Do you love whisky? Do you drink it neat, over ice, or in an Old Fashioned? There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy whisky. The “water of life” can be savored in many ways – it all comes down to personal preference.

You can even experiment by trying different glasses and serving temperatures. Try it neat or on the rocks. Add a drop of water or a mixer. Or you can add it to a cocktail, like an Old Fashioned. The main thing is that you find the way you enjoy it.

Whether you’re into whisky neat or prefer our Old Fashioned cocktails, join us this September 4th for a special event. What better way to enjoy the occasion than with a glass of whisky and delicious food surrounded by friends and family at the best bar in Moonee Ponds.

We’ll offer a wide selection of Old Fashioned cocktails showcasing the different whisky regions. If you didn’t know Japan makes excellent whisky, this is a good way to learn more about the world’s top whisky regions.

It may sound surprising, but the Japanese make excellent whisky, a fact that has become globally celebrated for its unparalleled precision and artistry. With around eight distilleries in Japan, they meticulously produce quality blended and single malt whiskies for both discerning local consumption and international export.

What truly sets Japanese whiskies apart is their often higher content of alcohol (ABV, alcohol by volume) compared to whisky produced in Scotland. This fascinating characteristic means the whisky doesn’t necessarily need to mature as long as Scotch does, often achieving its perfect character with around three years in oak casks. Because Japanese whisky tends to mature faster, the flavour profile often develops into something bolder and richer, offering a truly unique tasting experience. Yet, the fundamental distilling process for these exquisite single malt whiskies remains steeped in tradition, using the same essential elements of yeast, pristine water, and the finest barley.

Among the titans of Japanese whisky, two distilleries consistently set themselves apart: Suntory and Nikka. We’re particularly excited to highlight the incredible Nikka From the Barrel, a blended whisky with a rich and robust sherry taste, famously bottled at 51.4% ABV. This powerhouse of flavour was even crowned Whisky Advocate’s 2018 Whisky of the Year, a testament to its complexity. It’s masterfully crafted from over 100 whiskies blended together and aged in a combination of sherry butts and bourbon barrels, delivering an unforgettable depth.

And for an even deeper dive into Japanese whisky excellence, Saros Bar & Dining is incredibly proud to feature the iconic Yamazaki 12-Year on our menu. This renowned expression hails from Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery, Yamazaki Distillery, a true pioneer in the industry. The meticulous aging process of the Yamazaki 12-Year is a testament to their dedication, utilising a symphony of casks including American, Spanish, and the uniquely Japanese mizunara oak. Each cask contributes to its exquisite balance and intricate layers of flavour. We believe the Yamazaki 12-Year is a masterpiece best savoured neat, allowing you to fully appreciate its delicate yet profound character.

Despite being a small country, Scotland stands as the undeniable biggest producer of whisky in the world, a true global leader in liquid gold. This revered nation boasts five distinct whisky regions: the rugged Highlands, the fertile Speyside, the softer Lowlands, the robust Campbeltown, and the peaty Islay. Thanks to its rich, fertile glens, Speyside proudly holds the title of the world’s most densely populated whisky region, a testament to its ideal conditions for distillation.

You’ve undoubtedly heard of Scotch or Scottish whisky, terms synonymous with quality and tradition. While the original Scotch was crafted with pure malted barley, over centuries, commercial distilleries have innovatively introduced rye and wheat into their whisky production. Today, Scotland is home to over 134 distilleries, each contributing to its rich heritage. The oldest, Glenturret, dates back to a remarkable 1775, while Glenfiddich Distillery stands as one of the largest and most iconic names.

The differences between the whiskies made in each Scottish region are truly phenomenal. Each offers unique aromas and flavour notes specific to its terroir, a true reflection of its origin. It’s no surprise that Scottish whiskies consistently pick up prestigious awards each year – they truly boast some of the best whisky in the world, including some of the most expensive and sought-after brands.

At Saros Bar & Dining, our love for Scotch runs deep, and our drinks menu proudly features an exceptional range. We believe in showcasing both celebrated classics and intriguing expressions. You’ll find the incredibly versatile Monkey Shoulder, a true testament to how great blended malts should be more than the sum of their parts. Originally a superb blend of single malts from Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie, it now skillfully incorporates a few more in the mix, resulting in a delightfully smooth and rich character. It makes a solid match for some ice cubes and a splash of soda, and is the star of our perfectly crafted Old Fashioned cocktail – a must-try for any whisky enthusiast!

For those who appreciate a whisky with immense character, we highly recommend Lagavulin 16 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky. This iconic Islay dram delivers intense notes of cured lemon, refreshing sea spray, a hint of orange liqueur, comforting barley cookie, and a deep dark cocoa richness. The palate beautifully echoes these flavours, culminating with a warming, signature wisp of peat smoke that makes it truly formidable.

