anise nose – and the debate over this drink kicked off at the table – one loved it, one wanted to replace absinthe with Green Chartreuse, one though maybe a touch less absinthe would do it, maybe just a rinse. This twisted strawberry daiquiri will split the group into a debate. Trying it without the absinthe, it lacks dimension, so the bitter note is necessary.

The Hidden Bar’s Tommy Gets Spicy

10.15PM:

Because a night always ends at Casita.

The LCW offering being a Paloma (Ocho Tequila, lime juice, agave, Ting, pink grapefruit – a citrus, light on the tequila cocktail strong on the grapefruit and Ting) is a classic at Casita that will always be around, the Hoodooist was tempted away to try the one-day menu by the bartenders of the Ibiza Hidden Bar instead.

The Tommy gets Spicy gives us Tequila Cabeza, raspberry, agave syrup, lime, tabasco – this beautiful red cocktail begins with a mineral hit of the Cabeza, followed instantly by the tobasco spice transitioning into the sweetness of the fresh raspberry.

There is a reason the Hoodooist loves this bar.

Thing’s are a bit blurry here on out.

1AM:

“I could try to write this now, or I could binge-watch Rick and Morty.”

Alright! That’s our recap of Day Two of London Cocktail Week 2015! I do hope it may have helped you one way or the other, dear readers, on our quest through the most magical week of the year.

Remember to check out Highball Hoodoo every morning of London Cocktail Week for more reviews of the LCW cocktail offerings, parties and events!

Get #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo each morning from 5th to 11th October!
*Tune in tomorrow for our coverage of Mayfair and Marylebone!*

Day ONE: The Cocktail Village is Here!

Oct6

Apologies for the late post, readers, but writing this up last night was impossible with the room spinning and uncontrollable giggling in the shower – which means London Cocktail Week has kicked into gear!

Welcome one and all to the recap of the first day of London Cocktail Week 2015! Wield a red or white wristband and enjoy the discounts/events that LCW has to offer!

This year the Hoodooist will be bringing you #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo, a daily review of each day of London Cocktail Week ’15.

Today we look at October 5^th: Where the Hoodooist and friends tackled the LCW Village and the City!

5PM:

Of course, the hangover was improved by the wonderful guys from Ohayo Tomorrow! Their hangover cures can be found at the all new London Cocktail Week Village at Spitalfields – a massive space converted into the LCW’s main hub where you can collect your wristbands and peruse some of the exciting brands and bars that set up shop, serving cocktails and cocktail equipment!

Set up around the giant SodaStream carousel, there are some must visit stops.

James Elliot of Pizza Pilgrims (Who made a lifesaving appearance at the Bussey Bar Rooftop this summer) manages the all-new London limoncello brand – Pococello, using exclusively Amalfi lemons with spirit produced by the Chase Distillery UK.

The result is a deliciously smooth spirit that balances sweet and tart when drunk neat and ice cold, but works absolutely beautifully with the slightly bitter Fevertree tonic. Make sure to grab yourself an L&T before trying out their limoncello slushie which is a fantastic picnic drink.

London Cocktail Week Pococello Limoncello

The Pococello & Tonic

While you’re at the village, make sure to pop by Loves Company stall for a ginger mystery cocktail using Bathtub Gin and grab selfies in the (obviously necessary) bathtub with a bottle! You can always trust Loves Company for the quirkier stalls at a festival, winning Cocktail in the City 2015‘s Best Stand award.

Bathtub Gin at Loves Company

And don’t miss the Vestal Vodka stop right next door! Take a quick look at the history of this smooth potato vodka that is a longstanding Highball Hoodoo favourite, and grab a Vestal Martini before you leave. Velvety, with distinct blueberry and liquorice notes, makes this a fantastically easy to drink Martini.

The Vestal Martini

The Hoodooist and co. make their way to the heart of City to check out what the bars have to offer.

6.30PM:

Company all have a Pappy 10 Old Fashioned in hand at Barbecoa. Yes – a Pappy 10.

Rarely seen in London (to the point where wristband wearers are limited to one per visit), the Pappy was exciting, an Old Fashioned made with demerara sugar and orange bitters, topped off with a large ice cube.

The first glass came in, the nose sweet with sweet corn, toffee, and dried fruits, the palate, however, felt a little watered. You could tell the heart of the cocktail had that beautiful buttery, thick, dates, walnut, caramel with a hint of spice – but it seemed somewhat lost in the cocktail.

Our bartender was wonderful enough to try a few changes: chill the glass beforehand and lose the ice cube (it melts surprisingly quickly) and minimise the sugar – the Hoodooist wishes he asked to switch the strong orange bitters to Angostura as well, but the changes were an improvement for the company at the table. It is a change we’d recommend.

London Cocktail Week Barbecoa Pappy Van Winkle

The Pappy 10 Old Fashioned

7.30PM:

Making our way to The Sign of the Don Bistro, company finally grab food to eat after a long day of imbibing – the octopus salad is not to be missed!

A round of The 10/10 comes to the table: 10 year port meets the Glenmorangie 10 year scotch, Campari, Monin gomme syrup, lime juice, chilli and coriander. This drink is interesting, the Glenmorangie’s citrus nose bursts through, the mouthfeel light and refreshing.

It begins with a citrus and coriander, that develops into the Glenmorangie’s creamy, fresh scotch, followed by a length of port and chilli, leaving an aftertaste of strong Campari and a prickling of the chilli.

This drink was a surprise, and not what we were expecting – worth trying for the novelty and popping by for the food!

The 10/10

8.30 PM:

In the basement of the Arbitrager, we find the beautiful drinking den of Demon, Wise, and Partners. Classically designed and luscious, a fantastic spot to get away from the noisiness of the day.

