Eau de Vie

I stumbled on Eau de Vie at the Kirkland Hotel in Darlinghust this week. Had I not heard about Eau de Vie through my friend Sloan, I would have most likely would just keep walking past, I was doubtful of it’s existence even as I walked through the deserted lobby. However, as I pulled back the massive black doors I was welcomed to the comforting sound of Sarah Vaughn, shakers shaking and the low rumble of conversation.

Eau de Vie’s décor is dark wood, leather and velvet. It has all the right makings of a smoking lounge and while my preferred seating at the bar is minimal and somewhat crowded with shakers and other collectable bar memorabilia, behind the bar is what really mattered; premium liquor and inspired bartenders.

After perusing the menu I settled on the Hendricks Tea Party, a light concoction of Hendrick’s cucumber and rose petal infused gin, shaken with berry infused black tea, fresh orange and basil, presented in a tea cup martini glass (nice touch). It was good, but not as good as the Grounds for Divorce! Grounds for Divorce named after a song by Elbow and an award winning cocktail at the Australian Whiskey Leg of the 2009 World Class Competition. A delicious combination of Talisker whiskey, walnut liquor and crème de cacao served with a top of James Squire porter presented in an ice filled beer bottle. Wow!

The eight page menu is sure to have something for everyone and while I will be back to consume more very soon, I can’t help but wonder if screwed myself by not saving the best for last.