For World Whisky Day: 7 local places to try bourbons, whiskeys and cocktails
If you’ve noticed a surge in bars and restaurants offering a wider and better selection of whiskeys and bourbons, it’s not your imagination. The whiskey market is booming and expected to have an annual growth rate of almost 5%, reaching $86 billion by 2027, according to a report from Allied Market Research.
To celebrate, you can take part in the global World Whisky Day, which takes place every third Saturday in May. That's this week, or the 21st. So where in the Wilmington area can you find a large/interesting/unique selection of bottles or cocktails to try? Here are a few of them.
If we missed your favorite, let us know. Email aballard@gannett.com.
Front Street Brewery
This longtime favorite in downtown Wilmington now has a selection of more than 480 whiskeys, bourbons and ryes -- making it one of the best in the eastern part of the state. On Saturday, they're offering their World Wide Whiskey Flight for a reduced price. It's meant to be both tasty and educational. It features a unique selection that many people might not have had the chance to try -- Amrut Single Malt Indian Whisky, Nikka Miyagikayo Single Malt Japanese Whisky, Talisker 10 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
True Blue Butcher and Barrel
Nearby, this newest True Blue restaurant at 10 Greenfield St. in the South Front district, has more than 200 bourbon and whiskeys. On Saturday night, they're having a DJ and the party gets started around 9 p.m. If you really want a luxurious experience, get the new steak garnish add-on available with your preferred drink.
More: Through ups and downs, Wilmington's original Peruvian restaurant family keeps it traditional
Background: A first look at Front Street Brewery before it reopens in downtown Wilmington
The Pub of Southport
This restaurant/bar located in the heart of this Brunswick County community at 1513 North Howe St. has been going strong for more than a decade. In addition to Irish-American fare, their extensive selection of adult beverages includes 90 different whiskeys. Try one with one of those fancy ice cubes designed especially for the best drinking experience.
Rebellion
You could say that this pub in downtown Wilmington is always celebrating the brown spirits. It's named for America's Whiskey Rebellion and each week, you can find something interesting on special on Whiskey Wednesdays. Their selection now comes in at about 300 bottles.
The Blind Elephant
If you're looking to enjoy your whiskey in a environment that evokes a classic '20s speakeasy, try this cocktail bar at 21 N. Front St. The carry more than 100 whiskeys and bourbons and their accolades include multiple awards as one of the country's Great Bourbon Bars, They just released their newest cocktail menu. The Before Sunrise has rye whiskey, apple brandy, chamomile-infused vermouth and lime.
The Starling
Speaking of cocktails, this whiskey and wine bar in the Cargo District (612 Queen St.) has quite a few, in addition to an extensive selection of spirts by the shot. The namesake drink is made with Elijah Craig bourbon, Blanc Vermouth, grilled pineapple, honey
and a splash of red wine.
Whiskey Trail
As you might guess from the name, this neighborhood pub (with two locations) also has a wide selection of bourbons and whiskeys. Look for more than 70 options at 3525 Lancelot Lane and 4039 Masonboro Loop Road.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at aballard@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: For World Whisky Day, try these restaurants and bars in Wilmington
