Diageo opens ‘rotating’ whisky bar in Leeds

Diageo has teamed up with consultancy firm Hedonist Drinks to open a new pop-up Scotch whisky bar in Leeds as part of the UK’s “first rotating concept bar”.

The Liquor Store & Whisky Parlour is a pop-up bar opened by Hedonist Drinks and Diageo

Launched earlier this year by Hedonist Drinks, The Hedonist Project is a pop up bar concept that changes theme every three months to correspond with the changing seasons.

The project has now opened a permanent location in Leeds – the old Wok On site on Lower Briggate – where it will open its winter pop-up, Liquor Store & Whisky Parlour, in collaboration with Diageo.

Following on from Hedonist’s summer pop-up the Rum Shack, the new bar will feature more than 60 “fine whiskies”.

Each whisky will be sold by the dram, with some available to buy as full bottles to take home. Cocktails such as the Salted Caramel Rusty Nail, Lagavulin Fudge and Blood and Strand will also be served.

“This rare breed of watering hole, which will switch themes every three months, is the only one of its kind in the UK, further cementing Leeds status as an envelope pushing city that champions change,” said Hedonist.

The interior of the bar, launching late November, pays tribute to “Scottish heritage” features “rustic décor”.

The Hedonist Project was set up by three Leeds-based bartenders: Dan Crowther, Bruce Lerman and Tom Finnon.

“We’ve all witnessed some phenomenal bartenders leave Leeds for London, and they’ve all gone on to do really well for themselves,” said Crowther. “We’ve all lived in this city for the best part of a decade now and it’s safe to say we all love it.

“We’re working on plans to have some internationally renowned bars to popups – bringing awesome concepts and talent to Leeds, which hopefully will help make our city even better.’’