The buzz: This new sanctum for single malts at the revamped Heritage Wing of Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa is a partnership with Hotel Waldhaus am See in St. Moritz, Switzerland, whose famous bar holds the Guinness World Record for having the world’s largest whiskey collection.
The décor: How a whiskey lounge should be: lavish, masculine, heavy on the wood and illuminated with warm, dim lights. While the bar’s interiors drip sophistication and charm, the polished space also exudes a sense of homely intimacy with interesting furnishings like a statement log table, a whiskey bottle chandelier, velvet seats with cushions and a touch of greenery.
The drinks: Though not quite as extensive as some of the whiskey bars here, The WOW’s bona fide collection—many of which like the Bowmore ($33 per shot; $500 per bottle) and the Caol Ila ($15 per shot; $225 per bottle) are exclusive here—is impressive. There are currently 250 Scotch single malts, five American bourbons, two Japanese whiskeys and four Swiss whiskeys, with prices ranging from $160 per bottle up to $19,500 for a rare reserve. If you’ll like to savor them by the glass, a dram can be as affordable as $11 for a quality pour; a glass from the finer ranges can cost over $300.
The music: Chill- out jazz. Live performances are on Thursday to Saturday nights.
The crowd: At the moment, it’s mainly guests from the hotel—locals on staycations and tourists. But it won’t be long before whiskey aficionados and connoisseurs make their way here to sample its fine tipples.
Why you’ll be back: Whiskeys notwithstanding, this classy spot is a little out of the way, but the idea of sipping an excellent drink post-work in a retreat-like setting away from the madness of the city sounds pretty good.
The WOW is in I-S Best Bars Guide 2014. Download your copy to see where else you should be partying.
