From sustainable bottles to new local flavours, raise your glass to the new wave of spirits recently launched in Singapore.
BY JOCELYN TAN
In a world where sustainability and creativity collide, Singapore is a vibrant hub for innovative alcohols that celebrate both flavour and the environment. This exciting new wave of spirits isn’t just about quenching your thirst — it’s about crafting narratives that honour the past while looking towards a greener future. From inventive gins that evoke fond childhood memories to bold sakes that challenge traditional norms, explore new drinks that are making waves in Singapore’s spirits scene.
Toward a sustainable future
Imagine transforming yesterday’s waste into today’s liquid treasures. Singapore warmly welcomes a trio of innovative spirits from Discarded Spirits Co., part of William Grant & Sons, demonstrating that sustainability can be irresistibly delicious. Each of these spirits — Sweet Cascara Vermouth, Banana Peel Rum, and Grape Skin Vodka — has been thoughtfully crafted from overlooked by-products of the food and beverage industry, turning what might have been waste into unique, flavourful offerings.
Sweet Cascara Vermouth breathes new life into the discarded fruit of the coffee cherry, resulting in a rich, full-bodied vermouth that boasts deep, fruity notes with layers of complexity. Ideal for crafting a delightful Cascara Negroni, this vermouth exemplifies the brand’s innovative approach, seamlessly blending creativity with a commitment to reducing waste in an impactful way.
Meanwhile, Banana Peel Rum offers a delightful tropical twist, ingeniously made from the peels of bananas typically discarded after processing. This rum captures the comforting essence of banana bread, making it a perfect base for cocktails like the Banana Peel Old Fashioned, where its warm flavours shine through. For those who prefer spirit-forward options, Grape Skin Vodka is crafted from Spanish Chardonnay grape pomace, delivering a smooth mouthfeel and an intricate tapestry of aromas that includes hints of green apple, lychee, and a bold pink peppercorn finish. This is perfect for sipping neat or in creative cocktails.
For good time’s sake
Breaking the mold of traditional sake, Against the Grain by normat is more than just a drink — it’s a bold statement about reimagining how we perceive and enjoy sake. Crafted in Niigata, Japan, under the creative direction of visionary Singaporean designer Larry Peh, this sake marries classic Japanese craftsmanship with modern, global flavours, aimed at defying conventional expectations and rewriting the rules of sake consumption.
The Junmai Daiginjo is brewed from 100% Koshitanrei rice, resulting in a silky-smooth sake that features enticing notes of sweetness and umami, gliding effortlessly across the palate. With its mellow fruit aroma and a finish as delicate as melting snow, this sake pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes — from fresh sushi to local hawker favourites like Nasi Lemak, making it an incredibly versatile choice for any dining occasion.
Conversely, the Tokubetsu Junmai offers a more complex tasting experience, brewed with a rare blend of Gohyakumangoku and Tsukiakari rice. This sake presents bold umami, subtle acidity, and a lingering velvety texture. Adding to the charm of this unique offering is a cool surprise: a whimsical graphic hidden beneath the back label, which adds a playful touch to Peh’s creation.
Go local
Brass Lion Distillery continues to push the boundaries of craft spirits with its latest creation, Hawthorn Gin, a remarkable spirit that blends Singaporean nostalgia with artisanal craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from the beloved childhood treat of haw flakes, this gin utilises tangy Asian hawthorn berries to deliver a bright, fruity profile that captures the essence of Singapore. The flavour is beautifully balanced by a lingering, delicate sweetness, creating a spirit that pays homage to local culture while being versatile enough for various cocktail applications.
If you’re seeking the ideal refreshment on a lazy, balmy afternoon, consider pouring a splash of Hawthorn Gin with tonic and garnishing it with a twist of orange. This combination transforms the gin into a refreshing drink that pairs wonderfully with the tropical climate.
That’s not all: Brass Lion further reinforces its sustainability commitment by offering delicious hawthorn fruit strips made from spent botanicals with every bottle — these strips serve as a tasty snack and a charming cocktail garnish, further minimising waste and celebrating local flavours.