In typical DW&P fashion, the drinker is given options on which direction they’d like to take their drink: The Rabbit Hole presents the imbiber with a ‘Sweet’ or ‘Dry’ choice.

Both have the same base of Wild Turkey whiskey, Campari, lemon.

However the ‘Sweet’ comes with sweet Cinzano 1757 vermouth, and a red capsule full of a smoke and orange blossom powder.
And the ‘Dry’ comes with Cinzano Dry vermouth, and a blue capsule with powdered Green Chartreuse.

The result are two completely different cocktails, distinctly sweet and distinctly dry.

The sweet Rabbit Hole begins with the floral orange blossom, followed by the whiskey’s thick butterscotch and pepper, laying of a bed of smoke, finally ending with the lingering Campari.

The dry Rabbit Hole is beautiful is you like your drinks dry and bitter. It follows a similar pattern as above, but beginning with the herbal, pungent Chartreuse – the mouthfeel is the most interesting though, malty or yeasty in the best of ways.

Highly recommend this cocktail, one (two?) of my favourites of the day!

London Cocktail Week Demon Wise and Partners

The Rabbit Hole

9.30PM:

Hoodooist and co. are overlooking London from the gorgeous Art Deco bar that is City Social at Tower 42.

A wonderful place to relax and end the night in the comfy, dark recesses of the couches with the glittering city below, we grab ourselves the LCW offering: the Vitamin Sea.

Hendrick’s Gin, sea buckthorn and orange sherbet, Cocchi Americano, lemon and carrot juice,and a touch of absinthe. The name is accurate. Served in a medicinal bottle, the nose is powerfully citrus, you can almost smell the sea bukthorn’s high vitamin C content. The cocktail tastes almost exactly like an alcoholic vitamin supplement. There is a distant touch of absinthe, but barely there, otherwise the palate is dominated by the berry and orange juice, with undertones of the Hendrick’s.

An odd choice of offering, a bit flat. An interesting twist on a gin and orange, however, but only subtle differences.

The Vitamin Sea

11 something:

The Hoodooist downs his Ohayo Tomorrow and collapses in bed, vowing to be up early to write this article. That didn’t happen.

Alright! That’s our recap of Day One of London Cocktail Week 2015! I do hope it may have helped you one way or the other, dear readers, on our quest through the most magical week of the year.

Remember to check out Highball Hoodoo every morning of London Cocktail Week for more reviews of the LCW cocktail offerings, parties and events!

Get #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo each morning from 5th to 11th October!
*Tune in tomorrow for our coverage of Hoxton and Shoreditch!*

London Cocktail Week Preview: Buffalo Bourbon Empire!

Oct5

LCW15 is here! A week of discount cocktails, the hottest bars, the coolest pop-ups, the biggest parties – and several one-time events for your liver to look forward to (think of it as a work out).

On Friday, Highball Hoodoo released London Cocktail Week 2015 Guide for must-do events in the city, and one of them, the Buffalo Bourbon Empire, gave the Hoodooist a sneak peak to what they are offering this week at their 1 Kingsland Road pop-up in Shoreditch!

BUFFALO BOURBON EMPIRE, SHOREDITCH – 5th-11th October

Buffalo Bourbon Empire, 1 Kingsland Road , London, E2 8AA

LCW regulars Buffalo Trace Bourbon are back with their Empire pop-up!

Whether you’re learning how to make your favourite cocktails, watching the hilarious comedy duo ‘The Thinking Drinkers’ or just sitting back and relaxing with some sublime drinks, there is a little bit of something for everyone. And as if that’s not enough, you could be among the first to sample this year’s highly anticipated Antique Collection – a Collection that has been bestowed with some of the highest accolades the spirits world has to offer.

With a selection of events through the week, check out their to-do list!

bbe-eventpic

You’ll notice that the tasting of the much-anticipated Antique Collection (released every year by Buffalo Trace) is nearly every day of the week, but remember that you have to book a spot for the tasting! If you can, make sure you can get a tasting led by Buffalo Trace Master Blender himself, the fantastic Drew Mayville! Who else to help you understand the complexities of their finest whiskies than the man responsible?

A wonderful host, Drew runs participants through some of the most awarded whiskies in the world:

Beginning with the classic Buffalo Trace – we all know the Hoodooist loves this one – that classic spicy-sweet caramel nose, the palate richly oaky with brown sugar, toffee and tiny hints of espresso followed by a cinnamon finish.

Moving on to the Eagle Rare 17yr, the Hoodooist’s favourite of the night – the nose initially has a wine-barrel hit, but is immediately followed by a wave of almond (like a sweet almond cream). The palate is a gorgeous combo of tobacco and leather, with the oak’s vanilla. A long finish of leather and toffee follows.

The Sazerac 18 straight rye is much smoother and lighter, the palate feels a lot like a julep has been reduced into whiskey form. An allspice nose is followed by a palate of cinnamon, mint, eucalyptus, and a very long, warm finish of white pepper.

The William Larue Weller won Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible Best Bourbon in the World 2015! Very understandably – the nose is full on tobacco, leather, and a fruit sweetness. The palate brings in the marshmallows and figs and dates. A wonderfully smooth, sweet finish.

The Thomas H. Handy won World’s Best American Whiskey at the World Whiskies Awards 2015! This is lush. A bold nose ushers in a palate of winter sweetness with the fig cakes and toffee, cinnamon and clove, ending on slightly more Caribbean flavours of allspice, nutmeg and coconut.

The tasting ends with the George T. Stagg‘s unrelenting cavalcade of sweetness, from the dark chocolate, molasses and fudge, to berries, dates, a hints of tobacco and coffee. A beautiful dram.

