Single Malt London Kilian 2014

There are no sharp edges by the old watering hole, only the gentle touch of a million fingers pouring as many drinks, sliding beveled glasses down the bar, helping tired bodies rest against the smooth lacquered wood with slow gestures repeated over the decades. In this dark, musty environment every piece of furniture has soaked the scent of countless whiskeys and now greets customers like a familiar hug after a long day of work.

Tonight though the speakeasy seems unusually loud, with more than the customary mumbled conversations and clinking tumblers. There are fresh new faces in a corner, an unexpected group of young visitors seeking refuge from the cold and rain outside. No-one at the bar pays much atention to their cheering and laughing but soon the room is filled with something that cuts through the old single malt: there is warm vanilla cake, candied fruit and spicy cinnamon, a powerful aroma that brings memories of family celebrations at home, wherever that may be.

As the party songs get going some customers finish their drinks off, grab their coats and head back to their loved ones early for once. Others try their best to ignore the happy mood and sweet scent in the air, and remain focused on the swirling bourbons under their noses; probably nowhere else to go or no better place to be on a cold lonely night.