“Show me the way/to the next whiskey bar/oh, don’t ask why.” Because we all know exactly what The Doors were referring to—brown spirits are amazing! And nowhere is that more evident than Tangier, a whiskey bar at Sahara Las Vegas that’s going to convert many a vodka and gin lover.
This is a great place to sit down and enjoy some people-watching while admiring the huge selection of spirits—more than 200, according to Nate Hedlund, director of beverage for Sahara Las Vegas. You’ll find everything here from classic bourbons like Elmer T. Lee and Old Forester and Scotches like Glenmorangie to Japanese whiskies like Hibiki. And as pleasurable as these are to sip, they’re even more incredible in the cocktails Hedlund has created.
So many places to start, so why not a classic first? The Boulevardier offers three fun options in addition to Campari and Antica sweet vermouth: your choice of Maker’s Mark bourbon, Diplomatico Reserve rum or Casamigos reposado tequila.
From there, move onto a Kyuri Highball, a definite twist on the classic highball with Suntori Toki Japanese whiskey, Nagomi lychee syrup, lime juice and cucumber tonic. An ultra-thin slice of cucumber is draped over the glass for a very nice finishing touch.
For a real head-turner, try the Smoke Show, a sweet, tasty blend of Glenfiddich 14-year Scotch, Giffard Banana liqueur, gomme syrup and Angostura bitters. It’s then placed in an attractive, see-through container and pumped full of smoke from apple tree chips. When the door is opened, be sure to have your camera ready for a nice memory.
Other Tangier highlights include the Caravan of One, a citrusy cocktail with floral notes that comes in a really cool reflective cup. It’s a mix of Glenmorangie 10-year scotch whiskey, grapefruit juice, St-Germain, Sandeman sherry and grapefruit bitters. Or The Chosen One, Tangier’s version of a punch. With a slight spice and flavors like banana, passion fruit and pineapple, this tiki-type cocktail is made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, Ambros banana whiskey, Funkin passion fruit purée, Monin pineapple chipotle syrup and lemon juice.
Sahara Las Vegas, 21+. 702.761.7000
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