Asia’s 50 Best Bars And Singapore Cocktail Festival Team Up To Celebrate The Region's Best

The 10-day event begins with the announcement of the best bars in Asia followed by a calendar of events revolving around “Taste, Learn and Play”.

“Singapore is undoubtedly the leading cocktail destination in Asia,” affirms William Drew, group editor of The World’s 50 Best Bars and Asia’s 50 Best Bars lists. It’s a reputation that was cemented by last year’s tally of 13 entrants from Singapore that made the cut as well as Manhattan at Regent Singapore claiming the top spot.

Hence, the Lion City was a natural choice to host the upcoming Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony, which takes place on May 3 at the Capitol Theatre.

Above William Drew, group editor of The World’s 50 Best Bars and Asia’s 50 Best Bars

And for the first time, the organisers have partnered with the Singapore Cocktail Festival (#SGCF2018), happening from May 4 to 13. “Both celebrate the world of cocktails and the booming bar scene in Asia,” says Singapore Cocktail Festival co-founder Ivy Woo, adding that the collaboration allows them to bring the best drinking experiences from around the world to audiences here.

With a packed 10-day calendar themed around “Taste, Learn and Play”, there’s an exciting array of must-see events across the city. And it all starts at the sprawling Empress Lawn, which will be the home of the Festival Village from May 4 to 6.

Above Scenes from last year's Singapore Cocktail Festival at the Festival Village

What to check out

The obvious draws remain the opportunity to catch top international guest bartenders and the 25 pop-up events at bars such as Jigger & Pony’s latest concept, Caffe Fernet, whisky bar The Wall, and gin-centric establishment Cin Cin. But there will also be an artisanal spirits room showcasing some unique finds, which are, of course, available for sampling. Catch these at the Festival Village from May 4 to 6.

The Black Cow Vodka, the only vodka in the world made from cow’s milk, is one of them, as well as the traditional Thai spirit known as Mekhong.

(Related: Singapore's Top 30 Bars)

If you're looking to pick up a few more practical insights, the workshops are just the place to do that. Representatives of Kyrö Distillery Company will share tips and tricks on concocting your own gin at home, while guest bartender Sasha Wijidessa of Operation Dagger will take you through the intricacies of fermentation.

The festivities at the Festival Village will culminate with the Asia Bar Battle, presented by City Nomads. Guest bartenders from across the region will go head to head in a number of challenges, including cocktail invention, flaring, speed and use of mystery ingredients.

Above Team Japan joins the bartender competition

Outside the Festival Village, don't miss out on the organised bar tours that will take guests around to the best bars on this little red dot. Each stop will include exclusive drinks that have been specially prepared for the tour.

Click here for the complete list of events.

Topics

asia's 50 best bars singapore cocktail festival best bars in singapore

Tatler Asia

Asia’s 50 Best Bars And Singapore Cocktail Festival Team Up To Celebrate The Region's Best

What to check out