Cocktails at the Buffalo Bourbon Empire include the Don’t Mug Yourself: Buffalo with Caffe Borghetti Coffee Liqueur, fresh espresso, topped with a bourbon biscuit puree for a fantastic Espresso Martini twist. Sweet, but not overbearingly so, not thick or viscous, but not exceedingly watery (all worrying threats of Espresso Martini), the Don’t Mug Yourself could easily be one of the best offerings of the night.

The No More Mist-of Spiced Rye (mouthful, that) brings Buffalo with Carpano Classico vermouth, Fernet Branca and a mist of spiced Sazerac Rye. Now, when sipped, I really enjoy the introduction of the drink, however the Fernet could be taken down a bit, the herbal notes can overpower the Buffalo Trace.

Whiskey classics are also served up – you can’t go wrong with an Eagle Old Fashioned, and – as is ritual at every year’s London Cocktail Week Buffalo Trace pop up – find yourself some of those beautiful Picklebacks to help you through the night!

Service is impeccable, the Buffalo Trace team are wonderful, the live music gives great vibes. The Buffalo does it again!

Remember to make your bookings for the tastings! It’s a crime to miss.

LCW is here! Remember to check out Highball Hoodoo every morning of London Cocktail Week for more reviews of the LCW cocktail offerings, parties and events!

Get #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo each morning from 5th to 11th October!
*Tune in tomorrow for our coverage of The Whisky Show, The Cocktail Village and the City!*

Your London Cocktail Week 2015 Guide!

Oct2

Now that Fashion Week’s out of the way, kids (let’s not worry about Chocolate Week yet) – here’s where the real fun lies.

A week of discount cocktails, the hottest bars, the coolest pop-ups, the biggest parties – and several one-time events for your liver to look forward to (think of it as a work out).

Besides all the participating bars (many of which Highball Hoodoo will be reviewing every day of the week!), here is a check list of must-hit spots throughout the week of 5th-11th October 2015!

Course, to participate in London Cocktail Week, you’d need to get your LCW Wristband first! Buy ’em here!

COCKTAIL VILLAGE AT OLD SPITALFIELDS MARKET, SHOREDITCH – 5th-11th October

Old Spitalfields Market, 16 Horner Square, Spitalfields, London E1 6EW

From October 5 -11 Old Spitalfields Market, usually home to antique dealers and speciality stalls, will become a huge week-long cocktail village across the entire market space. Visitors can explore a maze of bespoke pop-up bars, trucks, vans and even bicycles – all serving up their specially created cocktails at just £5 for wristband wearers.

Pick up your wristband here, grab a bite, a drink, your LCW Tour Guide, and plan your cocktail rampage!

WORLD CLASS LONDON COCKTAIL WEEK HUB, SOHO – 5th-11th October

51 Poland Street, 51 Poland St, London, W1F 7LZ

If you’d rather pick your wristband up closer to central London – pop by the LCW hub set up with World Class – the ultimate in luxury drinks experiences using the finest spirits selected by the World’s Best Bartenders. Featuring masterclasses for a Negroni at the Haig Club Dining Room, Vodka Soda at the Ketel One Vodka Kitchen, and a stunning new way to shake up a French 75 at the 1920’s styled speakeasy Tanqueray Art Deco Bar.

24 HOUR BAR BUILD, SHOREDITCH – 10th October

N&C Showrooms, 3-10 Shoreditch High Street, London, E1 6PG

4 teams, 4 cities, 24 bartenders, 24 hours. Award winning bartending teams from around the world – London, New York, Paris, Singapore – come together to build 4 bars in 24 hours, competing to be crowned the World’s Best.

Team London (WOO!) will be led by Richard Woods of Duck & Waffle, working with Patron Tequila – against New York (Leo Robitschek of NoMad, with Grey Goose Vodka), Paris (Carina Soto Velasquez of Candelaria, with Bombay Sapphire Gin), and Singapore (Joel Fraser of the Cufflink Club, with Bacardi Rum).

From concept to cocktails in 24hrs, which city will you crown the World’s Best?

Tickets are £35 and entry includes access to the entire venue along with five cocktail tokens for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic serves created at 24Hr Bar Build. Additional tokens can be purchased at the event and food will also be available to purchase.

With a limited number of tickets available, visit www.billetto.co.uk/24hr-bar-build to secure your place and choose your city.

BUFFALO BOURBON EMPIRE, SHOREDITCH – 5th-11th October

Buffalo Bourbon Empire, 1 Kingsland Road , London, E2 8AA

LCW regulars Buffalo Trace Bourbon are back with their Empire pop-up!

With a selection of events through the week, check out their to-do list!

THE HOUSE OF ANGOSTURA, SHOREDITCH – 5th-11th October

Old Spitalfields Market, 16 Horner Square, Spitalfields, London, E1 6EW

Back at the Cocktail Village, Angostura have set up shop overlooking the Village – visit the exclusive pop-up house party with live DJ sets, delicious Angostura cocktails, and as with every good house party – people hanging out in the kitchen.

From their Angostura Aromatic Bitters – THE original bitters – to their delicious range of rums, Angostura is an essential part of any cocktail cabinet, and this year they are bringing the iconic brand to life with a house party to remember.

TOAST OF PARIS, HACKNEY – 8th October

Looking Glass Cocktail Club, 49 Hackney Rd, London, E2 7NX

Join Courvoisier for an evening of celebration as we transport you back to the excitement and decadence of the Paris Golden Age. Immerse yourself in the Belle Époque era and enjoy the cocktails, theatre and ‘joie de vivre’ from a time when Parisian culture was at the centre of the world.

Enjoy a free cocktail on arrival at The Looking Glass Cocktail Club and relax in the 19th century Parisian surroundings. When the evening entertainment begins, discover the secrets of traditional cognac cocktails with two leading London bartenders as they wow the crowd with a ‘magical’ demonstration accompanied by live music. With the show over, guests can relax in the ‘Midnight in Paris’ lounge with live music played throughout the evening.

