The end of year is always an exciting time for the discerning drinker. There are plenty of things going on that seem specifically designed to tantalise the tastebuds of even the most jaded of alcohol aficionados (read: us)
The sheer abundance of events does lead to one problem, though. We’re spoilt for choice, but there’s only so much time to be had. No problem, though, we’re here to help you decide on the best events to catch.
Whisky Live Singapore 2018
The Grand Old Dame of drinks events in Singapore still holds a special place in our hearts, and those of whisky-lovers all over the region. People fly in just for this event!
Now in its 9th year, Whisky Live will now be held at the new Andaz Singapore. A relief for those of us who, as much as we like Sentosa and Mohammad Sultan, also enjoy the charms of the city- and excellent transportation.
The main floor, where one can sample whiskies (and other spirits) from 64 different distilleries, continues to be the centerpiece of the event. This year, we might even get to sample some nice Glendronachs. The rumour mill hints that we might even get a taste of the (not yet) re-released 15 Year Old Revival. Sullivan’s Cove, Benromach, and even some quality rums such as Hampden and Mount Gay will also make a much-anticipated appearance.
While the ultra-premium Collectors’ Room is not returning this year, the VIP room has unlimited rare whiskies for the tasting. If you’re a whisky-lover, then there’s no question about whether it’s worth it: it is probably the best-and cheapest- way to try a huge range of rare whiskies.
For us, however, the highlights are always the Masterclasses. While we have access to great whisky in this country, we don’t always get to meet the personalities behind the liquid gold.
Sadly, while the Black Art Masterclass is already sold out, there are plenty of other options. We suggest the 4 Decades of Japanese Whiskies masterclass if you’re into the oriental take on the water of life. You’ll taste incredibly rare stuff such as the 30 Year Old MARS, a 1978 Karuizawa and a 23 year old Yoichi.
For those who lean towards Scotch, the Rare Malt Masterclass might pique your interest. Some incredibly rare whiskies from closed distilleries such as a 24 Year Old Convalmore, St Magdalene 19Y 1979, and a 22 Year Old Port Ellen will be tasted. We doubt we’ll see these whiskies ever again- this would be our personal choice if we could only go to one masterclass the entire weekend.
If you’re into something a little more interesting , the Penderyn Masterclass offers a tasting of Welsh whiskies, the Kavalan Masterclass showcases some of the Taiwanese spirit- including a brand new release.
Whisky Live Singapore 2018 will be held on the weekend of 3-4
November 2018, at the coveted Andaz Singapore. If you’re interested in getting tickets, or getting more information, you can check out their site here.
Pinot Palooza 2018
Last year’s Pinot Palooza was quite the hit.
Turns out that an (almost) free flow of one of the world’s most elegant and expensive wines draws the crowd. The event went so swimmingly well that they’re coming back this year on Saturday 24th November and Sunday 25th November for an encore.
This year, they’ll be holding it at Theatreworks, and will be featuring 40 wineries from Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy and the US, with the requisite tasting pours available, of course. It will take a bit of a jaunty direction, with DJs dish out house, soul and disco music. Most intriguing of all, there will be a vermouth bar.
For 60 bucks, you could do a lot worse. If you’re interested, you can check them out at www.pinotpalooza.sg.
DFS Craft Festival
While we don’t often think of the airport as a place to enjoy some craft spirits, till the end of October, one might be persuaded not to rush home from (or to) the airport.
DFS has organised its first ever carnival within the confines of Changi Airport- though you would have to be flying in or out of the airport to partake in it. Over 73 Craft gin, whisky and beer brands will be available for tasting, and craft distillers will be at the carnival to discuss the finer points of modern alchemy.
Each weekend during the festival will see the airport playing host to spirit brands and their ambassadors- some craft such as Oxley and Tanglin Gin (one of them is Singaporean, guess which), and some behemoths, such as Botanist and Tanqueray.
If you’re not into gin, you can also check out some craft beers- Archipelago and Little Creatures will both be around for tasting. Just the right kind of elixir after a long flight home.
1855 Wine and Whisky Week Christmas Edition 2018
Finally, if you’re looking for some good deals on wine and whisky, it’s hard to go wrong with the upcoming 1855 Wine and Whisky Week, from 31st October to 11th November.
Keen observers might note that that’s actually more than a week, but we’re hardly complaining. Other than the usual batch of excellent deals, there will be an exclusive Auchentoshan 1987 30 Years Old Sherry Cask- bottled exclusively for 1855- on offer. Or, if you’re looking just to taste some wines, a set of five 100-pointers will be available by the glass, starting at $8.
Since there’s no entry fee, we suggest taking a quick hop down to Suntec City East Atrium, Level 1 during the festival to see if you can pick up some bargains. We’ll be sharing our finds over instagram- so stay tuned for some of our top picks.
If you’d like more information, you can find it here.
