Drink it all in: The Best of London Cocktail WeekBy Alicia Grimshaw
In its sixth year, London Cocktail Week is back with heaps of events, masterclasses and new menus in store. Over 250 bars are participating in the week long celebrations and we’ve found the best events you should be visiting:
1. For Choice: The World Class London Cocktail Week Hub
What: For the first time ever, World Class (they’re the chaps behind the ultimate luxury drinks experiences using the finest spirits) are hosting cocktail lovers in the West End throughout the week long celebrations as the official heart of London Cocktail Week. Providing a bigger, better and more incredible destination point for festival-goers, the world’s biggest cocktail event is back with a bang and it’s better than ever.
Why: Comprising of several different experiences, the amazing World Class London Cocktail Week Hub literally has everything, from the curious newcomer to seasoned cocktail lovers alike, everything is curated to celebrate the craft of the cocktail. From The World Class Bar to the Tanqueray Art Deco Bar and the Haig Club Dining Room – there’s shed loads going on here and not to be missed.
When: 5th-11th October
Where: 51 Poland Street, London W1 7LZ
LCW wristbands cost £10 and are available now here
What: Premium hand-crafted bourbon Maker’s Mark is getting in the spirit (quite literally) by hosting a series of exclusive masterclasses at Modern American Steak House, MASH.
Why: Guests will have the chance to experience a taste of Kentucky with these pretty snazzy masterclasses fit for both the bourbon connoisseurs, new experimental cocktail explorers and those who just like to drink the stuff. Mixologist from The Mixxit Team, Amanda Humphrey, will unveil the secrets of the original hand-crafted bourbon and demonstrate how to make the perfect bourbon cocktail.
When: Monday 5th October – timings: 6:00pm – 7:00pm/ 7:30pm – 8:30pm/ 9:00pm – 10:00pm
Where: 77 Brewer St, London W1F 9ZN
Tickets here
3. For Another Masterclass: Drambuie Brass and Crimson Pop-Up
What: ‘SMITHS’, Spitalfields have partnered with Drambuie to bring cocktail lovers a taste of all things liquor with the Drambuie Brass and Crimson pop up. Throughout the week, cocktail fans will be able to take part in exclusive ‘From New York to London via Scotland’ masterclasses hosted by Global Drambuie Ambassador, Freddy May and Dev Johnson, from New York’s legendary Employees Only.
Why: During these intimate sessions, Dev will give his unique insight into the New York bar scene, offering tips on the best, little known bartender haunts to visit in New York – providing an insider commentary on the local scene. Guests will also learn how to make the classic Rusty Nail, plus two of the latest new cocktails being sipped in the bars and backrooms of NYC.
When: Wednesday 7th October – 6.30pm-7.30pm, Thursday 8th October – 6pm–7pm and Friday 09 October – 6.30pm-7.30pm
Where: Basement Floor, 109 Commercial St, London E1 6BG
Tickets here
4. For a Make-Your-Own: Chivas Regal
What: Ever wanted to make your own blend of Chivas Regal? Well now is your chance. Chivas Regal have been carefully selecting and blending whiskies since 1801 and they’ve decided to share their knowledge at a specially curated event where you will get an insight into the skill of a master blender.
Why: The hour long masterclasses will take you on a Chivas Regal journey explaining about all the many different aged malt and Scotch Whiskies as well as giving you the chance to make your own special blend to take away with you.
When: 5th – 11th October
Where: Chivas Stand, Old Spitalfields Market, 16, Horner Square, London, E1 6EW
Tickets here
5. For a New Menu: The Art of the Old Fashioned
What: Craft bourbon Woodford Reserve have got into the swing of London Cocktail Week by creating The Art of the Old Fashioned, a one-of-a-kind bar celebrating the classic American cocktail. The bar will offer an exclusive opportunity to sample a menu collaborated upon internationally, with bartenders from across the world showcasing their finest Old Fashioned. The bar is also running immersive masterclasses deconstructing the Old Fashioned.
Why: The unique and interactive masterclass focuses on the craft of mixology with all Old Fashioned fans given the chance to create their own unique recipe under the guidance of the brand ambassador. Don’t think you’re leaving empty handed, all attendees will leave with a bottled Old Fashioned along with the recipe card, allowing you to recreate the drink at home.
When: 6th to 9th October 2015 – from 6pm to 11pm each evening
Where: 347 Old Street, London, EC1V 9LP
Tickets here