ORIOLE POP-UP WITH 86 CO SPIRITS AND GIN MARE, SHOREDITCH – 6th-7th October

Bear Gallery, 8A Great Eastern St, London, EC2A 3NT

Award-winning Nightjar comes together with 86 Co Spirits and Gin Mare to preview their next venture – the Oriole, due to open its doors late November 2015!

Oriole Bar Manager Luca Cinalli will showcase four drinks inspired by 86 Co Spirits, Gin Mare and the journey the bar team has been on to create the exotic Oriole menu collection. Oriole is pleased to invite you to have the first tasting of this highly anticipated cocktail menu.

OCHO TEQUILA VINTAGE TASTING WITH TOMAS ESTES, SHOREDITCH – 8th October

Bear Gallery, 8A Great Eastern St, London, EC2A 3NT

With Agave spirits exploding in popularity this year, let Tomas Estes, Brand Owner of Ocho Tequila and Tequila Ambassador to Europe, take you through a tasting selection of vintage tequilas – who else would you trust with the job?

Guess it’s apt for 8 for your to-do list!

Check out Highball Hoodoo every morning of London Cocktail Week for more reviews of the LCW cocktail offerings, parties and events!

Get #YourDailyDoseOfHoodoo each morning from 5th to 11th October!

For more info on London Cocktail Week, check out their Website.

Cocktails in the City 2015 – Summer Edition, London

Jul30

For the second year in a row, Cocktails in the City came in for the weekend and swept the Hoodooist’s life into a tizzy. CitC’s Summer Edition brought 25 bars representing several spirit brands together under the sunny skies at Bedford Square Gardens where 2,000 Londoners came down over 2 days to try a whopping 7,724 cocktails!

Bars and a representing brand set up stalls where bartenders presented the brand in a cocktail of their devising to the public for judging, with scores gathered at the end of the weekend.

Here, we’re gonna look at the cocktails that impressed the Hoodooist most, as well as the best present stalls and experiences.

There was some serious competition this year for cocktails, and it was difficult to narrow it down, but the winners are certainly not a surprise, they’re fantastic bars as they are:

The Rev JW Simpson’s ‘Reverse Vesper’

The Reverend JW Simpson (Click HERE for Review!) presented 4 seperate cocktails, but their star was the Reverse Vesper : Lillet Blanc Vermouth, Belvedere Vodka, a touch of grapefruit and gin at a ratio of 6:2:1 of vodka:gin:vermouth.

With the smooth crispness of the vodka, expect a heavily juniper cocktail, smooth enough for the vermouth’s flavours to come through. At a guess, it may have been City of London Distillery Gin (More on COLD Here), with the sweet tang of grapefruit.

With an outdoor set up of their basement bar, the Rev brought out a comfy seating space under the sun, with a beautiful crystal stand, and a ‘Be a Martini’ multisensory experience that left you a bit stirred. With the wonderful Jim Wrigley and Joaquin Smith behind the bar, you can only expect the perfect Martini.

Fu Manchu Bar’s ‘The Deception of Fu Manchu’

Only a couple of months into their career and the Fu Manchu (Click HERE for Review) is already readying their new Winter menu – and CitC got a preview! Presenting The Deception of Fu Manchu : Rye whiskey, Campari, homemade Raspberry and Vanilla shrub, lemon, grenadine, topped with Tsingtao beer foam. Not sure what to expect, the cocktail sounded like it would be a bit all over the place, but surprised with it’s lively flavours.

The rye whiskey and Campari is exactly what the drink needed to balance the sweetness of the raspberry and vanilla shrub, and the beer foam has a powerful presence and effect of the palate of the cocktail (which, do not worry, tastes nothing like beer). The nose actually adds a refreshing tanginess to the experience, offsetting the raspberry and grenadine which manage the Campari, the rye whiskey maintaining a presence throughout the cocktail, ending neatly on the vanilla. If this is what their next menu will be like, I’m looking forward to it.

The stand itself may have been more suited to an indoor or nighttime event, with it’s deep reds and greens and golds. The host of ingredients were presented to the public alongside Tsingtao for those who’d rather have a beer, and customised fortune cookies containing a host of Fu Manchu vouchers, from a free cocktail to 20% off your bill! With their delightful barteam, this stall was another hit in the Hoodooist’s book.

Shrub and Shutter’s ‘Honey I Shrunk the Kids’

Brixton’s experimental Shrub and Shutter took the Whitley Neill Gin brand from last year’s PKD Bar (thankfully, nobody is ever in the mood for the PKD’s surprisingly racist menu and decor shenanigans) and presented the the Honey I Shrunk the Kids : Whitley Neill Gin, Zuidam Honey Whiskey, honey syrup, lemon, lavender bitters.

The Bedford Square Gardens were perfect for this drink. Lavender and lime break in first, strengthened by the scent from the lavender garnish, and soon settle in with the honey that pairs so wonderfully with the warmer botanicals of the Whitley Neill. Tart to sweet, with hints of floral.

Coq d’Argent’s ‘Far East’

The Far East by Coq d’Argent was probably the most snapped cocktail of the day: U’luvka Vodka with kaffir lime leaves and chilli, sochu with green tea, lemon, agave nectar, decorated with coloured spices and an edible flower. This cocktail deserves all the recognition it got.

First, under the floral canopies of the beautiful stand, the drink seemed perfectly designed for the ‘Summer Edition’ of CitC. The cocktail strutted in with a rosey tartness of the kaffir lime leaves in the crystal crisp U’luvka, with background heavy weight of the sochu, lightened by the green tea’s herbaceousness (and something else…coriander?), ending on a sweet note, with a lingering heat of the chilli infusion (more of a Tabasco heat) and dance of warm spice from the garnish.

