Filipino cuisine has seen a renaissance in the past few years, with many diving deep into regional cuisines around the country. Raffles Makati Hotel’s Long Bar is no exception. However, instead of food, the renowned bar has partnered with Moet Hennessy Philippines to create bespoke cocktails that highlight the different flavors of the country to the delight of guests.
The Exploration of Regions cocktail collection pays homage to the unique and vibrant regional representations of the Philippines – Baguio, Calabarzon, Bicol, Batangas, Mindoro, Zamboanga, and Davao Del Norte. Each cocktail captures the essence of its respective region, carefully curated by Long Bar’s talented mixologists.
Baguio and the mountain province in the north are known for their strawberries, prominently highlighted in Little Baguio. A delightful blend of Volcan Blanco Tequila and fresh strawberries, the drink is tart, sweet, yet floral, making it an easy choice for those who want a fruity drink.
Meanwhile, the Moringa Blast draws inspiration from the green landscapes of Calabarzon. It is made from Belvedere Vodka and Malunggay juice which makes it perfect for those who live a healthy lifestyle but still want to enjoy a drink or two.
The Manzanilla Blossom is a fusion of Glenmorangie X Whisky and lemon juice for a citrusy explosion of flavor that is inspired by the lush lands of Batangas. Meanwhile, the Kahel de Bicolandia brings on the heat with Belvedere vodka infused with chili to capture the fiery spirit of Bicol.
The Purple Yam harkens to the mystical allure of Mindoro as Volcan Blanco Tequila and ube liqueur are blended together to create an easy-to-drink but out-of-this-world concoction. Meanwhile, the Chavacano Sour is a savory treat. The richness of Hennessy VS, Cointreau simple syrup, and pickled spicy green mango combine to create a drink that hits numerous flavor notes, paying tribute to Zamboanga’s cultural heritage.
Finally, the Banana Del Norte is a monster of a finisher, combining the sweet notes of Glenmorangie X Whisky and the smokey Ardbeg’s Wee Beastie. This is rounded out with the addition of banana liqueur and espresso liqueur for a drink that is best enjoyed by actively dissecting it in every sip.
“We are thrilled to introduce the ‘Exploration of Regions’ cocktail collection, a testament to the rich cultural heritage and flavors of the Philippines,” said Anne-Sophie Hurtuad, food & beverage director at Raffles Fairmont Makati Hotel. “Using some of the most known produce of each Philippine region, our mixologists have crafted these cocktails with passion and dedication, aiming to take our guests on a delightful journey of taste and experience.”
The “Exploration of Regions” cocktail collection is now available exclusively at Long Bar of Raffles Makati Hotel which is open daily, from 5pm to 12mn, Sundays through Thursdays, and until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.
