PUBLISHED November 13th, 2016 01:37 am | UPDATED November 14th, 2016 11:28 am
Remember last year’s East Imperial Gin Jubilee, where 25 local bars came together to create their own takes on the classic G&T? Well, it’s back once again, bigger and better. For the first time, the festivities will went regional – after a tour through Hong Kong Phnom Penh, and Kuala Lumpur, the jubilee will be in Singapore from 20 to 26 November 2016.
This gin extravaganza is supported by the world’s finest gins such as The Botanist Gin, Death’s Door Spirits, Citadelle Gin, Fords Gin, and Monkey 47, and will involve the region’s best bars and bartenders. Whether you’re a gin aficionado or interested novice; there’s always something new to taste, learn, and experience in the wonderful world of gin & tonic. Here’s what you can look forward to over the week:
Masterclasses and Workshops by Industry Professionals
Be spoilt for choices with a series of masterclasses and salons by industry experts, bartenders, brands, and distillers happening all around town. On 22 November, head down to Smoke & Mirrors for a free Bitters Making workshop where you’ll learn to create a basic bitter base and experiment with different flavour profiles. At the new Highball on 24 November, sit down with Stuart Danker for a lesson ($30 with one complimentary Gin & Tonic) on making the perfect G&Ts at home using Bluecoat Gin. On the same day at Ah Sam’s Cold Drink Stall, discover the complexities of The Botanist Islay Dry Gin and mix your own foraged cocktail ($50 nett). For more information and RSVPs, please see Gin Jubilee’s website.
Salon Sessions at The Proof Flat
Taking place at the Proof Flat are a series of delightful salon sessions, all absolutely free for drinkers. Learn more about the world’s leading gins, from the story of their brands to their unique manufacturing processes. First up is Death’s Door Gin (21 November), the wonderful craft gin from Wisconsin, followed by the luxurious French gin Citadelle, produced by Maison Ferrand and master distiller Alexandre Gabriel (22 November). St. George Spirits, the first ever craft distiller in San Francisco will be taking the room on 23 November, while Simon Ford and The 86 Company host their session on the 24th. Last but far from the least is Brooklyn Gin, a handcrafted gin from one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods (25 November).
To claim a spot at any of these sessions, RSVP here.
How often do you get top-notch international bartenders flying in to shake up a gin storm? Not very? That’s a great reason to head down to The Library on 21 November as Martin Zufanek, the owner of Zufanek distillery, creates four G&T variations using his own OMG by Zufanek and East Imperial’s tonic water. Simon Ford does the same with Fords Gin at the new Employees Only on 22 November and at award-winning 28 Hong Kong Street on 23 November, joining forces with Singapore bartenders for the first time.
Also, don’t miss out on a very fun guest shift with Bombay Sapphire Gin by the formidable power trio of Ricky Paiva, Caryn Cheah, and Karen Heng as they come up with classics and contemporary G&Ts to remember. Satisfaction guaranteed!
Hendrick’s Vibes Party
Hendrick’s entertaining and sometimes bizarre events have never disappointed, and it’s not going to be any different this time. Unwind on an idyllic al fresco terrace in a fun-filled afternoon of pop-up bars, great live music, and the special signature Hendrick’s bath tub. Think unique cocktails and G&Ts ($20++) created with the superb British gin. Before the party starts, how about the beloved Sunday Brunch at The Knolls?
When: Sunday, 20 November 2016, 3pm – 7pm
Where: Bob’s Bar at Capella Singapore
Admission: Free!
Gin & Tonic Oyster Pairing
G&Ts and oysters are a match made in heaven. In collaboration with Santamania Gin and Liberty Spirits Asia Boutique Gin, look forward to four sets of different G&T variants, paired with with mouthwatering oysters (Oyster Rockefeller, Ponzu Oysters, and Fresh Oysters). Plus, a bonus pairing with salmon sashimi and cured salmon is available as well.
When: Wednesday, 23 November 2016, 7pm – 10pm
Where: Secret Mermaid, 10 Collyer Quay #B1-08, Ocean Financial Centre
Admission: $98++, RSVP here
City Nomads Gin Ramble
We don’t usually organise events frequently, but when we do, you can be sure it’s spankin’ good fun. Join us for an immersive night of G&Ts as we bring you around town in an exclusive bar tour through Bread Street Kitchen (St. George Gin), Adrift (Ransom Gin), Spago (Brooklyn Gin), and Raffles Hotel (Sipsmith Gin).
When: Friday, 25 November 2016, 6pm – 8pm
Where: Bread Street Kitchen, Adrift, Spago, Raffles Hotel
Admission: We’ll be opening sign ups soon!
Asia’s Best Gin & Tonic Celebration
With more than 80 bars in the region competing for the title of Asia’s Best Gin & Tonic, only one bar and bartender from each city will emerge with the much sought-after Silver Tankard. Come down to the grand finale and sample the finest G&Ts from Asia’s best bartenders at a special price!
When: Saturday, 26 November 2016, 3pm – 5pm
Where: The Other Room, 320 Orchard Rd
Admission: Free by RSVP here
Gin Lane Street Party
If you miss everything else, at least make your to Hongkong Street for the legendary closing party of every East Imperial Gin Jubilee and rub shoulders with the founders of East Imperial (Kevin Law-Smith and Anothony Burt), the winners of Best G&T across Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Phnom Penh, and Singapore, as well as representatives from all your favourite gin brands. With vibrant beats, fantastic grub, live graffiti, and other activities happening, it’s going to be one hell of a street party.
When: Saturday, 26 November 2016, 6pm – late
Where: Hongkong Street
Admisison: Free!
The 4th East Imperial Gin Jubilee is happening from 20 to 26 November 2016 at various locations around Singapore. For more information, including the full events calendar, please click here.