Aberdeen is home to some of the best cocktail bartending talent in Scotland, if not the UK.
So it only feels right that a local entrepreneur has launched a week-long event dedicated to the craft of making cocktails in the city centre.
Aberdeen Cocktail Week, which has been organsied by Gregor Sey, one of the duo behind mobile cocktail business Boozy Events, will shine a light on the talent within the best bars and restaurants in the area.
It will introduce customers to new and exciting venues that they may not otherwise visit and will highlight Aberdeen as a known destination for outstanding hospitality.
The city is home to many award-winning bartenders and venues, and the series of events will push their skills and offering into the spotlight.
When does it take place?
Aberdeen Cocktail Week will run later this year from the October 18 to 24, 2022.
How does it work?
Those interested in attending will purchase a wristband which gives them access to special menus and events during Aberdeen Cocktail Week at a variety of venues.
Each of the city’s top bars and restaurants that are involved have been advised to have up to three exclusive drinks only available during the event.
These will include a signature recipe, a £5 cocktail, and a non-alcoholic option, too at each venue.
It is important to note that not all venues will be offering all of the above, however organisers say most will be able to accommodate all three.
There will also be unlimited access to other offers during the week with the wristband which are yet to be announced.
What will be happening during the event?
There will be a whole host of events taking place throughout the week. From bar takeovers to cocktail masterclasses, not to mention educational sessions and other unique offerings.
The full programme of events is still to be revealed by organisers who look to emulate the success of cocktail weeks in other cities such as Edinburgh and London.
How much are wristbands and where can I buy them?
The week-long wristbands are priced at £12 while day passes can be purchased for £8.
A student week-long wristband is £6.00 and there will also be a week-long wristband for those working in hospitality available for the same price.
The wristbands go on sale at 3pm today (Friday July 29).
Those already signed up to Aberdeen Cocktail Week’s waitlist will get priority access to discounted early-bird rates.
Be sure to keep a hold of your week-long wristbands during the week as without them, you can’t access the discounts or menus.
Who is taking part?
While the full line-up of venues hasn’t been confirmed yet, businesses are signing up all the time to take part.
So far 30 have confirmed their involvement and below are the bars and restaurants that we know are definitely taking part.
- Siberia
- The Spiritualist
- Orchid
- OGV Taproom
- The Ivy Lodge
- The Old Workshop
- Molly’s
- Paramount
- Bar 99 and Kitchen
- Number 10 Bar and Restaurant
- The Esslemont
- Barbelow
- Under The Hammer
- Back To Square One
- Dusk
- Revolucion De Cuba
- All Bar One
- 210 Bistro
- The Albyn
- Faffless
- The Lounge
- Kirk View Cafe
- Nox
- Noose & Monkey
- Revolution
- 21 Crimes
- Vovem
- Namaste Delhi
- Pigs Wings
- Boho
How old do I have to be to get involved?
Due to the alcohol laws in Scotland those attending any of the events must be 18 years of age or over.
The venues involved operate a strict Think 25 policy so be sure to bring valid identification (a passport or driving licence) when collecting your wristband, when ordering cocktails at the bar or attending events.
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