And for a truly luxurious experience, look no further than Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Whisky. This exquisite Scotch offers an unparalleled sensory journey. The nose presents strong, enticing aromas of robust Arabica espresso blended beautifully with plum pudding, candied orange peel, and rich sherry. On the palate, you’ll discover a captivating contrast of rich sweetness with an explosion of sizzling spices and a sophisticated bitter mocha. The finish is remarkably fresh, leaving a lingering impression of bright citrus and a gentle breeze of mint.

If you’re ever unsure how to navigate the wonderful world of Scotch, or if you’re looking for that perfect pour, our knowledgeable bartenders at Saros are always on hand to offer a few tips and guide you to your ideal dram. All you have to do is ask!

Ah, the age-old debate: What came first, Irish whiskey or Scotch? Every proud Irish person would emphatically agree that Irish whiskey predates Scotch, with records indicating its presence a remarkable 90 years before the first documented whisky in Scotland. What’s truly surprising is how these two neighbouring countries, despite sharing so many cultural similarities, forged two wonderfully distinctive spirits. And yes, they even have their own spelling – the robust ‘whisky’ versus the smooth ‘whiskey’ with an ‘e’.

Ireland is a vibrant hub for whiskey production today, home to over 32 impressive whiskey distilleries, including the oldest licensed distillery in the world, the venerable Bushmills, which dates all the way back to 1608! So, while it’s fantastic to enjoy an Irish whiskey on St. Patrick’s Day, there’s absolutely no need to wait for a special occasion to experience its charms. If you’re looking to dive into the world of Irish whiskey, a perfect starting point is Jameson. This iconic brand has been the most famous and best-selling Irish whiskey globally since 1780, a true testament to its enduring appeal.

Ninety per cent of the whiskey produced in Ireland is blended, and Jameson is a prime example of this masterful craft. This beloved spirit is famously triple distilled, made from a harmonious blend of grain and single pot still whiskey, resulting in that signature Irish smoothness. Jameson delights the palate with its inviting notes of spice, a comforting nuttiness, and a delicate touch of vanilla. It’s truly a versatile and perfectly drinkable whiskey.

Whether you prefer it straight, on the rocks, mixed with a splash of ginger ale, infused into a heartwarming Irish coffee, or starring in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Jameson never disappoints.

At Saros Bar & Dining in Moonee Ponds, we curate a selection of Irish whiskies that perfectly captures the spirit of the Emerald Isle. We’re pleased to feature the timeless Jameson and another enduring favourite, Tullamore D.E.W., on our menu. Come in and discover why these smooth, approachable whiskies continue to charm palates worldwide!

Welcome to the land of ‘whiskey’ (with an ‘e’!), a spirit crafted with robust character all across the USA. America even boasts its very own iconic type of whiskey, proudly known as Bourbon. The whiskey trade here was flourishing as early as 1870, with even revered political leaders like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington holding liquor licences, indicating their integral part in this rich heritage. Today, the states of Kentucky and Tennessee remain the undisputed heartlands and best whiskey-distilling regions in the United States.

The American whiskey landscape is incredibly diverse, offering seven major types of whiskey to explore: the quintessential Bourbon whiskey (primarily made from corn), distinct Tennessee whiskey, spicy rye whiskey, rye malt whiskey, malt whiskey, wheat whiskey, and corn whiskey. Brands like Jack Daniels, Jim Beam, and Maker’s Mark have captivated palates for decades, becoming household names worldwide. For instance, the legendary Jack Daniel’s distillery celebrated their 150th anniversary in 2016, a testament to their enduring legacy. Their famous Tennessee whiskey is still crafted following Jack Daniel’s original recipe, featuring a harmonious mix of corn, rye, and barley.

At Saros Bar & Dining in Moonee Ponds, we pride ourselves on offering a large and diverse selection of American whiskey, perfect for every taste. Beyond beloved classics like Knob Creek, Southern Comfort, Bulleit Rye, Jack Daniels, and Maker’s Mark, we’re thrilled to feature the exquisite Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. This is a truly rich and full-bodied bourbon, celebrated for its complex flavour profile that sings with notes of decadent chocolate, creamy vanilla, luscious dark fruit, and comforting caramel. It’s a superb sipping whiskey, best savoured neat to appreciate its depth.

There are countless delightful ways to enjoy American whiskey. You can savour it neat to appreciate its pure character, on the rocks for a refreshing chill, or with a splash of ginger ale or club soda. And, of course, American whiskies shine in classic cocktails. You must try our perfectly balanced Whiskey Sour, a timeless concoction that beautifully highlights the vibrant notes of Bourbon whiskey with the brightness of fresh lemon and a touch of sweetness from sugar, all crowned with the silky texture of aquafaba or egg white. It’s a genuine crowd-pleaser!

