Summer is finally here! And despite the recent onslaught of veritable gale force winds hurtling people across the city centre, we’re (hopefully) in for a glorious one. It’s a basking time for gin brewers.
‘Atlas Bar’s gin collection is enormous and ever-increasing.’
Situated beneath the railway arches of Deansgate, Atlas Bar has been a Manchester icon for two decades, and has now matured into an elegant bar that oozes quality, specialising in gins from around the world.
Following a recent refurbishment, Atlas – now flaunting a rustic, industrial feel – still has the quirky individuality that made it the go-to bar of the likes of ‘Mr Manchester’, Tony Wilson, but now adds to that with some amazing products, homely service and an award winning terrace – which is fully heated and covered to be used in all weathers. One of the best al fresco spaces in the city.
Atlas’ gin collection is enormous and ever-increasing. Currently standing at over 153, they stock everything from your household brands to worldly independent brews.
Which is what drew us to their Gin Supper Club on Tuesday evening (£25). After battling the boisterous winds, we arrived at Atlas Bar 7pm sharp, with a refreshing ‘gin of the week’ & tonic to greet us.
Exhibiting three gins, made with an array of botanicals, gin expert and representative Ross Smith talked us through the heritage of gin (Guinevere) and its modern flavours.
Juniper, which by law is required to be the dominant flavour in any gin, is only one of the dozens of different spices, roots, herbs and berries that can be used to flavour the spirit. Each combination creates a unique essence.
Available to buy at the end, we tasted a No. 209 gin, a Blackwoods Vintage Dry Gin (incase you don’t know, vintage means once a year) and the King of Soho gin. All with a different palatable flavour to offer and a flattering garnish.
After tasting each gin neat with a thorough wash round the mouth, it’s then mixed with tonic in a bulbed and garnished glass – and you’re presented with an accompanying dish.
Prepared by house Head Chef, Ross Parker, each dish complimented the various gins impressively.
It is simply excellent value. Four gin & tonics and a three course dinner – a wonderful evening for any gin lover. And nowhere in the city of Manchester rivals Atlas as a gin bar.
Chef Parker, a former charge of Harvey Nichols Brasserie, will once again be serving up three stunning dishes. And as a special treat, the Brand Ambassador from Portobello Road will also be on hand to serve up three signature cocktails.
The event is the first of its kind and promises to be a fabulous evening!
Tickets are just £29 per person.
To book your place email [email protected]