SHARE A DRAM WITH…

Simone Malavolta

Venue Manager, 19 Greville Street, London

First whisky memory

My first legal experience of whisky was thanks to my friend Luca who invited me to my very first whisky tasting. Since then, whisky has been part of my working and private life daily.

Best box set

It’s pretty much like whisky, the preference changes weekly if not daily! What I have found entertaining over the past few months is Money Heist. Unpredictable every minute, one of those series that keeps you awake every night and the only thing you wish to do is see what happens next.

Fantasy whisky tasting companions.

If I relate whisky to something fun my first choice would be Catherine Tate, I can imagine having many laughs with her over some drams, while she revisits all her old characters – that’s if I don’t beat her to her punchlines first as I have seen every single sketch and seen her live in London! I would say Annie Lennox, as she used to live opposite me, and it would be great to bump into her in the street and invite her in for a dram and talk about her music and tours. Just like whisky, her music has many depths, is enjoyed by many and goes well with a dram!

Most used emoji

I use the laughing face emoji, as I like to finish chats with something positive and fun. Some other time any of the heart emoji because I feel that reflects my personality. On work-related chat of course, it must be a dram glass.

ABOVE: Simone outside 19 Greville Street

Most memorable cocktail

Being in Dubai at the Fairmont, enjoying the Gold lounge and the three hours of free cocktails – I remember the first three negroni, but after that I can’t quite remember what came next...😁

Guilty pleasure

English mustard! I’m pretty sure I have tried mustard on everything, and I really love it. Very unusual for an Italian. I fell in love with it a few years ago and now can’t live without it.

Dream destination

Born and bred in Italy, I have been brought up surrounded with fantastic art and architecture – I love to explore new countries, cultures and food – but the one destination I would love to visit and experience is driving a convertible down the West Coast of the United States, taking in the sights, beaches and of course the odd drink!

Weirdest food

While visiting Ha Long Bay in Vietnam I was served scorpion on skewers – quite a delicacy!

Favourite bar

As a rooftop bar lover, when I can hold my drink and look down to the city from the top, it makes me happy. Near where I live in London, my favourite place to grab a drink has to be The Cock & Bottle, tucked down a quiet street off the main drag in Notting Hill. It’s full of characters who always have a story to tell and reminds me a bit of my Italian village where everyone knows everyone.

If you were a flavour profile, what would you be?

I would like to think I’m Old & Dignified as per my business card – but I could also be Young & Spritely or Sweet, Fruity & Mellow.