The Dorchester’s Vesper Bar embarks on a new cocktail symphony with its latest menu, Essentia. This innovative concept celebrates the marriage of scents and memories, encapsulated in 11 unique cocktails meticulously crafted by the talented team.
The Team behind The Vesper Bar – Awards, accolades and ambition
The Vesper Bar at The Dorchester has never been “just a hotel bar” and the decades of dedication that the team (led by Simon Rowe) have put in are now being recognised globally. The Vesper Bar at The Dorchester is a centre of liquid excellence and features some of the most dedicated, friendly bar professionals who really listen and deliver a world-class experience time and time again. As well as mixology, you can find next-level bar dining and one of the few places on earth where you can taste all three Louis XIII Rare Casks.
The Vesper Bar team, led by bar manager Lucia Montanelli and head bartender Denise Elisei, have pooled their collective creativity and expertise to curate a menu that transcends the boundaries of traditional mixology. Each of the new cocktails in Essentia has the imprint of a personal experience from a different member of the team, resulting in a kaleidoscope of flavours and aromas that reflect the diverse tapestry of their memories and passions.
As well as a new menu, the team recently celebrated some very well-deserved awards. Giacomo Faure won Front of House Star of the Year at the Class Bar Awards and The Vesper Bar was recently nominated in the Best New International Cocktail Bar in Europe category at the 18th annual Spirited Awards® which is dedicated to honouring excellence in the drinks industry, showcasing the best of the global cocktail community. There is a real synergy and depth of talent in this team that The Dorchester Collection must be very proud of.
The Olfactory Symphony – The inspiration behind Essentia
The team drew inspiration from The Olfactory Pyramid, a concept that visualises fragrance through three levels, to create cocktails that evoke a sensory symphony, with top, middle, and end notes weaving together to tell a story with every sip. From the earthy scent of mushroom foraging to the salty sea air of summers on a boat, each cocktail in Essentia evokes experiences and brings memories to life.
Gems of Essentia
Among the standout creations on the Essentia menu, we find gems like “Sunkissed Summers,” a tribute to the Italian coastline, featuring Seatrus gin, rhubarb ‘seawater,’ and cooling aloe vera. Meanwhile, “Morning Sunshine” captures the essence of spring mornings with Enemigo Blanco tequila, Genever, and the delicate aroma of magnolia. Memories are also evoked through “Thunderstorm”, a combination of Altamura vodka, oregano mezcal, passion fruit, Greek punch, and patchouli which brings you back to rainy days with the promise of new beginnings.
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
But Essentia also has something for those seeking a non-alcoholic alternative, with the likes of “Birthday Wish,” “Timber,” “Morning Sunshine,” and “Forbidden Berries,” ensuring that everyone can partake in the sensory adventure.
Elegance Redefined
Designed by renowned architect Brudnizki, The Vesper Bar pays homage to the glamour of the roaring thirties, with ornate details and a Palladium leaf ceiling casting a warm glow over the space. Cecil Beaton pieces adorn the walls, a testament to the enduring legacy of creativity and innovation that defines The Dorchester.
Beyond Cocktails
More than a cocktail menu, the Vesper Bar team have created a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and shared experience with Essentia.
For more information visit The Dorchester
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All imagery courtesy of The Dorchester Collection.