If this isn’t on their menu, it ought to be.

Demon, Wise and Partner’s ‘Extra Aged Demon’

Recently opened City basement bar Demon, Wise and Partners swaggered in with their Extra Aged Demon : Evan Williams Extra Aged Whiskey, Chocolate Absinthe Liqueur, Demon, Wise and Partners Bitters. This cocktail just screams DWP, it is so reminiscent of their bar style, with focus on continental flavours less expressed here, bitter aniseed fascinations. Paired with cocoa dusted chocolate truffles, this bourbon muscles in with leather and brown sugar, accentuated by the chocolate, the absinthe liqueur kicking it down to size with some spice from the bitters. More of an indoor cocktail, but one we could relax with on the grass away from the crowd.

The Cocktail Trading Company’s ‘Blend It Like Peckham’

The Cocktail Trading Company (Click HERE for Review!), brought in the Blend It Like Peckham : Chambord, lemon sherbet, egg white, soda, milk. Served out of a slushie machine, the bright pink cocktail with it’s slurpy texture, obviously, had to be served in a shampoo bottle. Because why the hell not. The Major outdid themselves with a surprising drink, well balanced (even if you don’t have a sweet tooth) between the Chambord and lemon sherbet, and who knew how well soda and dairy work once put through a slushie machine?

Loves Company knows how to put a show

Meanwhile, Loves Company (Click HERE for Review!), governed by the excellent Harry Gerakis, brought the beach to London; complete with sand, deckchairs, limbo competitions, ice creams and espresso martinis – now that’s one hell of a stand.

It wasn’t just about the cocktails as each bar created its own particular experience, with an honorable mention going to Barrio Bars – runner up to Loves Company, who put on a silent disco as well as inviting guests to get crafty and decorate tiles that will soon adorn the walls of their new opening in Brixton.

And that’s a wrap! After such a successful Summer Edition, the question is, what will Cocktails in the City be creating for their next exciting installment? God knows I can’t wait till the next CitC.

http://www.cocktailsinthecity.co.uk

Dead Rabbit, New York, USA @ Callooh Callay

Jul10

After last week’s visit of Conrad Algarve’s Wilson Pires to London (Click HERE for Review!) – this week brings the team from famed, multi-award-winning bar Dead Rabbit NYC to London’s Callooh Callay! Bringing with them a selection of cocktails from their own absolutely massive menu.

Dead Rabbit’s Irish Coffee

Dead Rabbit’s Irish Coffee, or, “Irish coffee? How good can an Irish Cof-holy s******** this is amazing” served hot: Powers Signature Release Irish Whiskey, Demerara, Coffee, Fresh Cream, Nutmeg – I do not know what unholy forces put this together, but it’s brilliant. The Demerara layer after the first kick of full-bodied coffee really seals the deal, ending with the lingering warmth of whiskey. Brilliant.

Buck The Trend

The Buck the Trend brings Redbreast 15 year Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Usquebaugh Spice Blend, Meadowsweet Cordial, lemon, dandelion and burdock bitters together for a bright, floral, summer cocktail. The nose is full of honey, tropical fruits, citrus and floral notes, the palate is, well, for the lack of a better term, a ray of sunshine. Some of the Redbreast’s stewed fruits and toffee notes come through to add a depth to the sweet honeyed flavour of the meadowsweet cordial, and the zesty spices of the blend. Even the dandelion and burdock bitters play a part in securing that image of a summer field – perfect time of year for this cocktail.

Bán Voyages and Irish Coffee

The Bán Voyage swaggers in with a totally different flavour profile. Nicknamed a ‘Whiskey Negroni’ at our table, it’s an exquisitely complex and sophisticated drink to sit back with – Yellow Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Cocchi Americano, Bán Poitin, Luxardo Sangue Morlacco, St. Germain, Amer Picon, Dead Rabbit Orinoco bitters, Absinthe.

The whiskey’s nose is most prominent, Yellow Spot’s stone fruits, a certain sherry-ness (probably enhanced by the Morlacco), but dry notes come through as well (possibly the Amer Picon and vermouth). The palate is smooth and long, the sweetness of marzipan accompanies the otherwise dry flavours. The tartness of the Morlacco brings the cherry flavours, but needs the Picon, Cocchi and Absinthe to temper its otherwise unholy sweetness. The Absinthe itself isn’t potent, but seems to play more as a cleansing aniseed right toward the end, like an afterthought.

Strangely, the Hoodooist felt the Orinoco’s flavours the strongest: the heat-ridden bark spices from sandalwood to cinnamon, to raisins and bitter orange peels. A beautifully complex cocktail to ponder over.

Ace King Jack

After that winner, the Ace King Jack kinda paled in comparison: Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Calvados, Amer Picon, Yellow Chartreuse, Beetroot, lemon. It was difficult to get much out of this besides the overbearing sweetness of the beetroot paired with Calvados. Some of the herby notes of the whiskey came through, but I suppose one needs the sweeter drinks on the menu as well, but it felt one-dimensional. Similar to the Asylum Seeker (Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey, Old Forester Bourbon, lime, coffee, chicory, pecan, absinthe), which may have been a slip of the hand, since at the table, it was difficult to taste much more than the absinthe.

The Asylum Seeker

The Blackbirds is a very simple cocktail that accomplishes the job of quenching thirst in its simplicity: Jameson Original Irish Whiskey, Orange sherbet, Bergamot, Fever Tree soda. The bergamot, being such a fragile flavour, plays a much more subtly part in the entire cocktail, but you really need a patio for this drink. Easy to make at home for those heatwaves too.

