The Las Vegas whisky scene is rife with hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky drinker or a curious newbie, these venues promise to be a haven for whisky enthusiasts.
Carversteak at Resorts World
Acclaimed for its fine dining and impeccable hospitality, Carversteak boasts a remarkable whisky offering of nearly 300 labels, highlighting an exquisite collection of Scotch and international whiskies as well as American bourbon and rye. The table-side whisky cart offering called Timeless Treasures adds an element of entertainment and refinement, making each pour a spectacle in its own right.
Guests are treated to a one-of-a-kind engagement, where they can savor some of the finest old and rare whiskies enhanced with an offering of Estuary, a Scottish water – an element that enhances the unique aroma and taste of these distinguished whiskies. The entire affair is elevated with artisanal chocolates that serve to harmonize and complement each whisky sip.
As an added luxury, guests receive beautiful, sealed envelopes containing tasting notes of the brand they tasted. This addition ensures that the memory of the evening lingers long after the last drop is savored.
Cut at The Palazzo
Cut Steakhouse is the brainchild of celebrated Chef Wolfgang Puck. Led by Senior Beverage Manager Rebecca Huff, Cut boasts more than 300 labels of whisky, with a strong emphasis on multiple expressions and age statements of coveted iconic single malts brands including Ardbeg, Springbank and The Macallan.
A very rare find is Michter’s Celebration bourbon, a pièce de résistance served at a staggering $1,475 for a 2 oz. pour. At Cut, every whisky pour is meticulously curated. Each pour is 2 oz., allowing guests to savor the rich flavors and aromas of distinguished labels such as the 1792 Collection, which features expressions from their own barrel, and the WhistlePig collection, highlighted by the exceptional 25-year-old rye.
Delmonico Steakhouse at The Venetian
Delmonico Steakhouse stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of fine whiskies and expert curation. Under the leadership of Erick Kluever, Delmonico has been recognized for its exceptional selection of whiskies and classic cocktail recipes.
The bar boasts more than 800 whiskies meticulously curated to offer a balanced selection of international and domestic labels. Delmonico’s collection is marked by the distinctive 55-45 split between international and U.S. whiskies, showcasing a commitment to diversity and the celebration of global whisky craftsmanship.
Highlights include Russell‘s 13-year and 15-year straight bourbon, Willet 11-year rye and a distinctive Westward American Single Malt private barrel – each offering a unique perspective on the art of whisky.
Connoisseurs can indulge in an exceptional Signatory 25-year Macallan cask strength and Glendronach 29-year, adding a touch of sophistication to the bar’s unparalleled offerings. Delmonico sets the stage for an unparalleled whisky tasting journey in the heart of Las Vegas.
Ginza in The Arts District
The Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas has welcomed a new gem to its bar scene – Ginza, where the essence of Japanese culture is entwined with the art of whisky appreciation. Curated by the visionary duo of Joshua Monsivais and David Riccardi, Ginza draws inspiration from the rich traditions of “omotenashi,” or Japanese hospitality.
At Ginza, patrons are greeted with an exquisite collection that features more than 90 Japanese whiskies, along with a carefully curated selection of 70 bourbons, hand-picked Scotch and premium rye. The bar exclusively serves vermouth, gin and white spirits of Japanese origin. In a unique twist, Ginza focuses solely on whiskies and spirits, with no food served.
Showcasing a stunning array of 60 bottles on display, Ginza houses precious gems like Suntory whiskies dating back to the 1970s, the illustrious Hichiro single barrel and rare Nikka releases from the same era. For those in search of a tranquil yet sophisticated whisky experience, Ginza is a new and exceptional destination.
Double Helix Wine & Whiskey Lounge in Town Square
Opened in 2011, Double Helix stands with a collection that encompasses 500 whiskies, and the selection tilts prominently toward bourbon and rye, comprising 70% of the offerings. Meanwhile, a respectable 20% of the collection is devoted to Irish and Scotch and another 10% features the elegant nuances of Japanese whisky.
This array allows patrons to explore whisky through curated flights featuring half pours. Adding to its charm, Double Helix features an outdoor patio cigar lounge, a remarkable space where aficionados can enjoy their premium cigars while sipping on their favorite drams.
About Francesco Lafranconi
Internationally renowned mixologist, spirits industry educator and icon of cocktail culture Francesco Lafranconi is currently the Senior Vice President of Beverage and Hospitality Culture for Carver Road Hospitality in Las Vegas.
Lafranconi’s journey in mixology began in his native country Italy, where he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for the rich history and heritage of Italian spirits and liqueurs. His passion for the craft led him to embark on a global exploration, where he immersed himself in diverse cultures, flavors and traditions, acquiring a wealth of knowledge and inspiration along the way.
Lafranconi’s role as a sought-after spirit tasting judge in prestigious events such as the TAG Global Awards, Ascot Awards and IWC highlights his expertise, authority and impact in the dynamic world of spirits and other alcoholic beverages. His most recent accomplishment includes strategy and structure for the inaugural World Mixology Championships associated with Tales of the Cocktail Foundation.
As a consummate connoisseur and industry ambassador who is passionate about sharing his knowledge with everyone he meets, Lafranconi is known for his catchphrase, “We’re not drinking, we’re learning!”
