The Gin Parlor is inside of the newly renovated, very lux, Intercontinental hotel. Don't be deceived, this is no regular hotel lobby bar!
The head bartender Jose treated us to a unique educational introduction to the world of gin. We learned about the history of gin, the different types, where they're made and then tasted a few of the classic gin cocktails.
We started with the Quintessential G&T (that's gin and tonic) which was carefully prepared with a variety of fresh fruit and a house made tonic that is carbonated on the spot. It was finished with a juniper leaf attached to the glass so that one inhales the scent while imbibing. It was phenomenal.
Next we had a drink I'd never heard of (and I'm pretty lushy so that takes some doing!). The Martinez is a gin cocktail made with Old Tom gin (this is a class of gin, not a brand name). Old Tom gin is aged, as exemplified by its rich brown color, and it's richer and sweeter than London dry gin (i.e. It's not Seagrams) the Martinez was different, tasty, and strong.
Even the bar snacks were exceptional. We nibbled on roasted spiced nuts and what I believe was a truffled popcorn. I wish they'd bag and sell that popcorn!
All in all it was more fun and a better experience than any hotel bar I've enjoyed in the US. Highly recommend! And if you see Jose, tell him Jami from Florida said hi!
Monday, 6:00 am - 1:00 am Tuesday, 6:00 am - 1:00 am Wednesday, 6:00 am - 1:00 am Thursday, 6:00 am - 1:00 am Friday, 6:00 am - 1:00 am Saturday, 6:00 am - 1:00 am Sunday, 6:00 am - 1:00 am
The Gin Parlor is inside of the newly renovated, very lux, Intercontinental hotel. Don't be deceived, this is no regular hotel lobby bar!
The head bartender Jose treated us to a unique educational introduction to the world of gin. We learned about the history of gin, the different types, where they're made and then tasted a few of the classic gin cocktails.
We started with the Quintessential G&T (that's gin and tonic) which was carefully prepared with a variety of fresh fruit and a house made tonic that is carbonated on the spot. It was finished with a juniper leaf attached to the glass so that one inhales the scent while imbibing. It was phenomenal.
Next we had a drink I'd never heard of (and I'm pretty lushy so that takes some doing!). The Martinez is a gin cocktail made with Old Tom gin (this is a class of gin, not a brand name). Old Tom gin is aged, as exemplified by its rich brown color, and it's richer and sweeter than London dry gin (i.e. It's not Seagrams) the Martinez was different, tasty, and strong.
Even the bar snacks were exceptional. We nibbled on roasted spiced nuts and what I believe was a truffled popcorn. I wish they'd bag and sell that popcorn!
All in all it was more fun and a better experience than any hotel bar I've enjoyed in the US. Highly recommend! And if you see Jose, tell him Jami from Florida said hi!