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negroni-week-2022-where-to-find-best-negroni-hongkong-cocktails-campari-600x337

Negroni Week 2022: Where to find the best Negroni in Hong Kong

Though the city&#8217;s favourite bars remain closed, there&#8217;s no reason to not treat yourself to a much-needed cocktail night in the comforts of your own home. With some of the city&#8217;s best-loved nightlife hotspots serving up delicious takeaway cocktails just a call away, you&#8217;re all but guaranteed to enjoy these unique bar-to-home experiences whether you&#8217;re throwing a house party or just looking for an easy nightcap after a stressful day.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55775" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design.png" alt="gafencu magzine Takeaway bottled cocktails order delivery Untitled design" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Untitled-design-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
The Diplomat 
This Central-set speakeasy US tavern is well known for martinis and creative cocktails such as the Tarling, a signature cocktail combining pandan-infused gin, white port, baking spice, clarified orange juice and coconut juice, and Boulevardier, a heady blend of Wild Turky rye bourbon, Punt E Mes and Campari bitters. Each 400ml to-go bottle serves up to four, with prices starting at HK$500. 
Price: HK$500+ 
Available for pick up at The Diplomat, Central, Hong Kong
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55785" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man.png" alt="gafencu magzine Takeaway bottled cocktails order delivery the old man" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-old-man-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
The Old Man 
Claiming the coveted No.15 spot on&nbsp;The World&#8217;s 50 Best Bars list, The Old Man is bringing some of its award-winning cocktails right to your door step. From a seaweed-flavoured vodka and spiced cherry tomato to a guava Negroni or a limited-edition Hemingway series&nbsp;of collectible bottled cocktails, home-bound connoisseurs of mixology will be spoilt for choice at the number of premium offerings, which are available in either 500ml and 700ml sizes. 
Price: HK$500+ 
Delivers to: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, Lantau and Outlying Islands (free delivery with minimum order of HK$800 for Hong Kong Island / HK$1,000 for New Territories and Lantau)
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55782" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside.png" alt="gafencu magzine Takeaway bottled cocktails order delivery rosewood darkside" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-rosewood-darkside-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
Darkside 
Adding a touch of opulence to takeaway cocktails, Darkside, the jazz bar nestled within Rosewood Hong Kong, recently unveiled customised bottled alcoholic beverages masterminded by the luxury hotel&#8217;s beverage consultant, Giancarlo Mancino. Delving into its extensive library of aged spirits, on offer are such libations as&nbsp;the Godeau Cognac Old Fashioned and the 50/50 Martini with Xellent Swiss Gin. 
Price: HK$458+ 
Available for pick-up at Butterfly Patisserie, Rosewood Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55783" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings.png" alt="gafencu magzine Takeaway bottled cocktails order delivery the wise kings" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-the-wise-kings-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
The Wise King 

Award-winning modern classic cocktail bar The Wise King also has on offer an array of takeaway cocktails to entice your taste buds. Its expansive arsenal consists of contemporary takes on classic drinks, including the&nbsp;King&#8217;s Negroni, Jamon Old Fashioned, Brined Rickey, and the Pickled Margarita. Available in two sizes – 500ml for HK$500, or 750ml for HK$598 – each bottle comes with a tag hand-signed by the bar&#8217;s founder in appreciation for customers&#8217; support. 
Price: HK$600+ 
Delivers to: Hong Kong Island and Kowloon
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55777" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa.png" alt="gafencu magzine Takeaway bottled cocktails order delivery Coa" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/gafencu-magzine-Takeaway-bottled-cocktails-order-delivery-Coa-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
Coa 
Named after the machete-like tool used to harvest agave – the key ingredient in tequila and mezcal – COA is an award-winning cocktail bar that puts the focus firmly on the aforementioned spirits. The agave specialists in this Central-set bar have partnered with local craft brewer Young Master Ales to create a special bottled collection of the bar&#8217;s signature cocktails, featuring the same rich flavours that discerning drinkers have come to love. Their virtual shop also stocks a selection of craft brews and spirits all fronted with artistic labels.&nbsp; 
Price: HK$400+ 
Delivers to: Across Hong Kong except outlying islands (free delivery with minimum spend of HK$700 )

gafencu magzine Takeaway bottled cocktails order delivery (2)

