These Whiskey Bars Feature The Most Expansive Collections – And Even Some Rare Finds!

Whiskey lovers, this one’s just for you!

The stereotype of whiskey being only a gentleman’s drink is long gone. From the casual drinker to the zealous malt connoisseur, there are enough varieties of whiskey to satisfy everyone.

We give you the top 7 places in Singapore for the best whiskey drinking experience!

1. The Auld Alliance

One of the largest whiskey selections in the world (not just Singapore!), The Auld Alliance, carries over 1,500 whiskies, impressively stocking scotches from every distillery in Scotland.

Their dark timber furnishings and distinguished leather couches, together with towering shelves where the bar’s spirits are displayed, give the place an old world charm.

[caption id="attachment_24120" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]auld alliance Image Credit:
Address:  9 Bras Basah Road #02-02A, Rendezvous Hotel, Singapore 189559
Contact no.: 6337 2201 (phone calls only); 9670 0612 (texts only)
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, 5pm – 1am; Fri – Sat, 5pm – 2am; Sun, 5pm – 12am
Website

2. Highlander

With 2 locations now, Highlander carries a vast selections of over 200 whiskies from different regions in Scotland. They offer the finest labels from the Speyside to Islay regions, as well as international whiskies such as Australian, Canadian, Irish, American, and Japanese whiskey.

[caption id="attachment_24817" align="alignnone" width="1960"] Image Credit: 3. Fine Spirits by La Maison du Whisky

One of the largest whiskey distributors in the world, La Maison du Whisky’s first store was opened in Paris in 1968. Fine Spirits is their 3rd outlet in the world (the 2nd is in Madagascar), bringing the same rare and collectible products to our shores.

[caption id="attachment_24816" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image Credit: Mike Trent[/caption]

By day, they are a dedicated whiskey retailer, and by night, they transform into a swanky bar!

Their selection is outstanding with over 400 varieties of light and dark spirits by the glass, and this extends to their cocktail making too, guaranteeing you a delicious drink whatever you choose.

And if you’re interested in taking home a whole bottle, knock yourself out and choose from 700 varieties of whiskies!

La Maison du Whisky
Address: The Pier @ Robertson Quay, 80 Mohamed Sultan Road #01-10, Singapore 239013
Contact no.: 6733 0059
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, 6pm – 12am; Fri – Sat, 6pm – 1am; Sun, 6pm – 9pm
Website

4. Urban Saloon

Urban Saloon is Singapore’s modern take on the classic western saloon. A one-stop drinking and dining destination, Urban Saloon is a bar and restaurant at the Red Dot Traffic Building promising the “ultimate bourbon whisky experience”.

[caption id="attachment_24125" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]urban saloon Image Credit: Website

5. The Flagship

Self-proclaimed ‘Home of the Old Fashioned’, The Flagship is a whiskey-centric bar that takes its inspiration from 1960s American dive bars. From whiskey fanatics to first-timers, there’s something for everyone here!

[caption id="attachment_24126" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]the flagship Image Credit: Website

6. The WoW

WoW, also known as World of Whisky, certainly lives up to its name! While not necessarily the largest selection in Singapore, they offer well over 200 varieties, the majority of which are unique and of single cask or cask strength bottling, allowing for plenty of exploration.

[caption id="attachment_24127" align="aligncenter" width="800"]wow bar Image Credit:  6818 3305
Opening hours: Daily, 5pm – 11pm
bowl that is a Scottish Gaelic symbol of welcome and friendship. After 9 years of being ‘Singapore’s Leading Single Malt Whisky & Cigar Bar’ at Waterfront Plaza, Quaich Bar opened a second outlet in 2015!

[caption id="attachment_24128" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]quaich bar Image Credit: 5 Best Craft Beer Bars For True Blue Beer Lovers In Singapore

(Top Image Credit:

The Balvenie x James Stroud Partnership Is A Shining Light For Craftsmen Worldwide

The Balvenie is the world’s most handcrafted single malt. And they have been handcrafting it the traditional way for a long time in their Spreyside distillery.

Today, they’re renowned and have won multiple awards for their malt whiskies.

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As testament to their commitment to and support of traditional craftsmanship, they have gone on a journey to find other craftsmen worldwide, assisting them with a bursary fund titled

In search of craftsmen dedicated to their craft

Heard of The Balvenie but can’t quite put your finger as to where?

Well then, you might have seen the videos on Youtube with Anthony Bourdain titled raw craft.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKgg38lQ_1k&list=PLdg0QhLNc29XuXmmv5Vu__bfNUeZI76ve

In the videos, he goes all over America in search of craftsmen, true to The Balvenie tradition.

James Stroud x The Balvenie

Similarly, The Balvenie has partnered with worldly acclaimed photographer, unspecified-4

After spending time with the people at the distillery and hearing their stories, Stroud was inspired by their dedication to their work. Hence, he chose their one-of-a-kind Spreyside distillery as his subject.

