Homegrown distillery Compendium Spirits (known for making Rojak and Chendol Gins, Kopi-O and Teh-O Liqueuers, meads, arrack and vodka) has set up a new home in the heart of Singapore.
Anthology, a name chosen to showcase its various compendiums of spirits, chapter by chapter, is a three-storey heritage shophouse where visitors can explore the world of Compendium Spirits and taste its full range, including limited-edition releases.
The team at Anthology aims to share their honed expertise and knowledge from years of research and experimentation in spirit production, and offers carefully curated learning experiences such as exclusive themed workshops and customising and barrel-aging spirits from scratch.
In fact, it’s the only place in central Singapore where customers have the chance to make bespoke barrel-aged spirits at Anthology’s cellar, a one-of-a-kind experience that gives them a taste of being a master distiller and blender.
Satisfy cocktail cravings
But head to the bar on the first level first. There’s no better way to get to know Compendium Spirits’ collection than trying out the Tasting Flights. Choose the Vertical Flight which allows you to explore different ingredients (rice, coconut, honey and sugarcane) or the Horizontal Flights that offer a broad taste of the production process through fermentation, distillation and ageing.
For cocktails, brand and beverage director (and former editor of this very publication) Dannon Har has designed a collection inspired by classics and based on the concept of allowing the base spirit to shine.
For a refreshing sip, the Meadmosa made with Apricot Tea Mead, orange juice, pomelo syrup, Brut Champagne is a great choice. There is the Teh-groni ($21), based on the well-loved negroni using Compendium Spirits Teh-O Liqueur, Campari, Earl Grey tincture, and finished off with a spray of lavender citrus. It might be a little too siap (astringent) for some but I personally like the slightly bitter notes.
Rojaktini packs a Southeast Asian punch with Rojak Gin, bianco vermouth, pink peppercorn infusion and orange bitters, while Anthology Somaek allows you to pick a fermented beverage and soju from the Compendium Spirits range to create your own drink.
Accompanying the cocktails are dishes that draw inspiration from Southeast Asian flavours, such as Braised Duck Rillettes with Croutons, seasoned with Asian spices and topped with chopped chives; the aromatic Crab Salad with Ginger Crisps; and the robust Beef Short Ribs Char Siu paired with homemade rice crisps. The vegetarian Coconut Fried “Chicken” will convert even the non-vegetarians.
Make it your own
The highlight of Anthology is located on the upper levels. Level two is where Chartered Private Lounge is located, an intimate space filled with leather couches and plush lounge chairs. This space is exclusively dedicated to Chartered members to sip their bespoke barrel-aged spirits.
Just sign up for the Chartered by Compendium Spirits programme where you get to customise your own spirits and flavours, and barrel-age them. Previously members could only do it at the distillery in Mandai (with the expertise of master distiller Simon Zhao), but they can now do it in a more accessible location.
Pick an ingredient for the base spirit and the final product will be barrel-aged at the temperature and humidity-controlled Chartered Cellar on level three. Mixologists at the Private Lounge can withdraw some of the spirit from the barrel and create customised cocktails according to individual preferences on the spot.
Learn more
The team at Anthology will offer spirits appreciation and cocktail-making workshops, as well as blending masterclasses for those seeking an in-depth experience. Anthology is also a space dedicated to celebrating the spirit of craft and will be collaborating with like-minded craftsmen – from florists and tea artisans to print-makers – in time to come. Guest shifts by mixologists, cocktail workshops and spirit tastings will also be a regular feature.
Anthology is at 10 Circular Road, Singapore 049366.
