There used to be a time when tipplers were contented with generic, run-of-the-mill cocktails that could be whipped up in a jiffy -- these drinks had no personality, no soul, and no excitement, but it was all that we had.
However, thanks to a burgeoning cocktail culture with a focus on the art of mixology and what goes into each and every drink sweeping across the world, socially-savvy consumers are much more demanding than before, and rightfully so. Cocktails are no longer mere drinks -- they're premium creations to be savoured.
For the Creative, Unconventional and Socially Abuzz
One spirit that's been making waves amongst the creative, the unconventional and the socially abuzz in some of the most stylish cities in the world is the super premium label EFFEN Vodka. With its impeccable design, provocatively premium proposition and distinctive quality, EFFEN Vodka has been a hit with tipplers and bartenders alike all over the globe.
And now Singapore has joined the ranks of cities like New York, Los Angeles and London, as EFFEN Vodka officially makes its foray into our local market at some of the most premium bars and restaurants.
The Art of Design
In a launch fitting of the label's irreverent style, VIP guests and media were treated to a night of discovery, named "Art of Design", with cocktails incorporating the EFFEN Original and EFFEN Black Cherry as well as edgy art installations by up-and-coming visual artists in the U.S. and inspired by the brand at gallery-restaurant 7Adam.
As guests mingled with one another over vodka-infused canapes and sensual cocktails, they also admired the hand-painted bottle miniatures by hand painter Safrie Effendi and an EFFEN Vodka-inspired cocktail dress by Vicky Tay of homegrown fashion label Burgandy.
And the Best EFFEN Vodka Cocktail is...
The main highlight of course, was the friendly competition that took place, pitting bartenders from Nektar, Barkode, 28 HongKong and 7Adam against one another to design the best EFFEN-inspired cocktail. After sampling the four delicious concoctions, guests then voted for their favourite one.
The big winner of the night was Barkode's Karen Heng's EFFEN Lime Pie cocktail that took its inspiration from her favourite dessert, the key lime pie. The combination of sharp lime scent, soft black cherry flavour and a hint of vanilla from bruleed marshmallows made it an immediate crowd favourite.
According to Heng, EFFEN Black Cherry, which made up half of the cocktail in terms of ingredients, was one of the main reasons for the winning concoction. "The flavour of the black cherry is strong but doesn’t overpower which is good," she enthuses.
"I [also] like the bottle -- the design is very good for bartending as it has a long neck and a rubber label like a rubber grip which is good to hold. The design is clean which reflects how crisp it is and good for cocktails."
Savour the taste of liquid luxury for youself. EFFEN Vodka will be served at 1-Altitude, The Exchange, The Prime Society, Alley Bar, Artery, and 7Adam amongst other established premium bars and restaurants.
EFFEN Vodka (S$107/750ml) and EFFEN Black Cherry (S$115/750ml) are also available at The Beam Cellar, located at 229 Mountbatten Road, #01-03 to 07 / #01-17 to 19, Mountbatten Square, +65 6559-1162/1155
Sponsored by EFFEN Vodka.