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Succession

“I became fascinated by the fact that one human started a process that would be finished by another, years down the line.”

Stroud termed his art exhibition, succession, and focused on a theme, Time.

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 “I was surrounded by flaking paint and weather-battered equipment in a place of tangible ageing, where everything and everyone was maturing and getting better with time. My aim was to capture the sense that everything improves with age, just like a barrel of whisky.”

The process and result

Taking a year to assemble, the project was completed using a multitude of photography techniques, both old and new.

In the end, the collection features 11-unique pieces. These pieces showcase the spirit of craftsmanship at The Balvenie distillery in Dufftown, Scotland.

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The exhibition was held in Singapore just recently.

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Each image is broken up into grid systems and framed using wood from a 150-year-old American Church.

The result?

Absolutely stunning images that showcase the brand’s famed distillery coupled with a touch of pure craftsmanship.

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Furthermore, Neil Strachan, regional brand ambassador for The Balvenie in Southeast Asia, elaborated,

“Many of our craftsman have been at the distillery their entire working lives and we are the only location still using all the five rare crafts of whisky making by hand, so James’ concept of time reflects our practices and ethos perfectly. The collection is astonishingly beautiful and wholly unique.”

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Our Thoughts

The exhibition, succession, was hauntingly beautiful. Particularly, we loved how you could visibly see the ageing processes that feature so strongly in the 11 pieces.

Now, more so than ever, the commitment that The Balvenie has towards craftsmanship is admirable.

With technology steadily taking the human elements out of businesses, we are still offered some hope that craftsmen like James Stroud and ardent supporters like The Balvenie are still around. Trust us, we are all the better for it.

The Balvenie
Website | Facebook
For more information about The Balvenie Commission, click New Hangout Spot, Chip Bee Gardens, Is Where All The Cool Things Are

Singapore’s Largest Wine & Whisky Event Is Back With 100+ Free Tastings!

Wine & Whisky Week, Singapore’s largest wine & whisky event presented by 1855 The Bottle Shop, is back by popular demand.

Following the successful debut of the Wine & Whisky Week in July this year, the second installation will be held from 8th t0 13th November.

[caption id="attachment_17875" align="alignnone" width="2048"]Six days to discover over 500 wine and whisky labels Six days to discover over 500 wine and whisky labels[/caption]

Located at Suntec City Tower 4 East Atrium Level 1, the event will be hosted by 1855 The Bottle Shop. 

The brand was awarded ‘Singapore Wine Retailer of the Year’ at the World Gourmet Summit Awards earlier in the year. This speaks volumes about their reputation as the go to place for wine enthusiasts.

What’s So Special About Wine & Whisky Week?

With more than 500 labels by over 200 producers, we are pretty sure you’ll be able to find something that suits your wine and whisky preferences.

1855 The Bottle Shop organised Wine & Whisky Week to cater to everyone, whether connoisseurs or amateurs, through diverse brand offerings at great value.

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When asked about the motivations behind such a quick successive event, Mr. Sng, CEO of 1855 The Bottle Shop stated,

“With the second edition of WWW, we are committed to up the ante in terms of customer experience and deliver yet again an exceptional portfolio of international products. It is crystal clear to us that wine and whisky consumers crossover and we want to offer them a platform where they can elevate that discernment.”

What Other Activities Can We Engage In Wine & Whisky Week?

The Wine & Whisky Week is open to public and will be free to attend.

You can take part in tastings of renowned wine and whiskies (100+ tastings available) and receive educational experiences by wine connoisseurs.

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Moreover, you can look forward to attractive discounts of up to 50% on the labels. These include sought after wines from renowned vineyards and rare whiskies from notable distilleries.

Highlights include Karuizawa 12, the sadly discontinued Japanese Whisky, Big Peat Christmas 2016, an “All Islay”, Cask Strength Limited Edition and Champagne Henriot Brut Souverain (Non-Vintage).

There’s More!

Customers with a minimum spending of $500 will be entitled to an exclusive 1855 Neoprene Wine Bottle Tote Bag.

The first two customers who spend S$8,000 in a single receipt will walk away with a Vintec V30SGME wine fridge – valued at $958 each.

Attractive prizes will also be up for grabs during the period of 8 to 13 November 2016.

Prizes include Chateau Pichon Longueville 2011 (worth S$180), Macallan Edition 2 (worth S$150), Nikka From The Barrel (worth S$90) and Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut (worth S$80).

What Are You Waiting For?

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1855 The Bottle Shop Wine & Whisky Week 
Date: 8 November to 13 November 2016.
Time: 8 November, Tue (11am-5pm); 9 – 13 November, Wed – Sun (11am-10pm)
Address: Suntec City, Tower 4 East Atrium, Level 1.