Delicious takeaway cocktails to enjoy at home

The latest wellness trend that seems to be catching on in Hong Kong is urban farming. In keeping with this trend, Rooftop Republic and Garage Academy have started a collaborative rooftop farming programme called Garage Greens.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-38069" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1.jpg" alt="Garage Greens" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-1-1-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Through this three-month seasonal programme that runs from August to October, Garage Greens members will be able to grow their own herbs and vegetables on Garage Academy Campus in Wan Chai, get guidance from organic farmers and even participate in cooking workshops.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-38070" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2.jpg" alt="Garage Greens" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Untitled-design-2-2-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
To kick-off the programme, Rooftop Republic and Garage Academy organised a cocktail soiree called Rooftop Farm to Table, featuring signature cocktails by mixologist Jay Khan from COA, a trendy new bar in Central. Jay prepared three different kinds of tipples for the evening, using drinks, using the very versatile thyme, mint and basil freshly reaped on the Garage Academy Campus rooftop. Guests were also treated to a live demo in which they were taught how to make the best use of the herbs to create the most delectable of drinks. One tip? Hand-press the leaves lightly to bring out the most flavours.

Harvesting herbs with Garage Greens by Rooftop Republic and Garage Academy

In Gafencu’s April issue, we shone the spotlight on mezcals, that traditional Mexican tipple that’s captured the hearts of Hong Kong’s beverage cognoscenti (read the article <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/mexican-mezcals/">here</a>). Now we bring you a round-up of our favourite Mexican bars in the city so you can sample these long-favoured agave spirits.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-35019 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK.jpg" alt="Drinks at the best Mexican Bars in HK" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Drinks-at-the-best-Mexican-Bars-in-HK-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
<a href="https://coa.com.hk/">COA</a>
Behind a rather unassuming entrance on the steps of Central’s Shin Hing Street lies the first of our favourite Mexican bars – Coa. Helmed by agave aficionado Jay Khan (previously of Foxglove and Dr Fern’s fame), this cosy joint favours artisanal cocktails inspired by the flavours of Mexico.
Recommendation: Horchata de Pistachio – a delicious cocktail balancing Ocho Blanco tequila, homemade horchata (a milky, nutty concoction) and pistachio orgeat.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-35020 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Enjoy-a-Horchata-de-Pistachio-at-COA.jpg" alt="Enjoy a Horchata de Pistachio at COA" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Enjoy-a-Horchata-de-Pistachio-at-COA.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Enjoy-a-Horchata-de-Pistachio-at-COA-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Enjoy-a-Horchata-de-Pistachio-at-COA-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Enjoy-a-Horchata-de-Pistachio-at-COA-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Enjoy-a-Horchata-de-Pistachio-at-COA-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
<a href="https://www.11westside.com/">11 Westside</a>
Another relative newcomer to HK’s nightlife scene, 11 Westside (which we reviewed <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/11-westside/">here</a>) brings that quintessential Cali-Mex (that’s Californian-Mexican) cuisine to the fore. Led by Oaxaca-born Chef Esdras Ochoa a.k.a. the ‘Taco King’, the well-stocked bar offers a variety of tequila and mezcal beverages.
Recommendation: Me Against the World – an unabashedly complex tipple featuring Mezcal Amores, vermouth and a blend of citrus fruits.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-35022 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside.jpg" alt="Inside 11 Westside" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Inside-11-Westside-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
&nbsp;
<a href="http://www.mezcalito.com.hk/">Mezcalito</a>
Tucked just beyond Lan Kwai Fong on On Lan Street, Mezcalito is, as its name suggests, dedicated to all things mezcal. The well-crafted cocktails here are accompanied by lovely views of the Central skyline thanks to its perch on the 27th floor, and a perfect way to unwind post-work.
Recommendation: Coralina – a Mexican take on the classic sangria that replaces brandy with tequila reposado.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-35017 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Mezcalito-is-dedicated-to-Mexican-spirits.jpg" alt="Mezcalito is dedicated to Mexican spirits" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Mezcalito-is-dedicated-to-Mexican-spirits.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Mezcalito-is-dedicated-to-Mexican-spirits-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Mezcalito-is-dedicated-to-Mexican-spirits-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Mezcalito-is-dedicated-to-Mexican-spirits-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Mezcalito-is-dedicated-to-Mexican-spirits-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
<a href="http://www.brickhouse.com.hk/">Brickhouse</a>
Perhaps the oldest entry among our favourite Mexican bars, Brickhouse maintains its standing with Hong Kong’s notoriously fickle bar hoppers. With thumping beats, delicious tacos and a heavy-duty mezcal menu, this late-night LKF hotspot hits all the right notes.
Recommendation: Cubano – a delightfully smoky, citrusy reposado/mezcal/brandy blend that’s not for the faint-of-heart.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-35018 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars.jpg" alt="Brickhouse is one of HK's top Mexican bars" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Brickhouse-is-one-of-HKs-top-Mexican-bars-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />

