Bar consultant and creator of Drinks Enthusiast, Dave Marsland, returns with all the latest behind the scenes news from Manchester's bar and cocktail scene. 

Manchester Whisky Club 

Changing venue, the Manchester Whisky Club took over The Castle Hotel on Oldham Street for their latest meeting with the theme of America! Seeing delights including Sazerac Rye, White Dog and Four Roses, the biggest crowd to date took each dram in their stride and made sure that the next instalment in July will be one to beat (it’s Japanese whisky in case you were wondering!).

American Whiskys at The Castle Hotel 

The Vega Lounge Launch

The grand re-opening of Manchester235’s main bar has been and gone in a whirl of roulette tables, cocktails, and fire as Vega Lounge introduced itself to the ever-changing landscape of Manchester’s bar scene. A complete overhaul of both the bar itself as well as the seating area (complete with cosy booths) has seen last weekend transform into a sea of excited guests as well as eager bartenders jumping at the chance to showcase cocktails including the Duel Martini, Vega Vaults and Shot Roulette. Read a full review of the night here. 

Guests enjoying the new look Vega Lounge bar at Manchester235

Almost Famous Beach Club and Fire

Also opening in the Great Northern area is Almost Famous and their popup Manchester Beach Club. Located behind the Rekorderlig summerhouse, Almost Famous are serving their legendary burgers from within their colourful huts for the coming weeks. Unfortunately, this is your only way to grab your meat fix due to the tragic circumstances that happened this past week. But don’t worry, Keko Moku and Luck Lust Liquor and Burn are re-opening this week. 

Head down to Almost Famous Beach Club at Great Northern for some of this

G'Vine Gin at The Blue Pig

Across the crossroads from those guys, The Blue Pig played host to the French stylings of G’Vine gin last week. In front of a strong gathering, myself and Paul Pavli of G’Vine showed off this unique product in the form of G’Vine and 1724 tonics, as well as a whole host of classic Negronis created by bartender Adam McLean. The Parisian deli threw together canapés to accompany including l'escargot and frogs legs. If you fancy something similar, The Blue Pig will be hosting another evening, this time showcasing the rather delectable Excellia tequila! Find out more. 

G'Vine gin tasting at The Blue Pig  

Corks Out 

Ones to always show you something a little different are Corks Out. The independent wine and spirit merchants took over the Castlefield Rooms above Dukes 92 with their Manchester Summer Tasting. Showcasing a whole host of vineyards from around the world, as well as cider, ale’s and spirits, the ever growing company put on an event to that you could truly savour each sip as you chat to like minded folk. Look out for their return in the Winter!

Follow Dave on Twitter @drinksenthusist