In the heart of Makati’s Poblacion district, Bizarre Bar is crafting cocktails that are more than just drinks—they’re a journey into Filipino culture. For cocktail lovers who appreciate a mix of tradition and innovation, the bar’s latest offering, the ‘Ampaw’ cocktail, promises a memorable experience.
The Heart of a Cocktail: A Childhood Memory
Behind every great cocktail is a story, and the ‘Ampaw’ is no exception. Bizarre Bar’s Beverage Director, Ian Libang, takes us back to his childhood with this creation. Inspired by his mother’s practice of turning burnt rice into a sweet treat, the ‘Ampaw’ cocktail is a nod to his heritage. Libang fondly recalls summers when his mother deep-fried the leftover rice from the cooker, sprinkled it with sugar, and served it in a newspaper cone. This humble snack, passed down from his grandfather, now inspires a drink that’s anything but ordinary.
Tradition Meets Modern Mixology
The ‘Ampaw’ cocktail seamlessly blends the old with the new. Using clarified wild turkey bourbon as its base, the drink incorporates a toasted rice sorbet, bringing an unexpected twist to a classic bourbon experience. The result is a cocktail that’s both familiar and surprising—smooth bourbon with the punchy flavor of burnt rice, balanced by the tangy coldness of the sorbet. It’s a sip that’s both comforting and adventurous.
A Memorable Finale
Designed as the final toast of the evening, the ‘Ampaw’ cocktail stands out for its ability to surprise. Guests might expect a sweet dessert to conclude their night, but the ‘Ampaw’ defies these expectations. With its balance of sweetness, acidity, and contrasting textures, it’s a palate cleanser that leaves a lasting impression. As Libang puts it, “The ‘Ampaw’ isn’t just a drink—it’s a way to etch Filipino heritage flavors in the memory of our guests.”
A Cultural Celebration in Every Glass
Bizarre Bar’s approach to cocktails reflects a broader movement in the local dining scene—one that embraces tradition while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The ‘Ampaw’ is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of Filipino culture, a modern twist on a classic memory that resonates with those who appreciate the stories behind their cocktails.
Sip the Story Yourself
For those eager to taste a piece of Filipino history, Bizarre Bar in Makati’s Poblacion district is the place to be. Experience the blend of tradition and innovation that has made the ‘Ampaw’ cocktail a standout. Book your table and let Bizarre Bar take you on a cultural journey—one cocktail at a time.
Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI), the maker of the world’s largest selling gin, recently hosted an unforgettable celebration at Novotel Manila. Together with my fellow foodies, media reps, social media celebrities, and brand ambassadors, we gathered at the hotel together with GSMI’s team to honor the Art of Gin.
A Walk-through of Ginebra San Miguel’s History and Possibilities
The event kicked off with a captivating walk-through of Ginebra San Miguel’s illustrious 190-year history. Guests were taken on a journey from the brand’s inception – its first production under Destileria Licorea de Ayala in 1834 – to its current status as a household name in the Philippines. A sentimental look back at its various bottle variants – the well-loved “bilog” and “quatro kantos” – highlighted the brand’s evolution, resilience, and its commitment to quality.
Ginebra San Miguel has been the hallmark of a true Filipino “inuman” for generations.
GSM Premium Gin offers a practical yet elevated experience for discerning drinkers.
Available in different variants, GSM Blue offers a new twist on the classic gin experience with authentic cocktail flavors for the young generation.
1834 Distilled Premium Gin is meticulously crafted, infused with juniper berries and unique Filipino botanicals like calamansi and sampaguita.
In the event hosted by Paolo Abrera, we all learned about the meticulous distillation process that ensures the clear and pure quality of GSMI’s gin, setting it apart from other spirits. The presentation also shed light on the brand’s future, hinting at exciting innovations and expansions that will continue to delight gin enthusiasts.
The juniper berry is a premium botanical that serves as gin’s main ingredient.
Ginebra San Miguel bottles that are popularly known as either “bilog” (round) or “cuatro kantos” (four-edged)
National Artist Fernando Amorsolo designed the label of Ginebra San Miguel inspired by the Renaissance paintings of Italian artist Luca Giordano
The label’s artwork depicts the battle between St. Micheal the Archangel and Lucifer, illustrating the dual personality of gin
Introduction of Ginebra San Miguel’s New Brand Ambassadors
A significant highlight of the evening was the introduction of GSMI’s new brand ambassadors. Each ambassador embodies the unique characteristics of gin: cool, clear, and versatile.
Boss Toyo Luzadas: Known for his popular YouTube show, Pinoy Pawnstars, and his impressive collection of celebrity memorabilia, Boss Toyo brings a cool and refreshing vibe to the campaign. He shared how a shot of Ginebra San Miguel helps him unwind after a busy day of deal-making, appreciating its crispness and botanical notes.
Atty. Oliver Moeller: A rising star in the legal and entertainment fields, Atty. Oliver represents the clear, straightforward character of gin. He emphasized the importance of clear communication in his advocacies and how enjoying a glass of gin fosters connection and good times with friends.