L-R: Blackbirds, Jimmy the Red

Finally, the Jay and Silent Bob – love this: Power John’s Lane Release Irish Whiskey, Crème de Framboise, Ancho Chilli, Cocchi Torino, Jerry Thomas Decant bitters. Bitter, but not too bitter; sweet, but not too sweet. Dry, but still with a sweet vermouth roundedness (probably from the sherry casks the whiskey was aged in) – striking a balance, probably that’s why the name. The strawberry and chilli are not powerful flavours here, but play their part in tempering the cocktail. The Cocchi and whiskey work together wonderfully to make an aperitif to be proud of. Fruits, orange, cherries, balanced alongside vanilla, chocolate, raisins – finally ending with something cool, like menthol? Clean, cutting. Love.

Jay And Silent Bob

Dead Rabbit really knows how to put on a show. Coming down to Callooh Callay in London, they brought a taste of the cocktail scene in NYC, highlighting the distinct similarities and differences in the industry half a world apart, and of course, bringing their spectacular skill with them. If ever in NYC, you’d be mistaken to not visit.

Drinks: ****
Atmosphere: ****
Service: ****

Dead Rabbit NYC

30 Water Street,
near Broad Street, New York City
New York, USA.

http://www.deadrabbitnyc.com/

Grown-Ups @ Black Vanilla, Greenwich

Jun15

Type of Bar: Gelato, Sorbet
Damage: £
Ideal For: Date, Small Groups

Anyone who’s been down to Greenwich Market has seen the queues into the gelateria on College Approach, and with the coming of summer, Black Vanilla has expanded their offerings into the cocktail world!
Readers will recognise Black Vanilla from the Hoodooist’s Guide to Greenwich (Click HERE!)

In partnership with World of Zing’s world food emporium (you might remember their flavoured salts at El Nivel: Click HERE!), the upstairs at Black Vanilla is officially for #GrownUps! Painstakingly chosen summery sorbets are paired alongside Zing’s ready-to-drink bottled cocktails.

Perched on a high-winged armchair beside the fireplace, under crystal chandelier overlooking Greenwich, a sorbet and cocktail pairing come at about 7.50-8.50 GBP on Fridays-Sundays, till a glorious 11PM.

Persian Lime & Nori Seaweed Margarita, with Kiwi Sorbetto

The first round brings in a Persian Lime & Nori Seaweed Margarita, paired with a Kiwi Sorbetto: Ocho Blanco and Reposado tequila mixed in with agave syrup for a Tommy’s Margarita, then World of Zing’s Dried Persian Lime and Nori Seaweed infusion added in. The Persian lime seems to heighten the citrus notes of the Margarita, with a fairly powerful bite, blending well the light saltiness of the Nori. When paired with a lightly textured kiwi, the sweetness of the sorbetto is highlighted wonderfully.

Bordeaux Barrel Aged Negroni, with Sicilian Lemon Sorbetto

Probably the Hoodooist’s favourite: the award winning Bordeaux Barrel Aged Negroni brings Tanqueray Export Strength to Gancia Rosso Vermouth, Campari and Zing Bespoke Serenity Bitters. It’s good to see Gancia Rosso being used, it doesn’t make much of an appearance in many bars these days. The aromatic Gancia comes through well in the Negroni as the aging allows the vermouth to mature, powering past the strong flavours of the Campari. When paired with the spectacularly refreshing and lively Sicilian Lemon Sorbetto, you get a confident, and certainly Grown Up, couple.

Steel Aged Manhattan, with Black Cherry Sorbetto

Now this one was interesting, the Steel Aged Manhattan: Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Gancia Rosso Vermouth, Zing Bespoke Anaesthetic Brandy & Zing Bespoke Euphoric Bitters. You will want to be specific about your garnish! Using either a fresh or a maraschino cherry can alter the flavour of your drink entirely.

When served with a fresh cherry, expect to have the vermouth and brandy take centre stage, with the woody roundedness heightened. When served with a maraschino cherry, the mineral and biting Bulleit Rye will make itself known – and these are from the same bottle!

A classic rye Manhattan, paired with a supremely creamy Black Cherry Sorbetto, powerfully sweet to take the edge off the Manhattan.

Blackberry & Tamarind Rum Punch, with Mango Sorbetto

Finally, the Blackberry and Tamarind Rum Punch is a truly unique combo. The rum is softened with blackberries, then married with the tangy flavours of tamarind, with a touch of honey and chamomile water to provide a smooth, sweet cocktail to pair with the rich Mango Sorbetto.

Barrel Aged Negroni Sorbet!

Finally, a surprise visit from a cocktail and sorbet in one! The Barrel Aged Negroni Sorbet is a double whammy at a whopping 6% ABV, and communicates the Negroni wonderfully, tinted pink with hibiscus.

A fun, unique, and frankly, invaluable, addition to Greenwich, Grown Ups took an already excellent gelato bar and presented us with something fantastic. Here’s to hoping Grown Ups has found a permanent residence at Black Vanilla.

Kudos to both Black Vanilla and World of Zing for little something for the grownups to enjoy!

Drinks: ****
Atmosphere: ***
Service: ****

http://www.black-vanilla.com/

http://www.worldofzing.com/

Best Bar Launches of 2014!

Jan2

Happy New Year, all! (And Happy Bloody Mary day to readers!)

Welcome to 2015, doubtless another exciting year for the cocktail industry – but what about 2014?

2014 could be summarised by Art Deco design, rum, fat/butter-washing, aged cocktails and a steady return to shorter, more classical drinks – the Hoodooist can’t complain.

As for launches, man – 2014 was huge for those. Some bars that have opened quietly over the past couple of months but haven’t had an ‘official’ launch yet, or are not taking reservations yet are excluded from today’s article till their official launches in January 2015.

So let’s have a quick recap of some of the most exciting launches of 2014!

Click names for links to full reviews!

