With over 70 different whiskies on offer, it’s no wonder Coq D’Argent was recently voted as one of the top ten whisky bars in London.
The team has curated a selection that gives collectors the chance to sample the rarest malts and budding connoisseurs the chance to refine their tastes.
Each bottle has been chosen for its exceptionality, from the 30-year-old Auchroisk – one of only 2,976 bottles ever made – to Mackinlay’s Rare Old Shackleton – a fine example of the skills of famous master blender Richard Paterson.
The team are especially proud of the Japanese collection, which boasts whiskies from the old Karuizawa distillery as well as Ichiro, one of the first producers to introduce barrels made from Japanese oak.
The famous terraces at Coq D’Argent also allow Pawel to indulge in his passion for matching his favourite whiskies with fine cigars. “Cigar making is a skill and I have respect for anyone who goes that extra mile to make something truly exceptional,” he says. “I like to take people on a journey, to offer them new taste and sensory experiences.
“But you need to know what someone is looking for from their whisky first. Is it their first drink of the day or a digestif? Are they looking for something new or something they know they like?”
With this is mind I asked for his ‘best of’ to lead me down that golden liquid road…
If you’re new to whisky:
Try: Johnnie Walker Gold Reserve
Because: Some of the best blenders in the world have created a stunning dram packed with sweet, fresh spices. A few drops of water brings out the perfumed aroma.
If you’re looking for a new whisky experience:
Try: Hedonism
Because: It’s a new style of whisky that’s heavy on the vanilla and creamy on the palette.
If it’s a warm sunny day:
Try: Elijah Craig 12
Because: This is nicely rounded packed with the tastes of summer – maple syrup and toffee.
If it’s cold and wet:
Try: Talisker 57 North
Because: It has a wonderful red hot chilli pepper kick that explodes in the mouth, puts a smile on your face and a fire in your belly.
If it’s early afternoon:
Try: Royal Lochnagar
Because: It’s light and fresh with a silky texture and a cool, spicy finish to freshen your palette.
If it’s your first drink of the evening:
Try: Black Bush
Because: This sherry matured Irish whisky hits the spot with its rich sweetness and soft body.
If it’s your last drink of the night:
Try: Lagavulin
Because: The powerful peaty taste will reinvigorate your system just enough to get you home.
And finally, the one to try before you die: Balvenie Tun 1401
Because: Well, if we told you…
