Two days, six unmissable cocktails, one unifying thread—an exploration of Asia’s rich flavors through the ancient art of distillation. On March 21st and 22nd, Moebius Milano transforms into a meeting point between East and West, hosting The Orientalist Spirits as it makes its official debut in Italy, alongside mixologists Kiki Moka from The Cocktail Club in Jakarta and Pranisa Niza Treechanasin from Origin Bar at Singapore’s Shangri-La.
The Orientalist Spirits Lands in Italy
When the time-honored distilling traditions of the East merge with Milan’s renowned hospitality, something extraordinary takes shape. For two days, Moebius Milano—ranked 38th on The World’s 50 Best Bars list—becomes the epicenter of a modern-day Silk Road.
Here, the story of The Orientalist Spirits unfolds, beginning with an exclusive masterclass led by its visionary founder, Michel Lu. His brand challenges convention, reinterpreting classic spirits with exclusively Asian ingredients. The result? Four remarkable expressions that stand out on the international scene, earning accolades from industry professionals and discerning connoisseurs alike.
A Masterclass in the Flavors of the East
The journey begins on March 21st with a deep dive into The Orientalist Spirits collection. First up is Origins Vodka, a meticulously crafted spirit blending longan honey, Tibetan barley, and nine varieties of potatoes, fermented with ultra-soft water from Kagoshima. The result is an exceptionally smooth vodka with herbaceous nuances, best savored neat.
Then, there’s Dragon Whisky, a single sip that encapsulates Asia’s breathtaking diversity. This blend weaves together Japanese, Taiwanese, and Indian whiskies, aged in bourbon and sherry casks, unveiling a complex profile of dried dates, red fruits, and dark chocolate.
A jewel of the collection, Gunpowder Gin marries classical distillation techniques with low-temperature vacuum distillation to preserve the integrity of 23 botanicals. From gunpowder tea to Kampot pepper, Siberian ginseng to osmanthus flowers, every element contributes to a gin of remarkable depth and balance.
For rum aficionados, Imperial Solera 23 Rum represents the brand’s latest expression, launched in spring 2023. This artisanal small-batch blend harmonizes rums from Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, aged between six and 23 years using the Solera method in ex-bourbon barrels and prized Pedro Ximénez sherry casks.
A Guest Shift Not to Be Missed
After discovering the distinct identity and craftsmanship of these spirits, the next step is to experience them through the universal language of cocktails. On March 22nd, the spotlight shifts to Moebius Milano, where bar manager Giovanni Allario welcomes two virtuosos of Asian mixology: Kiki Moka from Jakarta and Pranisa “Niza” Treechanasin from Singapore. Each with their own distinctive approach, these internationally acclaimed talents will highlight The Orientalist Spirits in an exclusive six-drink menu—an immersive journey between East and West.
From The Cocktail Club, Kiki presents three signature serves: Mango Lassi, where Orientalist Gunpowder Gin meets yogurt lassi and cumin; Ujung Pandang, a tribute to Indonesian heritage with Gunpowder Gin, pandan, coconut, and kaffir lime; and Papa Truffo, a bold fusion of Imperial Solera 23 Rum, vermouth, amaro, truffle, and peaty undertones. This last cocktail embodies the essence of cultural exchange, blending Italian truffle with the complex depth of Orientalist spirits.
Niza, head bartender at Origin Bar in Singapore’s Shangri-La, responds with an equally captivating trio: Zero to Hero, where simple ingredients transform into an extraordinary experience through Solera 23 Imperial Rum, hazelnut liqueur, maple syrup, lemon, apple, and clarified milk; Ants & Bees, a bold contrast of Dragon Whisky, verjus, burnt honey, and vanilla; and Metallico, a delicate balance of Gunpowder Gin, umeshu, peach, and cardamom.
Six cocktails—six sensory voyages into the heart of the East, each telling a story of flavors, aromas, and refined techniques. A testament to how contemporary mixology, with The Orientalist Spirits at its core, becomes a universal language that transcends borders, uniting cultures through the artistry of the glass.
Article in partnership with The Oriental Spirits