1. Agaveria El Nivel

Agaveria El Nivel, above Covent Garden’s La Perla burst onto the scene as *the* spot in London to explore tequila and mezcal. And with good reason – the expertly concocted cocktail list, alongside their Mexican food menu is exquisite. And their stock behind the bar reaches far and wide, even hosting some rarely seen tequilas outside Mexico, like Fortaleza. Not to mention their Sunday Sociedad Agaveria, where drinkers get opportunities to try out both newly released and imported agave spirits in an intimate atmosphere with knowledgable bartenders.

El Nivel, hosted by the Estes brothers, became the unofficial spokesperson for agave drinks, even hosting the Tequila Fest Press Preview (Click HERE for article!), working alongside the Mexican Embassy – all this playing a major part in tequila and mezcal being the drinks of 2015.

Must Try: The Mezcal Fix.

2. Bar Termini

The Marsala Martini

It’s no secret that the Hoodooist is a major fan of Tony Conigliaro, and Tony’s new cafe and aperitivo bar in Soho enamours the Hoodooist as much as his other work.

Bar Termini channels a retro Italian sophistication, and makes the perfect spot to catch up or relax with a book on a quieter day. With an excellent selection of Negronis and some off the wall drinks like the Terroir, Bar Termini is a priceless addition to the Soho bar scene (and much needed to reinvigorate it).

Must Try: The Terroir.

3. The Bermondsey Arts Club

The Hit and Mist

The South East needed a serious kick in the cocktail department, and luckily, 2014 saw a surge in cocktail bars in the London Bridge/Bermondsey area.

The Bermondsey Arts Club appeared mid-2014 in an unused public convenience in Bermondsey, now a sexy Art Deco jazz den.

When it first opened, the Hoodooist must admit the menu was not particularly impressive, but the new menu launched December 2014 hits all the right spots, and is easily one of the strongest menus launched in London this year. Major props to bartenders Milo, Jake and Adam who composed this brilliant menu.

Must Try: The Phra Phum.

4. City Social

Yes, Gareth Evans was back at the next Atherton venture in City’s Tower 42.

This black and gold Art Deco bar, overlooking London from the 24th floor, is one of the few high-rise bars the Hoodooist enjoys. House cocktails are typically Gareth Evans, quirky and puntastic, and tend to sweet or citrus – but there will be stronger and more bitter choices too. And do order classics here, their Martinez and Old Fashioneds are absolutely incredible.

City Social blows other high-rise bars out of the water.

Must Try: The Social Surgery.

5. PortSide Parlour

Though the pop-up PortSide Parlour at Broadway Market had finally come to an end, it re-launched on Shoreditch’s Rivington Street (a.k.a., Cocktail Highway).

Keeping it’s focus on rum, the PP took a step in offering drinkers a tapas side for an extra pound with every round, which is incredibly handy when bar crawling in the area. With masterful knowledge of the rums they dispense, the cocktails at PortSide Parlour appreciate a wide range of style from short and smoky, to tall and sweet.

Must Try: The Word of God.

Honourable Mention:

Mission

Three Sip Martini

Mission, as an Italian restaurant and California wine bar, don’t pay as much attention to cocktails, but their aperitivos are incredibly well made. From their Sazerac to very short Three Sip Martini, you can always make sure you enjoy a great drink before assaulting their wine list and spectacular food offering.

A Bethnal Green necessity.

Must Try: Rum Old Fashioned.

So what do we have to look forward to in 2015 , readers?

Well for one, January will have the official launches of some excellent bars not mentioned here today (watch this space, the first review of 2015 will be one of these!).

We know one thing, tequila and mezcal scenes in London will become huge, so be prepared to ditch the amateur salt and lime for some agave realness.

Blood orange is in style folks, and I doubt beetroot is going anywhere either, the savoury-sour-sweetness is probably going to be the flavours we expect to see the most. As for technique? Cocktails will probably see a lot more experimentation in texture, pressurising and molecular infusing.

This is an exciting year, readers!

And that’s all folks! I hope 2014 has been as exciting for you as it has been for the Hoodooist – There is no greater tragedy than an empty cup, so don’t let your New Year’s Day hangover slow you down!

With all that London has to offer, you don’t really have time to slow down.

Happy New Year, all!

Alexander and James, ‘Mixologist at Home’

Dec6

When Shreena Soomarah of ‘Anastrophe and Cheese’ invited me to a cocktail evening hosted by Alexander & James Spirits introducing their ‘Mixologist at Home’ bartending service, needless to say, my ears perked. I’ve turned to A&J before for procuring last minute gifts and they’ve certainly always satisfied – and who was I to turn down drinks on a Monday night?

Events so had it that I found myself knocking at the door of a private home in the back-streets behind City Road. Being the early bird that I am, I spent initial time I had before mingling with the other guests to observe the impeccably crafted minimalist loft and sneak in a conversation with the man behind the bar. Now, I did feel a bit guilty for a moment as James Fowler (owner of The Library Bar and The Larder House of Bournemouth, and finalist of the World Class UK Bartender of the Year 2013) glanced up attempting conversation while frenetically setting up the beginnings to his first cocktail – but still managed to hold his cool while guests got up close snapping pictures of the make-shift bar because there is no such thing as too-early-a-tweet. My excuse was having a good look at the spirits. Fantastic quality all-around, Tanqueray No.10, Zacapa 23, Ketel One – I was pleased. And not a Passoa or Grenadine bottle in sight, thank the stars.

I was cautious mingling at first (most of the guests seemed so as well), but the hosts of the event were wonderfully courteous in helping the crowd interact. Initially I was met with the same questions: “Are you a blogger?”
To which I could only reply, awkwardly, “A PhD researcher. But if it’s any consolation, I can sniff out all the bars in a 3 mile radius.”

