Woodford Reserve at Oriole

Nightjar’s little sister venue Oriole are celebrating their one year anniversary this past January with two fantastic new cocktails featuring the inimitable Woodford Reserve.

Nestled in the underbelly of Smithfield Market, as you trip down the staircase you feel like you’re stepping back in time. Art deco styled finishings, painted palm leaf paper adorning the walls, atmospheric lighting picking up the details of the comfortably close tables – this feels like a venue to dress up for. Each evening the pianist tickles the keys on stage, lending another level of glamour to the proceedings.

But now on to the good stuff. While Oriole already has a fantastically unique menu thanks to an unrivalled heritage, the addition of some fresh Woodford blood to the mix is a very welcome one. Let’s take a closer look at the new recruits…

First up to bat is the Pendennis, the signature Woodford on the menu. Created with a Prenese syrup which lends sweet caramel and vanilla notes to the mix, it’s an interesting drink for those who are disposed to the Manhattans and Old Fashioneds of the world. A Chokeberry infusion and Lucano Anniversario round off the cocktail nicely. A deliciously layered series of flavours, ideal to sit back and relax with.

The second cocktail is an entirely different affair, on the creamier, sweeter side of the street. Playing on the caramel notes in the Woodford, this puts you in mind of a decadent, thick milkshake and is definitely one for those with a sweet tooth. It adds an Appleton Estate rum and Amaro Montenegro to a Martini Ambrato, with Calamus infusion and Reean oil.

Two standout gems in a beautiful menu, if you haven’t stopped by already you now have two new reasons to visit Oriole.