Being invited to attend a cocktail masterclass at the new 5 star Bulgari Hotel in Knightsbridge is not something a girl would turn down. Bulgari, known first and foremost for it's precious jewels and luxury goods, was sure to impress. From being greeted at the door by some of the most welcoming doormen to entering one of the most stylish lobbies in London I knew I was in for a good evening. Stepping inside I was instantly relaxed: the low lighting, the spacious surroundings and that classic Italian style all took away my stresses from the day.
From here I was kindly shown my way to where the masterclass was to take place. Il Bar is as decadent as expected from Bulgari. The centrepiece of the room is the impressive bar itself: hammered silver and polished to perfection, it was gleaming invitingly for guests to pay it a visit. Decorated with every spirit you could possibly want and a fantastic wine and cocktail list, you know it's not going to be just a quick visit. After taking all this in, I was directed towards a discreet room tucked away to the right; it was perfectly sized for a private affair with it's own beautifully presented and well stocked bar. The comfy corner sofas were well in-keeping with the relaxed ambience whilst the walls were adorned with black and white images of old Hollywood stars lending itself to the glamour of the hotel.
The evening began with an introduction from the Bar Manager, Davide Segat. From working under the renowned Brian Silva at The Connaught to Head Bartender at Green & Red before becoming Bar Manager at Hawksmoor, it is clear that Segat is more than qualified for the job. He tells us that he and his team of mixologists have created a bespoke cocktail list inspired by the famous Bulgari fragrances. In true Italian style, we begin with an aperitivo: a drink designed to 'open the stomach'. The aperol spritz is delicious: the orange liqueur combines a gentle bitterness with a citrus tang making it a perfectly refreshing choice to cleanse the palette. Top up please?
Finally, we were shown one of the signature cocktails: Au Thé Vert. Made with jasmine tea, beefeater gin, oak moss syrup, lemon and topped off with soda it blends together perfectly to create a distinctive flavour. With a slight floral undertone it's not what you expect however it's sweet aromatic taste is a pleasant surprise. Presented with an edible flower it looks every inch an appetising drink.
As I head to leave the hotel, I'm surprised as to how busy the bar is for a Wednesday night. Most of the tables are full with couples, groups of men in suits or guests having had a long day spending their money in Harrods. The atmosphere is still the same: relaxed and in good spirits. I would happily come back here and highly recommend you try it. There's no blaring music or rowdy crowds that can ruin your night, just good surroundings and great drinks. For you gentlemen out there, they also have an exclusive cigar room perfect for any Old Boys club. Whilst for the ladies, an exquisite intimate spa offering only the most luxurious products and treatments. It is after all Bulgari. And it definitely didn't disappoint.
Claire Menary
From here I was kindly shown my way to where the masterclass was to take place. Il Bar is as decadent as expected from Bulgari. The centrepiece of the room is the impressive bar itself: hammered silver and polished to perfection, it was gleaming invitingly for guests to pay it a visit. Decorated with every spirit you could possibly want and a fantastic wine and cocktail list, you know it's not going to be just a quick visit. After taking all this in, I was directed towards a discreet room tucked away to the right; it was perfectly sized for a private affair with it's own beautifully presented and well stocked bar. The comfy corner sofas were well in-keeping with the relaxed ambience whilst the walls were adorned with black and white images of old Hollywood stars lending itself to the glamour of the hotel.
The evening began with an introduction from the Bar Manager, Davide Segat. From working under the renowned Brian Silva at The Connaught to Head Bartender at Green & Red before becoming Bar Manager at Hawksmoor, it is clear that Segat is more than qualified for the job. He tells us that he and his team of mixologists have created a bespoke cocktail list inspired by the famous Bulgari fragrances. In true Italian style, we begin with an aperitivo: a drink designed to 'open the stomach'. The aperol spritz is delicious: the orange liqueur combines a gentle bitterness with a citrus tang making it a perfectly refreshing choice to cleanse the palette. Top up please?
Finally, we were shown one of the signature cocktails: Au Thé Vert. Made with jasmine tea, beefeater gin, oak moss syrup, lemon and topped off with soda it blends together perfectly to create a distinctive flavour. With a slight floral undertone it's not what you expect however it's sweet aromatic taste is a pleasant surprise. Presented with an edible flower it looks every inch an appetising drink.
As I head to leave the hotel, I'm surprised as to how busy the bar is for a Wednesday night. Most of the tables are full with couples, groups of men in suits or guests having had a long day spending their money in Harrods. The atmosphere is still the same: relaxed and in good spirits. I would happily come back here and highly recommend you try it. There's no blaring music or rowdy crowds that can ruin your night, just good surroundings and great drinks. For you gentlemen out there, they also have an exclusive cigar room perfect for any Old Boys club. Whilst for the ladies, an exquisite intimate spa offering only the most luxurious products and treatments. It is after all Bulgari. And it definitely didn't disappoint.
Claire Menary