Olé Mexico: Exploring the hottest Mexican bars in Hong Kong

Those with a taste for tippling will already know that mezcals are the latest libations to tickle Hong Kong’s notoriously fickle fancy. Although introduced only relatively recently, these smoky Mexican spirits have already achieved stratospheric popularity among the city’s beverage cognoscenti.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34555 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2.jpg" alt="Mezcals recommendations 2" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-2-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Which all rather begs the question – what exactly is a ‘mezcal’? Put simply, it’s an innately Mexican style of spirit, one distilled in nine of the country’s 31 states and all derived from the agave, a fleshy plant species native to tropical America.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34552 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave.jpg" alt="Mezcals are made by fermenting different species of agave" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-by-fermenting-different-species-of-agave-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Mexico is home to over 30 different agave sub-species, with nearly all of them co-opted for alcoholic purposes by one distiller or another. In every instance, a similar distillation process is involved – first the piña (agave stem) is roasted and smoked in an underground pit (which gives mezcal its characteristically smoky taste). Then the residue is crushed and left to ferment in water. Perhaps the best-known of all the mezcals is tequila. This particular variant is made solely from blue agave, an ingredient that gives it its legendary kick.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34553 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas.jpg" alt="Mezcals are made from agave pinas" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-are-made-from-agave-pinas-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Armed with this basic grounding in all things mezcal then, which Hong Kong hostelry best meets the needs of the novice imbiber of Mexican hard liquor? The most obvious first stop would be Central’s <a href="https://coa.com.hk/">COA</a>. Taking its inspiration from Oaxaca – Mexico’s leading mezcal-producing state – this cosy new bar is the brainchild of Jay Khan, the award-winning beverage boffin best known for his work at <a href="http://foxglovehk.com/home/">Foxglove</a> and <a href="http://www.drfernshk.com/">Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour</a>.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34550 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals.jpg" alt="Coa in Soho is a great spot to try mezcals" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-in-Soho-is-a-great-spot-to-try-mezcals-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Overall, COA is clearly Khan’s paean of praise to Mexican-style intoxication. It boasts mezcals distilled from 20 different agave varietals, including tequila and raicilla, and also offers other traditional tipples such as tepache, a fermented fruit-based alcohol.
While the drinkery wears its Mexican affiliations with true panache, Khan maintains the establishment remains, above all, a cocktail bar, saying: “While we do want to introduce the wonderful traditions of tequila and mezcal to our guests, we also pride ourselves on our wider artisanal cocktail range.”
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34549 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals.jpg" alt="Coa founder Jay Khan is a fan of mezcals" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Coa-founder-Jay-Khan-is-a-fan-of-mezcals-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
For those solely set on a little hombre homage, however, the Horchata de Pistachio – a delicious cocktail that balances Ocho Blanco tequila with homemade horchata (a milky, nutty concoction) and pistachio orgeat, garnished with a pistachio biscuit and purple sweet potato dust – is probably the ideal place to start.
Another true Mexican stand-out is the Mezcal Paloma, a blend of mezcal, tequila, grapefruit soda and lime. According to Khan, this is the drink favoured by visiting bartenders whenever they pop into COA. A better recommendation you are not likely to get.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34556 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals.jpg" alt="Paloma is a delicious cocktail derived of mezcals" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Paloma-is-a-delivious-cocktail-derived-of-mezcals-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Aware that many can prove a trifle wary of Mexican alcohol, Khan sees himself as on a mission to convert such unbelievers, saying: “When someone lands up at COA and doesn’t order a tequila or a mezcal cocktail, I have to ask them why. Inevitably, it’s because they’ve heard bad things. After they’ve tried a Horchata de Pistachio or two, however, all such inhibitions seem to vanish.”
While the pioneering work undertaken by COA (and several other like-minded hotspots, including <a href="http://www.mezcalito.com.hk/">Mezcalito</a>, <a href="http://www.brickhouse.com.hk/">Brickhouse</a> and <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/11-westside/">11 Westside</a>) certainly seems to have won the city over, it’s no secret that Hong Kong has a notoriously short attention span.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34554 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-1.jpg" alt="Mezcals recommendations 1" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-1.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-1-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-1-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mezcals-recommendations-1-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
Time and time again, today’s favoured flavours have become undrinkably gauche within a month or two. Will mezcal be the one to woo the city’s drinkers into a long-term libation assignation? We certainly hope so.
COA. Shop A, LG/F, Wah Shin House,6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central. 
(852) 2813 5787. coa.com.hk
Text: Tenzing Thondup