Down the hatch

Now, I had a quick look at the list of six cocktails (classics, can’t go wrong with them) that will were to be swilled that evening, but the contents of said list hadn’t quite sunk in until the first drink was being passed around to the guests.
A Vesper Martini.

Eyes widened around the room as it seems it wasn’t just myself who realised the strength of the six on the menu until just now – considering we had under two hours for the event. Or as the suavely sartorial gentleman beside me muttered, “This will not end well.”

Now, I do love my gin Martinis – preferably with Sacred or No.3 – but a Vesper holds a special place in my heart as the first of the Martini family I drank as a teenager, and a drink that ignited my passion for cocktails. Cheeky, starting off with a Vesper, but smooth – almost too smooth. I queried James about it and he admitted that he had altered the concoction to make it easier to down, considering the rest of the menu. I am not entirely sure how I feel about that decision. Brilliant and thoughtful, certainly – but simultaneously not staying true to the drink. I also noticed that menu booklet stated making the drink with Kina Lillet. Which would make sense if it was 1985 – but Kina has since been reformulated and rebranded as the much loved Lillet Blanc for a ‘modern taste’. Now unless A&J went in doctoring their Lillet Blanc with quinine, it’s probably best to stick with the brand’s current name.

Nonetheless, this ‘novice’ Vesper danced its way too easily to the Gimlet.News spread around the room (not entirely how true this was, but was entirely believable) that the Gimlet recipe was altered as well, to Gin/Lime : 50/50 (instead of the gin being twice the amount of lime juice). Again, probably for the best considering the intensity of the night’s drinks. Smooth, sneaky, seductive – a spectacularly well made Gimlet.

Onto the third drink, the night noticably took a different air – the crowd blended in whirling circles, the talk was louder, the swearing increasingly vulgar – the Margarita certainly came in with a flourish as she should. Simple, and staying true to its roots. Nothing like a drink reclaiming its ground after being bastardised by amateur bartenders through the years.

Things begin to get blurry as an Old Fashioned is thrust into my hand. I hear a glass shatter on the other side of the room. I give the glass a quick look-over – I was waiting for this one. Bulleit Bourbon was the one spirit on today’s menu I hadn’t sampled before and I was excited to get to know it better. My taste for whiskey is young and developing, and this high rye content bourbon was hitting the spot. I was thoroughly impressed by James’ work with this Old Fashioned, but couldn’t envy the amount of work that went into preparing the immense number of them that would have to be made for an entire party in such a short amount of time. Here his skills really made themselves evident as a finalist for the WC-UK Bartender of the Year.

A voice calls out from the crowd announcing that in 15 minutes we will have to make our way. A horrifying realisation that we haven’t sampled the last two drinks leads a charge to the bar – James is running out of tumblers as he makes a makeshift Negroni in a cocktail glass. We grab a shaky hold of the glass as I query about the final drink.
“But I haven’t even opened the rum yet!”
“If I said you were really attractive, would you?”
“…”
“…”
“OKAY BUT THIS WILL BE HURRIED”

And that’s how a group of sartorialists, foodies, cocktail enthusiasts and PR consultants found themselves double-fisting a Negroni and Daiquiri in the space of 10 minutes.

Regardless of the state we were finding ourselves in, two of us did stop to wonder what had happened with the Negroni. No doubt it was still a fine drink, but was a tad too sweet for a Negroni. We hadn’t much time to contemplate the tipple as the Daiquiri took centre stage. There wasn’t time to set up a sugar syrup and rim station, so the Daiquiri had to go without – not that we were complaining. It did its job as a delightfully tart cocktail whose bitters balanced the sweetness of the sugar and Zacapa 23 Rum perfectly – again, James’ ability to work under pressure was commendable and really showcased his skill.

James Fowler working on the Vespers

On being ushered out, we were handed goodie bags containing a wonderfully crafted cocktail glass, twisted mixing spoon, measure and miniature packed in Alexander & James’ signature cases; and the hosts were gracious enough to grant a second case of goods for my friend who could not make the night.

All in all, the night was outstanding, except for a couple of gripes.

For one, I thought it was odd that we’d be given a small batch of canapés that would be eliminated whilst on the first drink – considering that we would meet a barrage of aperitifs after. No doubt, the menu was crafted to display the bartender’s skill in the immortal classics – but the food and cocktail pairing with their timing was not spectacular. This would be less of a problem if there was a dinner after, but City Road doesn’t offer much at that time of night.

The second is less of a complaint, and more of a peeve –the branding “Mixologist at Home”. Mixology is a term that has existed in the world of bartending since the 40s, but has gained immense popularity recently. Except rather than suggesting innovation, is being thrown around left and right and now is slowly being equated with “person who makes Minestrones in a cocktail shaker”. Coupled with the fact that we drank purely classics, the term seemed a bit out of place – but like I said it’s a peeve, and I would not be surprised if you chose to disagree with me.

Stumbling our way to nearest station, one of the guests I got to know moans “I can’t believe I have to be awake at 8AM after this.”
Which is why I decided to cancel everything for tomorrow.
“Why, what did you have to do?”
I’m a PhD researcher. I’d probably have a hangover anyway.

Highball Hoodoo

London, Cocktails, you know the drill

Tag Archives: Cocktails

Day THREE: Mayfair March!

Day TWO: Shoreditch Slam!

Day ONE: The Cocktail Village is Here!

London Cocktail Week Preview: Buffalo Bourbon Empire!

Your London Cocktail Week 2015 Guide!

Cocktails in the City 2015 – Summer Edition, London

Dead Rabbit, New York, USA @ Callooh Callay

Grown-Ups @ Black Vanilla, Greenwich

Best Bar Launches of 2014!

Alexander and James, ‘Mixologist at Home’