The renaissance of whisky in the 21st Century is a fascinating modern chapter in its history. As a cultural phenomenon that can trace its beginnings back to the first distillation of grains over 2000 years ago, in Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt, whisky was created as a drink used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. During mediaeval times this knowledge found its way into the hands of Scottish and Irish Monks who then painstakingly refined these processes to create the versions of whisky that we are familiar with today. Along the way, whisky has endured taxation struggles, illegal distilleries, and countless innovations in flavour profiles and varieties, to make this spirit part of a continually interesting and exciting story.
A huge part of the attraction towards whisky lies in its associations and connections to a modern culture that has celebrated this most famous of drinks in literature, movies, and songs. No wonder then that those monks originally called it ‘Uisge Beatha’, a Gaelic term that literally translates into ‘The Water of Life’.
Whisky bars in London began to flourish after the end of World War II as access to the drink became more widespread and enthusiastically enjoyed by all elements of society. Although there may have been many ups and downs in their popularity since then, it’s fair to say that 2024 represents a rapidly rising trend for whisky bars as a nightlife destination. The city is firmly cementing itself amongst the world’s best for whisky lovers and we wanted to take a closer look at the best of the bunch.
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The Vault at Milroy’s
The Vault at Milroy’s on Greek Street in Soho is a bar that welcomes you in with a thrilling piece of intrigue and theatre before you have even looked at a menu. At first glance, the premises look like any of the other shops on the row but as you enter you will be drawn to a large bookcase at the back. Pressing a secret button on the bookcase swings the entire thing open and welcomes you to descend the blue-lit stairs into a whisky wonderland.
This 55-seat basement bar is a Speakeasy Surprise that delivers some of the finest whisky cocktails that London has to offer. With an impressive 400+ varieties of Scotch on its shelves, The Vault also offers tasting opportunities for your evening at the luxurious copper-topped bar with guidance and information provided by the most informative and approachable staff. Since 1964 this place has been a must-see for scotch spirit lovers and is always at the top of any whisky bar list.
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Black Rock
Black Rock is the epitome of 21st-century whisky bar sophistication. This is a place that wants to challenge the conventions and remove the barriers to entry that are so often associated with the wonderful world of whisky. For four years running it has been awarded UK’s Best Specialist Bar by Class Magazine and within five minutes of being here it is obvious why. Although, you might be surprised to see that there is actually no bar at all. Instead, the staff mingle amongst the seating, helping the clientele choose their tipple from over 250 brands, all catalogued by flavour profiles that are simple to understand with an easy pricing system for each dram.
The stunning glass-topped oak tree trunk that takes centre stage in Black Rock is much more than a place to rest your drink. It serves as a view into the whisky river where this incredible place is busily ageing its very own blend to enhance its reputation even further as a premium drink destination.
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Bull in a China Shop
Bull in a China Shop is located at the bottom of Shoreditch High Street and combines three seemingly unconnected elements in a unique and marvellous way. Behind the classic grubby grandeur of a Dickensian public house, set along one of the marvels of modern and trendy local regeneration in East London, is a brilliant and extensive celebration of Japanese and Scotch whiskies. Here you can experience the unmistakable flavours of the Miyagikyo and Yoichi distilleries with a glass of Nikka From The Barrel or enjoy a taste of some of the rarer Karuizawa bottles in the opulent Oriental-influenced surroundings.
It is perhaps through the whisky cocktails that this place really demonstrates its innovation and attraction. The Wabi Sabi cocktail is inspired by the Japanese aesthetic idea of transience and impermanence to deliver a cocktail that marks the transition from Winter into Spring. Crafted using Hakushu single malt, vermouth, green tea syrup, and black walnut bitters, this is a standout drink from an establishment that is intent on developing our love of whisky long into the future.
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East London Liquor Company
East London Liquor Company is probably the best example of how whisky in London has accelerated and developed into the experience we expect to see in 2024. It is built within the old East London warehouses and wharves that celebrate the industrial heritage of centuries past with a new modern purpose and application. This old glue factory now houses a whisky and gin distillery, bar, and bottle shop and was amongst the very first to successfully create a genuine London whisky in over 100 years. While you are here it would be difficult not to want to draw a dram of the ELCC London Rye whisky and see for yourself what this taste of ultra-modern distillation is really like.
This place may be somewhat off the beaten path from the usual parade of Tower Hamlets restaurants and bars but that only gives it more of an air of secrecy and exclusivity. The team responsible here is passionate about whisky, sourcing a selection of the very best single malts and blends from all over the globe to sit beside their own creations.
London continues to lead the way around the world as a city with a buzzing nightlife full of unique experiences and places of interest to seek out. The growing scene around whisky is supported by these incredible bars to push further innovation, excitement, and delicious drinks to tempt us in. Now simply pick your favourite place and decide whether you want your experience straight up or on the rocks. This incredible city is waiting to pour you the perfect tipple from the water of life, all you have to do is get out there and enjoy it!
