MEMBERS' ROOM COCKTAILS
High Society!
With summer firmly in sight, we asked our recently re-opened Members’ Rooms to come up with some next-level cocktails of their own. From elevated classics to cocktails designed to go with dessert, there’s a drink for every occasion – and most don’t even need a cocktail shaker!
PHOTOS: MIKE WILKINSON
Chet Baker
Anthony Delcros, SMWS Glasgow
Anthony recommends a Spanish-style rum, something like the Panamanian bottlings from distillery R9. You don’t want anything too sweet and heavy – rather you’re looking for a spirit that’s relatively light with herbaceous notes, ginger and spices. This pairs well the honey and sweet vermouth. Ask for the Chet Baker at our Glasgow Members’ Room.
The Vaults Julep
Miguel Treleani, SMWS The Vaults
You can’t go wrong with a classic. We’ve swapped out the traditional bourbon for whisky from our Deep, Rich & Dried Fruits flavour profile, which brings a richness to the drink that feels decadent but still light enough to enjoy in the heat of the afternoon. Try this cocktail at The Vaults.
I Never Promised You a Rose Garden
Simone Malavolta, SMWS London
This refreshing highball wouldn’t go amiss at a picnic or barbecue. It’s a drink that offers sweetness with plenty of juicy oak flavours which you can dial up or down by choosing sweeter or more wood-forward whiskies within the Juicy, Oak & Vanilla flavour profile.
Just the Tonic
Simone Malavolta, SMWS London
A peated highball offers tamed smoke and pairs splendidly with grilled dishes or charcuterie. It’s quick and easy to pull together, making it ideal for any kind of entertaining.
Choc-work Orange
Anthony Delcros, SMWS Glasgow
Choc-Work Orange is a textured drink full of rich and zingy citrusy notes that’s easy to make as you layer ingredients directly into the glass. This is the perfect after-dinner drink and pairs magnificently with dark chocolate. Enjoy this drink in our Bath Street Members’ Room.
Fire and Spice
Francesco Ramella, SMWS Queen Street
You’ll want to spend some time unwrapping the flavours on this one. We love how the richness of the cinnamon syrup melds with the bitter but balsamic aspects of the Amaro Montenegro – that’s all before a fiery kick of heat from the scotch bonnet bitters. You’ll find this drink on the menu at Queen Street.
A Greenhouse in Jerez
Francesco Ramella, SMWS Queen Street
Cucumber? Tick. Whisky? Tick. Fino Sherry? Yes! The sherry in this drink adds a lovely sweetness to these already summery and fresh green flavours. Ask for this cocktail in June at Queen Street.
Brigadoon
Anthony Delcros, SMWS Glasgow
The Brigadoon is named after a Hollywood film from the 50s, about a village in the Highlands. There are a few variations of this drink, but Anthony and his colleague Kris Grimes agreed that the one they chose is the most fun! It’s similar to the Chaplin Cocktail – apricot and lime makes it fruity and refreshing, just a touch of orgeat brings out wonderful aromas (hence no garnish, you don't want to mask the aroma of the orgeat and the whisky). An oaky whisky like the Black Oak is perfect, it's not too heavy and marries well with almond. You’ll find this drink on the menu at our Glasgow Members’ Room.
Smoky Old Fashioned
Miguel Treleani, SMWS The Vaults
If you’ve not had an Old Fashioned with peat, you’re missing out! Adding a bit of smoke is a simple and elegant way to elevate this classic cocktail. Ask for this cocktail at The Vaults.