by Tara Rafiq | May 31, 2018 | The Alchemist
Every year during the first full week of June, bars and restaurants around the world pay tribute to the classic Italian cocktail, the Negroni, during a popular annual event known, fittingly, as Negroni Week. The elegant aperitif is traditionally made with one part...
by Tara Rafiq | May 24, 2018 | Tasting Panel
The Alchemist’s tasting panel searches for the best B.C. gin to enjoy with your tonic Now that spring has finally sprung, we’re craving lighter sprits and fresher flavours. In other words, we’re craving gin, especially when it’s mixed with tonic water. Our tasting...
by Tara Rafiq | May 22, 2018 | Still Life
Artisan distilling started a conversation about the terroir of spirits. But can you taste those uber-local ingredients in the bottle? On the drive up to Saanichton from Victoria, hand-lettered signs for honey and free-range eggs compete with honour-system farm stands...
by Tara Rafiq | May 9, 2018 | The Alchemist
The Fairmont Pacific Rim’s Christopher Enns has become the fourth Vancouver bartender to win the prestigious Diageo World Class Canada competition since this country joined the global fray in 2013. He now heads to Berlin, Germany, to represent Canada at the World...
by Tara Rafiq | Apr 30, 2018 | Features
The traditional British cocktail to serve at your next garden party or royal wedding do The first time I had Pimm’s Cup, I was in the Costwolds, visiting friends of friends, and I was baffled. Why, I wondered, were these nice strangers handing me what appeared to be a...