Mikee Quintos: As an actress and content creator, Mikee embodies versatility. She expressed her love for the endless possibilities that gin cocktails offer, matching any mood or occasion with the perfect drink.
Host of popular Youtube show, Pinoy, Pawnstars, Boss Toyo Luzadas
Showbiz newbie and heartthrob lawyer, Atty. Oliver Moeller
GMA Sparkle talent and content creator, Mikee Quintos
The New Gin Is In Ambassadors
Unveiling of Ginebra San Miguel Archangel Reserve Premium Dry Gin
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the unveiling of the Ginebra San Miguel Archangel Reserve Premium Dry Gin. This newest variant boasts a refined taste and exceptional quality, promising to elevate any gin-drinking experience. With its premium blend of botanicals and smooth finish, the Archangel Reserve is set to become a favorite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Fifteen lucky attendees were able to bring home their own bottles of this variant which is not yet available in the market.
New Cocktails to Enjoy
To complement the launch, GSMI introduced a range of new cocktails, showcasing the versatility of their gin. Expert mixologists presented innovative concoctions that guests could enjoy during the vent. From classic gin and tonics to creative blends with local flavors, there was something for everyone. These new cocktails highlighted the adaptability of gin, making it suitable for any occasion.
Mango Fuego. Made with GSM Blue, mango juice, chili sugar syrup, lemon juice and soda water garnished with mango and chili flakes
Ambrosia. Made with GSM Premium Gin, blueberry syrup, tamarind syrup and soda water garnished with blueberry and lemon
Posh G&T. Made with 1834 Premium Distilled Gin, pink lychee juice and tonic water garnished with mint leaves and lychee fruit
Artemisia. Made with Ginebra San Miguel, pineapple juice, cucumber concentrate, sugar, lemon juice and sesame oil garnished with dried pineapple.
Event Highlights
The evening was packed with entertainment, including improv skits by the talented group Spit Manila. Their hilarious and spontaneous performances had the audience in stitches, adding a lively and engaging element to the celebration. Additionally, a live rap performance by Nik Makino energized the crowd, showcasing the dynamic and modern spirit of Ginebra San Miguel.
Pocket Events Across the Philippines
On June 8, World Gin Day, the celebration extends beyond Manila with five pocket events held simultaneously in various locations: Takas Bar in Katipunan, Quezon City; Southvibes in Dasmariñas, Cavite; Olive Bar in Angeles, Pampanga; Tambayan sa Pardo in Cebu City; and GG Sisig in Davao City. These events will feature music, games, and exclusive promotions, ensuring that gin lovers across the country could join in the festivities.
For the rest of the Saturdays in June, Gin is In promotions will give away prizes when patrons order the featured gin drinks.
Gin is truly in on World Gin Day and everyday.
For more news and updates, follow Ginebra San Miguel on Facebook and Instagram.
In recent years, sparkling water, commonly referred to as carbonated water or soda water, has gained popularity as a healthy alternative to sugary soft beverages. Sparkling water has several health advantages that can make it a perfect addition to your diet in addition to its refreshing and effervescent taste.
Not only does sparkling water help you stay hydrated, it also helps to improve digestion and aids in weight loss.
Plus, thanks to Chi Forest, sparkling water is now available in delicious flavors such as Calamansi Lime, White Peach and Lychee Fizzy, making this healthy beverage even more appealing.
However, did you know that Chi Forest sparkling water can be added to cocktails? For instance, this Yakult Vodka Cocktail is made more refreshing and flavorsome with the addition of Chi Forest Lychee Fizzy.
Here are some more reasons why Chi Forest sparkling water is a welcome addition to your favorite cocktails:
Adds Fizz and Refreshment. It adds a refreshing and bubbly fizz to cocktails that can help to balance out stronger flavors in the drink. This carbonation can also help to open up the flavors of other ingredients in the cocktail.
Low-Calorie Option. As it is generally low in calories and sugar compared to other mixers, such as fruit juice or tonic water, Chi Forest sparkling water is a great option for those looking to cut down on calories while still enjoying a delicious cocktail.
Versatile Flavors. Chi Forest sparkling water comes in a variety of different flavors which add a touch of fruity sweetness or a zesty zing to your cocktails without adding extra calories or sugar.
Enhances Aromas. It can enhance the aromas of other ingredients in the cocktail. For example, using Chi Forest Calamansi Lime in a gin and tonic can help to bring out the citrus notes in the gin.
Perfect for Mocktails. Chi Forest sparkling water can be a great option for those who don’t drink alcohol, as it adds flavor and fizz to mixed drinks without the need for alcohol. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings where there may be guests who don’t drink or lightweights like me.
So the next time you’re planning a cocktail party, be sure to stock your bar with Chi Forest sparkling water. It’s available at Robinsons Supermarket, The Marketplace, Shopwise, LCC, Shopee Mall and LazMall and other leading supermarkets in the metro.
To stay updated on Chi Forest products and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.
Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.
Check out my previous post on Chi Forest sparkling water:
Jellybeans in the City 