London venue launches ‘female-only’ spirits list

Brixton dim sum restaurant and cocktail bar Courtesan has launched a new spirits list exclusively featuring brands created by women.

Courtesan in Brixton celebrates female spirits talent

Following a re-launch in September, the south London venue now features what it calls the “world’s first ‘true’ female wine and spirit list”, supplying beverages produced or established by women.

The 45-strong spirits list spans rum, Scotch whisky, Bourbon and American whiskey, gin, vodka, Tequila and mezcal, liqueurs, and Cognac.

Listed brands include Appleton Estate Rum by Joy Spence, the Dewar’s whisky portfolio by Stephanie MacLeod, Greenall’s Gin by Joanne Moore, Hangar One Vodka by Caley Shoemaker, and Aqua Riva Tequila by Cleo Rocos.

“The all-female spirits listing is a natural progression of the Courtesan espousing female talent,” a venue spokesperson said. “To the amazement to observers it is the strength and depth of a list that continues to blossom with the greatest expressions of spirit and auteurship.”

Courtesan is said to be reminiscent of the “legendary clubs of 1920s Shanghai”. The venue also features an all-female chef team led by Feng Juan Xue.