SMWS PARTNER BAR

Spirited: A kind of magic

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bristol’s Bedminster district, Spirited stands as a testament to the city’s thriving independent scene. Located on North Street – a hub renowned for its eclectic mix of local businesses, street art, and community events – this spirits shop and bar has quickly become a haven for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and curious newcomers, as Anthony Delcros finds out

Katy Kennedy, the visionary behind Spirited, embarked on her journey into the world of whisky during her university years at Edinburgh, where she studied languages.

Her initial foray into the industry began with roles at the Scotch Whisky Experience and as a whisky specialist for Oddbins on the Royal Mile. Her first taste of Bowmore ignited a passion, with Aberlour A’Bunadh becoming an early favourite. After a brief stint in teaching, Katy transitioned to export sales, dedicating three years to Elixir, where she honed her expertise in the spirits industry. Fluent in both French and Spanish, her diverse background enriches the global perspective she brings to Spirited.

ABOVE: Katy Kennedy is the visionary behind the Society’s new partner bar Spirited in Bristol

ABOVE: The bar has a curated selection of more than 100 whiskies

At Spirited, the ethos is clear: it’s all about conviviality and community. The establishment seamlessly blends the roles of shop and bar, allowing patrons to taste and purchase from a curated selection of over 100 whiskies, including Scotch, Japanese, Irish, American and other world whiskies.

Beyond whisky, the shelves hold an impressive range of rum, gin, tequila, mezcal and wines, ensuring there’s something to tantalise every palate. Katy emphasises that Spirited is about “sharing spirits, imparting knowledge, exchanging stories, revealing experiences,” fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and part of something special.

PICTURED: Katy says the ethos at Spirited is all about conviviality and community

THE PERFECT BACKDROP

Situated in Bedminster’s bustling North Street, Spirited is surrounded by independent businesses, vibrant street art and a community that thrives on local engagement.

This area, known for its affluence and friendliness, provides the perfect backdrop for Spirited’s mission to create a relaxed, friendly, and communal environment where patrons can discover, share and experience the world of spirits.

ABOVE: Spirited is a community hub for whisky lovers

AN SMWS MILESTONE

The partnership with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is a significant milestone for Spirited. Recognised globally for promoting the whisky community and delivering quality products, the SMWS aligns seamlessly with Spirited’s commitment to discovery and education.

With a private event space, Spirited warmly invites Society members and friends to join seasonal SMWS tastings, fostering deeper connections within the whisky community. This collaboration not only enhances the bar’s offerings but also solidifies its reputation as a destination for exceptional whisky experiences.

A HAVEN FOR WHISKY LOVERS

Spirited goes beyond being just a bar; it’s a community hub for whisky aficionados. The launch of their own whisky club provides members with exclusive access to special bottlings and bottle-sharing events. With a network of over 60 suppliers, there’s a strong emphasis on sourcing from local distilleries and producers, celebrating the spirit of the South West.

Regular tasting events, held every Wednesday and led by brand representatives, cover various themes and categories, offering both private and thematic experiences. Complementing the liquid offerings are cheese boards and cured meats from local producers like Somerset Charcuterie and North Street Cheese, ensuring a delightful pairing for every dram.

ACCOLADES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

In a testament to its impact and excellence, Spirited was honoured with the Best Newcomer award at the Drinks Retailing Awards. This recognition underscores the dedication and passion that Katy and her team pour into creating a unique and welcoming space for all who walk through their doors.

Spirited is more than just a place to enjoy a drink; it’s a celebration of community, passion and the rich tapestry of stories that each bottle holds. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or embarking on your whisky journey, Spirited invites you to share in the experience, one dram at a time.