Australia, though relatively new to the global whisky scene, has rapidly forged a formidable reputation as one of the world’s best producers of whisky. It’s a remarkable comeback story: thanks to the restrictive Distillation Act of 1901, whisky distillation was largely banned in Australia for decades. If it weren’t for the persistent vision of Bill Lark, who passionately pressured the government to amend the law in 1992, Australia might never have entered the exciting world of single malt whisky production.

Known rightfully as the Godfather of Australian Whisky, Bill Lark’s efforts led to his distillery becoming the first Australian operation in 154 years to legally produce single malt spirit. Since then, whisky distilling in Australia has experienced an incredible, burgeoning growth. Today, our vast continent is home to over 293 distilleries, of which a impressive 50 are actively producing world-class whisky products.

The world truly began to take notice when Sullivan’s Cove famously won the world’s best single malt whisky at the World Whiskies Awards in 2014. And just eight years later, Starward distillery brought immense pride to our shores by winning Distillery of the Year at June’s 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It is absolutely safe to say that Australians are making a powerful name for themselves in the highly competitive whisky industry, proving our dedication to quality and innovation.

While Tasmania and Victoria remain the more prominent producers, regions like Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia are rapidly gaining ground. Tasmania alone boasts four key distilleries, including The Tasmanian Distillery, renowned for its award-winning Sullivan’s Cove French Oak single cask.

At Saros Bar & Dining, we are passionate about showcasing the finest of our local spirits. Behind our bar, you’ll find a curated selection of exceptional Australian whiskies that truly represent the diversity and quality of our home-grown talent. Alongside beloved choices like Archie Rose White Rye, Hellyers Road Peated, Starward Nova Wine Cask single malt, and Starward Two Fold, we are incredibly excited to feature The Gospel Straight Rye Whiskey.

The Gospel Straight Rye Whiskey, crafted right here in Australia, is a full-flavoured, rich in spice, and wonderfully deep and complex whiskey that truly reveals more of itself with every sip. It possesses a medium body and intensity, perfectly balancing its signature rye spice with a delicate vanilla oak influence. This makes it absolutely perfect on the rocks, allowing its intricate profile to shine, or as the star of classic, old-school whisky-forward cocktails. In fact, we highly recommend trying it in a classic Manhattan-style cocktail, combining Rye whiskey with sweet vermouth and a dash of Angostura bitters for a truly sophisticated experience. Made in a similar, meticulous way to Scotch, these Australian whiskies can be enjoyed in a variety of ways – come and explore your next local favourite with us!

The Great White North isn’t just famous for its maple syrup and stunning landscapes; it’s also a powerhouse of distinctive whisky production. If it weren’t for a fascinating interplay of history—namely, Prohibition and the prominence of rye—we might not be toasting Canadian whisky as we do today.

While often compared to Scotch and Bourbon, Canadian whisky boasts a style all its own. What truly sets it apart is the profound influence of rye, so much so that it’s often affectionately called “rye whisky.” Typically crafted from a blend of grains, with corn as the most common base, Canadian whisky is often distilled to create a neutral spirit, then blended with a flavouring whisky, frequently rich in rye, to achieve its signature profile. This unique approach allows for incredible versatility and smoothness, making Canadian whiskies incredibly approachable and delightful.

At Saros, we celebrate the best of Canadian whisky. Canadian Club is a prime example, uniquely blended before being aged in white oak barrels. This process imbues it with a delightful aroma of vanilla, pepper, and almond, making it exceptionally enjoyable whether you prefer it neat or on the rocks. For those who love a classic, our Canadian Club Sweet Old Fashioned cocktail truly brings out its character.

Another Canadian gem that embodies the versatility of blended whiskies, perfect for those seeking a smooth and approachable sip, is Monkey Shoulder. This superb blended malt goes beyond the sum of its parts, originally a harmonious mix of single malts, now featuring a few more in its delightful ensemble. It’s fantastic with a few ice cubes and a splash of soda, or truly shines in a classic Old Fashioned alongside bitters and sugar. It’s a testament to the art of Canadian blending, offering a consistently excellent and approachable experience.

A Journey Through the World’s Most Renowned Whisky Regions

We hope this journey through the world’s most renowned whisky regions has sparked your curiosity and perhaps even inspired your next pour! At Saros Bar & Dining, we’re proud to bring a curated selection of these exceptional whiskies right here to Moonee Ponds. Whether you’re eager to delve into the smoky depths of an Islay single malt, savour a smooth Irish whiskey, or explore the surprising delights of Australian distilleries, our team is passionate about guiding you to your perfect dram.

We invite you to step into Saros, discover new favourites, and perhaps pair them with our delicious tapas for an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for any occasion!