Tokyo is a whisky city, and I’m a whisky girl. I didn’t realize it until we moved to Japan, but I’m glad I did! It’s an expensive habit though, and I certainly didn’t need another one of those.
There are tiny little whisky bars all over this city. They’re tucked into back alleys, basements and train stations. They have low lighting, warm copper accents, and dark wood bars polished so thoroughly that you can practically see your reflection in them. The bartenders are dressed in immaculately-tailored black suits and have slicked-back hair. They carefully chip ice blocks by hand into orbs designed to nestle snugly into the glass, meticulously measure out a perfect pour, then delicately swirl the ice around to chill the whisky.
One of our favorite whisky bars is called Bar Caol Ila. It’s located in Shibuya, just a few stops away from our apartment on the train. Caol Ila is a Scottish distillery that was founded in 1846, although it has changed hands several times over the years. Their brand of whisky is usually peated, which lends a smoky, earthy flavor to the drink. I love the peated flavor, but it’s not for everyone. They carry other brands from all over the world, as well as the components for other cocktails in case peated whisky isn’t your thing!
Bar Caol Ila
Tokyo, Shibuya-ky, Dougenzaka
150-0043 F 1-13-3
I envy your selection! The Hakushu 18 yr is a personal favourite however impossible to buy in India and even challenging to track down in the various locations I tend to travel in Asia (alas not Japan!) Thanks for sharing and enjoy imbibing!
Thanks for commenting! I’ve only tried the Hakushu 12 year, will have to look up the 18. Good luck tracking it down 🙂