Undoubtedly one could classify vodka as a ‘beginner’s spirit’, reserved for the days of underage drinking- but the versatility alone should give us pause to reconsider what this ‘spirit without distinctive character, aroma or taste’ can bring to the table.
“It was not only until after Prohibition that Scotch whisky surpassed Irish whiskey sales. Since Irish whiskey was more popular, and considered by many to be better in quality to Scotch whisky, many American distillers tried to associate their products with Irish whiskey and therefore adopted the Irish spelling of whiskey.”
“Each of them would then get a small taste of what we would internally call ‘love’. A small welcome drink that was thoughtful, delicious and unique to us. Our go-to was a little elegant shot glass of white port and elderflower tonic with a frozen grape…”
“If I could have a drink with someone (alive or dead) It would be Harry Craddock. The first cocktail book I read was his ‘Savoy Cocktail Book’ and I have looked up to him ever since. I relate to him quite often, as he too was a Hotel Bartender.”
“Sadly, The Bowery mixed its last cocktail on January 26, 2020 but will never be forgotten. Stephanie Canfell and Cam Birt’s baby came to life back in late 2003 and would become one of the most important bars not just for Brisbane’s drinking scene but Australia’s as well.” – Dan Gregory
Melbourne is now home to the largest licensed venue its CBD has ever seen. This ‘supervenue’ known as Ballers Clubhouse spans 2500sqm and is a bar, eatery, social club, and games hub in one.
“I love the bar industry. Honestly I’ve just gotten to meet some really fantastic people and everyone I’ve worked with have been phenomenal. I met a lot of people that are now a big part of my life from a variety of different backgrounds. I love that.” Jacob North, Burrow Bar
Local Manly operator Matt Clifton says: “Market Lane Live is our way of showing support to those hardest hit, by invigorating our streets and inviting visitors back to Manly to enjoy what we have all missed; good food, local tipples, and some great local music”.
GUM is a brand new ‘tiny pub’ on Collingwood’s main drag on Johnston Street, serving up ice cold draught beer, hot pies and nostalgic 1970s style cocktails in a swish 70s themed small bar environment.
Sydney Hospitality group Applejack has reopened the iconic Forrester’s pub in Surry Hills following an extensive $1.5 million renovation. There are now three drinking and dining spaces – Phylli’s restaurant, a public bar and an upstairs entertainment and dining space.
In Simonson’s own words: “One ingredient, you’ve got a nice dram. Two, you’ve got a highball. Get three things to marry together, you’ve likely got a cocktail on your hands. More than three and you’ve got a more complicated cocktail, not necessarily a better one.”
If you were sceptical about crowd-funding, then this bar is all the evidence you need that it actually works, claiming the title of Australia’s first crowd-funded bar. Lucky Chan’s in Northbridge is a multi-level eatery serving up delicious ramen, baos, dumplings and more.