Some of Glasgow’s best-known bars are teaming up to launch this year’s Glasgow Cocktail Fortnight, which kicks off with an industry-led opening night on Thursday 25 September.
The launch will be hosted at the recently opened SiSi Rooftop, where bartenders from The Absent Ear, The Gate, Sebb’s and SiSi will serve exclusive cocktails created specifically for the event.
George Collinge, Bar Manager at SiSi Rooftop, said, “Hosting the launch of Glasgow Cocktail Fortnight feels like such a milestone for us. SiSi has only just opened its doors, so it’s really exciting to welcome people in for such a special night right at the start of our journey.
“Glasgow already has an incredible cocktail scene, and being part of the festival gives us the chance to introduce SiSi to the city in the best possible way: with great drinks, great views and a proper rooftop party atmosphere.”
The wider festival, which runs from 25 September to 8 October, will see more than 65 venues across the city take part. Festival wristband holders will have access to exclusive cocktail menus, discounted drinks, masterclasses and special events.
Sebb’s will host a takeover with William Grant & Sons at the start of October, when Manchester’s Blinker makes its Glasgow debut. The event also marks the return of Sebb’s Sunday BBQ menu.
Ally Shaw, Head of Drinks at Sebb’s and Scoop Restaurants Group, said, “Glasgow Cocktail Fortnight is a brilliant celebration of the city’s bar scene, so we’re excited to be part of the launch line-up.”
The Gate will also host what it is billing as “the world’s smallest whisky festival” as part of the Cocktail Fortnight calendar from 27 to 28 September. Andy Gemmell, Owner of The Gate, said, “Glasgow Cocktail Fortnight is a brilliant opportunity for people to discover some of the city’s finest bars and experience a new way of enjoying cocktails. It’s also a fantastic platform for bars to come together, collaborate on the launch night, and showcase just how exciting and diverse Glasgow’s bar scene really is.
“We’ve also pulled together a stellar lineup for our first Whisky Weekender, and we can’t wait to roll this out.”
Ari Smith, Assistant General Manager at The Absent Ear, added, “Glasgow’s bar scene is second to none, and Glasgow Cocktail Fortnight is the perfect way to showcase the creativity and talent we have here.
“We’ve taken part over the last five years and are excited to be joining our new neighbours at SiSi for the launch night. This is a rare chance to come together behind the bar and create something special as a team.
“Collaboration like this is what makes Glasgow stand out, and we’re excited to be part of an annual cocktail festival that celebrates that community spirit across the whole city.”
Picture: SiSi Rooftop