Whisky and Alement

Overview

Tucked away off a quiet patch of Russell Street is a thimble-sized bar spoken about in the whispers of whisky lovers Melbourne-wide.  With a staggering 500 (yes, you read that correctly, five hundred!) different types of whisky on offer, lovers of the amber liquid will be spoilt for choice.

But don't worry about being overwhelmed by the sheer variety on offer — the knowledgeable and unpretentious bartenders put in the hard yards testing each tipple, and are happy to guide the uninitiated towards the best drop for your palate. They even offer the occasional whisky masterclass for those who want to go that one step further in their appreciation of the spirit.  Drop by for an introduction to whisky, an education on Islay whisky, or even a special class on Australian made whisky.  It's the type of bar where you would expect suits to come for after work drinks, executives to hold a boozy meeting or couples to have a fancy date night.

Though this whisky lounge bar seems like the last place you would go to get rowdy, it's definitely the place for a stiff drink. If you need a fast kick-start to a night out, try the amazing value for money Glaswegian Boilermaker: a shot of whisky and matched beer for just $10.  The cocktail list is full of all the classics you would expect from a specialty bar. (Seriously, try the whisky sour.)  If what you crave doesn't include a large chunk of ice in your tumbler, then make sure you try a mug of Hot Buttered Wine ($18). This warming brew is served nice and hot with ample amounts of Glendronach 12 year whisky, a splash of the thick, dark and sweet Pedro Ximinez wine and a luxurious lashing of butter, complete with a drop of maple syrup and a sprinkling of nutmeg.  Don't feel up to whisky? There's a tight wine list and some really excellent beers, as well as the usual bar essentials.

Lovers of whisky, though, need look no further than W&A. And if you're not yet converted, just have a word to the staff. You never know — they might just introduce you to your new favourite drink.