The Wine & Whisky Week is a free admission event

Also, read Wind Down Your Week – 6 Whisky Bars All Whisky Lovers Must Visit

Wind Down Your Week – 6 Whisky Bars All Whisky Lovers Must Visit

Imagine a long day at work rushing though deadlines and submissions, attending meetings in and out, all you need to wind down the work week is a glass of whisky. With whiskies becoming more popular, everyone wants to try out unique whiskies, from Scotch to Japanese to American and even Australian and Indian.

Whether you are a casual drinker or a zealous whisky lover, here’s our list of recommended whisky bars you must visit.

1. B28

[caption id="attachment_9576" align="alignnone" width="1024"]B28 Image credit: sgwhisky[/caption]

This bar is one of Singapore’s best kept secrets. Located in the basement of The Club along Ann Siang Road, B28 offers a bespoke selection of more than 200 different Scottish Single Malts. With live jazz performances ($15/person) from Thursdays to Saturdays, the ambience is more than perfect.

Aside from their huge whiskey selection, they have great cocktails mixed by their resident mixologist too. As the bar is small and intimate, do get there before 10pm for a good seat. Otherwise, simply make your reservations Basement No. 28, Ann Siang Road, The Club Hotel, Singapore 069708
Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed 6pm-12am, Thu 6pm-1am, Fri-Sat 6pm-2am, Closed on Sundays 

2. The Auld Alliance

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theAuldAlliance Image credit: The Auld Alliance Facebook page[/caption]

Known to have the largest collection of whiskies in Southeast Asia, The Auld Alliance has a comprehensive selection of over 1400 whiskies available for purchase with whiskies from every distillery in Scotland available. For those looking for an introduction, the bar has entry level whiskies from bigger distilleries like Talisker, Balvenie, The Glenlivet, Springbank and many others. There are also tasting sets to introduce you to different whiskies, so you can find your favourite.

If you’re not looking for whiskies, there is a fine selection of other Absinthes and cocktails available. So the next time you are around the Bras Basah area, be sure to pop by The Auld Alliance, you certainly won’t be disappointed!

9 Bras Basah Road, RendezVous Hotel Gallery, #02-02A, Singapore 189559
Contact:
65 6337 2201 (from 5pm)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-12am

3. Quaich Bar

[caption id="attachment_9582" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
quaich bar Image credit: lifestyleasia[/caption]

Recognised as “a Great Whisky Bar of the World” by The Whisky Magazine, The Quaich bar is one of the most exquisite whisky bars you will find in Singapore. Be spoilt for choice as you wind down and enjoy more than 500 types of whiskies at the bar. To assist you in your journey to discover more whiskies, The Quaich bar has crafted distinctly-themed sampling sets of whiskies. Other than whiskies, they also offer a variety of beers, wines, tequilas, rums, and vodkas.

390A Havelock Road, #01-09/10 Waterfront Plaza Singapore 169663
Contact:
65 6732 3452
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-1am

4. The Single Cask

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the single cask Image credit: The Single Cask[/caption]

Located in the heart of the city at Chijmes, The Single Cask is a cosy destination for cafe goers and liquor lovers. This quaint joint operates as a cafe and liquor shop by day and whisky bar by night. Specialising in quality whisky and spirits, this whisky shop sells over 250 labels for take away from 11am to 10.30pm. Its bar opens at 6pm and you get to enjoy a range of whisky flights and drams as well. At the Single Cask, they offer lockers to store your unfinished bottles for a 2nd encounter.

The Single Cask
Address:
390A Havelock Road, #01-09/10 Waterfront Plaza Singapore 169663
Contact:
65 6732 3452
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-1am

5. The Connoisseur Divan

[caption id="attachment_9589" align="alignnone" width="1024"]The Connuisseur Divan Image credit: The Connuisseur Divan Facebook page[/caption]

The Connoisseur Divan offers great acoustic live music. With its luxurious interior and charming bar setting, The Connoisseur’s bar houses more than 90 rare and exclusive premium single malt Scotch whisky, wine and champagnes. If you are into smoking cigar, The Connoisseur Divan has a cigar smoke room on the second floor. You may also purchase from their wide range of Cuba cigars. Outdoor seating is also available if that’s what you prefer.

The Connoisseur Divan
Address:
207 River Valley Road, #01-62 UE Square, Singapore 238275
Contact:
65 6733 7141
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 2pm-1am, Sun 4pm-11pm, Closed on PH

6. The Secret Mermaid

[caption id="attachment_9590" align="alignnone" width="1024"]The Secret Mermaid Image credit: 10 Collyer Quay, B1-08 Ocean Financial Centre, Singapore 049315
Contact:
65 6733 7141
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-11pm, Closed on Sat & Sun

If you consider yourself a whisky lover and haven’t been to any of the places listed above, you are missing out big time! So what are you waiting for? Head down to these venues and cheers to a great drink or two.

(Header image by 8 Cool Places For An Ultimate Chill Out Weekend At Kampong Glam