Being someone who is into “eat drink play enjoy”, specifically gastronomy and to a certain extent, beverageology, it is surprising that I didn’t got into the intriguing niche world of spirits until I know Old Moon Spirits. And once I got to sample the different kinds of spirits through Old Moon Spirits’ events and pop-ups, I realised I discovered a new gustatory adventure.
Jason Oh, the owner, is so passionate about spirits and looking to widen the demographics for spirit appreciation. With this, he created different types of tasting experiences, from whisky, rum, cognac to calvados, eau-de-vie and grappa. This is perfect for me: to get a taste of lots of different spirits to find out what catches my fancy. In fact, this feels like 4 course tasting menu in restaurants. Jason also takes us through the detailed journey of the creation of these spirits, heightening the appreciation of the quality spirits.
What I love about spirits is the myriad of aromas and taste flavours that can surprise or spellbind. Yes, I just recently realised that spirits are more than high alcohol content, they can be gastronomic treats, especially when the taste can develop or change when water is added, or paired with food. And the intensity can be changed with the amount of water added. Which is why I, a “25% alcohol limit” person, can readily embrace the experience of spirit tasting.
And Old Moon Spirits’ office has this lovely cosy European Old World charm and artistic vibe due to the dark teal walls that matches the intensity of the rows of spirits lining the shelves and top of dark wood drawers, the stained glass window, a centrepiece of long dark wooden table, soft glowing craftsman lamps and oil paintings of English blooms. Sipping quality spirits here is truly one of life’s enjoyable indulgence.
A must-try experience.
During a pop-up event, Hampten rum impressed me with its smoothness, sweetness (without the sugar) with a lace of savoury taste and rich aroma of dried topical fruits. So when I visit Jason’s office, I want to try the curated range of Hampten rums. Yes, I’m loving it even more this second time round. So much so that I get a bottle of Hampten HLCF Classic Overproof 60% ABV, the one with the high potency and strongest flavour.
Complimentary pre-drink of Shochu made from brown sugar in Japan. Clean in taste with a light woody aroma.
I also need to make a special mention of the spirits featured at Hidden Beauties Pop-up because they are so unique and made from the most unlikely ingredients. Most importantly, I enjoy drinking them.
Made from grape skin, Nardini Grappa Bianca surprises me by how different it is from wine that is made from grapes. And in a good way. The aroma is mildly woody while the flavours are sweet, robust and floral. This difference between smell and taste is a nice surprise. I also buy a bottle of this due to its uniqueness and it being my type of drink.
I never expect that apricots can be used to make spirits, so Capovilla Abricot Du Vesuve Eau-de-Vie definitely surprises me. The light sweet aroma of apricot draws me in at first sniff. The taste actually differs from the sweetness of the aroma, in a good way. It is savoury and intense with hints of sweetness.
Christian Drouin Year Pay D'auge Calvados impresses with its main ingredient as apple. A well-balanced drink with complexity and lots of flavours.
Vallein Tercinier XO Fine Champagne Cognac makes me realise why cognac is so highly regarded. So smooth and intense, like a slow graceful dance on the palates.
Thoughts: Amazing, Unique Experience
216 Joo Chiat Road #04-20