Mexican Stand-outs: Demystifying mezcal, the true spirit of Latin America

<figure id="attachment_31405" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31405" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31405 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits.jpg" alt="How to drink Agave-based Spirits" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/How-to-drink-Agave-based-Spirits-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31405" class="wp-caption-text">Agave-based spirits like tequila, mezcal and raicilla are taking Hong Kong by storm</figcaption></figure>
Judging from the slew of upmarket Mexican restaurants that cropped up in our fair city over the past few years (<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/11-westside/">11 Westside</a>, Brickhouse and Caliente to name a few), tacos and burritos have become something of a staple for Hong Kong epicureans. But what of Mexico’s alcohols? We’re here to shed some light on some of its most famous agave-based spirits: tequila, mezcal and raicilla.
Despite its widespread fame, tequila is something of an exclusive club. By law, it can only be produced within five of Mexico’s 31 states, with Jalisco being the major manufacturer. Furthermore, only blue agave grown in these designated regions can be used to produce tequila. It’s almost identical to the rule governing the classification of champagnes.
<figure id="attachment_31403" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31403" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31403 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants.jpg" alt="Tequila is made solely from blue agave plants" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tequila-is-made-solely-from-blue-agave-plants-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31403" class="wp-caption-text">Tequila is made solely from blue agave plants</figcaption></figure>
So how to distinguish between good and bad tequila? “When you’re drinking tequila, look for a sweet potato aroma. That’s how you know it has truly preserved the blue agave flavour,” shares bar guru Jay Khan, who helms <a href="https://coa.com.hk/">Coa</a>, the new Oaxaca-inspired bar dedicated to agave-based spirits. Another top tip? Avoid tequilas with overwhelming caramel or vanilla aromas. These reflect artificial additions introduced during the distillation process.
It may come as a surprise that tequila is actually part of the larger mezcal family. What is mezcal, you ask? It’s the overarching term used to define all agave-based spirits distilled in nine Mexican states. Oaxaca is the leading producer. Where tequila only draws on one agave species, mezcals utilise over 50 varieties. This explains the much more diverse flavour profiles found across different mezcal brands. &nbsp;
<figure id="attachment_31404" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31404" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31404 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits.jpg" alt="Agave stems are the basis for all mezcal spirits" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Agave-stems-are-the-basis-for-all-mezcal-spirits-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31404" class="wp-caption-text">Agave stems are the basis for all mezcal spirits</figcaption></figure>
Many mezcals use a similar distillation process. The piña, or agave stem, is roasted and smoked in an underground pit, and then crushed before being left to ferment in water. Even after distillation, mezcal delivers a strong smoky taste – a residual effect of this production methodology.
When you exclude mezcal and tequila, agave alcohols remain relatively unknown in our city’s nightlife scene. But one serious up-and-comer is raicilla. Although technically a mezcal, raicilla cannot be legally labelled as such because it is produced exclusively in the state of Jalisco where mezcal production is banned. Raicilla sometimes lacks the smoky flavour of other agave-based spirits because it is cooked overground in artisanal brick ovens that allow smoke to escape.
<figure id="attachment_31406" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31406" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31406 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa.jpg" alt="Jay Khan serves up delicious agave-based cocktails at his Oaxaca-inspired artisanal bar, Coa" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jay-Khan-serves-up-delicious-agave-based-cocktails-at-his-Oaxaca-inspired-artisanal-bar-Coa-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31406" class="wp-caption-text">Jay Khan helms Coa, the new Oaxaca-inspired bar dedicated to agave-based spirits</figcaption></figure>
Don’t expect any raicilla-based cocktails though. “Raicilla’s flavours are so nuanced and subtle that it gets lost when mixed in cocktails,” says Khan, “If guests request it on the rocks, we provide ice on the side. But cooling the liquid compresses and dampens the aromas. I’d recommend having racilla neat.”
Ready to take that first step into the world of agave-based spirits? Khan recommends Coa’s signature Horchata de Pistacho cocktail, which blends Ocho Blanco tequila with homemade horchata and pistachio orgeat. If you’re feeling more adventurous, ask the knowledgeable staff for a mezcal or raicilla recommendation. Salud!
Coa. Shop A, LG/F, Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central.
Text: Tenzing Thondup

Demystifying Mexico's agave-based spirits

Tag: coa

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