The Buffalo Bourbon Empire pop-up bar proved to be one of the big draws of this year’s London Cocktail Week, serving more than 7,000 drinks to over 3,500 customers.
The prohibition-inspired bar was a collaboration between Buffalo Trace Bourbon, distributed by Hi-Spirits, and bar consultants The Cocktail Service. The Buffalo Bourbon Empire opened on Tavistock Street, in the heart of Covent Garden at the start of London Cocktail Week on October 8, and was open for three weeks in all.
The bar spotlighted the range of whiskies produced by the distillery. These included Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Benchmark Bourbon, Sazerac Rye Whiskey, the five-strong limited edition Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, and Buffalo Trace White Dog, the clear, unaged spirit.
From empty shop to speakeasy
An empty shop was converted into a two-storey speakeasy offering classic American cocktails served by waiters wearing spats and braces. Customers could sip drinks at leisure while propping themselves up on a Bourbon barrel, or try their hand at prohibition-period bar games including Craps and Toss the Boss.
Among the most popular drinks were the Boilermaker, a bottle of Samuel Adams Boston Lager served with a Bourbon chaser, and the Pickleback, a shot of Buffalo Trace washed down with pickle juice. These drinks were served more than 2000 times between them.
Masterclasses
In addition, more than 200 people attended masterclasses held in the Bourbon Empire’s basement. These included sessions with Drew Mayville, master blender at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, as well as with molecular mixology specialist Michael Stringer.
More pop-ups to follow
There are now plans for the Buffalo Bourbon Empire to pop-up in other locations. Sue Hill, director, Hi-Spirits said:
“The Cocktail Service are quickly becoming recognised for the design and creation of pop-ups, and the care that went into creating the Bourbon Empire ensured customers had a great experience.”
For more information on the range of Buffalo Trace brands:
email info@hi-spirits.com, or visit www.hi-spirits.com
For information on The Cocktail Service click here