The Old Fashioned is reputedly the most commonly ordered cocktail in London these days. So if you want to make a knockout OF at home, whether you're learning from scratch or perfecting your art, you can drink under the tutelage of bourbon brand Woodford Reserve, at a pop-up bar underneath a railway arch in Shoreditch (expect beards aplenty). As well as masterclasses, you can get your paws on variations on the drink by the Savoy's Eric Lorincz, Nightjar's Marian Beke and more for £5 each. Five. Pounds. See you there.
For those not in the know, World Class is an initiative that puts the cream of the crop from the global bartending scene in the spotlight. Unsurprisingly, this makes its hub on Poland Street a bit of a mixological hotbed when LCW comes calling. As well as its World Class Bar, which will serve cocktails designed by some of the world's top bartenders, there'll be immersive tastings, the Ketel One Vodka Kitchen, Haig Club Dining Room and a spirits gift shop.
See the hirsute fella in the photo? That's Rich Woods, head bartender at Duck & Waffle and Sushisamba, and he knows a think or two about mixing a drink. He'll be taking part in the 24 Hour Bar Build on the Saturday in what's being referred to as the "most ambitious event ever held at London Cocktail Week". Woods is representing Team London, who'll do battle against teams from New York, Singapore and Paris to create a cocktail menu in just one day. Woods will build his with Patrón tequila. Go Team London!
It wouldn't be a cocktail celebration without a mention of the Roaring Twenties, and the Park Lane Hotel's resident bar is just that – an ode to the Golden Age of the Cocktail. On offer at £5 throughout the week to wristband-holders will be the Original Sin, a cocktail created with Jameson's Caskmates whiskey, red wine reduction, syrup and a stout foam. Mmm, we can feel it getting all autumnal in here.
You'll find plenty of bourbon at this pop-up from Buffalo Trace. Catering to entry-level drinkers and discerning palates alike, there's great value to be had with two cocktails for £5, and you'll find cocktail masterclasses, acts from comedy duo the Thinking Drinkers, and a chance to taste the brand's Antique Collection, too.
With a refurbishment finished just in time for London Cocktail Win, the Victorian-inspired gin palace that is Worship Street Whistling Shop has been transformed, with a second oak bar and a new menu based on the four elements: earth, wind, fire and water. On offer for £5 during LCW is the Imperial Vesper, a heady mix of gin, chamomile-infused vermouth and maraschino liqueur.
For more information, event listings and to buy your London Cocktail Week 2015 wristbands, go to drinkup.london
